bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flashback Prevention in a Hydrogen-Fueled Reheat Combustor by Water Injection Optimized With Global Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Pousada Pablo Rouco , Doan Nguyen Anh Khoa , Aditya Konduri , Düsing Michael , Ciani Andrea , Langella Ivan
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates water injection effects in a simplified Ansaldo GT36 reheat system under realistic conditions of 20 atm using large eddy simulation (LES) coupled with thickened flame modeling and adaptive mesh refinement. The water injection conditions are optimized by performing a parametric study based on global sensitivity analysis (GSA) with a surrogate model based on Gaussian process (GP) to reduce computational cost. In particular, the influence of four design parameters, namely, Sauter mean diameter (SMD), water mass flow, and the angles of the spray's hollow cone, is tested to achieve an optimized solution. In the “dry” case, the LES simulations show several flashback events attributed to compressive pressure waves resulting from auto-ignition in the core flow near the crossover temperature. The use of water injection is found to be effective in suppressing the flashback occurrence. In particular, the global sensitivity analysis shows that the external angle of the spray cone and the mass flow of water are the most important design parameters for flashback prevention. NOx emissions are reduced by about 17% with water injection. Once an optimized condition with water injection is found, a recently proposed method to downscale the combustor to lower pressures is applied and tested. Additional LESs are performed for this purpose at the dry, unstable condition and the “wet,” stable condition. Results show that similar dynamics are predicted at 1 atm, validating the method's robustness. This provides avenues for experimentally testing combustion dynamics at simplified conditions which are still representative of high-pressure practical configurations.
Optimization of District Heating Network Parameters in Steady-State Operation
Authors: Hari Sai Krishna K. , Zlotnik Anatoly , Srinivasan Shriram , Sundar Kaarthik , Ewers Mary
Published: October 2024

We examine the modeling, simulation, and optimization of district heating systems, which are widely used for thermal transport using steam or hot water as a carrier. We propose a generalizable framework to specify network models and scenario parameters, and develop an optimization method for evaluating system states including pressures, fluid flowrates, and temperatures throughout the network. The network modeling includes pipes, thermal plants, pumps, and passive or controllable loads as system components. We propose basic models for thermodynamic fluid transport and enforce the balance of physical quantities in steady-state flow over co-located outgoing and return networks. We formulate an optimization problem with steam and hot water as the outgoing and return carriers, as in legacy twentieth century systems. The physical laws and engineering limitations are specified for each component type, and the thermal network flow optimization problem is formulated and solved for a realistic test network under several scenarios.
A Study of Loss Model Parameter Sensitivity in Compressor Unsteady Flow Simulations
Authors: Jing Zhenhao , Neumeier Yedidia , Prasad J. V. R. , James Darrell K.
Published: October 2024

This article presents results from a comprehensive sensitivity analysis focused on loss models used in a recently developed compressor unsteady mean line flow model for a transonic axial-centrifugal compressor. The mean line flow model treats flow through rotors and stators in their respective reference frames (rotating or stationary), and the compressor performance is determined by the kinetic energy addition and various physics-based loss models in relative frames. In this paper, we describe the modeling approach of the compressor flow model, as well as the loss models that are used to obtain a relatively good match against test data. Sensitivity studies of selected loss model parameters are presented to show the effect of individual loss model parameters on the overall compressor characteristics in the entire speed range. The effects of losses on unsteady flow transients are assessed by comparing the transient responses when a step reduction of throttle area is applied. The comparisons show that the change in loss magnitude has weak effects on transient response if the change of loss does not significantly change the system stability.
Noise Source Identification for the Unsteady Low-Pressure Turbine Flow Fields
Authors: Yan Lanyi , Simoni Daniele , Luan Yigang , Sun Tao , Barsi Dario , Zunino Pietro
Published: October 2024

The article presents a data processing methodology to identify the noise sources in low-pressure turbine (LPT) stages and their relative importance. Scale adaptive simulation (SAS) has been carried out on a geometry reproducing the midspan blade section of an entire LPT stage. The proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is applied to data matrices constructed with the velocity and the pressure fields in order to distinctly extract the coherent structures responsible for velocity fluctuations and pressure waves (i.e., POD modes from the corresponding kernel), their temporal evolution and energies. The cross-correlation matrices of the pressure modes and the velocity modes reveal the degree of coupling between pressure and velocity oscillations, thus highlighting the modes linked to the same flow phenomena. The results show that the periodic vortex shedding at the stator trailing edge emits strong pressure waves, and the upstream-propagating waves reflect against the adjacent stator suction surface. The POD modes related to the rotor–stator interaction show peak amplitudes at the blade passing frequency and its harmonics and their shapes mimic the potential interaction in the stator domain and the migration of viscous wakes in the rotor domain. The POD modes with lower energy content correspond to the stochastic turbulent structures originated from the turbulent boundary layers as well as those carried by the vane and blade wakes. The biggest noise sources of the current flow fields are identified to be the von Karman vortex street downstream the stator trailing edge and the rotor–stator interaction.
An [illustrative] update on pediatric emergency ultrasound: part 3 – cerebral, musculoskeletal and other applications
Authors: Schwarz Simone , Dong Yi , Snelling Peter J , Hoffmann Beatrice , Nourkami-Tutdibi Nasenien , Huang Yun-Lin , Chen Sheng , Cekuolis Andrius , Augustiniene Rasa , Schreiber-Dietrich Dagmar , Grevelding Lara , Dietrich Christoph F
Published: October 2024

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) plays an essential role in pediatric emergency medicine by improving diagnostics and procedural safety. The role of POCUS in the care of pediatric patients in the emergency department has expanded considerably in recent years. Cranial and musculoskeletal imaging has significant potential, yet POCUS has also become a vital tool for common procedures, such as central and difficult peripheral intravenous access. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of pediatric POCUS applications for cranial, small parts (head, eyes, nose, throat, and soft tissue), musculoskeletal, and common procedural applications, forming the third part of the series.
Estimating direction of arrival in reverberant environments for wake-word detection using a single structural vibration sensor
Authors: Rutowski Jenna , DiPassio Tre , Thompson Benjamin R. , Bocko Mark F. , Heilemann Michael C.
Published: October 2024

The vibrational response of an elastic panel to incident acoustic waves is determined by the direction-of-arrival (DOA) of the waves relative to the spatial structure of the panel's bending modes. By monitoring the relative modal excitations of a panel immersed in a sound field, the DOA of the source may be inferred. In reverberant environments, early acoustic reflections and the late diffuse acoustic field may obscure the DOA of incoming sound waves. Panel microphones may be especially susceptible to the effects of reverberation due to their large surface areas and long-decaying impulse responses. An investigation into the effect of reverberation on the accuracy of DOA estimation with panel microphones was made by recording wake-word utterances in eight spaces with reverberation times (RT60s) ranging from 0.27 to 3.00 s. The responses were used to train neural networks to estimate the DOA. Within ±5°, DOA estimation reliability was measured at 95.00% in the least reverberant space, decreasing to 78.33% in the most reverberant space, suggesting an inverse relationship between RT60 and DOA accuracy. Experimental results suggest that a system for estimating DOA with panel microphones can generalize to new acoustic environments by cross-training the system with data from multiple spaces with different RT60s.
Global rise in forest fire emissions linked to climate change in the extratropics
Authors: Jones Matthew W. , Veraverbeke Sander , Andela Niels , Doerr Stefan H. , Kolden Crystal , Mataveli Guilherme , Pettinari M. Lucrecia , Le Quéré Corinne , Rosan Thais M. , van der Werf Guido R. , van Wees Dave , Abatzoglou John T.
Published: October 2024

Climate change increases fire-favorable weather in forests, but fire trends are also affected by multiple other controlling factors that are difficult to untangle. We use machine learning to systematically group forest ecoregions into 12 global forest pyromes, with each showing distinct sensitivities to climatic, human, and vegetation controls. This delineation revealed that rapidly increasing forest fire emissions in extratropical pyromes, linked to climate change, offset declining emissions in tropical pyromes during 2001 to 2023. Annual emissions tripled in one extratropical pyrome due to increases in fire-favorable weather, compounded by increased forest cover and productivity. This contributed to a 60% increase in forest fire carbon emissions from forest ecoregions globally. Our results highlight the increasing vulnerability of forests and their carbon stocks to fire disturbance under climate change.
Neurotoxic mixture effects of chemicals extracted from blood of pregnant women
Authors: Braun Georg , Herberth Gunda , Krauss Martin , König Maria , Wojtysiak Niklas , Zenclussen Ana C. , Escher Beate I.
Published: October 2024

Human biomonitoring studies typically capture only a small and unknown fraction of the entire chemical universe. We combined chemical analysis with a high-throughput in vitro assay for neurotoxicity to capture complex mixtures of organic chemicals in blood. Plasma samples of 624 pregnant women from the German LiNA cohort were extracted with a nonselective extraction method for organic chemicals. 294 of >1000 target analytes were detected and quantified. Many of the detected chemicals as well as the whole extracts interfered with neurite development. Experimental testing of simulated complex mixtures of detected chemicals in the neurotoxicity assay confirmed additive mixture effects at concentrations less than individual chemicals’ effect thresholds. The use of high-throughput target screening combined with bioassays has the potential to improve human biomonitoring and provide a new approach to including mixture effects in epidemiological studies.
AI can help humans find common ground in democratic deliberation
Authors: Tessler Michael Henry , Bakker Michiel A. , Jarrett Daniel , Sheahan Hannah , Chadwick Martin J. , Koster Raphael , Evans Georgina , Campbell-Gillingham Lucy , Collins Tantum , Parkes David C. , Botvinick Matthew , Summerfield Christopher
Published: October 2024

Finding agreement through a free exchange of views is often difficult. Collective deliberation can be slow, difficult to scale, and unequally attentive to different voices. In this study, we trained an artificial intelligence (AI) to mediate human deliberation. Using participants’ personal opinions and critiques, the AI mediator iteratively generates and refines statements that express common ground among the group on social or political issues. Participants (
N
= 5734) preferred AI-generated statements to those written by human mediators, rating them as more informative, clear, and unbiased. Discussants often updated their views after the deliberation, converging on a shared perspective. Text embeddings revealed that successful group statements incorporated dissenting voices while respecting the majority position. These findings were replicated in a virtual citizens’ assembly involving a demographically representative sample of the UK population.
In Science Journals
Authors: Grocholski Brent , Norton Melissa L. , Stajic Jelena , Funk Michael A. , Sofowora Iyinoluwa , Lopez Bianca , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , VanHook Annalisa M. , Kelly Priscilla N. , Smith Jesse , Ash Caroline , Uzogara Ekeoma , Isles Hannah M. , Lavine Marc S.
Published: October 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
How farming nurtured a gene
Authors: Price Michael
Published: October 2024

Two studies show when—and how—a gene that helps us digest starchy foods proliferated in our genome
Nobel panels take slow steps toward diversity
Authors: Langin Katie
Published: October 2024

Despite another male sweep, one prize selector says she sees some progress
Herbicidal fungal strain isolated from soil in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Tang Yanhong , Chen Wei , He Fengting , Liu Tongyi , Hu Qiongbo , Weng Qunfang , Zhang Ke
Published: October 2024

Weeds pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity, emphasizing the urgent need for developing innovative biological herbicides. Soil is a rich reservoir of fungi with potential herbicidal properties. The Xinjiang region of China, characterized by unique biodiversity shaped by geographical and climatic factors, is likely to harbor distinctive fungal resources that remain understudied. This study investigated the herbicidal potential of soil fungi by collecting 123 soil samples from 33 diverse habitats in Xinjiang and isolating 114 fungal strains. Morphological characteristics and ITS sequence analysis identified these strains as 24 species belonging to 12 genera. Subsequently, 24 representative strains underwent phytotoxicity assays using detached weed leaves. Strain Tapu14C02 demonstrated significant herbicidal activity against 11 weeds, including
Amaranthus retroflexus
,
Bidens pilosa
, and
Celosia argentea
. Further identification confirmed the strain as
Talaromyces purpureogenus
. Pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the herbicidal potential of the strain. The spore suspension at a concentration of 1.0 × 10
8
spores/mL inhibited barnyard grass (
Echinochloa crus-galli
) seedling root length by 93.07%. Among the crude extracts from the fermentation broth, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited the strongest herbicidal activity, causing complete inhibition of root growth at concentrations of 1000 µg/mL and 500 µg/mL. This study provides novel insights into the herbicidal potential of soil fungi in the Xinjiang region of China.

IMPORTANCE

Weeds pose significant challenges by causing agricultural losses and ecological harm. Over the past decades, many weed species have developed high resistance to chemical herbicides, underscoring the urgent need for new biological herbicide alternatives. In this study, we isolated and screened herbicidal fungi from soil samples in Xinjiang with unique conditions of extreme arid. Notably, we discovered the T. purpureogenus strain Tapu14C02, which shows promising potential as a myco-herbicide. Both its conidia and fermentation broth exhibit broad-spectrum effectiveness against weeds. This research highlights the potential of fungal resources for sustainable agriculture.
Intensified continental weathering and reductive surface runoff during the Triassic–Jurassic transition
Authors: Wan Ruoqi , Yuan Chengshuai , Liu Sheng-Ao , Fang Linhao , Shen Jun , Wang Xiaomei
Published: October 2024

The end-Triassic mass extinction (ETE) is characterized by profound declines in biodiversity in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, widely accepted to have been triggered by the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP). In response to the CAMP, global continental weathering intensity and terrestrial redox conditions at the extinction interval may have substantially changed, but these are not fully constrained yet. Here we report high-resolution Fe (δ56Fe) and Zn (δ66Zn) isotope data on sedimentary successions of terrestrial open systems across high-latitude and low- to middle-latitude continental Triassic–Jurassic transition (TJT) sections. Both sections recorded a positive δ56Fe excursion and an increase in chemical index of alteration along with fluctuating δ66Zn values during the ETE–TJT period, indicating enhanced continental weathering. The notable increase of δ56Fe with lower total Fe2O3 contents suggests a reductive continental weathering condition considering that Fe isotope fractionation during silicate weathering requires loss of fluid-mobile, reduced Fe(II). Notably, the positive δ56Fe excursion was concurrent with and proportional to the increasing concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from wildfires in corresponding coal layers, implying that the surface runoff during intensified weathering may have been reduced by biochar from CAMP-triggered wildfires. The reductive terrestrial runoff might have influenced the surface ocean across the TJT to some extent.
Comparison of clinical presentation and management of children and adolescents with ARFID between paediatrics and child and adolescent psychiatry: a prospective surveillance study
Authors: Haidar Ellaha , Sanchez-Cerezo Javier , Neale Josephine , Julius Nikita , Lynn Richard M , Hudson Lee D , Nicholls Dasha
Published: October 2024

Objective

To compare the clinical presentations, management and outcomes of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) across paediatric and child and adolescent (C&A) psychiatric settings.

Study design

Prospective surveillance study.

Methods

Data were collected during a 13-month prospective surveillance study of children and adolescents with ARFID in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Paediatricians reported cases via the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit and psychiatrists through the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Surveillance System. A follow-up questionnaire was sent at 12 months after a case of ARFID was reported.

Results

319 cases were included, 189 from paediatricians and 130 from C&A psychiatrists. Patients presenting to paediatricians were younger (9.8 years vs 13.7 years), more often male (62.4% vs 43.1%), and had more chronic symptoms (80.4% vs 67.0%), selective eating (63.7% vs 46.6%) and comorbid autism (67.6% vs 50.0%) than to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists saw patients with more fear of aversive consequences from eating (13.1% vs 3.2%), weight loss (76.7% vs 65.0%) and comorbid anxiety (78.2% vs 47.4%). Patients presenting to paediatricians more often received medical monitoring (74.6% vs 53.1%), dietetic advice (83.1% vs 70.0%) and nutritional supplements (49.2% vs 30.0%). At follow-up, both cohorts improved in nutritional status. However, the psychiatric cohort improved more regarding disordered eating behaviours.

Conclusions

The presentation and management of ARFID differs across clinical settings. Findings suggest the need to develop clinical pathways for ARFID assessment and management across paediatrics and mental health. Our findings highlight the potential benefits of psychiatric input for some patients with ARFID.
Efficacy, safety and tolerability of GSK3858279, an anti-CCL17 monoclonal antibody and analgesic, in healthy volunteers and patients with knee osteoarthritis pain: a phase I, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-mechanism and proof-of-concept study
Authors: Nijjar Jagtar Singh , Abbott-Banner Katharine , Alvarez Yolanda , Aston Nicola , Bass Damon , Bentley Jane H , Ellis Joanne , Ellson Christian , Emery Edward C , Feeney Maria , Fernando Disala , Inman David , Kaur Rejbinder , Modis Louise K , Munoz Vicente Sam , Muya Catherine , Nistala Kiran , Panoilia Eirini , Ray Riju , Siederer Sarah , Smith Julia E , Weir Lucinda , Wisniacki Nicolas
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate efficacy, safety and tolerability of the first-in-class, anti-CCL17 monoclonal antibody, GSK3858279, in treating knee osteoarthritis (OA) pain.

Methods

This was a phase I, randomised, placebo-controlled, two-part, proof-of-mechanism and proof-of-concept study. In part A, healthy participants were randomised 3:1 to receive GSK3858279 as either single intravenous (0.1–10 mg/kg) doses, a subcutaneous (3 mg/kg up to 240 mg maximum) dose, or placebo, to evaluate safety and tolerability. In part B, participants with knee OA pain were randomised 1:1 to receive weekly subcutaneous 240 mg GSK3858279, or placebo, for 8 weeks, to assess safety and change from baseline (CFB) in average and worst knee pain intensity. Exploratory endpoints included CFB in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, function and stiffness scores.

Results

GSK3858279 demonstrated greater median CFB (95% credible interval (CrI)) in average and worst knee pain intensity versus placebo (average, –1.18 (–2.15, –0.20); worst, –1.09 (–2.29, 0.12)) at week 8. Median CFB (95% CrI) for GSK3858279 versus placebo in WOMAC pain and function scores were –1.41 (–2.35, –0.46) and –1.29 (–2.28, –0.29), respectively, at week 8. Overall, 72% (26/36; part A) and 88% (21/24; part B) of participants receiving GSK3858279 experienced adverse events (AEs); with nasopharyngitis being the most common in part A and injection site reactions in part B. No serious AEs or deaths were observed.

GSK3858279 improved pain intensity and WOMAC pain and function scores in adults with knee OA pain and demonstrated favourable safety and tolerability in both healthy participants and adults with knee OA pain.
Peripheral neuropathy following monkeypox infection: an unexpected diagnosis of Parsonage-Turner syndrome
Authors: Gerber Filippo , Zenkhri Salim , Farron Alain , Traverso Aurélien
Published: October 2024

Parsonage-Turner syndrome following monkeypox infection is a rare form of peripheral neuropathy seen in orthopaedic practice and described only once in the literature. We present the case of a man in his 30s with severe shoulder pain and subsequent amyotrophy 2 weeks after monkeypox infection. Our report encompasses the initial findings, radiographic examinations and follow-up over a 6-month period. To confirm the diagnosis, MRI and electrostimulation conduction studies were conducted, highlighting their importance as valuable diagnostic tools in conjunction with a thorough physical examination. Supportive treatment, including physical therapy and pain management, forms the cornerstone of management, while surgical intervention is reserved for refractory cases or when mechanical complications arise. Prognosis varies among individuals. This case report expands the understanding of neurological complications of monkeypox infection. Clinicians should include Parsonage-Turner syndrome in their differential diagnosis for patients presenting with symptoms of peripheral brachial plexus neuropathy following viral infections, including monkeypox.
BCG-osis: a complication after intravesical BCG immunotherapy
Authors: Simon Crisanta , Jeyasinghe Ushani , Shiferaw Bethel
Published: October 2024

BCG, or live attenuatedMycobacterium bovis,intravesical immunotherapy is now an established component of the standard of care for bladder cancer following transurethral resection of bladder tumour. The following case demonstrates the rare complication of disseminated BCG (BCG-osis) that may arise after the aforementioned therapy. Patients at increased risk of this complication include those who are immunocompromised, above the age of 70 and patients who have had traumatic catheterisation. Diagnosis can be made with or without microbiology and management includes a multidrug regimen. It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of BCG-osis and postpone future intravesical instillation of BCG if there is traumatic catheterisation. Future instillation should be completely discontinued if a patient develops disseminatedM. bovis.
Isolated pancreatic tuberculosis presenting as mucinous cystic lesion
Authors: PS Sairam , Paul Anoop , Kanamathareddy Harsha Veena , AJ Joseph
Published: October 2024

A young man in his early 30s presented to our hospital with upper abdominal pain radiating to the back, progressive jaundice with pruritus, low-grade fever, vomiting and significant weight loss over 4 months. The syndrome of extrahepatic biliary obstruction was considered. There was no significant past, personal or family history. Imaging was suggestive of mucinous cystic lesions of the pancreas with significant lymphadenopathy. He was initially planned for surgery. However, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration from the lesion tested positive for tuberculosis and he improved dramatically with antituberculosis therapy. When a patient has an atypical presentation, tuberculosis should always be considered, especially if they reside in a tuberculosis-endemic country.
Do Swedish rock-climbers exhibit more eating disorder and body dissatisfaction symptoms than non-climbers? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nigicser Isabel , Identeg Fredrik , Sansone Mikael , Hedelin Henrik , Forsberg Niklas , Tranaeus Ulrika , Edlund Klara
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The inclusion of rock-climbing in the Olympic Games has increased participation in the sport and attention to athletes' health. In sports where the importance of low body weight is considerate, there is an increased risk of developing eating disorders (EDs). There is sparse research on EDs among rock-climbers. The primary aim was to map ED symptoms among rock-climbers compared with controls. The secondary aim was to analyze differences in body dissatisfaction. Comparisons between rock-climbing levels and sexes were performed.

Design

This is a cross-sectional study in a larger prospective longitudinal study series, CLIMB: Climber’s Longitudinal attitudes towards Injury, Mental health and Body image, using baseline data.

Participants

Swedish rock-climbers, at an advanced and elite level according to the International Rock Climbing Research Association, participated. Participants were at least 13 years old. 183 rock-climbers partook with a mean age of 29.5 (SD=9.1) with two participants under 15 years old. 180 controls partook with a mean age of 29.0 (SD=8.9). There were no control participants under 15 years of age.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Data was gathered through a self-report questionnaire collecting the primary outcome measure, ED symptoms (Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) V.6.0) and the secondary outcome measure, body dissatisfaction (Body Shape Questionnaire-8C).

Results

There were no differences between rock-climbers and controls regarding ED symptoms. Symptoms were higher among female rock-climbers (26%) than male (5.8%). Regarding body dissatisfaction, the control group reported higher levels compared with rock-climbers. At least a mild concern was observed in 13.3% of male rock-climbers, compared with 47.4% of females.

Conclusions

Although there was no difference in the EDE-Q V.6.0 between rock-climbers and controls, females reported significantly more symptoms than men. Regarding body dissatisfaction, female rock-climbers exhibited higher levels of dissatisfaction than males. Further, higher levels of dissatisfaction were reported in controls, especially in men, where symptoms were three times higher than rock-climbers.

Trial registration number

NCT05587270.
Implementing a remote self-screening programme for atrial fibrillation using digital health technology among community-dwellers aged 75 years and older: a qualitative evaluation
Authors: Wong Kam Cheong , Nguyen Tu N , Trankle Steven A , Usherwood Tim , Quintans Desi , Marschner Simone , Turnbull Samual , Indrawansa Anupama Balasuriya , White Rose , Burns Mason Jenner , Gopal Vishal , Lindley Richard I , Kumar Saurabh , Chow Clara K
Published: October 2024

Objective

To examine the feasibility of implementing remote atrial fibrillation (AF) self-screening among older people supported by a remote central monitoring system.

Design

Process evaluation of the Mass AF randomised clinical trial (ACTRN12621000184875) with one-to-one semistructured interviews using interview guides underpinned by the Critical Realism approach and coded using the UK Medical Research Council Guidance of Process Evaluation Framework.

Setting and participants

Community-dwelling people aged ≥75 years from both genders (ratio 1:1) and urban/rural (ratio 2:1) in Australia.

Interventions

Participants were provided handheld single-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) devices and trained to self-record ECGs once daily on weekdays for at least 6 months. A remote central team notified participants and general practitioners (GPs) of AF.

Primary feasibility outcomes

The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis examined enablers (ie, strengths and opportunities) and barriers (ie, weaknesses and threats).

Results

Overall, 200 participants; 98.5% completed the 6-month programme, 96% reported being satisfied with screening and 48 were interviewed: mean age 79 years, 54% male and 71% urban. 11 GPs were interviewed: 55% female and 64% urban. Programme participants trusted the remote monitoring system that supported the screening programme and provided follow-up pathways where required. GPs saw opportunities to introduce this self-screening programme to at-risk patients and improve patients’ risk profiles. Programme participants reported that after being trained to use the device, they felt empowered to do self-screening and found it convenient. GPs saw empowerment could enhance the doctor–patient relationship. Programme participants and GPs valued screening in diagnosing AF that would otherwise be missed in usual care, but the uncertainty of effective screening duration could be a barrier.

Conclusions

This screening programme was feasible with the reinforcement of the underpinning enablers. Several implementation strategies were identified using SWOT analysis, including leveraging the opportunity for GPs to introduce this screening programme to at-risk patients.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12621000184875.
Artificial intelligence chatbots as sources of patient education material for cataract surgery: ChatGPT-4 versus Google Bard
Authors: Azzopardi Matthew , Ng Benjamin , Logeswaran Abison , Loizou Constantinos , Cheong Ryan Chin Taw , Gireesh Prasanth , Ting Darren Shu Jeng , Chong Yu Jeat
Published: October 2024

Objective

To conduct a head-to-head comparative analysis of cataract surgery patient education material generated by Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT-4) and Google Bard.

Methods and analysis

98 frequently asked questions on cataract surgery in English were taken in November 2023 from 5 trustworthy online patient information resources. 59 of these were curated (20 augmented for clarity and 39 duplicates excluded) and categorised into 3 domains: condition (n=15), preparation for surgery (n=21) and recovery after surgery (n=23). They were formulated into input prompts with ‘prompt engineering’. Using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool-Printable (PEMAT-P) Auto-Scoring Form, four ophthalmologists independently graded ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard responses. The readability of responses was evaluated using a Flesch-Kincaid calculator. Responses were also subjectively examined for any inaccurate or harmful information.

Results

Google Bard had a higher mean overall Flesch-Kincaid Level (8.02) compared with ChatGPT-4 (5.75) (p<0.001), also noted across all three domains. ChatGPT-4 had a higher overall PEMAT-P understandability score (85.8%) in comparison to Google Bard (80.9%) (p<0.001), which was also noted in the ‘preparation for cataract surgery’ (85.2% vs 75.7%; p<0.001) and ‘recovery after cataract surgery’ (86.5% vs 82.3%; p=0.004) domains. There was no statistically significant difference in overall (42.5% vs 44.2%; p=0.344) or individual domain actionability scores (p>0.10). None of the generated material contained dangerous information.

Conclusion

In comparison to Google Bard, ChatGPT-4 fared better overall, scoring higher on the PEMAT-P understandability scale and exhibiting more faithfulness to the prompt engineering instruction. Since input prompts might vary from real-world patient searches, follow-up studies with patient participation are required.
Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of therapeutic exercise versus myofascial trigger point therapy in the treatment of shoulder tendinopathies: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Villa Muñoz Teresa , Velázquez Saornil Jorge , Sánchez Milá Zacarías , Romero-Morales Carlos , Almazán Polo Jaime , Baraja Vegas Luis , Hugo Villafañe Jorge , Abuín-Porras Vanesa
Published: October 2024

Objective

Shoulder pain, primarily due to rotator cuff tendinopathy, significantly impacts function and quality of life, with considerable socioeconomic implications. Physiotherapy myofascial trigger point therapy (MPT) is traditionally used, but therapeutic exercise (TE) has gained attention for its potential administrative and implementation benefits. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of TE compared with MPT in treating shoulder tendinopathies.

Methods

A single-blind randomised controlled trial was conducted comparing TE and MPT. Outcome measures included pain intensity with the Numerical Rating Scale, pressure pain threshold (PPT) and range of motion (ROM), assessed before and after 10 treatment sessions. A total number of 72 participants (TE group n=36 age 49.22±15.29/MTP group n=36 age 49.03±19.12) participated in the study.

Interventions

Participants in both groups were evaluated before treatment and after 10 sessions. A total of 10 sessions were conducted over 5 weeks of intervention.

Results

Both interventions showed improvements in pain intensity and ROM, with no significant differences between the groups in most measures except PPT, where TE demonstrated a greater decrease in pressure-induced pain.

Conclusion

TE could serve as an alternative to manual therapy, offering cost–benefit advantages, especially in administration via telecare and group sessions, highlighting its broader application in physiotherapy.

Trial registration number

NCT06241404.
The association of the chemotherapy response score and homologous recombination deficiency in patients undergoing interval tumor reductive surgery following neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Nitecki Wilke Roni , Liu Jinsong , Westin Shannon Neville , Fellman Bryan M , Sims Travis T , Pham Melissa , Rangel Kelly , Sey Esther , Rauh-Hain Jose Alejandro , Lu Karen H , Sood Anil K , Fleming Nicole D
Published: October 2024

Objectives

In patients undergoing interval tumor reductive surgery, a good response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy may limit available tumor for homologous recombination deficiency testing. The objective of this study was to assess whether the chemotherapy response score predicts homologous recombination status.

Methods

We identified patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (diagnosed January 2019 to 20 June 2023) who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, underwent interval surgery, and for whom a chemotherapy response score was reported (1=no or minimal tumor response, 2=appreciable tumor response, 3=complete or near complete response with no residual tumor). Comparisons were made using ANOVAs or Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables and χ2or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables.

Results

The cohort consisted of 234 patients with advanced ovarian cancer who underwent interval surgery following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Of those who underwent germline genetic testing, 22% (51/232) had a pathogenicBRCA1orBRCA2mutation and of those with tumors sent for testing, 65% were found to have homologous recombination deficiency (66/146). With increasing chemotherapy response scores, a higher likelihood of a complete gross resection was observed (50% (chemotherapy response score, CRS 1) vs 77% (CRS 2) vs 88% (CRS 3), p<0.001). On multivariable analysis, CRS 2 (adjusted odds ratio=3.28, 95% CI 1.12 to 9.60, p=0.03) and CRS 3 (5.83, 1.79 to 18.93, p=0.003) were independently associated with homologous recombination deficiency compared with CRS 1.

Conclusion

A positive response to chemotherapy at the time of interval tumor reductive surgery defined by the chemotherapy response score was associated with homologous recombination status and the likelihood of achieving a complete gross resection.
Science highlights from the Kjell Henriksen Observatory on Svalbard
Authors: Herlingshaw Katie , Partamies Noora , van Hazendonk Charlotte M. , Syrjäsuo Mikko , Baddeley Lisa J. , Johnsen Magnar G. , Eriksen Nina K. , McWhirter Ian , Aruliah Anasuya , Engebretson Mark J. , Oksavik Kjellmar , Sigernes Fred , Lorentzen Dag A. , Nishiyama Takanori , Cooper Matthew B. , Meriwether John , Haaland Stein , Whiter Daniel
Published: October 2024

The Kjell Henriksen Observatory (KHO) is the world’s largest optical observatory for auroral and airglow measurements, operated by the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS). KHO is a unique site that lies underneath the dayside cusp, a funnel-shaped region where particles from the Sun can directly enter the Earth’s upper atmosphere, including the ionosphere. Building on the pioneering observations of its predecessor—the Auroral Station in Adventdalen, Svalbard—KHO has played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of phenomena in the polar atmosphere. The Auroral Station and KHO have amassed climatological measurements over Svalbard for an impressive 40-year period. KHO’s diverse instrumentation, combined with other co-located optical and radar infrastructure, and in situ measurements from satellites and sounding rockets, has paved the way for impactful multi-instrument studies. Serving as an accessible testbed for instrument development, new types of instruments have recently been installed, both at KHO and on satellites. Beyond its scientific contributions, KHO has become an integral part of the Longyearbyen community, with students, visitors, and locals participating in tours and educational initiatives. This connection underscores KHO’s multi-functional role, not only as a centre for excellent research but also as a vital hub for public outreach and engagement.
Mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) in Brassica napus L. for tolerance to water stress
Authors: Jayarathna Samadhi B. , Chawla Harmeet S. , Mira Mohammed M. , Duncan Robert W. , Stasolla Claudio
Published: October 2024

Brassica napus L. plants are sensitive to water stress conditions throughout their life cycle from seed germination to seed setting. This study aims at identifying quantitative trait loci (QTL) linked to B. napus tolerance to water stress mimicked by applications of 10% polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000). Two doubled haploid populations, each consisting of 150 genotypes, were used for this research. Plants at the two true leaf stage of development were grown in the absence (control) or presence (stress) of PEG-6000 under controlled environmental conditions for 48 h, and the drought stress index was calculated for each genotype. All genotypes, along with their parents, were genotyped using the Brassica Infinium 90K SNP BeadChip Array. Inclusive composite interval mapping was used to identify QTL. Six QTL and 12 putative QTL associated with water stress tolerance were identified across six chromosomes (A2, A3, A4, A9, C3, and C7). Collectively, 2154 candidate genes for water stress tolerance were identified for all the identified QTL. Among them, 213 genes were identified as being directly associated with water stress (imposed by PEG-6000) tolerance based on nine functional annotations. These results can be incorporated into future breeding initiatives to select plant material with the ability to cope effectively with water stress.
Fully charmed tetraquarks from LHC to FCC: natural stability from fragmentation
Authors: Celiberto Francesco Giovanni , Gatto Gabriele , Papa Alessandro
Published: October 2024

We investigate the inclusive production of fully charmed tetraquarks, $$T_{4c}(0^{++})$$

T

4
c

(

0

+
+

)

or $$T_{4c}(2^{++})$$

T

4
c

(

2

+
+

)

radial excitations, in high-energy proton collisions. We build our study upon the collinear fragmentation of a single parton in a variable-flavor number scheme, suited to describe the tetraquark formation mechanism from moderate to large transverse-momentum regimes. To this extent, we derive a novel set of DGLAP-evolving collinear fragmentation functions, named determinations. They encode initial-scale inputs corresponding to both gluon and heavy-quark fragmentation channels, defined within the context of quark-potential and spin-physics inspired models, respectively. We work within the NLL/$$\hbox {NLO}^+$$

NLO
+

hybrid factorization and make use of the numeric interface along with the symbolic calculation plugin. With these tools, we provide predictions for high-energy observables sensitive to $$T_{4c}$$

T

4
c

plus jet emissions at center-of-mass energies ranging from 14 TeV at the LHC to the 100 TeV nominal energy of the FCC.
Generalized $$\widetilde{W}$$ algebras
Authors: Drachov Yaroslav
Published: October 2024

Recently, a new generalized family of infinite-dimensional $$ \widetilde{W} $$

W
~

algebras, each associated with a particular element of a commutative subalgebra of the $$ W_{1+\infty } $$

W

1
+
∞

algebra, was described. This paper provides a comprehensive account of the aforementioned association, accompanied by the requisite proofs and illustrative examples. This approach allows a derivation of Ward identities for selected WLZZ matrix models and the expansion of corresponding $$ W $$
W
-operators in terms of an infinite set of variables $$ p_k $$

p
k

.
Deflection of light by a compact object with electric charge and magnetic dipole in Einstein–Born–Infeld gravity
Authors: Kim Jin Young
Published: October 2024

We consider the bending of light around a compact astrophysical object with both the electric field and the magnetic field in Einstein–Born–Infeld theory. From the null geodesic of a light ray passing a massive object with electric charge and magnetic dipole, the effective metric was obtained from the light cone condition reflecting the nonlinear electromagnetic effects. We found the asymptotic form of the effective metric up to the first order in gravitational constant G and Born–Infeld parameter $$1/\beta ^2$$

1
/

β
2

on the equatorial plane. Then we compute the bending angle of light from the geodesic equation. The result includes particular cases where only one type of field is present taking the appropriate limits.
Thermal cross section of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogels for neutron dose calculation
Authors: Simoni Margherita , Andreani Carla , Fazi Laura , Fratini Emiliano , Guaragnone Teresa , Krzystyniak Matthew , Prioriello Anna , Senesi Roberto , Romanelli Giovanni
Published: October 2024

Phantom materials are used to design radiation safety and protection strategies by means of numerical dose calculation. In the case of thermal neutrons, the radiation transport in the phantom relies on mass attenuation coefficients and total cross sections which are dependent on the physical and chemical properties of the material. Specifically for medical applications, such as neutron capture therapy, the neutron-induced dose is mainly related to the neutron absorption by hydrogen and nitrogen in the human tissue and body. Here, we investigate the use of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) as a phantom material by experimental measurement and modeling of its total neutron scattering cross section and mass attenuation coefficient. We show that by varying the hydration level from 10 to 40 w%, one can obtain a neutron attenuation coefficient similar to polymethyl methacrylate or more representative of the human body, respectively. By benchmarking our phenomenological model on the experimental data, we provide a new example of how to use the average functional group approximation to accurately model total neutron cross sections in the framework of personalized medicine approaches.
Strong decays and spin-parity assignments of low-lying singly charmed baryons
Authors: Jakhad Pooja , Oudichhya Juhi , Rai Ajay Kumar
Published: October 2024

In this study, we analyze the strong decays of singly charmed baryons into another singly charmed baryon and a light pseudo scalar meson by means of Heavy Hadron Chiral Perturbation Theory (HHChPT) which combines heavy quark symmetry with chiral symmetry. HHChPT worked excellently for describing the strong decays of [Formula: see text]-wave charmed baryons. The strong decay widths of well-established singly charmed baryons are well reproduced. Further, the strong decay width of [Formula: see text] states is calculated in this approach by using the calculated masses in the Relativistic Flux Tube (RFT) model. By analyzing the mass spectra from the RFT model with strong decays in HHChPT, we investigate the spin-parity assignments. We identify [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text]-wave states having [Formula: see text].
Dynamical behavior of soliton solutions to the space-time fractional combined KDV-MKDV equation through two robust techniques
Authors: Podder Anamika , Arefin Mohammad Asif , Ghazwani Hassan Ali , Uddin M. Hafiz , Akbar M. Ali
Published: October 2024

Nonlinear fractional-order partial differential equations play an important role in science and engineering by illustrating a variety of nonlinear processes. The nonlinear space-time fractional combined Korteweg-de Vries and modified Korteweg-de Vries equation is a very significant fractional partial differential equation and is used to simulate shallow water surface wave phenomena, pulse waves in large arteries, ion acoustic waves in plasmas, and atmospheric dust-acoustic solitary waves. The improved Bernoulli sub-equation function method and the new generalized [Formula: see text]-expansion method are two noteworthy approaches that have been used to analyze and extract solutions to the above-mentioned equation that include various types of traveling waves as well as soliton solutions via beta-derivative. Through the utilization of a wave transformation, the fractional-order equation is transformed into a nonlinear ordinary differential equation. The exponential function, trigonometric function, rational function, and hyperbolic trigonometric function solutions with arbitrary constants have been used to articulate the obtained solutions. By utilizing the aforementioned approaches, several standard waveforms have been recognized including multiple periodic types, kink shapes, bell-shaped, single solitons, and other types of solitons. Mathematica software has been used to illustrate the wave profiles through 3D and contour plots, providing a clearer physical sketch based on diverse values of free parameters. The suggested methods have demonstrated their reliability in establishing more generalized wave solutions and exhibit computational efficiency, making them suitable for soliton solutions.