bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ characterisation of whole‐plant stomatal responses to VPD using leaf optical dendrometry
Authors: Bourbia Ibrahim , Lucani Christopher , Carins‐Murphy Madeline R. , Gracie Alistair , Brodribb Timothy J.
Published: July 2023

Vapour pressure deficit (VPD) plays a crucial role in regulating plant carbon and water fluxes due to its influence on stomatal behaviour and transpiration. Yet, characterising stomatal responses of the whole plant to VPD remains challenging due to methodological limitations. Here, we develop a novel method for in situ assessment of whole‐plant stomatal responses (gc) to VPD in the herbaceous plant Tanacetum cinerariifolium. To do this, we examine the relationship between daytime VPD and the corresponding soil–stem water potential gradient (ΔΨ) monitored using the optical dendrometry in well‐hydrated plants under nonlimiting light in both glasshouse and field conditions. In glasshouse plants, ΔΨ increased proportionally with the VPD up to a threshold of 1.53 kPa, beyond which the slope decreased, suggesting a two‐phase response in gc. This pattern aligned with corresponding gravimetrically measured gc behaviour, which also showed a decline when VPD exceeded a similar threshold. This response was then compared with that of field plants monitored using the optical dendrometry technique over a growing season under naturally variable VPD conditions and nonlimiting light and water supply. Field plants exhibited a similar threshold‐type response to VPD but were more sensitive than glasshouse individuals with a VPD threshold of 0.74 kPa. The results showed that whole‐plant gc responses to VPD can be characterised optically in T. cinerariifolium, introducing a new tool for the monitoring and characterisation of stomatal behaviour in situ.
The Tractatus on Truth
Authors: Mezzadri Daniele
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is to discuss Wittgenstein's conception of truth in the Tractatus Logico‐Philosophicus. Section 1 sets the scene by exploring how the notion of truth is in the Tractatus intertwined with notions such as sense and picture. In section 2 I discuss a traditional interpretation that sees the Tractatus as committed to truth as correspondence. In sections 3 and 4 I discuss two more recent alternative lines of interpretation; according to one, we should interpret truth in the Tractatus as a relation of identity. According to the other, the Tractatus endorses a deflationary account of truth. I conclude in section 5 by adjudicating the interpretative debate.
Clinical efficacy of guided bone regeneration in peri‐implantitis defects. A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Ramanauskaite Ausra , Becker Kathrin , Cafferata Emilio A. , Schwarz Frank
Published: July 2023

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) at peri‐implantitis‐related bone defects involves the placement of bone‐filler particles in the intrabony defects and the application of a barrier membrane. The efficacy of different GBR‐supported reconstructive measures as well as their potential superiority compared to non‐GBR‐supported treatment strategies for bone defects at peri‐implantitis sites, however, remains unclear. Therefore, this analysis was designed to evaluate the long‐term (≥12 months) clinical efficacy of GBR‐supported reconstructive surgical therapy for peri‐implantitis‐related bone defects. In terms of resolving inflammation, the implementation of GBR protocols applying xenogenic bone substitutes yielded a higher reduction of bleeding on probing and probing depth value compared to the GBR protocol applying autogenous bone. Furthermore, for the changes in bleeding on probing and probing depths, GBR approaches using xenogenic bone showed superiority over the non‐GBR treatments. Xenogenic bone with or without a barrier membrane was associated with improved radiographic bone levels and less soft tissue recession compared to the use of a GBR protocol implementing autogenous bone. Nonetheless, when interpreting this findings, the limited number of available studies with low to serious risk of bias and the short follow‐up periods limited to 12 months should be considered.
Artificial reef effectiveness changes among types as revealed by underwater hyperspectral imagery
Authors: Riera Elisabeth , Hubas Cédric , Ungermann Mischa , Rigot Guy , Pey Alexis , Francour Patrice , Rossi Francesca
Published: July 2023

Artificial reefs (ARs) are designed to mimic natural habitats and promote marine life. Their effectiveness is however debatable and can depend on factors such as structural complexity and construction material. Old artificial reefs (OARs) were made of concrete mold of simple geometric shapes, limiting their ability to mimic the complexity of natural reefs. Recent advancements in three‐dimentional (3D)‐printing technology have enabled the creation of 3D‐printed artificial reefs (3DRs) with biocompatible material and complex structures that can better simulate the natural habitats. We employed underwater hyperspectral technology to estimate the performance of these reefs and compare the benthic photosynthetic signal of natural reefs (NATs) with those of ARs (OARs and 3DRs) in coastal area of the north‐western Mediterranean (France and Monaco Principality). We expected differences in reflectance signals between OARs and NATs, and signals closer to NATs in 3DRs than OARs. Underwater hyperspectral technology was able to detect higher chlorophyll‐a derived signals on NATs than OARs. Moreover, the magnitude of differences between 3DRs and NATs was smaller than that between OARs and NATs. Although ARs were not capable of mimicking natural reefs, the use of 3D‐printed ARs might ameliorate their effectiveness for coastal reconciliation.
Fiscal crises, decentralization, and indiscipline
Authors: Nakatani Ryota
Published: July 2023

How does fiscal decentralization influence fiscal discipline and the probability of a fiscal crisis? Discrete choice analysis used with panel data reveals that crisis probability is associated positively with spending decentralization and negatively with vertical fiscal imbalance. These effects are prevalent in countries with a higher degree of tax revenue decentralization, while a stronger rule of law mitigates such adverse decentralization effects. The findings imply that reduced risk sharing against local shocks under tax revenue decentralization destabilizes the sustainability of a nation's fiscal system. Therefore, policymakers should be cognizant of the undesirable impacts of decentralization on fiscal crisis and indiscipline.
New integrated evidences reveal male polymorphism and species delimitation in stalk‐eyed fruit flies
Authors: Chen Xiaolin , Huangfu Ning , Wang Yong , Zeng Yu , Chua Tock H. , Zhu Chaodong
Published: July 2023

Species of stalk‐eyed fruit flies, in the genera Pelmatops Enderlein and Pseudopelmatops Shiraki, have a distinct head structure with eyes located at the ends of stalks, setting them apart from other tephritids. Despite their unique morphology, the intraspecific variation of morphological and behavioural traits in these flies is still not well‐studied, leaving some questions about species definition unresolved. To address this, we conducted a study combining morphological evidence, behavioural studies, and molecular analyses. Our findings revealed male polymorphism in stalk‐eyed fruit flies for the first time, with four morphotypes observed in Pe. fukienensis and three in Pe. ichneumoneus and Ps. angustifasciatus. These morphotypes differ in eyestalk length, wing pattern, and the presence of projections or spikes at the ends of the compound eye. We also propose phylogenetic and phylogeographic implications for the group based on new molecular evidence, along with our observations of courtship and mating behaviours between previously recognized different species. Our study examined four nominal species (Pe. ichneumoneus and Pe. tangliangi, Ps. angustifasciatus and Ps. continentalis) and revealed rich evolutionary interactions within this group. Based on the results, we propose the synonymy of Pe. tangliangi Chen with Pe. ichneumoneus (Westwood) and Ps. continentalis Zia & Chen with Ps. angustifasciatus Zia & Chen.
Genetic exploration of roles of acid‐sensing ion channel subtypes in neurosensory mechanotransduction including proprioception
Authors: Lin Yi‐Chen , Lee Cheng‐Han , Sung Jia‐Ying , Chen Chih‐Cheng
Published: July 2023

Although acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are proton‐gated ion channels responsible for sensing tissue acidosis, accumulating evidence has shown that ASICs are also involved in neurosensory mechanotransduction. However, in contrast to Piezo ion channels, evidence of ASICs as mechanically gated ion channels has not been found using conventional mechanoclamp approaches. Instead, ASICs are involved in the tether model of mechanotransduction, with the channels gated via tethering elements of extracellular matrix and intracellular cytoskeletons. Methods using substrate deformation‐driven neurite stretch and micropipette‐guided ultrasound were developed to reveal the roles of ASIC3 and ASIC1a, respectively. Here we summarize the evidence supporting the roles of ASICs in neurosensory mechanotransduction in knockout mouse models of ASIC subtypes and provide insight to further probe their roles in proprioception.
Tissue‐resident innate lymphoid cells in asthma
Authors: Wang Xiaoxu , Kong Yue , Zheng Bingqing , Zhao Xiaomin , Zhao Mingzhe , Wang Bin , Liu Chang , Yan Peizheng
Published: July 2023

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease whose global incidence increases annually. The role of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) is a crucial aspect of asthma research with respect to different endotypes of asthma. Based on its pathological and inflammatory features, asthma is divided into type 2 high and type 2 low endotypes. Type‐2 high asthma is distinguished by the activation of type 2 immune cells, including T helper 2 (Th2) cells and ILC2s; the production of cytokines interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐13; eosinophilic aggregation; and bronchial hyper‐responsiveness. Type‐2 low asthma represents a variety of endotypes other than type 2 high endotype such as the IL‐1β/ILC3/neutrophil endotype and a paucigranulocytic asthma, which may be insensitive to corticosteroid treatment and/or associated with obesity. The complexity of asthma is due to the involvement of multiple cell types, including tissue‐resident ILCs and other innate immune cells including bronchial epithelial cells, dendritic cells, macrophages and eosinophils, which provide immediate defence against viruses, pathogens and allergens. On this basis, innate immune cells and adaptive immune cells combine to induce the pathological condition of asthma. In addition, the plasticity of ILCs increases the heterogeneity of asthma. This review focuses on the phenotypes of tissue‐resident ILCs and their roles in the different endotypes of asthma, as well as the mechanisms of tissue‐resident ILCs and other immune cells. Based on the phenotypes, roles and mechanisms of immune cells, the therapeutic strategies for asthma are reviewed.

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Effects of Cooling System Boundary Conditions on the Performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Wang Yaochen , Ren Hongjuan , Li Cong
Published: July 2023

We developed a three-dimensional multiphysics numerical model of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with a cathode mesh structure to investigate how coolant flowrate and temperature impact its performance. After experimentally validating the model, we compared the performance of the cathode mesh structure PEMFC with that of the traditional straight-flow PEMFC. The results indicate that the cathode mesh structure PEMFC has a lower pressure drop and a more index of uniform distribution (IUD), leading to enhanced performance, better temperature distribution, and improved water management of the PEMFC. The investigation of the cooling system’s operating parameters revealed that the temperature of the cathode catalyst layer in the PEMFC is the highest, while the temperature of the bipolar plate is the lowest. Of the nine cases that we evaluated, Case 7, with a coolant inlet temperature and flowrate of 303.15 K and 0.07 m/s, respectively, yielded the highest power density and the lowest average temperature. The IUD of the proton exchange membrane (PEM) in Case 5 was 0.608, suggesting that the temperature distribution of the PEM is more uniform when the coolant inlet temperature and flowrate are 323.15 K and 0.05 m/s, respectively. We have demonstrated through calculations a strong correlation between temperature difference and IUDs. These findings have significant implications for the optimization and application of PEMFCs.
Promoting Effect of PbO on Ir Nanosurface Toward Ethanol Electrocatalytic Oxidation in Alkaline Media
Authors: Ma Hua-Zhong , He Sheng-Hao , Ma Xing-Yu , Yang Yao-Yue
Published: July 2023

Metal-metal (hydr)oxide interfaces can promote the CO2 selectivity of ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) due to so-called metal–oxide interaction (MOI). Here, we first show that the mixture of Ir and PbO species at the nanoscale can also form “bifunctional effect” sites, where the C–C bond of ethanol can be effectively cut at Ir sites to generate C1 intermediates, and nearby PbO species could provide oxygenated species. The as-prepared Ir-PbO/C catalysts with a mean metallic nanoparticle size of 2.6 ± 0.5 nm can greatly improve the activity, stability, and C1 pathway selectivity of EOR. Specifically, it exhibits superior mass activity of 1150 mA/mgIr in 1 M NaOH solution containing 1 M C2H5OH. Chronoamperometry tests show that the stability of Ir-PbO/C is also significantly improved compared with Ir/C. In situ electrochemical infrared absorption spectral results confirm that the addition of oxophilic PbO species could accelerate the oxidative removal of COad intermediates, thereby greatly improving catalytic performance. This study may give new insights into designing efficient anode catalysts for the direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs).
A Model of Hydrodynamic Bearings With Circumferential Parallel Arranged Grooves
Authors: Li Yan , Ning Yanqiang , Zhang Desheng , Zhi Yinhe
Published: July 2023

A model is proposed to describe and analyze hydrodynamic bearings with circumferential parallel arranged grooves along any arbitrary groove curve. The Reynolds equation is solved with finite volume method, and the additional terms of the discretized equation for any arbitrary groove curve are deducted. With the model, any groove curve could be characterized by setting an array of inclination angles, and dash-shape grooves can also be modeled by setting the matrix of flag variables reflecting whether it is in the groove. Based on the model, the transient behaviors of four groove types are analyzed by Runge–Kutta method, with the pressure distribution, rotor’s center orbit, and leakage flow obtained. An experiment is conducted to validate the model. Results show that the dash-shape grooves, which are asymmetrical herringboned and intermittent, have both advantages of stability and sealing. The experimental and numerical results of pressure and leakage flow show good agreement in general. The model proposed in this paper will facilitate the design of grooved hydrodynamic bearings, as different groove types can be analyzed and compared by the same model.
Role of Shear on Strength and Damage Evolution in Soda-Lime Glass Under High Dynamic Pressures
Authors: Gandhi Vatsa , Lawlor Barry P. , Kettenbeil Christian , Ravichandran Guruswami
Published: July 2023

Silica glasses, such as soda-lime glass (SLG), have found wide ranging applications in engineering due to their excellent optical properties, high strength, and relatively low cost. In such applications, SLG may be subjected to intense dynamic loading due to high/hyper-velocity impact and therefore necessitates understanding of the dynamic shear strength and kinetics for the development of constitutive models. However, while several investigations have generated Hugoniots for silicate glasses, none appear to have measured shearing resistance at pressures above ∼ 20 GPa. In this study, the role of pressure and strain rate on the shearing resistance of soda-lime glass is explored using sandwich configuration high pressure-pressure shear plate impact (HP-PSPI) experiments. These experiments are conducted at pressures ranging from 14 to 42 GPa and strain rates of 105 − 106 s−1, and analyzed using finite element simulations incorporating a modified Johnson–Holmquist (JH-2) material model. The yield strength of SLG is observed to decrease as a function of pressure, which is reminiscent of the evolution of shear strength in granular media at high pressures. This observation suggests a probable shear-induced damage progression from intact material to granular matter in SLG at high pressures.
Numerical Study on Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of Enhanced Tube With Crossed Helical Dimples
Authors: Zheng Jiyu , Liang Zheng , Zhang Liang , Qiu Yangjun , Zhou Jiawei , Yan Zhongchao
Published: July 2023

A numerical investigation was performed to study the thermo-hydraulic performance in an enhanced tube with crossed helical dimples. The simulations were carried out in the Reynolds number range of 5000–30,000 in crossed helical dimple tube of a period length with a constant wall temperature of 350 K. The thermal enhancement, friction factor, and performance evaluation criteria (PEC) were the primary focus of the present work. Moreover, geometric parameters such as spiral pitch, transverse length, and dimple depth were investigated for their effects on thermo-hydraulic performance. The results revealed that the shape of crossed helical dimple exerts positive effects on the heat transfer enhancement. This unique shape generated intensive transverse flow and induced a higher transverse velocity, leading to heat transfer enhancement. Therefore, the synthesized heat transfer performance was increased by 150–225% over that of the smooth tube. Furthermore, the heat transfer enhancement and friction factors increased with increasing dimple depth and declining spiral pitch and transverse length. Within the scope of this study, the maximum PEC = 2.25 was observed for Re = 30,000, P = 30 mm, L = 11.064 mm, and H = 3 mm.
Attack Angle Parametrization for Capacity Augmentation and Wake Management by Vortex Generators in Finned Compact Heat Exchangers
Authors: Arora Amit , Subbarao P. M. V.
Published: July 2023

Enhancing gas-side thermal conductance is essential for the compact sizing of finned-tube heat exchangers, and this study attempts it by integrating vortex generators. The orientation of the vortex generators, which is defined by its attack angle, has a strong bearing on the degree of augmentation. As the energy efficiency keeps varying with the attack angle, the thrust of this investigation is to identify the best attack angle(s) for the stipulated task. For that purpose, four distinct attack angles (i.e., 15 deg, 30 deg, 45 deg and 60 deg), representing the entire effective range, are considered. Since spatial positioning of the generators too has a strong bearing on energy efficiency, therefore, its effect is duly accounted for a comprehensive investigation. For the selection of optimal designs, regression-based phenomenological models are used as they apply thermo-hydraulic trade-offs. After determining the best angle(s), a study is carried out to evaluate their robustness under varying operating conditions. Although phenomenological models are adequate for design optimization, they do not describe the physics of thermo-hydraulic enhancement. Therefore, a study explaining the bearing of design modifications on the local characteristics too is carried out. Additionally, a study discussing the effect of generators’ attack angle on heat transfer over the wake-affected surfaces, which has a predominant existence in baseline flows, is reported. It has been found that thermal augmentation over the said surfaces is the key to compact sizing of the system. For a selected wake-region deployment, the highest relative Colburn j-factor corresponding to wake-affected fin equals 3.07 at the specified Reynolds number.
Using Data Assimilation to Improve Turbulence Modeling for Inclined Jets in Crossflow
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Kechen , Zhou Wenwu , He Chuangxin , Liu Yingzheng
Published: July 2023

Data assimilation (DA) integrating limited experimental data and computational fluid dynamics is applied to improve the prediction accuracy of flow and mixing behavior in inclined jet-in-crossflow (JICF). The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) approach is used as the DA technique, and the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) modeling serves as the prediction framework. The flow field and scalar mixing characteristics of a cylinder-inclined JICF and a sand dune (SD)-inspired inclined JICF are studied at various velocity ratios (VR = 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2). First, the Spalart–Allmaras (SA) model and the standard k-ɛ model are investigated based on the cylinder configuration at VR = 1.2. An optimized set of model constants are determined for each model using the EnKF-based data assimilation. The SA model shows remarkable improvement and better prediction in flow separation than the standard k-ɛ model after DA. Further exploration demonstrates that this set of the SA model constants can be extended to other VRs and even the SD-inspired configuration, mainly due to the correction of the predicted flow separation in inclined JICF. Finally, an investigation of the concentration field also shows satisfying improvement, resulting from a more appropriate turbulent Schmidt number. The optimized model constants, the revealed extensibility, and the uncovered mechanism of using the EnKF-based DA to improve the simulation of JICF could facilitate the design of related applications such as gas turbine film cooling.
Comparative study of the microspot splitting characteristics of direct-current and pulsed cathodic vacuum arc
Authors: Zhang Ke , Lang Wenchang , Du Hao , Chen Zhijie , Wei Xinlei , Wang Xianghong , Gao Bin
Published: July 2023

Ejection of macroparticles is an inherent and unavoidable characteristic of cold cathode arc discharges. The size of the cathode arc spot's melt pool is closely related to the emitted particle size, and existing studies mostly indicate that motion velocity of arc spots can be heightened primarily by magnetic fields, thereby reducing the ejection of macroparticles. However, scant consideration has been given to avoid the fundamental nature of arc spot current concentration discharge by exploring the phenomenon of arc spot splitting. In this paper, microspot splitting characteristics of direct current and pulsed cathodic vacuum arc were compared and analyzed to investigate the effect of pulsed discharges on the arc spot's internal structure, splitting, and kinematic characteristics. The results showed that pulsed arc discharges emit a dense, highly ionized plasma flow which impacts the relatively thin positive charge layer instantaneously during the peak pulsed period. This then produces a highly ionized plasma region, while also promoting an effect by which the arc spot is split into multiple microspots. Additionally, the degree of dispersion resulting from microspot splitting is positively correlated with the ratio of the plasma flow density to the concentration of the positive charge layer at the moment of microexplosion. Therefore, the microspot splitting effect of a second-order pulsed arc is weaker than that of a first-order pulsed arc. Moreover, the splitting characteristics indicated a trend toward the progressive splitting state of the direct current cathode arc. When the peak current of the single-order pulsed arc was increased from 100 to 400 A, the particle refinement effect on the surface of the CrN coating became much more evident compared to the effect of a 200 A arc in the direct current mode. And upon reaching a peak current of 500 A (and up to 600 A), the number of splits did not increase linearly due to the continuous increase in the discrete degree of microspot splitting and concurrent decrease in microspot stability. This resulted in relatively high individual microspot currents, while some relative macroparticles still appeared on the coating surface.
A transfer matrix for the input impedance of weakly tapered, dissipative cones as of wind instruments (L)
Authors: Grothe Timo , Baumgart Johannes , Nederveen Cornelis J.
Published: July 2023

A formula for the local acoustical admittance in a conical waveguide with viscous and thermal losses given by Nederveen [(1969). Acoustical Aspects of Woodwind Instruments (Frits Knuf, Amsterdam)] is rewritten as an impedance transmission matrix. Based on a self-consistent approximation for the cone, it differs from other one-dimensional transmission matrices used in musical acoustics, which implicitly include the loss model of a cylinder. The resonance frequencies of air columns calculated with this transmission matrix are in better agreement with more comprehensive models. Even for long cones with a slight taper, there is no need to discretize along the axis.
Critiquing the Social Media Scholarship in Sport Studies: Looking Beyond Content and Adopting Critical Approaches
Authors: Sanderson Jimmy
Published: July 2023

Social media and sport research has produced a significant corpus of academic literature. This work has enhanced our understanding of the influence of social media in various areas of the sport industry. This work, however, has often glamorized social media and its benefits, leading to a normalization about social media that obscures its negative effects and impacts in sport. This commentary reflects on how social media and sport research has evolved over time and calls for more consideration to be given to critical approaches to social media research that look beyond analysis of social media content. The commentary specifically addresses areas of inquiry around athlete welfare and social media, social media and young athletes, and social media professionals and their work environment. The commentary aims to encourage more critical perspectives related to social media that will enhance the inclusivity of the social media and sport literature.
Prospective Association of Occupational and Leisure-Time Physical Activity With Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Early Adulthood: Findings From Pelotas (Brazil) 1982 Birth Cohort
Authors: de Lucena Alves Charles Phillipe , Crochemore-Silva Inácio , Lima Natália P. , Coenen Pieter , Horta Bernardo Lessa
Published: July 2023

Background: The benefits of physical activity in health outcomes are well established. However, recent evidence suggests that benefits may differ by domain and population. Thus, we aimed to investigate the prospective association of occupational (OPA) and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) with cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: In 1982, the maternity hospitals of Pelotas were visited daily; those live births whose families lived in urban areas were evaluated, and their mothers were later interviewed (n = 5914). In the 2004/5 follow-up (23 y old), both OPA and LTPA were measured in 4295 participants using their respective sections of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. In the 2012 follow-up (30 y old), the following cardiovascular risk factors were collected: high-density lipoprotein (in milligrams per deciliter), low-density lipoprotein (in milligrams per deciliter), triglycerides (in milligrams per deciliter), glucose (in milligrams per deciliter), and blood pressure (in millimeters of mercury). Multivariable linear regressions were performed to evaluate associations between OPA and LTPA with these specific cardiovascular risk factors. Results: In total, 3241 participants were analyzed. Our main findings suggest that there was no association between OPA and LTPA with high- and low-density lipoprotein. There were inverse associations between OPA and lower levels of triglycerides among males (β = −0.002; 95% confidence interval, −0.003 to −0.000) and positive associations between LTPA and higher levels of diastolic blood pressure among females (β = 0.111; 95% confidence interval, 0.005–0.216). Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings suggest that there was no association, or association with limited clinical relevance, of OPA and LTPA with cardiovascular risk factors in early adulthood.
Supplemental Material: Reconstructing past disturbance in coral communities using U-Th dating of dead coral skeletons
Authors: Clark Tara R. , al. et
Published: July 2023

Figure S1 and Tables S1–S8.  
Supplemental Material: Prolonged and gradual recovery of metazoan-algal reefs following the end-Permian mass extinction
Authors: Kelley Brian M. , al. et
Published: July 2023

 Statistical analyses and tables.  
Metabolic bone disease heralding the diagnosis of Wilson’s disease
Authors: Bhadada Sanjay , Malhotra Bhanu , Shetty Anirudh , Mukherjee Soham
Published: July 2023

We report a short-statured, young man in his 20s presenting with bilateral cataract, recurrent kidney stones, history of refractory rickets and bone deformity. He had been consuming calcium and vitamin D supplements and had been operated for cataract and renal stone disease, prior to reporting in our clinic without any significant laboratory or clinical improvement. The patient was diagnosed as having Fanconi’s syndrome attributable to Wilson’s disease. This patient highlights that in case of resistant rickets, a high index of suspicion must be invoked for Wilson’s disease. Timely recognition of this entity results in prompt ministrations and prevention of disability.
Overwhelming orbital cellulitis in a neonate
Authors: Kulkarni Venu , Sundaram Venkataseshan , Sameeksha Tadepalli Haripriya
Published: July 2023

This article discusses a rare ophthalmic manifestation of neonatal bacterial infection and its management, including surgical drainage. The case discussed is that of a neonate who presented with rapidly progressing ophthalmic symptoms suggestive of orbital cellulitis. The neonate also had extensive intracranial involvement and had spread to contiguous structures causing a temporal lobe abscess. As there was no local injury, a haematogenous spread was strongly considered. With blood culture and pus culture yielding the growth ofStaphylococcus aureus, systemic antibiotics and surgical interventions were required to successfully manage the neonate. Through this case report, we emphasise that orbital infections are grave in neonates and may culminate into devastating intracranial complications; hence, it necessitates appropriate medical and surgical interventions right from hospital admission.
Re-evaluating the role of pilot trials in informing effect and sample size estimates for full-scale trials: a meta-epidemiological study
Authors: Ying Xiangji , Robinson Karen A , Ehrhardt Stephan
Published: July 2023

Background

Some have argued that pilot trials have little value for informing the expected effect size of a subsequent large trial. This study aims to empirically evaluate the roles of pilot trials in informing the effect and sample size estimates of a full-scale trial.

Methods

We conducted a search in PubMed on 19 February 2022, for all pilot trials published between 2005 and 2018 and their subsequent full-scale trials. We analysed the agreement in results by comparing the direction and magnitude of the effect size in the pilot trial and full-scale trial. Logistic regression was used to explore whether a significant pilot trial and other characteristics were associated with a significant full-scale trial.

Results

A total of 248 pairs of pilot and full-scale trials were analysed. Full-scale trials with a significant pilot trial were 2.72 times more likely to find a significant result for the primary efficacy outcome than those with a non-significant pilot trial (95% CI 1.52 to 4.86, p=0.001). The association remained significant irrespective of changes made to the trial design. In 73% of the pairs, the pilot trial produced a larger point estimate than the subsequent full-scale trial, but 87% of pairs had a 95% CI estimated by the pilot trial that covered the full-scale trial point estimate. Full-scale trials with a sample size estimated using the SD from the pilot trial were less likely to yield a significant result (OR=0.26, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.65, p=0.004).

Conclusion

Pilot trials can provide strong signals on intervention efficacy. When determining the sample size for full-scale trials, using the CI bounds from the pilot trials instead of the point estimate may improve power estimation.
Survey of practices for documenting evidence of bruises from physical abuse during child protection proceedings
Authors: Evans Sam , Farnell Damian J J , Carson-Stevens Andy , Kemp Alison
Published: July 2023

Accurate recording of forensically important information on bruises is vital in child protection proceedings (Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH)). An online survey was distributed to the RCPCH child protection committees to assess compliance with guidance. 56 individuals were contacted by email, 47 (84%) completed the survey. Results showed that the paediatricians always record size (n=41; 87%), site (n=45; 96%), shape (n=32; 68%) and colour (n=36; 77%); n=10; 22% of the paediatricians stated that they ‘always’ used a ranking system for likelihood of abuse; n=12; 35% of those surveyed ‘sometimes’ estimated the size of the bruise. Results showed that paediatric bruise reporting is inconsistent and incomplete for some fields compared with national guidance.
Global variability of influenza activity and virus subtype circulation from 2011 to 2023
Authors: Zheng Luyan , Lin Yushi , Yang Jing , Fang Kailu , Wu Jie , Zheng Min
Published: July 2023

Background

Although decreased influenza activity has been reported in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains unknown how global influenza activity has changed. We described the global variability of influenza activity and virus subtype circulation from 2011 to 2023 to prepare for the potential influenza outbreak with the control of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Influenza virological surveillance data between 2011 and 2023 were obtained from the WHO-FluNet database. We first calculated and compared the influenza activity before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. For countries whose influenza activity has recovered, we also described changes in the duration of influenza epidemics. We then determined the proportion of influenza cases caused by the different influenza virus types.

Results

In total, 73 countries with 2.17 million influenza cases were included. In the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, decreased influenza activity was observed in all WHO regions. In 2022 and 2023, rebound in influenza activity was observed in all WHO regions, especially in Western Pacific Region. At the same time, a change in the duration of the influenza epidemic was observed in several Southern Hemisphere countries. Moreover, in all WHO regions, few B/Yamagata viruses were detected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Lack of exposure to influenza will diminish population immunity and increase the severity of large epidemics on a future global resurgence. Ongoing monitoring of the changes in the duration of the influenza epidemic and circulation subtypes should be the focus of future work.
Comparison of drugs for active eosinophilic oesophagitis: systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Visaggi Pierfrancesco , Barberio Brigida , Del Corso Giulio , de Bortoli Nicola , Black Christopher J , Ford Alexander C , Savarino Edoardo
Published: July 2023

Background

There is currently no recommendation regarding preferred drugs for active eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) because their relative efficacy is unclear. We conducted an up-to-date network meta-analysis to compare proton pump inhibitors, off-label and EoE-specific topical steroids, and biologics in EoE.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Embase Classic and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to June 2023. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing efficacy of all drugs versus each other, or placebo, in adults and adolescents with active EoE. Results were reported as pooled relative risks with 95% CIs to summarise effect of each comparison tested, with drugs ranked according to P score

Results

Seventeen RCTs were eligible for systematic review. Of these, 15 studies containing 1813 subjects with EoE reported extractable data for the network meta-analysis. For histological remission defined as ≤6 eosinophils/high-power field (HPF), lirentelimab 1 mg/kg monthly ranked first. For histological remission defined as ≤15 eosinophils/HPF, budesonide orally disintegrating tablet (BOT) 1 mg two times per day ranked first. For failure to achieve symptom improvement, BOT 1 mg two times per day and budesonide oral suspension (BOS) 2 mg two times per day were significantly more efficacious than placebo. For failure to achieve endoscopic improvement based on the EoE Endoscopic Reference Score, BOT 1 mg two times per day and BOS 1 mg two times per day or 2 mg two times per day were significantly more efficacious than placebo.

Conclusions

Although this network meta-analysis supports the efficacy of most available drugs over placebo for EoE treatment, significant heterogeneity in eligibility criteria and outcome measures among available trials hampers the establishment of a solid therapeutic hierarchy.
Optimisation of mitochondrial function as a novel target for resuscitation in haemorrhagic shock: a systematic review
Authors: Cottey Laura , Smith J E , Watts S
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Traumatic injury is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and despite significant improvements in patient care, survival in the most severely injured patients remains unchanged. There is a crucial need for innovative approaches to improve trauma patient outcomes; this is particularly pertinent in remote or austere environments with prolonged evacuation times to definitive care. Studies suggest that maintenance of cellular homeostasis is a critical component of optimal trauma patient management, and as the cell powerhouse, it is likely that mitochondria play a pivotal role. As a result, therapies that optimise mitochondrial function could be an important future target for the treatment of critically ill trauma patients.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol to determine the potential role of mitochondria in traumatic injury and haemorrhagic shock (HS) and to identify current evidence for mitochondrial optimisation therapies in trauma. Articles were included if they assessed a mitochondrial targeted therapy in comparison to a control group, used a model of traumatic injury and HS and reported a method to assess mitochondrial function.

Results

The search returned 918 articles with 37 relevant studies relating to mitochondrial optimisation identified. Included studies exploring a range of therapies with potential utility in traumatic injury and HS. Therapies were categorised into the key mitochondrial pathways impacted following traumatic injury and HS: ATP levels, cell death, oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion

This systematic review provides an overview of the key cellular functions of the mitochondria following traumatic injury and HS and identifies why mitochondrial optimisation could be a viable and valuable target in optimising outcome in severely injured patients in the future.
Restoration of low-intensity fire in Quercus-Pinus mixedwoods following a prolonged period of fire exclusion
Authors: Goode J. Davis , Hart Justin L. , Dey Daniel C. , LaFevor Matthew C. , Torreano Scott J.
Published: July 2023

Low-intensity surface fire is required to restore and maintain Quercus-Pinus mixedwood composition, structure, and function. However, historical fire exclusion has resulted in altered vegetation-fuel-fire feedbacks in long-unburned mixedwoods. Fire is now being reintroduced to reduce fire-intolerant understory and midstory stem density, consume excessive litter accumulation, eradicate the duff layer, and achieve various other goals; however, the consequences of restoring fire are poorly understood. The goal of this study was to quantify the effects of fire reintroduction on intra-stand Pinus echinata neighborhoods in a mixed Quercus-P. echinata stand following an extended period of fire exclusion. We report results from a 3-year sampling of the effects of one dormant season and one early growing season fire on woody plant dynamics, understory light, fuel conditions, and P. echinata basal duff-ring accumulation. The sapling assemblage was unaffected by one fire, but the second fire resulted in shoot mortality across all taxa. Understory light availability was unchanged after two fires, and litter depth was significantly reduced after the first and second fire. We found that fire seasonality was likely more important than fuel conditions to achieve desired fire effects. Our results indicated that continued fire and midstory treatment will be required to regenerate P. echinata.
AGATA: Nuclear structure advancements with high-energy $$\gamma $$ rays
Authors: Camera F. , Isaak J. , Maj A. , Siem S.
Published: July 2023

High-energy$$\gamma $$γrays are emitted either in the decay of nuclear discrete states (generally located in the proximity of the particle-emission threshold) or in the electromagnetic decay of collective states. The branching ratio is rather small, therefore in alternative/coincidence with high-energy$$\gamma $$γrays one could have neutron or charged-particle emission. The precise measurement of these branching ratios allows a more comprehensive description of the nucleus and, in particular, the selection of the nuclear models which better describes the interplay between the different acting forces and couplings. In the case of the electromagnetic decay of collective states, the precise identification of the populated low-lying states allows the measurement of their wave-function and/or of their ‘bulk’ properties. This information provides, also in this case, a stringent test for the nuclear models. In both cases, to compensate these small branching ratio, a large number of detectors and an accurate selection of a small region of the phase space are needed. AGATA is considered to constitute an optimal array for this kind of measurements. In fact, AGATA, because of its high granularity and its excellent energy resolution, can detect the high-energy$$\gamma $$γrays emitted in a specific decay path or associated to specific reaction channels, shapes, deformations. In the introduction, some details on the measurement of high-energy$$\gamma $$γrays using HPGe detector are discussed. The sections of this paper focus on the measurements of high-energy$$\gamma $$γrays to obtain the photon strength function, the nuclear level density and to identify extreme shapes in highly excited nuclei.
Applying machine learning methods for the analysis of two-dimensional mass spectra
Authors: Gao Z. , Solders A. , Al-Adili A. , Beliuskina O. , Eronen T. , Kankainen A. , Lantz M. , Moore I. D. , Nesterenko D. A. , Penttilä H. , Pomp S. , Sjöstrand H. ,   the IGISOL team
Published: July 2023

In a measurement of isomeric yield-ratios in fission, the Phase-Imaging Ion-Cyclotron-Resonance technique, which projects the radial motions of ions in the Penning trap (JYFLTRAP) onto a position-sensitive micro-channel plate detector, has been applied. To obtain the yield ratio, that is the relative population of two states of an isomer pair, a novel analysis procedure has been developed to determine the number of detected ions in each state, as well as corrections for the detector efficiency and decay losses. In order to determine the population of the states in cases where their mass difference is too small to reach full separation, a Bayesian Gaussian Mixture model was implemented. The position-dependent efficiency of the micro-channel plate detector was calibrated by mapping it with $$^{133}$$

133

Cs$$^+$$

+

ions, and a Gaussian Process was trained with the position data to construct an efficiency function that could be used to correct the recorded distributions. The obtained numbers of counts of excited and ground-state ions were used to derive the isomeric yield ratio, taking into account decay losses as well as feeding from precursors.
Optical appearance of a thin-shell wormhole with a Hayward profile
Authors: Guo Sen , Li Guan-Ru , Liang En-Wei
Published: July 2023

The optical properties of a thin-shell wormhole (TSW) with a Hayward profile is investigated. Adopting the ray-tracing method, we demonstrate that the TSW’s contralateral spacetime is capable of reflecting a significant portion of light back to the observer spacetime. We analyze the effective potential, light deflection, and azimuthal angle of the TSW and find that these quantities are affected by the mass ratio of the black holes (BHs). Specifically, if the mass of the contralateral spacetime BH is greater than that of the original spacetime BH, and the impact parameter satisfies the condition $$Hb_{\textrm{c2}}<b_{1}<b_{\textrm{c1}}$$

H

b
c2

<

b
1

<

b
c1

, the trajectory of the photon exhibits round-trip characteristics. Assuming the presence of a thin accretion disk surrounding the observing spacetime BH, our results indicate that the image formed by the TSW exhibits additional photon rings and a lensing band compared to an image produced by a BH alone.
Structural control on a Ypresian karstic aquifer revealed by an integrated geophysical and geological approach: the Mateur imbricated thrust zone (northern Tunisia)
Authors: Elgattoussi Sourour , Melki Fetheddine , Gabtni Hakim , Booth Rea Guillermo
Published: July 2023

We present a characterization of a poorly studied karstic aquifer, documenting the geometry, resistivity properties and the control of structural discontinuities that affect the Ypresian limestone cropping out in the Mateur imbricated thrust zone in northern Tunisia. The karst system was produced by meteoric diagenesis. Geophysical methods and field investigations were useful in extracting geological features. First, our findings suggest that N110–N140 directions are the preferred dissolution paths orientated parallel to strike-slip and extensional faults. Second, the gravity data analysis (regional–residual separation, horizontal gravity gradient and Euler deconvolution) show a particular tectonic node as a junction of the NE–SW and NW–SE directions. Third, 2D electrical resistivity models display various karstification typologies with high (>1000 

Ω

 m), medium (between 200 and 1000 

Ω

 m) and low (<100 

Ω

 m) electrical resistivity zones. These electrical resistivity models have contributed to the establishment of a conceptual structural model of the global karst features. Finally, 2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and 1D time-domain electromagnetic analysis highlighted the presence of potential water zones integrated into the aquifer.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Karst: Characterization, Hazards & Hydrogeology collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/karst
AI and Society: Ethics, Trust, and Cooperation
Authors: Kuipers Benjamin
Published: July 2023

Trust and trustworthiness are central to how ethics helps society survive and thrive.
Why You Should Be Able to Make Your Own Individualized, Digital Nano-Currency
Authors: Sheh Wesley , Nishimura Joel
Published: July 2023

Increasing opportunities for access to traditional financial systems.
Teaching the FATE Community about Privacy
Authors: Hong Jason I.
Published: July 2023

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