bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culprit Lesion Coronary Intervention Before Complete Angiography in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Levi Nir , Wolff Rafael , Jubeh Rami , Shuvy Mony , Steinmetz Yoed , Perel Nimrod , Maller Tomer , Amsalem Itshak , Hitter Rafael , Asher Elad , Turyan Anna , Karmi Mohammad , Orlev Amir , Dratva Dmitry , Khoury Zahi , Hasin Tal , Wolak Arik , Glikson Michael , Dvir Danny
Published: March 2024

Importance

Rapid reperfusion during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with improved outcomes among patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Although attempts at reducing the time from STEMI diagnosis to arrival at the catheterization laboratory have been widely investigated, intraprocedural strategies aimed at reducing the time to reperfusion are lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of culprit lesion PCI before complete diagnostic coronary angiography (CAG) vs complete CAG followed by culprit lesion PCI on reperfusion times among patients with STEMI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This open-label, prospective, randomized clinical trial was conducted between April 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022, among patients admitted to a tertiary center in Jerusalem, Israel, with a diagnosis of STEMI undergoing primary PCI. All patients were followed up for 1 year. Analysis was on an intention-to-treat basis.

Intervention

Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to undergo either culprit lesion PCI before complete CAG or complete CAG followed by culprit lesion PCI.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A needle-to-balloon time of 10 minutes or less.

Results

A total of 216 patients were randomized, with 184 patients (mean [SD] age, 62.9 [12.2] years; 155 men [84.2%]) included in the final intention-to-treat analysis; 90 patients (48.9%) were randomized to undergo culprit lesion PCI before CAG, and 94 (51.1%) were randomized to undergo to CAG followed by PCI. Patients who underwent culprit lesion PCI before complete CAG had a shorter mean (SD) needle-to-balloon time (11.4 [5.9] vs 17.3 [13.3] minutes; P < .001). The primary outcome of a needle-to-balloon time of 10 minutes or less was achieved for 51.1% of patients (46 of 90) who underwent culprit lesion PCI before CAG and for 19.1% of patients (18 of 94) who underwent complete CAG followed by culprit lesion PCI (odds ratio, 4.4 [95% CI, 2.2-9.1]; P < .001). Rates of adverse events were similar between groups. In a subgroup analysis, the effect of culprit lesion PCI before complete CAG on the primary outcome was consistent. There were no differences in rates of in-hospital, 30-day, and 1-year all-cause mortality.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial of patients with STEMI, culprit lesion PCI before complete CAG resulted in shorter reperfusion times. Larger trials are needed to validate these results and to evaluate the effect on clinical outcomes.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05415085
Phase Engineering on MoS2 to Realize Dielectric Gene Engineering for Enhancing Microwave Absorbing Performance
Authors: Yan Yuefeng , Zhang Kaili , Qin Guangyu , Gao Boshi , Zhang Tao , Huang Xiaoxiao , Zhou Yu
Published: March 2024

Polarization relaxation loss caused by defects and interfaces has become a fascinating electromagnetic wave (EMW) loss mechanism. However, the logical relationship between impedance matching and various loss mechanisms requires further elucidation to facilitate more comprehensive and in‐depth research. Herein, phase engineering on molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is proposed as the main controller of permittivity, offering a straightforward and highly effective method for regulating permittivity. Through the main control of phase engineering, a small gradient, monotonic change of the permittivity across a substantial area is achieved, leading to the gradual transition of the material system from strong loss but impedance mismatching to weak loss but EMW transparent phase. Thanks to the fundamental regulation of impedance characteristic and attenuation capacity by the dielectric gene engineering controlled by the phase engineering, combined with the ingenious coordination of sulfur vacancy‐induced polarization and interfacial polarization, t‐60 harvests an effective absorption band of 6.8 GHz and a minimum reflection loss of −59.8 dB. This study effectively expands the dielectric gene pool and improves the research logic for various loss mechanisms, offering valuable insights for the development of advanced EMW absorbing materials.
Quantum Dot Modification of Large Area Graphene Surfaces via Amide Bonding
Authors: Neubert T. J. , Rösicke F. , Hinrichs K. , Nickel N. H. , Rappich J.
Published: March 2024

Large‐area graphene grown by chemical vapor deposition is functionalized by p‐aminophenyl groups via the diazonium‐route. Subsequently, carboxylic acid‐modified CdSXSe1‐X/ZnS dots (QDs) with maximum emission wavelengths of 540 nm and 630 nm are immobilized via amidation reaction to the amino‐functionalized graphene on the copper growth substrate forming stable covalent bonds in all functionalization steps. After immobilization of the QDs, the functional QD/graphene stack is available for transfer from the growth substrate onto any other substrate. In this study, the QD‐modified graphene is transferred to a Si wafer with surface oxide without losing the QD modification. The successful binding of the QDs onto the functionalized graphene is characterized by their vibrational signature using Raman backscattering and infrared‐spectroscopic ellipsometry and by their specific light emission as measured by photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy.
Reprogramming of the LXRα Transcriptome Sustains Macrophage Secondary Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Vladimir de la Rosa Juan , Tabraue Carlos , Huang Zhiqiang , Orizaola Marta C. , Martin‐Rodríguez Patricia , Steffensen Knut R. , Zapata Juan Manuel , Boscá Lisardo , Tontonoz Peter , Alemany Susana , Treuter Eckardt , Castrillo Antonio
Published: March 2024

Macrophages regulate essential aspects of innate immunity against pathogens. In response to microbial components, macrophages activate primary and secondary inflammatory gene programs crucial for host defense. The liver X receptors (LXRα, LXRβ) are ligand‐dependent nuclear receptors that direct gene expression important for cholesterol metabolism and inflammation, but little is known about the individual roles of LXRα and LXRβ in antimicrobial responses. Here, the results demonstrate that induction of LXRα transcription by prolonged exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) supports inflammatory gene expression in macrophages. LXRα transcription is induced by NF‐κB and type‐I interferon downstream of TLR4 activation. Moreover, LPS triggers a reprogramming of the LXRα cistrome that promotes cytokine and chemokine gene expression through direct LXRα binding to DNA consensus sequences within cis‐regulatory regions including enhancers. LXRα‐deficient macrophages present fewer binding of p65 NF‐κB and reduced histone H3K27 acetylation at enhancers of secondary inflammatory response genes. Mice lacking LXRα in the hematopoietic compartment show impaired responses to bacterial endotoxin in peritonitis models, exhibiting reduced neutrophil infiltration and decreased expansion and inflammatory activation of recruited F4/80lo‐MHC‐IIhi peritoneal macrophages. Together, these results uncover a previously unrecognized function for LXRα‐dependent transcriptional cis‐activation of secondary inflammatory gene expression in macrophages and the host response to microbial ligands.
Biocompatible Cu/NiMo Composite Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Microbial Electrosynthesis; Unveiling the Self‐Detoxification Effect of Cu
Authors: Moon Byeong Cheul , Kim Soyoung , Jo Young Yoon , Park Jong Hyeok , Ko Ja Kyong , Lee Dong Ki
Published: March 2024

H2‐driven microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is an emerging bioelectrochemical technology that enables the production of complex compounds from CO2. Although the performance of microbial fermentation in the MES system is closely related to the H2 production rate, high‐performing metallic H2‐evolving catalysts (HEC) generate cytotoxic H2O2 and metal cations from undesirable side reactions, severely damaging microorganisms. Herein, a novel design for self‐detoxifying metallic HEC, resulting in biologically benign H2 production, is reported. Cu/NiMo composite HEC suppresses H2O2 evolution by altering the O2 reduction kinetics to a four‐electron pathway and subsequently decomposes the inevitably generated H2O2 in sequential catalytic and electrochemical pathways. Furthermore, in situ generated Cu‐rich layer at the surface prevents NiMo from corroding and releasing cytotoxic Ni cations. Consequently, the Cu/NiMo composite HEC in the MES system registers a 50% increase in the performance of lithoautotrophic bacterium Cupriavidus necator H16, for the conversion of CO2 to a biopolymer, poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate). This work successfully demonstrates the concept of self‐detoxification in designing biocompatible materials for bioelectrochemical applications as well as MES systems.
Importance of the biochemical investigations for the functional characterization of a NPC1 variant identified by exome sequencing
Authors: Almenabawy Nihal , Hung Clara , Sosova Iveta , Mercimek‐Andrews Saadet
Published: March 2024

Niemann–Pick disease type C (NPC) is one of the lysosomal storage disorders. It is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in NPC1 or NPC2, which results in a defective cholesterol trafficking inside the late endosome and lysosome. There is a high clinical variability in the age of presentation and the phenotype of this disorder making the diagnosis challenging. Here, we report a patient with an infantile onset global developmental delay, microcephaly and dysmorphic features, homozygous for c.3560C>T (p.A1187V) variant in NPC1. His plasma oxysterol levels were normal on two occasions. His lyso‐sphingomyelin‐509 (lyso‐SM 509) and urinary bile acid levels were normal. Based on the phenotype and biochemical features, the diagnosis of NPC was excluded in this patient. We emphasize the importance of functional characterization in the classification of novel variants to prevent a misdiagnosis. Matching the phenotype and biochemical evidence with the molecular genomic tests is crucial for the confirmation of genetic diagnoses.
A case report of multicentric carpotarsal osteolysis syndrome: Depiction of a debilitating disease course
Authors: Li Jennifer Yee‐ming , Ho Fanny Tsz‐wai , Lee Mianne , Chan Joyce , Chung Brian Hon‐yin , Tung Joanna Yuet‐ling , Ma Alison Lap‐tak
Published: March 2024

Multicentric carpotarsal osteolysis syndrome (MCTO) is a rare skeletal disorder characterized by progressive osteolysis involving the carpal and tarsal bones, and often associated with nephropathy. It is caused by heterozygous mutation in the MAF bZIP transcription factor B (MAFB) gene. Heterogeneous clinical manifestation and wide spectrum of disease severity have been observed in patients with MCTO. Here, we report a case of a male patient who presented with kidney failure in childhood with progressive disabling skeletal deformity. He was diagnosed with MCTO at 31‐years‐old, where a de novo pathogenic heterozygous variant in NM_005461.5:c.212C>A: p.(Pro71His) of the MAFB gene was identified. While there has been little data on the long‐term prognosis and life expectancy of this disease, this case report sheds light on the debilitating disease course with multiple significant morbidities of a patient with MCTO throughout his lifetime of 33 years.
Waterborne polyurethane polymer dispersions using castor oil and curcumin as bioresources: Synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial textile applications
Authors: Ganvit Vikash M. , Bhandari Parthik D. , Kunjadiya Anju , Mansuri Jasmine , Bambhaniya Sanjay B. , Mandot Aadhar A. , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: March 2024

The main goal of this study is to make new waterborne polyurethane polymers (WPUCs) using bioresources like curcumin as a chain extender and castor oil as a polyol. We explored different mole ratios of curcumin during the synthesis of WPUC polymers. The WPUC dispersions were well‐defined and had nanoparticle sizes that ranged from 80.1 to 48.2 nm. Their zeta potentials were between −61.7 and − 52.2 mV, which showed that they were more stable. The absence of a phenolic hydroxyl band in the synthesized WPUC's IR spectrum indicated the insertion of curcumin into the PU chain. The coating of WPUCs on polyester/cotton (PE/C) blend fabric showed an improvement in colorfastness properties and reduced air permeability. The enhanced bending modulus (enhanced stiffness), improved abrasion resistance, and higher tensile strength were also observed. Furthermore, the WPUC‐coated fabric samples showed a bacterial inhibition percentage of 83.12%–99.9999% (p < 0.001) compared with blank fabric against bacterias' because of the inherent nature of curcumin. Inserting a higher amount of curcumin in the polymer chain of WPUC improved the antibacterial effects. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights for the possible antibacterial textile applications of synthesized WPUCs.
Output synchronization for multi‐agent systems with prescribed performance in the presence of unknown control directions
Authors: Peng Junmin , Wang Kaining , Li Jianbo , Li Chaoyong , Xiao Shenping
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we investigate the output synchronization for multiple parametric strict feedback (PSF) systems with unknown control directions. Toward this, prescribed performance control is applied, that is, both transient and steady‐state properties are guaranteed simultaneously by the recursively designed controller. It is different from existing studies, mainly in the following points: (1) The dynamic of each agent has multiple unknown control directions; (2) the neighborhood error not only evolves within the specified boundaries but also converges to zero ultimately; and (3) there is no leader in the digraph. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is verified by theoretical analysis and numerical simulation example of the vessels.
Conceptualizing employees' behavioral pattern changes by experiencing customer mistreatment: Integrating moral self‐regulation and dual process model perspectives
Authors: Song Young Ho
Published: March 2024

This conceptual paper has two aims. The first is to explain how frontline employees' workplace sabotage initially occurs when frontline employees experience perceived mistreatment from customers. Moral outrage arises among frontline employees and mediates the relationship between customer mistreatment and workplace sabotage. The second aim is to address changes in frontline employees' behavioral patterns during working hours. Initial negative workplace behaviors (workplace sabotage) are more likely to shift to good behavior (organizational citizenship behavior toward customer; OCB‐customer) due to a need for moral cleansing, but will eventually revert to negative behaviors (additional workplace sabotage) as continuous customer mistreatment increases stress. To understand this process, moral‐self regulation theory and the dual process model are introduced to support the conceptual model. Implications and future research directions are also discussed.
Tellurium Containing Long Lived Emissive Fluorophore for Selective and Visual Detection of Picric Acid through Photo‐Induced Electron Transfer
Authors: Banerjee Bhaskar , Ali Afsar , Kumar Sandeep , Verma Rajaneesh Kumar , Verma Vinay Kumar , Singh Ram Chandra
Published: March 2024

A novel tellurium (Te) containing fluorophore, 1 and its nickel (2) and copper (3) containing metal organic complex (MOC) have been synthesized to exploit their structural and optical properties and to deploy these molecules as fluorescent probes for the selective and sensitive detection of picric acid (PA) over other commonly available nitro‐explosives. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) techniques revealed the inclusion of “soft” Tellurium (Te) and “hard” Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O) atoms in the molecular frameworks. Owing to the presence of electron rich “N” and “O” atoms along with “Te” in the molecular framework, 1 could efficiently and selectively sense PA with more than 80 % fluorescence quenching efficiency in organic medium and having detection limit of 4.60 μM. The selective detection of PA compared to other nitro‐explosives follows a multi‐mechanism based “turn‐off” sensing which includes photo‐induced electron transfer (PET), electrostatic (π‐π stacking and π‐anion/cation) interaction, intermolecular hydrogen bonding and inner filter effect (IFE). The test strip study also establishes the sensitivity of 1 for detection of PA.
Prognostic impact of frailty based on a comprehensive frailty assessment in patients with heart failure
Authors: Hamada Tomoyuki , Kubo Toru , Kawai Kazuya , Nakaoka Yoko , Yabe Toshikazu , Furuno Takashi , Yamada Eisuke , Kitaoka Hiroaki ,   Kochi YOSACOI study
Published: March 2024

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of frailty and living function domains based on the Kihon Checklist (KCL), a questionnaire for a comprehensive frailty assessment, on prognosis in patients with acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods and results

The Kochi Registry of Subjects with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (Kochi YOSACOI) study was a prospective multicentre cohort study enrolling 1061 patients hospitalized for AHF from May 2017 to December 2019 in Japan. We divided patients into three groups according to the severity of frailty using the KCL and compared clinical outcomes after discharge. The primary endpoint was all‐cause death, and the secondary outcomes were cardiovascular death, heart failure (HF) rehospitalization, and the composite event of cardiovascular death and HF rehospitalization. Of 936 patients (median age, 81 years; 48.9% women) who could be assessed for frailty, we identified frailty in 501 patients (53.5%), prefrailty in 290 patients (31.0%), and non‐frailty in 145 patients (15.5%). Compared with prefrail and non‐frail patients, frail patients were older (83 vs. 79 and 72 years, P < 0.001), were more likely to be women (53.9% vs. 43.1% and 43.4%, P = 0.005), and were more likely to have a history of previous HF hospitalization (35.4% vs. 25.3% and 19.6%, P < 0.001) and multimorbidity (90.8% vs. 81.0% and 73.8%, P < 0.001). Frail patients had a lower rate of discharge to home (79.7% vs. 94.8% and 96.5%, P < 0.001). During the 2 year follow‐up period, frail patients had a higher incidence rate of all‐cause death, cardiovascular death, and HF rehospitalization (log‐rank P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.003, respectively). After adjusting for other prognostic factors, multivariate analysis showed that frailty was associated with all‐cause death [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 2.917, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.326–6.417, P = 0.008] and cardiovascular death (adjusted HR: 7.026, 95% CI: 1.700–29.030, P = 0.007). Among all domains of the KCL, the cognitive function domain was associated with a higher risk of all‐cause death (P = 0.004) and cardiovascular death (P < 0.001). The depression domain remained associated with a higher risk of HF rehospitalization (P = 0.045). The risk for all‐cause death increased with an increase in total KCL score (adjusted HR: 1.819, 95% CI: 1.300–2.547, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The KCL is a useful tool for risk stratification of adverse outcomes in patients with AHF. Functional declines in psycho‐emotional domains including cognitive function and depressed mood contribute to adverse outcomes.
Increased interleukin‐6 is associated with higher risk of heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Remmelzwaal Sharon , Yeung Stanley M.H. , Blom Marieke T. , de Borst Martin H. , Elders Petra J.M. , Beulens Joline W.J.
Published: March 2024

Aims

We aimed to determine the association between serum interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) concentrations and new‐onset heart failure (HF) in persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods and results

We performed a case–control study nested in the Diabetes Care System Cohort, a prospective cohort of persons with T2D in primary care. We included 724 participants, of whom 141 developed HF during 5 years of follow‐up and 583 were age‐ and sex‐matched controls. IL‐6 was measured at baseline and categorized into four groups: Group 1 was composed of participants with IL‐6 below the detection limit of 1.5 pg/mL, and the remainder were divided into tertiles. We performed logistic regression analyses with categorized IL‐6 or continuous IL‐6 as the determinant and new‐onset HF as the outcome adjusted for follow‐up time, age, sex, glycated haemoglobin, estimated glomerular filtration rate, albumin/creatinine ratio, and cardiovascular disease at baseline. Effect modification by sex was tested. Participants were 70.7 ± 9.0 years, and 38% were women. In comparison with Group 1, all tertiles were associated with an increased risk of HF with odds ratios of 2.1 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2–2.9], 2.8 (95% CI: 2.0–3.7), and 2.1 (95% CI: 1.3–3.0), respectively, for Tertiles 1–3. Continuous IL‐6 was associated with the development of HF with an odds ratio of 1.2 (95% CI: 1.0–1.5). No effect modification by sex was observed.

Conclusions

Higher IL‐6 levels are associated with the development of HF in persons with T2D. Further research should determine whether IL‐6‐lowering interventions could prevent the development of HF.
Bimetallic Ru(II) Complex Catalysed β‐Alkylation of Secondary Alcohols and α‐Alkylation of Ketones: Selective Formation of Saturated Ketones
Authors: Deshmukh Gopal , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: March 2024

Ru(II) bimetallic [(p‐cymene)2(RuCl)2L1]2X (X=BF4 (Cat2); X=PF6 (Cat3)) and monometallic [(p‐cymene)(RuCl)L2]BF4 (Cat4) (where L1=N,N’‐(3,3’,5,5’‐tetraisopropyl‐[1,1’‐biphenyl]‐4,4’‐diyl)bis(1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)methanimine); L2=N‐(2,6‐diisopropyl‐phenyl)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐methanimine) catalyse selective synthesis of saturated ketones using β‐alkylation of secondary alcohol or α‐alkylation of ketones with primary alcohol. Notably, a single catalyst facilitates the oxidation of both secondary and primary alcohols followed by condensation and hydrogenation yielding α‐alkylated saturated ketones. Remarkably, this system allows catalyst loading as low as 0.01 mol% for β‐alkylation of secondary alcohols and 0.005 mol% for the α‐alkylation of ketone, delivering access to a wide array of α‐alkylated ketones derivatives with yields of ~97 %. Complex Cat2, in particular, orchestrates one‐pot alkylation reactions with a high turnover frequency (TOF) of 5.6
105 h−1 using as low as low catalyst loading of 0.0001 mol%. A comparative study between bimetallic and monometallic complexes reveals that complex Cat2 exhibits better selectivity for the formation of saturated ketones presumably owing to a cooperative effect between the metal centres. The scale‐up synthesis highlights the practical applicability of the catalytic approach. To delve into the plausible mechanisms, we conducted initial investigations through meticulously controlled experiments and spectroscopic analysis.
The investigation of the molecular changes duringlipopolysaccharide‐induced systemic inflammation on rat hippocampus by usingFTIRspectroscopy
Authors: Cakmak‐Arslan Gulgun , Kaya Yildiray , Mamuk Soner , Akarsu Eyup Sabri , Severcan Feride
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to reveal the molecular changes accompanying the neuronal hyper‐excitability during lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced systemic inflammation on rat hippocampus using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. For this aim, the body temperature of Wistar albino rats administered LPS or saline was recorded by radiotelemetry. The animals were decapitated when their body temperature began to decrease by 0.5°C after LPS treatment and the hippocampi of them were examined by FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicated that systemic inflammation caused lipid peroxidation, an increase in the amounts of lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, a decrease in membrane order, an increase in membrane dynamics and changes in the secondary structure of proteins. Principal component analysis successfully separated control and LPS‐treated groups. In conclusion, significant structural, compositional and functional alterations occur in the hippocampus during systemic inflammation and these changes may have specific characteristics which can lead to neuronal hyper‐excitability.
Effective vaccination strategies for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer based on the mathematical model with a stochastic process
Authors: Kim Minsoo , Kim Eunjung
Published: March 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection poses a significant risk to women's health by causing cervical cancer. In addition to HPV, cervical cancer incidence rates can be influenced by various factors, including human immunodeficiency virus and herpes, as well as screening policy. In this study, a mathematical model with stochastic processes was developed to analyze HPV transmission between genders and its subsequent impact on cervical cancer incidence. The model simulations suggest that both‐gender vaccination is far more effective than female‐only vaccination in preventing an increase in cervical cancer incidence. With increasing stochasticity, the difference between the number of patients in the vaccinated group and the number in the nonvaccinated group diminishes. To distinguish the patient population distribution of the vaccinated from the nonvaccinated, we calculated effect size (Cohen's distance) in addition to Student's t‐test. The model analysis suggests a threshold vaccination rate for both genders for a clear reduction of cancer incidence when significant stochastic factors are present.
The Dejour classification for trochlear dysplasia shows slight interobserver and substantial intraobserver reliability
Authors: Martinez‐Cano Juan Pablo , Tuca Maria , Gallego Alejandro , Rodas‐Cortes Yorlany , Post William R. , Hinckel Betina
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Trochlear dysplasia is one of the main risk factors for recurrent patellar dislocation. The Dejour classification identifies four categories that can be used to classify trochlear dysplasia. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the inter‐ and intraobserver reliability of the Dejour classification for trochlear dysplasia. The hypothesis was that both intra‐ and interobserver reliability would be at least moderate.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, reliability study. Twenty‐eight examiners from the International Patellofemoral Study Group 2022 meeting evaluated lateral radiographs of the knee and axial magnetic resonance images from 15 cases of patellofemoral instability with trochlear dysplasia. They classified each case according to Dejour's classification for trochlear dysplasia (A–D). There were three rounds: one with only computed radiograph (CR), one with only magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and one with both. Inter‐ and intraobserver reliability were calculated using κ coefficient (0–1).

Results

The mean age of patients was: 14.6 years; 60% were female and 53% had open physis. The interobserver reliability κ probabilities were 0.2 (CR), 0.13 (MRI) and 0.12 (CR and MRI). The intraobserver reliability κ probabilities were 0.45 (CR), 0.44 (MRI) and 0.65 (CR and MRI).

Conclusion

The Dejour classification for trochlear dysplasia has slight interobserver reliability and substantial intraobserver reliability.

Level of Evidence

Level I.
Was starke Magnetfelder Biopolymeren entlocken
Authors: Hagn Franz , Reif Bernd , Sattler Michael
Published: March 2024

Mit NMR‐Spektroskopie untersuchen Forschende die Struktur und Dynamik von Biopolymeren in atomarer Auflösung. Für empfindliche und hochaufgelöste Messungen sind Spektrometer mit starken Magnetfeldern nötig, aus welchen sich Resonanzfrequenzen bis 1,2 GHz ergeben. So wird beispielsweise entschlüsselt, wie Nukleinsäuren und Proteine interagieren und dabei ihre Konformation ändern.
Urban wild meat and pangolin consumption across southern forested Cameroon: The limited influence of COVID‐19
Authors: Simo Franklin T. , Difouo Ghislain F. , Tchana Christian N. , Wandji Alain Christel , Djomnang‐Nkwala Alfiery Laurel , Mbadjoun Nziké Marcelle , Kekeunou Sévilor , Swiacká Markéta , Ingram Daniel J.
Published: March 2024

Overexploitation of wildlife is pervasive in many tropical regions, and in addition to being a significant conservation and sustainability concern, it has received global attention given discussions over the origins of zoonotic disease outbreaks. Where unsustainable, consumption of wild meat by urban residents has been identified as a major socio‐environmental challenge, given it is a significant driver of wildlife declines. Yet, information on urban wild meat consumers and possible ways to target conservation interventions remains lacking.

Using one of the largest datasets of urban wild meat consumers (1391) collected through structured questionnaires in 20 towns and cities, we model the demographic, psychographic and spatial factors associated with wild meat consumption patterns in southern Cameroon.

We find that nearly half of the sampled consumers ate wild meat once per week or more, and find that the probability of being a frequent consumer was greater among men, those living in smaller towns, and those who do not consider there to be a link between eating wild meat and disease. Threatened pangolin species are highly preferred among urban consumers, and most consumers did not consider there to be a link between COVID‐19 and pangolins.

Most respondents had eaten wild meat since the beginning of COVID‐19 and had not reduced their wild meat consumption due to COVID‐19. For the first time, we show that consumers with beliefs against a link between wild meat consumption and disease and those with greater income were less likely to have decreased their wild meat consumption.

We identified stakeholders including teachers and religious/community leaders as potentially appropriate messengers for demand‐reduction campaigns, with television and radio being the most trusted communication channels among wild meat consumers.

Crucially, our study advances current scientific understanding of the factors that influence wild meat consumption frequency and change due to COVID‐19 by urban consumers (particularly health beliefs and settlement size). We discuss how our results could be used to inform the design of wild meat demand‐reduction interventions to bring the consumption of wild meat towards sustainability in Cameroon, and our approach applied pan‐tropically.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Development of hybrid green composites by dual natural fibers (jute/bamboo) reinforcement and investigation of their mechanical behavior
Authors: Abraha Guangul Haftamu , Prabhakar M. N. , Lee Dong Woo , Song Jung‐il
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of natural fiber hybrid composites, specifically those based on jute and bamboo fibers. Jute fibers made in the form of highly scattered mesh and fine‐meshed bamboo mat were selected as reinforcing materials. The highly scattered meshed jute fabric composite showed poor mechanical properties owing to resin agglomeration, leading to the brittle fracture of the composite before elongation. In contrast, the randomly oriented fine‐meshed bamboo fabric performed better in terms of both mechanical properties and strain energy absorption under the same loading conditions. Hybridization with fine bamboo mesh fibers can be a solution to improve the mechanical properties of jute fabric composites. The tensile, flexural, and in‐plane shear properties of the composites are investigated in our study. We found that hybridizing a fine‐meshed bamboo mat with jute fabric resulted in an improved mechanical performance of the composite. Composite panels have been manufactured using vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). Experimental and numerical methods have been used to investigate the flexural behavior. Of the stacking sequences considered, the (J/B4/J) stacking showed the highest flexural strength (141.1 Mpa) and the (B2/J2/B2) 2/2 stacking sequence showed the minimum flexural strength. The alternating stacking sequence (B/J/B/J/B/J) exhibited intermediate properties. The randomly oriented bamboo fabric near the neutral axis enhanced the properties of the hybridized composite. This was verified numerically using the ANSYS ACP software.

Highlights

Mechanical behavior of Hybrid composite of two natural fibers was investigated.

Vacuum assisted resin transfer molding was used to manufacture composite panels.

Tensile, in plane shear, 3 point flexural tests and SEM micro analysis were done.

FEA was used to validate and compare the experimental and numerical results.

Resin agglomeration was improved by fibers with better resin impregnation property.
Preparation of thermal expandable epoxy resin and properties of foam sandwich composites formed by thermal expansion molding process
Authors: Qin Yinle , Mei Zhonghao , Kang Dongxu , Peng Ziyao , Geng Ziqian , Min Wei , Yu Muhuo , Sun Zeyu
Published: March 2024

Thermal expansion molding process (TEMP) is a sophisticated molding technique for creating complex sandwich composites. The core key of TEMP is a high‐performance, thermally expandable resin film. In this study, the epoxy resin is used to create a specific crosslinking network that can provide the support force required for the stable molding of the vesicles during the expansion process of the foaming agent. The curing process of the resin was determined by analyzing the change in the exothermic amount of the epoxy resin during the curing process and the flow behavior of the resin. The pore size distribution of the epoxy foam was investigated, and the expansion force of the thermally expandable resin was tested. The TEMP molding process was compared with the vacuum bag press molding (VBPM) process. The TEMP molding technique increased tensile and compressive strength by about 25%, flexural strength by 34.5%, and shear strength by 54.5%. Finally, the section on microanalysis of the comparative materials and the short beam bending experiments of the sandwich structure provides a theoretical foundation for developing complicated sandwich structures.

Highlights

Preparation of thermally expandable epoxy prepregs with stabilized foaming by means of pre‐curing.

The effects of curing temperature, foaming agent content and expansion multiplicity on the thermal expansion force of epoxy prepreg adhesives were investigated.

Thermally expandable epoxy prepreg molding composites with different expansion multiplicities and analysis of the mechanical properties of the composites.

Preparation of foam core sandwich composites by thermal expansion in‐mold monolithic molding process and their verification by bending experiments.
Fetus with multiple congenital anomaly syndrome caused by novel variant in ATP1A2
Authors: Burrill Natalie , Khalek Nahla , Cristancho Ana G. , Coleman Beverly , Murrell Jill , Moldenhauer Julie S.
Published: March 2024

We report a 32‐year‐old G3P1 at 35 weeks 3 days with a dichorionic, diamniotic twin gestation who presented for evaluation secondary to ventriculomegaly (VM) in one twin. Fetal ultrasound and MRI demonstrated microcephaly, severe VM, compression of the corpus callosum, scalp and nuchal thickening, elongated ears, bilateral talipes, right‐sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), and loss of normal cerebral architecture, indicative of a prior insult in the affected twin. The co‐twin was grossly normal. The family pursued a palliative care pathway for the affected twin and was delivered at 37 weeks and 6 days. The affected twin passed away within the first hour of life due to respiratory compromise. Postmortem trio exome sequencing identified a homozygous likely pathogenic variant in ATP1A2 (c.2439+1G>A). Although this variant is novel, it is predicted to affect the donor split site in intron 17, resulting in a frameshift and complete loss‐of‐function of the gene. Biallelic loss of function variants in this gene have been reported in seven individuals with multiple anomalies similar to those in the affected twin. However, only one other individual with a possible CDH has been previously reported. Our case suggests that CDH be included in the phenotypic spectrum of this disorder and reports the first frameshift mutation causing this autosomal recessive multiple congenital anomaly syndrome.
Optimizing integrated nutrient management for sustainable maize–sesame cropping in Gujarat Plains: A soil health perspective
Authors: Chauhan Zalak Y. , Shah Sanjay N. , Patel K. C. , Shroff Jagruti C. , Patel Hiren K.
Published: March 2024

The degradation of soil quality in intensive cropping systems demands urgent attention to preserve soil health and sustain crop productivity. A 2‐year field experiment conducted in the loamy sand soil of Gujarat's Plains and Hills explored integrated nutrient management (INM) effects on nutrient dynamics, soil attributes, and microbial populations in maize (Zea mays L.)–sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) cropping. Using a randomized block design with three replications and 12 treatments, notable enhancements in soil physical conditions were observed following the integrated application of organic manure and inorganic fertilizers. Specifically, the application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and 25% recommended dose of nutrient (RDN) through vermicompost, added with an NPK consortium via soil application, significantly increased N, P, and K uptake in the maize crop as compared with other treatments. The application of 75% RDF and 25% RDN through farmyard manure, added with an NPK consortium via soil application, led to a substantial increase of organic carbon levels and nitrogen availability in the soil post‐maize and sesame harvests, as well as with a marked increase in soil microbial populations. Correlation analysis representing the degree of association among all the traits underscores the potential of INM strategies to mitigate soil quality degradation and enhance nutrient cycling within maize–sesame cropping systems, thereby promoting agricultural sustainability in this specific agro‐climatic region.
Voltage and Current Characteristics of Schottky Barrier Diodes and Rectifier Diodes Exposed to Standard Lightning Impulse Voltage
Authors: Ko Tin Zar Win , Torihara Ryo , Sakoda Tatsuya , Hayashi Noriyuki
Published: March 2024

Lightning surges are one of the major reasons of bypass diode (BPD) failure in photovoltaic modules. In this study, standard lightning impulse voltages (SLIVs) were directly applied to Schottky barrier diodes (SKB diodes) and rectifier diodes (PNJ diodes) with different electrical specifications. The critical voltages Vc of SLIV at which the diodes were damaged and the temporal variations of diode current (iD) and voltage (vD) were measured. It was found the iD‐vD characteristics can be categorized into a total of eight patterns: four patterns for the forward SLIV application and the four for the reverse SLIV application, regardless of diode types. The measured results imply that the irreversible voltage dip that occurs before the termination of the reverse breakdown contributes significantly to diode damage in the both forward and reverse SLIV applications. SKB diodes exposed to the reverse SLIV are easily damaged at the lowest magnitude of SLIV among all combinations of diode types and SLIV directions. Once a diode has been damaged due to the first SLIV application, the second application of SLIV to the same diode causes remarkable change in the iD‐vD characteristic even if the magnitude of the second SLIV is smaller than Vc. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Ridding New Zealand of predators by 2050
Authors: Loeb Josh
Published: March 2024

Josh Loeb reports on plans ‘down under’ to remove many predatory mammal species from New Zealand in a bid to save its indigenous species.
Experimental study on the use of the ARM Cortex M7 processor for measuring far-field blast waves
Authors: du Plessis M. , Mahomed N. , Heise R.
Published: March 2024

The ongoing study of blast waves and blast wave mitigation continues to play an essential role in protecting structures and personnel. The methodology, however, for capturing far-field blast waves in large-scale tests has remained largely unchanged for three decades, relying on large arrays of pressure transducers connected by hundreds of meters of cabling and requiring a considerable amount of time to set up. This paper evaluates the use of a modern low-cost microprocessor with high computational power to capture blast waves with sufficient fidelity to provide scientists and engineers with credible data. The system utilizes an ARM Cortex M7 processor as an experimental data acquisition (DAQ) system for measuring far-field blast waves in an open-air blast arena at sampling speeds of up to 1.8 Msps (megasamples per second). The experimental system’s performance was evaluated by comparing it to a traditional commercial system used for measuring blast waves. The comparison showed an average Spearman correlation coefficient r of 0.928 between the two systems, suggesting a low variance between the commercial and experimental DAQ systems. This suggests that, despite its simplicity, the experimental system is an effective and low-cost alternative for accurately measuring blast waves.
Tracially amenable actions and purely infinite crossed products
Authors: Gardella Eusebio , Geffen Shirly , Kranz Julian , Naryshkin Petr , Vaccaro Andrea
Published: March 2024

We introduce the notion of tracial amenability for actions of discrete groups on unital, tracial C$$^*$$

∗

-algebras, as a weakening of amenability where all the relevant approximations are done in the uniform trace norm. We characterize tracial amenability with various equivalent conditions, including topological amenability of the induced action on the trace space. Our main result concerns the structure of crossed products: for groups containing the free group $$F_2$$

F
2

, we show that outer, tracially amenable actions on simple, unital, $$\mathcal {Z}$$
Z
-stable C$$^*$$

∗

-algebras always have purely infinite crossed products. Finally, we give concrete examples of tracially amenable actions of free groups on simple, unital AF-algebras.
Training of young medical professionals: implementation of modern training concepts, taking into account the changed framework conditions for training—a pilot project for operational subjects
Authors: Findeklee S. , Hamoud B. Haj , Diedrich K. , Sima R. M. , Solomayer E.-F. , Spüntrup C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

For years, generations of medical students have complained that practice-oriented learning is neglected in medical studies. Further training assistants also complain about limited opportunities to learn subject-specific practical activities.

Material and techniques

We are presenting a pilot project at the University Women’s Hospital in Homburg, in which medical students complete an endoscopic hands-on course as part of the block internship gynaecology and obstetrics. During the course the students perform classic skills training and hand–eye coordination exercises and learn the first steps in endoscopic suturing (suture and rows of knots). The training concepts used can be implemented on simple boxing trainers and can therefore also be reproduced in clinics or in a private setting.

Outcome

Altogether, 73 medical students did participate in the laparoscopy course. We were able to prove that the knotting time for a simple knot can be reduced from an average of 247 s to 40 s (80%) after completing our training programme. Based on the evaluation sheet that the students filled out after the course, we found a very-high acceptance for surgical simulation training within the student cohort.

Discussion

Practical surgical exercises can complement the curriculum well and, as we can show with our work, are rated very positively by the students. For students in higher semesters, such practical courses can also provide an insight into the respective subject area and thus counteract the lack of skilled workers in surgical subjects. The practical year should not be the first contact with these practical courses, as at this timepoint a certain favoured subject has often already being chosen by the students.
Does the time interval from neoadjuvant camrelizumab combined with chemotherapy to surgery affect outcomes for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma?
Authors: Liu Jiacong , Zhu Linhai , Huang Xuhua , Lu Zhongjie , Wang Yanye , Yang Yuhong , Ye Jiayue , Gu Chen , Lv Wang , Zhang Chong , Hu Jian
Published: March 2024

Background

There is currently no consensus on the optimal interval time between neoadjuvant therapy and surgery, and whether prolonged time interval from neoadjuvant therapy to surgery results in bad outcomes for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this study, we aim to evaluate outcomes of time intervals ≤ 8 weeks and > 8 weeks in locally advanced ESCC.

Methods

This retrospective study consecutively included ESCC patients who received esophagectomy after neoadjuvant camrelizumab combined with chemotherapy at the Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. The primary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), while the secondary endpoints were pathological response, surgical outcomes, and postoperative complications.

Results

From 2019 to 2021, a total of 80 patients were included in our study and were divided into two groups according to the time interval from neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy to surgery: ≤ 8 weeks group (n = 44) and > 8 weeks group (n = 36). The rate of MPR in the ≤ 8 weeks group was 25.0% and 27.8% in the > 8 weeks group (P = 0.779). The rate of pCR in the ≤ 8 weeks group was 11.4%, with 16.7% in the > 8 weeks group (P = 0.493). The incidence of postoperative complications in the ≤ 8 weeks group was 27.3% and 19.4% in the > 8 weeks group (P = 0.413). The median DFS in the two groups had not yet reached (hazard ratio [HR], 3.153; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.383 to 6.851; P = 0.004). The median OS of ≤ 8 weeks group was not achieved (HR, 3.703; 95% CI 1.584 to 8.657; P = 0.0012), with the > 8 weeks group 31.6 months (95% CI 21.1 to 42.1). In multivariable analysis, inferior DFS and OS were observed in patients with interval time > 8 weeks (HR, 2.992; 95% CI 1.306 to 6.851; and HR, 3.478; 95% CI 1.481 to 8.170, respectively).

Conclusions

Locally advanced ESCC patients with time interval from neoadjuvant camrelizumab combined with chemotherapy to surgery > 8 weeks were associated with worse long-term survival.