bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking the Potential of 2D MoS2 Cathodes for High‐Performance Aqueous Al‐Ion Batteries: Deciphering the Intercalation Mechanisms
Authors: Pan Wending , Zhang Yulong , Leong Kee Wah , Zhang Yingguang , Mao Jianjun , Wang Yifei , Zhao Xiaolong , Luo Shijing , Leung D.Y.C
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there have been significant advancements in Al‐ion battery development, resulting in high voltage and capacity. Traditionally, only carbon‐based materials with layered structures and strong bonding capabilities can deliver superior performance. However, most other materials exhibited low discharge voltages of 1.4 V, especially in aqueous Al‐ion battery systems lacking anion intercalation. Thus, the development of high‐voltage cathode materials has become crucial. This study introduces 2D MoS2 as a high‐performance cathode for aqueous Al‐ion batteries. The material's interlayer structure enables the intercalation of AlCl4− anions, resulting in high‐voltage intercalation. The resulting battery achieved a high voltage of 1.8 V with a capacity of 750 mAh g−1, contributing to a high energy density of 890 Wh kg−1 and an impressive retention rate of ≈100% after 200 cycles. This research not only sheds light on the high‐voltage anion‐intercalation mechanism of MoS2 but also paves the way for the further development of advanced cathode materials in the field of Al‐ion batteries. By demonstrating the potential of using 2D MoS2 as a cathode material, this finding can lead to the development of more efficient and innovative energy storage technologies, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and green energy future.
Observation‐driven exponential smoothing
Authors: Karlis Dimitris , Pedeli Xanthi , Varin Cristiano
Published: December 2023

This article presents an approach to forecasting count time series with a form of exponential smoothing built from observation‐driven models. The proposed method is easy to implement and simple to interpret. A variant of the approach is also proposed to handle the impact of outliers on the forecast. The performance of the methodology is studied with simulations and illustrated with an analysis of the number of monthly cases of dengue fever observed in Italy for the years 2008–2021. An R package is made available to enable the reader to reproduce the results discussed in the article.
“We need to step it up—We are basically the future”: Latinx young women co‐construct science storylines in high school chemistry
Authors: Nation Jasmine , Kang Hosun
Published: December 2023

Researchers and practitioners in the United States increasingly promote phenomena‐based instruction in science that supports the development of a coherent storyline throughout the unit. Questions about who is constructing the science storyline and how still remain. Employing a qualitative ethnographic case study approach, we explore how three Latinx female students authentically contribute in their high school chemistry class and change the science storyline originally developed by the teacher. Data include over 950 min of video recordings, student artifacts, and interviews collected from a unit about reaction rate, which was contextualized by students' experiences with a local wildfire. The analysis points to three instructional moves that appear to play an important role in shifting the collective storyline: connecting to Latinx students' personal concerns, moving across multiple figured worlds, and recognizing students' epistemological contributions. Implications for supporting minoritized students are discussed.
Bardoxolone methyl attenuates doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting the TXNIP–NLRP3 pathway through Nrf2 activation
Authors: Zhang Wei , Shi Chao , Yao Zhuoya , Qian Shaohuan
Published: December 2023

Bardoxolone methyl, which triggers nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor (Nrf2), has therapeutic effects against myocardial infarction, heart failure, and other diseases. Nrf2 can inhibit the activation of the thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP)/NLR family pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) pathway. Doxorubicin is an anthracycline chemotherapeutic drug associated with cardiotoxicity, limiting its clinical use. In this study, we explored the specific mechanism of the Nrf2–TXNIP–NLRP3 pathway in doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity using bardoxolone methyl in animal and cell models. Using in vivo and in vitro experiments, we show that doxorubicin can induce oxidative stress and pyroptosis in the heart. Western blot and co‐immunoprecipitation experimental results found that doxorubicin can reduce the interaction between TXNIP and TRX, increase the interaction between TXNIP and NLRP3, and activate the pyroptosis process. Bardoxolone methyl reduces the accumulation of reactive oxygen species in cardiomyocytes through the Nrf2 pathway, inhibits the interaction between TXNIP and NLRP3, and alleviates the progression of myocardial damage and cardiac fibrosis. Bardoxolone methyl lost its therapeutic effect when the expression of Nrf2 was decreased. Additionally, repressing the expression of TXNIP can inhibit the activation of NLRP3 and alleviate myocardial damage caused by doxorubicin. Collectively, our findings confirm that bardoxolone methyl alleviates doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity by activating Nrf2 and inhibiting the TXNIP–NLRP3 pathway.
Insights into the structures and properties of dyes in the Fenton catalytic process for treating wastewater effluent
Authors: Pervez Md. Nahid , Mishu Mst. Monira Rahman , Tanvir Naim Pervez , Talukder Md Eman , Cai Yingjie , Telegin Felix Y. , Zhao Yaping , Naddeo Vincenzo
Published: December 2023

A notable level of apprehension exists over the adverse impacts of dye pollution on aquatic ecosystems and human well‐being. The primary objective of this research is to assess the effectiveness of Fenton catalytic reactions in degrading 14 different commercial azo dyes (both single and double) present in aqueous solutions. The investigation focused on the function of dye structures, using a combination of experimental data and examination of theoretical factors. Dye degradation process was carried out at pH 3, and the concentrations of Fe2+ (10−4 mol/L), H2O2 (2 × 10−3 mol/L), and dye (0.05 g/L). The findings revealed that dyes with a larger molecular weight were more effective at degrading (D%), with the overall degradation efficiency varying from 0% to 94%. Functional groups played an important role in degradation efficiency; for example, dyes with higher aromatic rings led to less D%, while a higher number of sulfonic, methyl, and nitro groups was responsible for better D%. Notably, the presence of OH groups in the backbone of dyes (AB 24, ABE 113, and MB 9) formed the Fe complex during the catalytic process, and the D% was minimal. On the other hand, theoretical quantum calculations such as the greater the JCLogP, highest occupied molecular orbital, and Dipole moment value, the higher the degradation efficiency. And dyes with low lowest unoccupied molecular orbital tended to have a better degradation efficiency. To some extent, UV–Vis spectral analysis was investigated to determine the degradation pathway, and the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model fitted better in the degradation process. The overall experimental and theoretical findings suggested that dye degradation efficiency by the Fenton process is structure‐dependent.

Practitioner Points

Insights into the role of azo dye structures‐properties on degradation efficiency.

Higher molecular weight and sulfonic groups containing dyes showed better degradation efficiency.

Hydroxyl groups play the formation of the Fe complex during the degradation process.

Higher values of HOMO and lower values of LUMO enhanced degradation efficiency.

The pseudo‐second‐order (PSO) kinetic model obeyed the Fenton process.
Disparities in catastrophic health expenditure for hospitalization in Urban Kerala, India: Evidence from 75th round of the National Sample Survey
Authors: Philip Paul J. , Panda Gyana R.
Published: December 2023

Existing literature suggests significant disparities in health expenditure incurred by households receiving health services. To determine fair contributions by beneficiaries, it is crucial to understand the existing inequalities in the context of financial protection measures and the factors influencing them. This exploratory study looks at how catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) are distributed across economic groups. The study also casts light on what drives the inequalities in the incidences of CHE. The study uses unit‐level data from the 75th round of the National Sample Survey fielded periodically by the Government of India. It employs logistic regression to study factors affecting CHE. Furthermore, the concentration index and its regression‐based decomposition are employed to have a sense of inequality and the factors driving it. The findings reveal socioeconomic inequality in CHE incidence and highlight the contribution of medical institutions (whether public or private) and consumption expenditure of households to the total inequality. The present study, while critically looking at the pre‐existing inequalities, highlights the shortcomings of health financing in urban areas and calls for a reconsideration of extant policy designs. The study maintains that factors outside the control of the health system may be responsible for disparities in catastrophic medical spending. Therefore, to reduce the burden of catastrophic health spending and its inequalities, future policy measures must take into account both elements within the health system and those outside of it.
A perspective on translating genomic discoveries into targets for brain‐machine interface and deep brain stimulation devices
Authors: Valentim Wander L. , Tylee Daniel S. , Polimanti Renato
Published: December 2023

Mental illnesses have a huge impact on individuals, families, and society, so there is a growing need for more efficient treatments. In this context, brain‐computer interface (BCI) technology has the potential to revolutionize the options for neuropsychiatric therapies. However, the development of BCI‐based therapies faces enormous challenges, such as power dissipation constraints, lack of credible feedback mechanisms, uncertainty of which brain areas and frequencies to target, and even which patients to treat. Some of these setbacks are due to the large gap in our understanding of brain function. In recent years, large‐scale genomic analyses uncovered an unprecedented amount of information regarding the biology of the altered brain function observed across the psychopathology spectrum. We believe findings from genetic studies can be useful to refine BCI technology to develop novel treatment options for mental illnesses. Here, we assess the latest advancements in both fields, the possibilities that can be generated from their intersection, and the challenges that these research areas will need to address to ensure that translational efforts can lead to effective and reliable interventions. Specifically, starting from highlighting the overlap between mechanisms uncovered by large‐scale genetic studies and the current targets of deep brain stimulation treatments, we describe the steps that could help to translate genomic discoveries into BCI targets. Because these two research areas have not been previously presented together, the present article can provide a novel perspective for scientists with different research backgrounds.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Neurological Diseases > Biomedical Engineering
WorldKG: World-Scale Completion of Geographic Information
Authors: Dsouza Alishiba , Tempelmeier Nicolas , Gottschalk Simon , Yu Ran , Demidova Elena
Published: December 2023

Knowledge graphs provide standardized machine-readable representations of real-world entities and their relations. However, the coverage of geographic entities in popular general-purpose knowledge graphs, such as Wikidata and DBpedia, is limited. An essential source of the openly available information regarding geographic entities is OpenStreetMap (OSM). In contrast to knowledge graphs, OSM lacks a clear semantic representation of the rich geographic information it contains. The generation of semantic representations of OSM entities and their interlinking with knowledge graphs are inherently challenging due to OSM’s large, heterogeneous, ambiguous, and flat schema and annotation sparsity. This chapter discusses recent knowledge graph completion methods for geographic data, comprising entity linking and schema inference for geographic entities, to provide semantic geographic information in knowledge graphs. Furthermore, we present the WorldKG knowledge graph, lifting OSM entities into a semantic representation.
Uncertainty-Aware Enrichment of Animal Movement Trajectories by VGI
Authors: Metz Yannick , Keim Daniel A.
Published: December 2023

Combining data from different sources and modalities can unlock novel insights that are not available by analyzing single data sources in isolation. We investigate how multimodal user-generated data, consisting of images, videos, or text descriptions, can be used to enrich trajectories of migratory birds, e.g., for research on biodiversity or climate change. Firstly, we present our work on advanced visual analysis of GPS trajectory data. We developed an interactive application that lets domain experts from ornithology naturally explore spatiotemporal data and effectively use their knowledge. Secondly, we discuss work on the integration of general-purpose image data into citizen science platforms. As part of inter-project cooperation, we contribute to the development of a classifier pipeline to semi-automatically extract images that can be integrated with different data sources to vastly increase the number of available records in citizen science platforms. These works are an important foundation for a dynamic matching approach to jointly integrate geospatial trajectory data and user-generated geo-referenced content. Building on this work, we explore the joint visualization of trajectory data and VGI data while considering the uncertainty of observations. BirdTrace, a visual analytics approach to enable a multi-scale analysis of trajectory and multimodal user-generated data, is highlighted. Finally, we comment on the possibility to enhance prediction models for trajectories by integrating additional data and domain knowledge.
Toward Visually Analyzing Dynamic Social Messages and News Articles Containing Geo-Referenced Information
Authors: Knittel Johannes , Huth Franziska , Koch Steffen , Ertl Thomas
Published: December 2023

The number of social media posts and news articles that are being published every day is high. This makes them an attractive source of human-generated information for different domain experts such as journalists and business analysts but also emergency responders, particularly if posts contain references to geolocations. Visual analytics approaches can help to gain insights into such datasets and inform decision-makers. However, the high volume and the veracity of the data, as well as the velocity in the case of streaming data, pose challenges when supporting explorative analysis with interactive visualization. Based on four exemplary approaches, we outline recently proposed strategies to tackle these challenges. We describe how geo-aware filtering and anomaly detection methods can help to inform stakeholders based on geolocated tweets. We show that data-aware tag maps can provide analysts with an overview-first, details-on-demand visual summary of large amounts of text content over time. With space-filling curves, we can visualize the temporal evolution of geolocations in a two-dimensional plot without relying on animations that would impede comparative analyses. Additionally, we discuss the use of an efficient dynamic clustering algorithm for enabling large-scale visual analyses of streaming posts.
Nonlinear quasi-normal modes: uniform approximation
Authors: Bucciotti Bruno , Kuntz Adrien , Serra Francesco , Trincherini Enrico
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Recent works have suggested that nonlinear (quadratic) effects in black hole perturbation theory may be important for describing a black hole ringdown. We show that the technique of uniform approximations can be used to accurately compute 1) nonlinear amplitudes at large distances in terms of the linear ones, 2) linear (and nonlinear) quasi-normal mode frequencies, 3) the wavefunction for both linear and nonlinear modes. Our method can be seen as a generalization of the WKB approximation, with the advantages of not losing accuracy at large overtone number and not requiring matching conditions. To illustrate the effectiveness of this method we consider a simplified source for the second-order Zerilli equation, which we use to numerically compute the amplitude of nonlinear modes for a range of values of the angular momentum number.
Conjugations on $$L^2$$ Space on the Real Line
Authors: Dymek Piotr , Płaneta Artur , Ptak Marek
Published: December 2023

Influenced by PT operators (parity and time reversal operators) the general conjugations acting in the $${\varvec{L}}^\textbf{2}$$

L

2

space on the real line with the Lebesgue measure are studied. The behaviour of conjugations with respect to multiplication operators and translations is investigated. We consider conjugations defined as the convolution of the Fourier transform of a given unimodular (even) function and test functions. We characterize all conjugations commuting (intertwining) with all translation operators on the real line. The conjugations leaving kernels of Toeplitz operators (a generalization of model spaces) on $${\varvec{H}}^\textbf{2}$$

H

2

space on the upper half plane invariant are also characterized. Analogous results are obtained for conjugations and kernels of Wiener–Hopf operators.
Stereotactic radiotherapy in the management of oligometastatic and recurrent head and neck cancer: a single-center experience
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Allam , Goncalves Miguel , Singh Biney Pal , Tometten Mareike , Rashad Ashkan , Hölzle Frank , Hackenberg Stephan , Eble Michael
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Oligometastatic disease (OMD) is a metastatic stage that could benefit maximally from local therapies. Patients in this state have a better prognosis relative to those with disseminated metastases. Stereotactic radiotherapy provides a non-invasive ablative tool for primary malignant tumors and metastases.

Materials and methods

We searched our register for patients with oligometastatic or recurrent head and neck cancer (OMD/R-HNC) who received stereotactic radiotherapy to manage their OMD/R. We evaluated the survival outcomes and prognostic factors that affected the survival of those patients.

Results

In all, 31 patients with 48 lesions met the inclusion criteria for the analysis. The lesions comprised various metastatic sites, with the majority being pulmonary (37 lesions). Squamous cell cancer was the most common histology (26 patients). The median overall survival (mOS) was 33 months, with a progression-free survival (PFS) of 9.6 months. Eight patients received subsequent stereotactic radiotherapy after disease progression. The local control (LC) rates were 91.3, 87.7, and 83% at 6, 12, and 36 months. Patients with the de novo OMD who received stereotactic radiotherapy as their initial treatment had a median systemic treatment-free survival of 23.9 months. In univariate analysis, a trend for better OS was observed in patients with p16-positive squamous cell tumors; patients who progressed within 150 days after diagnosis had a significantly lower OS. De novo OMD showed significantly better PFS compared to induced OMD. Multivariate analyses identified p16-positive squamous cell cancer, metachronous OMD and a longer time to progression as positive predictors of OS, while de novo OMD was the only positive predictor for PFS. Treatment-related toxicities were generally mild, with two cases of grade 3 dysphagia reported.

Conclusion

Stereotactic radiotherapy demonstrated favorable outcomes in patients with OMD/R-HNC with limited toxicities. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings and optimize treatment strategies for this patient population.
Cyanobacterial harmful bloom lipopolysaccharides: pro-inflammatory effects on epithelial and immune cells in vitro
Authors: Skočková V. , Raptová P. , Pospíchalová K. , Sovadinová I. , Sychrová E. , Smutná M. , Hilscherová K. , Babica P. , Šindlerová L.
Published: December 2023

Cyanobacterial harmful blooms (CyanoHABs) pose a global ecological problem, and their lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are among the bioactive compounds they release. Previous studies on CyanoHAB-LPS from single cyanobacterial species have shown varying bioactivities in different in vitro cell models. In this study, we isolated LPS from 19 CyanoHAB samples collected at 18 water bodies in the Czech Republic over two consecutive seasons. The proportions of cyanobacteria, Gram-negative bacteria (G-), and other bacteria in the biomass were determined by qPCR, while the cyanobacterial genera were identified using light microscopy. In vitro models of keratinocytes (HaCaT), the intestinal epithelium (co-culture of differentiated Caco-2 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells — PBMC), and PBMC alone were treated with isolated LPS at concentrations of 50, 100, and 1 µg/ml, respectively. The endotoxin activities of these concentrations were within the range measured in the aquatic environment. Approximately 85–90% of the samples displayed biological activity. However, the potency of individual LPS effects and response patterns varied across the different in vitro models. Furthermore, the observed activities did not exhibit a clear correlation with the taxonomic composition of the phytoplankton community, the relative share of microbial groups in the biomass, endotoxin activity of the LPS, or LPS migration and staining pattern in SDS-PAGE. These findings suggest that the effects of CyanoHAB-LPS depend on the specific composition and abundance of various LPS structures within the complex environmental sample and their interactions with cellular receptors.
Reduced tear fluid production in neurological diseases: a cohort study in 708 patients
Authors: Luib Elena , Demleitner Antonia F. , Cordts Isabell , Westenberg Erica , Rau Petra , Pürner Dominik , Haller Bernhard , Lingor Paul
Published: December 2023

Background

Tear fluid (TF) production is an important component of normal ocular function. It is regulated by parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation. Because parasympathetic nerve fibers originate in the brainstem, pathology in this brain region may affect TF production. For example, a reduction in TF production has been described in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

TF was collected at one center from 772 individuals, 708 of which were patients with different neurological diseases, and 64 healthy controls. Wetting lengths (WL) were recorded using Schirmer test strips with a collection time of 10 min.

Results

WL correlated negatively with age and was significantly reduced in subgroups of patients with neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) (PD, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), other motor neuron diseases (MNDs)), as well as inflammatory/autoimmune/infectious central nervous system (CNS) diseases and vascular CNS diseases (VCDs), even if corrected for age or sex. While temperature had a significant negative effect on TF production, other environmental factors, such as hours of sunlight and humidity, did not.

Conclusion

WL was altered in many neurological diseases compared to healthy controls. Most importantly, we observed a reduction of WL in NDDs, independent of age or sex. This study highlights the potential of WL as an easily obtainable parameter and suggests functional alterations in the autonomic innervation in various neurological disorders.
SATB2, CKAE1/AE3, and synaptophysin as a sensitive immunohistochemical panel for the detection of lymph node metastases of Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Szumera-Cieckiewicz Anna , Massi Daniela , Cassisa Angelo , Krzyzinski Mateusz , Dudzisz-Sledz Monika , Biecek Przemyslaw , Rutkowski Piotr , Marszalek Andrzej , Hoang Mai P. , Donizy Piotr
Published: December 2023

Histopathological evaluation of lymph nodes in Merkel cell carcinoma has become crucial in progression estimation and treatment modification. This study was undertaken to determine the most sensitive immunohistochemical panel for detecting MCC nodal metastases. We included 56 patients with 102 metastatic MCC lymph nodes, which were tested with seven antibodies: cytokeratin (CKAE1/AE3), CK20, chromogranin A, synaptophysin, INSM1, SATB2, and neurofilament (NF). Tissue microarrays (TMA) composed of 2-mm tissue cores from each nodal metastasis were constructed. A semiquantitative 5-tier scoring system (0%, < 25%, 25–74%, 75–99%, 100% positive MCC cells with moderate to strong reactivity) was implemented. In the statistical assessment, we included Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) status and expression heterogeneity between lymph nodes from one patient. A cumulative percentage of moderate to strong expression ≥ 75% of tumoral cells was observed for single cell markers as follows: 91/102 (89.2%) SATB2, 85/102 (83%) CKAE1/AE3, 80/102 (78.4%) synaptophysin, 75/102 (75.5%) INSM1, 68/102 (66.7%) chromogranin A, 60/102 cases (58.8%) CK20, and 0/102 (0%) NF. Three markers presented a complete lack of immunoreactivity: 8/102 (7.8%) CK20, 7/102 (6.9%) chromogranin A, and 6/102 (5.9%) NF. All markers showed expression heterogeneity in lymph nodes from one patient; however, the most homogenous was INSM1. The probability of detecting nodal MCC metastases was the highest while using SATB2 as a first-line marker (89.2%) with subsequential adding CKAE1/AE3 (99%); these results were independent of MCPyV status. Synaptophysin showed a superior significance in confirming the neuroendocrine origin of metastatic cells. This comprehensive analysis allows us to recommend simultaneous evaluation of SATB2, CKAE1/AE3, and synaptophysin in the routine pathologic MCC lymph node protocol.
Use of transient elastography to assess hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis during methotrexate treatment
Authors: Niyasom Chayakamon , Soponkanaporn Sirisucha , Vilaiyuk Soamarat , Lertudomphonwanit Chatmanee , Getsuwan Songpon , Tanpawpong Pornthep , Kaewduang Piyaporn , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee
Published: December 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify predictors of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) during methotrexate treatment.

Method

This cross-sectional study included JIA patients who had received methotrexate for > 1 year. Laboratory data including liver chemistry and lipid profiles were collected. Liver stiffness measurements (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameters (CAP) were determined by transient elastography. Significant hepatic fibrosis was defined as LSM > 7 kilopascal (kPa), and hepatic steatosis was defined as CAP > 225 decibel/meter (dB/m). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors associated with hepatic steatosis and fibrosis.

Results

Of 60 patients, 66.7% were female, and the median age (IQR) was 12.8 (10.6–15.0) years. The median duration of methotrexate usage (IQR) was 45 (22–85) months, and the median cumulative dose of methotrexate (IQR) was 3768 (1806–6466) mg. The median LSM (IQR) and CAP (IQR) were 4.1 (3.4–4.6) kPa and 191.0 (170.3–223.8) dB/m, respectively. No patients had transient elastography-defined hepatic fibrosis, whereas 21.7% had hepatic steatosis. A body mass index Z-score > 1 (OR 5.71 [95%CI 1.31–24.98], p = 0.021) and higher cumulative dose of methotrexate (OR 1.02 [95%CI 1.00–1.04], p = 0.041) were associated with hepatic steatosis, whereas the cumulative dose of steroids was not (OR 1.00 [95%CI 1.00–1.01], p = 0.097).

Conclusions

Hepatic steatosis is common among JIA patients receiving methotrexate, but none had transient elastography-defined hepatic fibrosis. Overweight/obese JIA adolescents and patients with a high cumulative dose of methotrexate are at risk for hepatic steatosis.

Key Points•Long-term low-dose methotrexate usage and the concomitant use of other DMARDs did not increase the risk of hepatic fibrosis in JIA patients.•The prevalence of hepatic steatosis in JIA patients receiving methotrexate was higher than in a healthy pediatric population.•Overweight/obesity and a higher cumulative dose of methotrexate were predictors of hepatic steatosis.
On the necessity to include arterial pre-stress in patient-specific simulations of minimally invasive procedures
Authors: Ramella Anna , Lissoni Vittorio , Bridio Sara , Rodriguez Matas Jose Felix , Trimarchi Santi , Grossi Benedetta , Stefanini Giulio G. , Migliavacca Francesco , Luraghi Giulia
Published: December 2023

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) are minimally invasive procedures for treating aortic valves and diseases. Finite element simulations have proven to be valuable tools in predicting device-related complications. In the literature, the inclusion of aortic pre-stress has not been widely investigated. It plays a crucial role in determining the biomechanical response of the vessel and the device–tissue interaction. This study aims at demonstrating how and when to include the aortic pre-stress in patient-specific TAVI and TEVAR simulations. A percutaneous aortic valve and a stent-graft were implanted in aortic models reconstructed from patient-specific CT scans. Two scenarios for each patient were compared, i.e., including and neglecting the wall pre-stress. The neglection of pre-stress underestimates the contact pressure of 48% and 55%, the aorta stresses of 162% and 157%, the aorta strains of 77% and 21% for TAVI and TEVAR models, respectively. The stent stresses are higher than 48% with the pre-stressed aorta in TAVI simulations; while, similar results are obtained in TEVAR cases. The distance between the device and the aorta is similar with and without pre-stress. The inclusion of the aortic wall pre-stress has the capability to give a better representation of the biomechanical behavior of the arterial tissues and the implanted device. It is suggested to include this effect in patient-specific simulations replicating the procedures.
A Dual Band 28/38 GHz Metamaterial Absorber for 5G Applications
Authors: Edries Mohamed , Mohamed Hesham A. , Ibrahim Ahmed A.
Published: December 2023

A dual-band metamaterial absorber (MMA) for fifth-generation (5G) applications is discussed in this work. The suggested absorber works at frequency bands of 28 GHz and 38 GHz. The suggested MMA unit cell with a size of 5.8 mm × 5.8 mm (0.54 λ0 × 0.54 λ0 at 28 GHz) is designed on 1.5 mm (0.14 λ0) low-cost FR4 substrate and composed of two metallic ring resonators. The suggested MMA is investigated to validate its performance for different polarization for transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM). Both normal and oblique angles are studied. The MMA has a simple structure with a compact size. Different parameters such as the currents, electric field distributions, and normalized impedance are studied. The array of 10 × 10 unit cells is utilized to verify the simulated outcomes. The suggested MMA is fabricated and tested, and its outcomes are compared to the simulated outcomes. The MMA is operated at dual bands 28/38 GHz with high absorption rates of 98 and 98.4%, respectively, under the normal incidence for both outcomes. A good matching between the two outcomes is observed, which supports the MMA for 5G applications.
Developing an Artificial Intelligence-Driven Nudge Intervention to Improve Medication Adherence: A Human-Centred Design Approach
Authors: Sumner Jennifer , Bundele Anjali , Lim Hui Wen , Phan Phillip , Motani Mehul , Mukhopadhyay Amartya
Published: December 2023

To improve medication adherence, we co-developed a digital, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven nudge intervention with stakeholders (patients, providers, and technologists). We used a human-centred design approach to incorporate user needs in creating an AI-driven nudge tool. We report the findings of the first stage of a multi-phase project: understanding user needs and ideating solutions. We interviewed healthcare providers (n = 10) and patients (n = 10). Providers also rated example nudge interventions in a survey. Stakeholders felt the intervention could address existing deficits in medication adherence tracking and were optimistic about the solution. Participants identified flexibility of the intervention, including mode of delivery, intervention intensity, and the ability to stratify to user ability and needs, as critical success factors. Reminder nudges and provision of healthcare worker contact were rated highly by all. Conversely, patients perceived incentive-based nudges poorly. Finally, participants suggested that user burden could be minimised by leveraging existing software (rather than creating a new App) and simplifying or automating the data entry requirements where feasible. Stakeholder interviews generated in-depth data on the perspectives and requirements for the proposed solution. The participatory approach will enable us to incorporate user needs into the design and improve the utility of the intervention. Our findings show that an AI-driven nudge tool is an acceptable and appropriate solution, assuming it is flexible to user requirements.
Robust markers associated with floral traits in roses are suitable for marker-assisted selection across gene pools
Authors: Schulz Dietmar , Linde Marcus , Debener Thomas
Published: December 2023

We investigated the potential of markers associated with floral traits for parental selection in a cut rose breeding program. We analysed six Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) markers for three important floral traits, petal length, petal number and scent, derived from experiments in a garden rose population. The six markers were applied to genotype a collection of 384 parental genotypes used for commercial cut rose breeding. We phenotyped a selection of progeny derived from pairs of parents having either high or low dosages of (contrasting) marker alleles associated with these traits. Significant differences were found between the contrasting progeny groups for each of the traits, although parents with the optimal allele dosage combinations could not always be used for the crosses. This not only supports the robustness of these marker‒trait associations but also demonstrates their potential for commercial rose breeding. It also demonstrates the use of marker information generated in garden rose populations for cut rose breeding.
Giving thickness to the minimal self: coenesthetic depth and the materiality of consciousness
Authors: Fazakas István , Bois Mathilde , Gozé Tudi
Published: December 2023

Contemporary phenomenological psychopathology has raised questions concerning selfhood and its possible alterations in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Although the notion of the self is central to several accounts of anomalies, it remains a question how exactly the radically minimal experiential features of selfhood can be altered. Indeed, the risk is to reduce the notion of selfhood so drastically, that it can no longer account for alterations of experience. Here we propose to give thickness to the minimal self. To do this we first discuss Sartre’s phenomenological definition of coenesthesia as the translucent matter of consciousness articulating it with the notion of existential feelings. We then draw on the historical research on coenesthesia to dig deeper in this translucent materiality identified as the element of the body. We show that selfhood, even in its most minimal level, must be conceived of with a specific elemental thickness, corresponding to a phenomenological materiality of embodiment. We argue that a phenomenological reading of coenesthesia as the bodily element of ipseity can shed a new light on the anomalies of self-experience.
Strengthening global climate governance and international cooperation for energy-efficient buildings
Authors: Obergassel Wolfgang , Xia-Bauer Chun , Thomas Stefan
Published: December 2023

Buildings constitute one of the main GHG emitting sectors, and energy efficiency is a key lever to reduce emissions in the sector. Global climate policy has so far mostly focused on economy-wide emissions. However, emission reduction actions are ultimately sectoral, and opportunities and barriers to achieving emission reductions vary strongly among sectors. This article therefore seeks to analyse to what extent more targeted global governance may help to leverage mitigation enablers and overcome barriers to energy efficiency in buildings. To this end, the article first synthesises existing literature on mitigation enablers and barriers as well as existing literature on how global governance may help address these barriers (“governance potential”). On this basis, the article analyses to what extent this governance potential has already been activated by existing activities of international institutions. Finally, the article discusses how identified governance gaps could be closed. The analysis finds that despite the local characteristics of the sector, global governance has a number of levers at its disposal that could be used to promote emission reductions via energy efficiency. In practice, however, lacking attention to energy efficiency in buildings at national level is mirrored at the international level. Recently, though, a number of coalitions demanding stronger action have emerged. Such frontrunners could work through like-minded coalitions and at the same time try to improve conditions for cooperation in the climate regime and other existing institutions.
Biodiesel Production by Biocatalysis using Lipids Extracted from Microalgae Oil of Chlorella vulgaris and Aurantiochytrium sp.
Authors: Oliveira Joana , Costa Emanuel , Maia Dias Joana , Pires José C.
Published: December 2023

Microalgae are lipid-rich microscopic eukaryotic algae that can be used aiming for more sustainable biodiesel production by employing environmentally sound processes. The present work evaluates biodiesel production using a biocatalyst and two microalgae species as oil feedstock (Chlorella vulgaris and Aurantiochytrium sp.). Lipid extraction was performed using different techniques, namely, Soxhlet extractions (8 h — both species) with different solvents (hexane; hexane:ethanol (1:1 v/v); and chloroform) and room temperature hexane extraction (72 h — Aurantiochytrium sp.). Transesterification occurred for 24 h (150 rpm), using 30 % lipase loading. The results showed that high extraction temperatures cause microalgae oil degradation, focused on unsaturated fatty acids, leading to a lower biodiesel conversion yield. Using Aurantiochytrium sp. oil, it was possible to obtain around 55 %wt. of biodiesel conversion yield using oil extracted at room temperature (6:1 methanol:oil molar ratio), whereas for the oil extracted in the Soxhlet apparatus, the biodiesel conversion yield was around 30 %wt.. The low lipid content (1.0 %wt.) and biodiesel conversion yield (up to 25 %wt.) obtained using C. vulgaris show that the biomass used in the current study has low potential for biodiesel production. However, enzymatic biodiesel production from microalgae represents a promising avenue for sustainable energy generation, offering a renewable and environmentally responsible solution to the world’s energy needs. For that purpose, further studies, such as the optimisation of the extraction and transesterification of Aurantiochytrium sp. oil, should be carried out.
Expert consensus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of respiratory syncytial virus infections in children
Authors: Zhang Xian-Li , Zhang Xi , Hua Wang , Xie Zheng-De , Liu Han-Min , Zhang Hai-Lin , Chen Bi-Quan , Chen Yuan , Sun Xin , Xu Yi , Shu Sai-Nan , Zhao Shun-Ying , Shang Yun-Xiao , Cao Ling , Jia Yan-Hui , Lin Luo-Na , Li Jiong , Hao Chuang-Li , Dong Xiao-Yan , Lin Dao-Jiong , Xu Hong-Mei , Zhao De-Yu , Zeng Mei , Chen Zhi-Min , Huang Li-Su
Published: December 2023

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading global cause of respiratory infections and is responsible for about 3 million hospitalizations and more than 100,000 deaths annually in children younger than 5 years, representing a major global healthcare burden. There is a great unmet need for new agents and universal strategies to prevent RSV infections in early life. A multidisciplinary consensus development group comprising experts in epidemiology, infectious diseases, respiratory medicine, and methodology aims to develop the current consensus to address clinical issues of RSV infections in children.

Data sources

The evidence searches and reviews were conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, using variations in terms for “respiratory syncytial virus”, “RSV”, “lower respiratory tract infection”, “bronchiolitis”, “acute”, “viral pneumonia”, “neonatal”, “infant” “children”, and “pediatric”.

Results

Evidence-based recommendations regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prevention were proposed with a high degree of consensus. Although supportive care remains the cornerstone for the management of RSV infections, new monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, drug therapies, and viral surveillance techniques are being rolled out.

Conclusions

This consensus, based on international and national scientific evidence, reinforces the current recommendations and integrates the recent advances for optimal care and prevention of RSV infections. Further improvements in the management of RSV infections will require generating the highest quality of evidence through rigorously designed studies that possess little bias and sufficient capacity to identify clinically meaningful end points.
Benthic graptolites (Graptolithina, Pterobranchia) in the Miaolingian (Cambrian Series 3)
Authors: Maletz Jörg
Published: December 2023

Benthic graptolites (Graptolithina) were surprisingly common and diverse in the Miaolingian (Cambrian), but have rarely been described in detail. Encrusting and erect growing colonies already evolved and can be differentiated in early Miaolingian faunas. The Rhabdopleuridae with their encrusting colonies provide few fossils, but members of the erect growing, bushy colonies of the Dithecodendridae are more common, at least as fragments indicating considerable fragmentation and transport. In the Wuliuan, the benthic graptolites reached a considerable diversity at the genus level with at least 6 genera appearing in this interval. The most common taxon is the encrusting genus Sphenoecium with its robust colonies, showing a worldwide distribution. Most taxa, however, are known from few records and their biostratigraphical and palaeogeographical distribution cannot be established yet. Erroneously, the widely distributed Tarnagraptus with its conical thecae has often been misidentified as the Ordovician Mastigograptus, but differs considerably in its tubarium construction and both might not be closely related.
Increased PAFAH1B3 was associated with poor prognosis and T-cell exhaustion microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Genhao
Published: December 2023

The link between T-cell exhaustion (TEX) and PAFAH1B3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown, even though both of them are related to overall survival. PAFAH1B3 expression was investigated in TCGA and ICGC data, and 50 paired clinical tissue section samples were used for qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) confirmation. The Immunocell Abundance Identifier (ImmuCellAI) was used to precisely calculate the abundance of TEX, and its accuracy was verified by single-cell RNA-seq and labeling of CD8 + T cells in clinical tissue sections. The IMVigor 210 cohort was used to demonstrate the predictive value of PAFAH1B3 for immunotherapy efficacy. Increased PAFAH1B3 is a standalone effector of poor prognosis in HCC patients. Patients who had greater PAFAH1B3 levels had more TEX infiltration. PAFAH1B3 expression was increased in TEX in the single-cell RNA-seq data. Patients with high PAFAH1B3 expression were more likely to respond favorably to PD1/PD-L1 treatment. In conclusion, PAFAH1B3 is closely related to TEX in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and can be a useful indicator for PD1/PD-L1 therapy.
The validation of climate in the wine-growing region of the Western Cape of South Africa
Authors: Chauke Helga , Pongrácz Rita
Published: December 2023

The Western Cape province, home to the majority of South Africa’s viniculture, is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This study validates the Co-ordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) temperature and precipitation outputs along with their vinicultural bioclimatic indices over the Western Cape for the historic period (1980–2000) as the first step to determining the ability of the models to accurately simulate future conditions. From the results, we observed that the output had a high agreement with observational data in the case of reproducing monthly average temperatures while precipitation outputs show high variability with moderate to high agreement. The performance of the models in simulating the vinicultural indices greatly depends on location with some models performing better than others. The results of this study will contribute to current efforts to understand the dynamics of climate change and viniculture in the Western Cape, where extreme events associated with climate change are already affecting farmers and potentially impacting the industry’s production and quality.
Note on minimization of quasi M$$^{\natural }$$-convex functions
Authors: Murota Kazuo , Shioura Akiyoshi
Published: December 2023

For a class of discrete quasi convex functions called semi-strictly quasi M$$^{\natural }$$

♮

-convex functions, we investigate fundamental issues relating to minimization, such as optimality condition by local optimality, minimizer cut property, geodesic property, and proximity property. Emphasis is put on comparisons with (usual) M$$^{\natural }$$

♮

-convex functions. The same optimality condition and a weaker form of the minimizer cut property hold for semi-strictly quasi M$$^{\natural }$$

♮

-convex functions, while geodesic property and proximity property fail.
Studies on the Use of Laser Directed Energy Deposition for the Additive Manufacturing of Lightweight Parts
Authors: Zapata Avelino , Bernauer Christian , Celba Matous , Zaeh Michael F.
Published: December 2023

Despite the numerous benefits of battery electric vehicles, their relatively short maximal range compared to internal combustion engine vehicles limits their attractiveness to the consumer. Implementing lightweight structures is one solution to reduce the mass of the vehicle, which in turn lowers the energy consumption and thus extends the maximal range. Additive Manufacturing processes, such as the Laser Directed Energy Deposition (DED-LB), offer great potential for the resource-efficient manufacturing of lightweight components because they allow producing near-net-shaped parts of variable sizes and geometries. Therefore, in this study, DED-LB was assessed concerning its use for the rapid manufacturing or modification of lightweight parts. The additive process was performed on EN AW 6060 aluminum extrusion profiles commonly found in battery electric vehicles and an AlSi10Mg wire was used as feedstock. The investigations included temperature and microhardness measurements. Furthermore, the effect of the deposition rate on the geometric quality of the part was investigated. The results indicate that DED-LB can be performed on thin-walled structures to produce defect-free components. Furthermore, the findings reveal a trade-off between a fast build-up and the surface quality of the parts. Notably, it was observed that the different deposition rates had no impact on the hardness of the produced parts. Further studies on heat management are needed to optimize the process for producing lightweight parts with improved mechanical properties.