bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 2024 APLAR Consensus on the Management of Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Mok Chi Chiu , So Ho , Hamijoyo Laniyati , Kasitanon Nuntana , Chen Der Yuan , Bae Sang Cheol , Li Meng Tao , Navarra Sandra , Yap Desmond Yat Hin , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: January 2025

The APLAR has published a set of recommendations on the management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in 2021. The current consensus paper supplements and updates specifically the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN) according to two rounds of Delphi exercise from members of the APLAR SLE special interest group, invited nephrologists, histopathologists, and lupus nephritis patients. For initial treatment of LN, we recommend a combination of glucocorticoids (GCs) with cyclophosphamide (CYC), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), or the calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) as first‐line options. An upfront combination of immunosuppressive drugs and the biological agents may be considered in patients at significant risk of disease progression and renal function deterioration. Switching or “add‐on” among different immunosuppressive agents, including biological agents, may be considered for refractory disease. Subsequent/maintenance therapy of LN should continue for at least 3 years to reduce the risk of renal flares. Lower dose MMF and azathioprine are options, but MMF maintenance should follow induction by the same drug. Prednisolone or equivalent should be maintained at a dose of 5 mg/day or less. The APLAR consensus for the management of LN includes recommendations for adjunctive therapies, monitoring and treatment of LN‐related co‐morbidities, and renal replacement therapies. It is hoped that this consensus paper can provide an evidence‐based and pragmatic approach to the management of LN, taking into account the evidence level of therapies in Asian patients, cost‐effectiveness, and differences in health care resources and reimbursement policies in the Asia‐Pacific region.
Gestational diabetes mellitus and subsequent cardiovascular disease in a period of rising diagnoses: Cohort study
Authors: Mehrabadi Azar , Yu Ya‐Hui , Grandi Sonia M. , Platt Robert W. , Filion Kristian B.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Evidence suggests that gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with subsequent cardiovascular disease; however, it is unclear what impact changes in screening and diagnostic criteria have had on the association of GDM with long‐term outcomes such as cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between GDM and subsequent cardiovascular disease during a period of rising gestational diabetes diagnosis in England. Specifically, associations were compared before and after 2008, when national guidelines supporting risk factor‐based screening were introduced.

Material and Methods

We conducted a cohort study using routinely collected data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked to the Hospital Episode Statistics and Office for National Statistics databases. The study consisted of persons aged 15–45 years with a livebirth or stillbirth between 1998 and 2017 and without a history of cardiovascular disease or pre‐pregnancy diabetes mellitus. Cox proportional hazards models, with propensity score weighting using matching weights, were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of GDM diagnosis in the first recorded pregnancy with subsequent cardiovascular disease.

Results

Among 232 315 individuals, the incidence of cardiovascular disease was 6.6 per 1000 person‐years among those with GDM and 2.2 per 1000 person‐years among those without GDM over a mean follow‐up duration of 5.8 years. The overall aHR, 95% CI was 1.91 (1.41, 2.60). Diagnosis of GDM increased over the study period, from 0.7% in 1998–99 to 5.3% in 2017. The effect size was not markedly different in the years before (1998–2007: adjusted HR 2.05, 95% CI 2.05 1.35, 3.12) and after 2008 (2008–2017: adjusted HR 1.79, 95% CI 1.15, 2.80).

Conclusions

There was a strong association of GDM with cardiovascular disease after accounting for social and demographic factors and multiple comorbidities, and this association was present both before and after 2008, when national gestational diabetes screening criteria were established.
Analysis of Antroduodenal Motility in Patients With Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders/Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Sweerts Kim W. E. , Mujagic Zlatan , Keszthelyi Daniel , Conchillo José M.
Published: January 2025

Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and hypermobility Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (hEDS) are frequently associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to compare antroduodenal motility in patients with and without HSD/hEDS. We included 239 patients (50 HSD/hEDS and 189 non‐HSD/hEDS) with gastrointestinal symptoms undergoing antroduodenal manometry (ADM). The prevalence of antroduodenal dysmotility was not different between both groups, but enteric dysmotility was less common in the HSD/hEDS group (13% vs. 34%, p = 0.006). Delayed gastric emptying rates were similar, suggesting that delayed gastric emptying is more relevant for patients with HSD/hEDS and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Preoperative Indocyanine Green Tattooing for Robotic‐Assisted Surgery in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Morimoto Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Akihiro , Yamazaki Nobuyoshi , Kubo Kouichirou , Satou Manabu , Kobayashi Ryousuke , Asai Daichi , Akamine Kouta , Ogata Kenji
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Preoperative identification of the site of rectal cancer surgery is crucial for ensuring accurate tumor localization and resection. Commonly employed methods include contrast‐enhanced enterography and endoscopic marking techniques, such as clipping and India ink tattooing. However, India ink tattooing poses challenges, including obstruction of the surgical field, ink leakage into the abdominal cavity, and potential complications such as peritonitis and adhesive bowel obstruction. Similarly, clipping requires palpation, making minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopic or robotic‐assisted surgery, impractical.

Materials and Surgical Technique

The indocyanine green fluorescence method is employed intraoperatively to monitor blood and lymph flow in the intestinal tract. Here, we discuss the effectiveness of preoperative indocyanine green marking in accurately locating tumors during robot‐assisted rectal colorectal surgery.

Discussion

By using the fluorescence properties of indocyanine green, surgeons can precisely identify the tumor site, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods. This technique improves surgical accuracy while minimizing intraoperative risks and achieving optimal oncological outcomes. Preoperative indocyanine green tattooing represents a valuable enhancement to current techniques in rectal cancer surgery, particularly for robot‐assisted approaches. Our findings underscore the applicability of preoperative indocyanine green tattooing as a promising alternative in robot‐assisted surgery for patients with rectal cancer.
A Pollen‐Based Assisted Migration for Rapid Forest Adaptation
Authors: Chludil David , Čepl Jaroslav , Steffenrem Arne , Stejskal Jan , Sagariya Christi , Pook Torsten , Schueler Silvio , Korecký Jiří , Almqvist Curt , Chakraborty Debojyoti , Berlin Mats , Lstibůrek Milan
Published: January 2025

Climate change poses an unprecedented threat to forest ecosystems, necessitating innovative adaptation strategies. Traditional assisted migration approaches, while promising, face challenges related to environmental constraints, forestry practices, phytosanitary risks, economic barriers, and legal constraints. This has sparked debate within the scientific community, with some advocating for the broader implementation of assisted migration despite these limitations, while others emphasize the importance of local adaptation, which may not keep pace with the rapid rate of climate change. This opinion paper proposes a novel pollen‐based assisted migration strategy as a potential middle ground in this debate. By leveraging existing seed orchard infrastructure for controlled pollen transfer, this approach aims to enhance forest resilience through the introduction of genetic material from climatically suitable sources while acknowledging local adaptation. We assess the genetic implications of the proposed strategy through computer simulation. Additionally, we examine the ecological implications of assisted gene flow, discussing the potential benefits of heterosis and the risks of outbreeding depression in intra‐specific hybrid populations. We further explore the advantages of pollen‐based migration in mitigating phytosanitary risks, reducing economic barriers, and simplifying legal considerations compared to traditional seed or seedling transfer methods. Regional perspectives on adapting pollen‐based assisted migration are provided, with specific examples from Northern and Central Europe. We highlight how this approach could be integrated into existing forestry practices and regulatory frameworks within the European Union. We conclude by advocating for the inclusion of pollen‐based assisted migration in future international projects and operational forestry, emphasizing the need for adaptable policies that can support innovative forest management strategies in the face of climate change.
Enhanced temperature stability and reduced tan δ in B‐site modified titanate‐based high‐entropy perovskite oxides
Authors: Bunpang Ketkaeo , Somsri Widchaya , Cann David P. , Raengthon Natthaphon
Published: January 2025

The dielectric properties of complex titanate perovskites are highly sensitive to the composition, which influences the stability of the ferroelectric state. This work examines the role of Zr4+ and (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+ doping on the B‐site in a high entropy composition based on (Na0.2Bi0.2Ba0.2Ca0.2Sr0.2)TiO3. In particular, (Na0.2Bi0.2Ba0.2Ca0.2Sr0.2)(Ti1−xMex)O3 (Me = Zr4+, (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+, x = 0.00–0.15) ceramics are synthesized by solid‐state reaction method. All ceramics form a single‐phase cubic structure as demonstrated by X‐ray diffraction. The difference in ionic radius between Zr4+ and (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+ ions contributes to changes in lattice parameter and microstructure. The Zr4+ doping generally causes lattice expansion, whereas low concentrations of (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+ doping lead to lattice contraction, resulting in distinct microstructural modifications. For the doped samples, the relative permittivity decreases due to the influence of the dopants when compared with the undoped sample. Furthermore, the dielectric loss decreases substantially to a value below 0.001 across a broad temperature range and the temperature stability of capacitance is enhanced at elevated temperatures. Furthermore, all ceramics with higher Zr4+ and (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+ concentrations show linear dielectric behavior with evidence of significant change of electrical characteristics revealed by impedance and modulus analysis. Consequently, the addition of Zr4+ and (Mg1/3Nb2/3)4+ to the composition (Na0.2Bi0.2Ba0.2Ca0.2Sr0.2)TiO3 shows great promise for high temperature, temperature stable capacitor applications.
What I Really, Really Want: The Role, Nature, and Value of True Preferences in the Ethics of Nudging
Authors: Engelen Bart , Ivanković Viktor
Published: January 2025

In this article, we discuss the role that ‘true preferences’ can and should play in discussions on the possibility and desirability of paternalist nudges. Critics have claimed that such preferences do not exist, cannot be known reliably by third parties, and cannot justify whether and how to nudge people. In this article, we argue that these objections undermine the extent to which philosophers and laypeople can make sense of autonomy and authenticity. We aim to identify what kinds of preferences can plausibly be labelled ‘true’ and how that impacts discussions on the ethics of paternalist nudging. We analyse what ‘true preferences’ can mean, not for Econs, but for Humans, and argue, more specifically, that some of our existing preferences have special status. In addition, we argue that satisfying them is good for individuals and that nudgers should seek to overcome the epistemic challenges of discovering their content.
Comparison between Core‐ and Well Log‐Based Identification of Flow Units in the Mid‐Cretaceous Bangestan Group Reservoir, Mansuri Field, SW Iran: Implications for Regional Characterization
Authors: Daraei Mehdi , Afrazi Saeed , Vasighi Mahdi , Masoumi Zohreh
Published: January 2025

Core‐ and well log‐based techniques of reservoir characterization were used to independently assess mid‐Cretaceous (Albian–Santonian) flow units in the Bangestan Group reservoir of the Mansuri oilfield, located in the Dezful Embayment of SW Iran. The outcomes of the two techniques were compared to assess their utility in flow unit determination. Core‐based reservoir classification using the “Flow Zone Indicator” and “Stratigraphic Modified Lorenz Plot” approaches defined 15 flow units in the Mansuri reservoir, including three speed zones. Well log‐based (“K‐means” and “linkage clustering”) methodologies provided broadly consistent results with 16 flow units defined in the same reservoir sequence. The log‐based reservoir zonation gave a better vertical and laterally continuous representation of the reservoir geometry, while the core‐based zonation provided more information about reservoir quality and ranking of the flow units identified. To assess its regional significance, a reservoir zonation combining both techniques was then compared with Bangestan Group reservoirs across SW Iran. The analysis highlighted the influence of regional unconformities and associated subaerial exposure upon reservoir quality and flow unit geometries within the Bangestan reservoir. These exposure surfaces had distinct well log signatures, which could be traced across the region and used to define the regional configuration of the Bangestan Group reservoir in the absence of core data.
Gradual Changes in Functional Time Series
Authors: Bastian Patrick , Dette Holger
Published: January 2025

We consider the problem of detecting gradual changes in the sequence of mean functions from a not necessarily stationary functional time series. Our approach is based on the maximum deviation (calculated over a given time interval) between a benchmark function and the mean functions at different time points. We speak of a gradual change of size , if this quantity exceeds a given threshold . For example, the benchmark function could represent an average of yearly temperature curves from the pre‐industrial time, and we are interested in the question of whether the yearly temperature curves afterwards deviate from the pre‐industrial average by more than degrees Celsius, where the deviations are measured with respect to the sup‐norm. Using Gaussian approximations for high‐dimensional data, we develop a test for hypotheses of this type and estimators for the time when a deviation of size larger than appears for the first time. We prove the validity of our approach and illustrate the new methods by a simulation study and a data example, where we analyze yearly temperature curves at different stations in Australia.
An Improved Procedure for Retrospectively Dating the Emergence and Collapse of Bubbles
Authors: Kejriwal Mohitosh , Nguyen Linh , Perron Pierre
Published: January 2025

This article proposes a new ordinary least squares (OLS)‐based procedure for retrospectively dating the emergence and collapse of bubbles. We first consider a data generating process that entails a switch from a unit root regime to an explosive regime followed by a collapse and subsequent return to unit root behavior. We demonstrate analytically that the standard OLS estimates are inconsistent and date both the origination and implosion points with a delay in large samples. A simple modification that involves omitting the residual corresponding to the implosion date is shown to yield consistent estimates. We also develop an efficient dating algorithm that can accommodate a framework with multiple bubbles. The algorithm exploits the explicit form of the unit root restrictions to directly embed them into the recursive optimization problem which obviates the need to rely on an iterative scheme that requires initial values. Extensive simulation experiments indicate that our proposed procedure typically delivers estimates with lower bias and root mean squared error relative to competing alternatives. An empirical illustration is included.
Effect of carryover biomass of channel catfish on production and profitability in intensively aerated multiple‐batch system
Authors: Kumar Ganesh , Hegde Shraddha , Aarattuthodi Suja , Bosworth Brian , Sun Lianqun , Steensma Nathanial
Published: January 2025

Multiple‐batch production is the most common farming strategy for raising channel catfish. Increased adoption of intensified alternative production practices has changed the cost structure of many catfish production practices including multiple‐batch systems. Production efficiency in multiple‐batch production can be enhanced by providing optimal stocking recommendations for fingerlings and carryover fish. Twelve 0.4‐ha ponds were understocked with 20,782 channel catfish fingerlings (mean weight = 30 g/fish) at three different carryover biomass rates (3440; 4580; and 5702 kg/ha). Fish were fed once daily to apparent satiation with a 28% protein floating feed, and ponds were aerated with a 7.4‐kW electric paddlewheel aerator. Gross, net, daily net yields, sub‐marketable yields (<0.54 kg), growth (g/day), and survival were statistically similar among the three treatments, but yield of marketable fish yield (fish ≥0.54 kg) increased significantly with increased carryover biomass. The cost of production was reduced while net returns increased with increased carryover biomass. The lowest carryover biomass treatment (3440 kg/ha) had negative cash flow and net returns when sub‐marketable fish were not assigned value. However, all three carryover biomass treatments attained positive annual net cash flows and net returns when sub‐marketable fish were valued as revenue, the two higher carryover biomass treatments (4580 and 5702 kg/ha) outperformed the low carryover biomass treatment (3440 kg/ha). This study indicates channel catfish carryover biomass rates should be between 4580 and 5702 kg/ha to improve cost efficiency in intensively aerated, multiple‐batch production systems.
Geometric series exists in nature: Evidence from sorted area sequences of floral parts and leaves
Authors: Shi Peijian , Li Bailian Larry , Wang Jinfeng , Mu Youying , Yao Weihao , Lian Meng , Deng Linli , Niklas Karl J.
Published: January 2025

The concept of a geometric series (GS) plays an important role in mathematics. However, it has been neglected in describing biological size series. Herein, we show that a GS describes the nonreproductive (perianth) parts of the flowers of four Magnoliaceae species and two Rosaceae species and the leaves of 60 Alangium chinense and 60 Shibataea chinensis shoots. The sorted areas of floral parts and leaves formed a sequence that was fitted by a GS with the mean of the quotients of two adjacent members in the sequence as the common ratio of a GS. The mean absolute percent error (MAPE) was used to measure the goodness of fit of each GS. Over 99.7% of the MAPE values (371 out of the 372 tested flowers) were less than 10%, and over 97.8% of the MAPE values were less than 5%. Likewise, over 77.5% of the MAPE values (93 out of the 120 tested shoots) were less than 10%, and over 35% of the MAPE values were less than 5%. These analyses provide empirical evidence that the GS exists in nature, and confirm the usefulness of a classical algebraic formula for the study of plant developmental biology.
Microbial Biotic Associations Dominated Adaptability Differences of Dioecious Poplar Under Salt Stress
Authors: Yan Kun , Ma Shuqi , Zhu Qiliang , Tian Huimei , Wang Yanping
Published: January 2025

How different stress responses by male and female plants are influenced by interactions with rhizosphere microbes remains unclear. In this study, we employed poplar as a dioecious model plant and quantified biotic associations between microorganisms to explore the relationship between microbial associations and plant adaptation. We propose a health index (HI) to comprehensively characterize the physiological characteristics and adaptive capacity of plants under stress. It was found that male poplars demonstrated higher salt stress tolerance than females, and root‐secreted citric acid was significantly higher in the rhizospheres of male poplars. Positive biotic association among bacteria increased poplar HI significantly under salt stress, while fungal and cross‐domain biotic association (bacteria–fungi) did not. We further identified a keystone bacterial taxon regulating bacterial biotic association, ASV_22706, which was itself regulated by citric acid and significantly positively correlated with host HI. The abundance of keystone fungal taxa was positively correlated with HI of male poplars and negatively correlated with HI of female poplars. Compared with female poplars, male poplars enriched more prebiotics and probiotics under stress. This work primarily reveals the relationship between adaptation differences and microbial interactions in dioecious plants, which suggests a microbial approach to improve plant adaptability to stress conditions.
Embedding Specialised Educators in Modalities for Continuing Medical Education. A Study of Effectiveness, and Health Care Practitioner and Educator Preferences
Authors: Fehlberg Zoe , Long Janet C. , Kanga‐Parabia Anaita , Archibald Alison D. , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Best Stephanie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

As the delivery of continuing medical education moves towards digital modes, determining how to embed and capitalise on the skills of specialised educators in digital modalities is critical. Drawing on social theories of adult learning and behaviour change, this study trialled multiple delivery modes of education about reproductive genetic ‘carrier screening’ with varying levels of specialised educator (genetic counsellors) input to examine clinical effectiveness, and health care practitioners and educator preferences.

Methods

A subset of health care practitioners (n = 209) interested in offering carrier screening through a large study were randomly allocated to receive education via face‐to‐face, a pre‐recorded video or an online module, with active or passive educator input. The modes were evaluated using four levels of behaviour‐linked outcomes.

Findings

The results of our study show that although face‐to‐face and a video modality with active educator input had the highest completion rates and impact on clinical practice, there was little difference across modes on self‐reported behaviour change outcomes. The educators observed that there was no one‐size‐fits‐all approach to education delivery and reported benefits and drawbacks to each. Going forward, 56% of health care practitioners considered an online mode of education delivery, such as videos, written material or both, to be viable approaches with options for ongoing educator support.

Conclusion

Embedding highly specialised educators with ongoing support and incorporating aspects of social learning within functional digital platforms should be considered in the development of continuing medical education, especially for health care practitioners who may work in smaller and isolated clinics.
Epidemiological models to estimate the burden of snakebite envenoming: A systematic review
Authors: Gololo Ahmed Adamu , Veettil Sajesh K. , Anantachoti Puree , Taychakhoonavudh Suthira , Patikorn Chanthawat
Published: January 2025

Background

Epidemiological modelling studies in snakebite envenoming research are evolving. Their techniques can be essential in filling the knowledge gap needed to attain the World Health Organization's (WHO) goal of halving the burden of snakebite envenoming by complementing the current data scarcity. Hence, there is a need for a systematic review to summarise epidemiological models used in estimating the burden of snakebite envenoming.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus to identify articles reporting epidemiological models in snakebite envenoming from database inception to 31st December 2023. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarise types of models, methodologies, input parameters, model outputs, and associating factors.

Results

Thirty‐nine modelling studies were included from 2426 retrieved articles, comprising statistical models (76.9%) and mathematical models (23.1%). Most of the studies were conducted in South Asia, (35.9%) and Latin America (35.9%), and only a few (5.1%) were a global burden estimation. The eligible studies constructed 42 epidemiological models, of which 33 were statistical models that included regression, (60.6%) geostatistical (21.2%), and time series, (18.2%) while 9 mathematical models comprised compartmental, (44.4%) agent‐based, (22.2%) transmission dynamics, (11.1%) network, (11.1%) and a simple mathematical model (11.1%). The outputs of the models varied across the study objectives. Statistical models analysed the relationship between incidence, (83.3%) mortality, (33.3%) morbidity (16.7%) and prevalence (10.0%) and their associating factors (environmental, [80%] socio‐demographic [33.3%] and therapeutic [10.0%]). Mathematical models estimated incidence, (100%) mortality (33.3%), and morbidity (22.2%). Five mathematical modelling studies considered associating factors, including environmental (60%) and socio‐demographic factors (40%).

Conclusion

Mathematical and statistical models are crucial for estimating the burden of snakebite envenoming, offering insights into risk prediction and resource allocation. Current challenges include low‐quality data and methodological heterogeneity. Modelling studies are needed, and their continued improvement is vital for meeting WHO goals. Future research should emphasise standardised methodologies, high‐quality community data, and stakeholder engagement to create accurate, applicable models for prevention and resource optimization in high‐burden regions, including Africa and Asia.
Study of Evolving Young Wind Waves Under Steady Wind Forcing
Authors: Soman Sachu S. , Singh Santosh Kumar
Published: January 2025

In this work, a comprehensive experiment is conducted to investigate the spatio-temporal variability of young wind waves under steady wind forcing. The experimental setup included a wave tank equipped with a wind blower capable of generating a wide range of wind velocities. Wave elevation was measured at various airflow rates and fetches using a capacitance-type wave gauge. The spatial growth rates of young waves at different frequencies were assessed by analyzing wave gauge records taken at multiple fetches. In every case of wind blowing, the growing wave field exhibited strong nonhomogeneity, with an increase in wave energy along the wave channel accompanied by a decrease in frequency. Notably, the findings from the experiments reveal that young wind waves lose their temporal coherence within three local dominant wave periods, regardless of wind velocity and fetch. The limited temporal and spatial coherence of gravity-capillary and short wind waves has significant implications for radar remote sensing of the ocean surface.
Proposed Surface Topography for Frosting Inhibition and Ease Ice Removal
Authors: Thi Minh-Thuy Nguyen , Nguyen T.-B.
Published: January 2025

In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation on the role of surface topography in the anti-icing process in terms of water-ice transition prevention and bond strength deterioration. The uniform microstructures were evaluated based on the unit cell definition to document the different contact ratios while maintaining the same wettability. The survey results revealed a large difference in bond strength among the same wettability samples when it is interestingly proportional to the area fraction, confirming the importance of textured structures in ice removal performance. In addition, a thermal conduction approach was proposed to qualitatively determine the phase transition time of water volume forming on the functional surface. The real-time investigation results agreed well with the theoretical calculation, emphasizing the importance of considering surface parameters and suggesting rational designs for ice-phobic surfaces.
Transactions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Volume 1, First Annual Meeting
Authors:   ASME
Published: January 2025

We are pleased to provide this commemorative reproduction of the first annual ASME Transactions from 1880, in honor of the completion of our online journal archive for the ASME Digital Collection
Modeling of water outgassing from polymers incorporating surface adsorption and desorption
Authors: Wang Wenbing , Bi Hailin , Cui Yuhao , Zhang Junru , Wang Xudi
Published: January 2025

Polymer materials are frequently used in vacuum systems despite their relatively high outgassing rates, with water being the primary component of this outgassing. In this paper, we propose a novel modeling method for predicting water outgassing from polymers. This model incorporates both the adsorption and desorption dynamics of water molecules on the material’s surface, offering a more comprehensive understanding of outgassing behavior. Experimental measurements were conducted by throughput method on two polymer materials commonly used in satellite systems to validate the proposed model, specifically carbon fiber-polymeric composite materials and polyimide cable materials. A temperature-variable simulation was also conducted to verify the applicability of the model. The results demonstrate the accuracy and applicability of the method, providing guidance for optimizing material selection and vacuum system performance in different applications.
A modified adaptive Kalman filter algorithm for the distributed underwater multi-target passive tracking system
Authors: Ma Xuefei , Ma Jiaxin , Ma Zexu , Khan Rahim , Wu Hengliang , Wang Tingting , Shen Zhongwei
Published: January 2025

A modified adaptive Kalman filter (AKF) algorithm is proposed to make underwater multi-target tracking with uncertain measurement noise reliable. By utilizing the proposed AKF algorithm with three core points, including an adaptive fading factor, measurement noise covariance adjustment, and an adaptive weighting factor, the unknown measurement noise and state vector can be estimated with good accuracy and robustness. The practical trial data verify this algorithm, and it has proven superior to all traditional algorithms in this Letter based on the results that it reduces the estimated position RMSEs by at least 10.29% while estimated velocity RMSEs by at least 52.57%.
Microscale Audits of the Built Environment and the Challenges for Pedestrians in 4 Residential Areas in Oman
Authors: De Siqueira Gustavo , Mabry Ruth , Al Siyabi Huda , Al Siyabi Amal , Al Ofi Iman
Published: January 2025

Background: Ensuring a livable and healthy built environment that addresses challenges of climate change and the pandemic of noncommunicable diseases should include creating an environment support of physical activity. This study aims to build local evidence on improving the residential areas by assessing the built environment of 4 residential areas in Oman. Methods: This study uses the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-Mini, a 15-item tool with 4 subscales (destinations and land use, aesthetics, pedestrian infrastructure, and crossings/traffic safety), to conduct environmental audits of 4 areas in Barka and Nizwa, Oman. In each neighborhood, two 1-km long routes that crossed the diameter of the area, and passed by, or led to one or more group of amenities were selected. Each route was scored independently by 2 raters and showed good interrater agreement. Results: The overall score was poor walkability across the 4 neighborhoods (mean = 0.18; range: 0.14 and 0.20) where scores >0.80 are considered excellent for walkability. Aesthetics was the only subscale with a good quality score (0.64) compared with the others (pedestrian infrastructure: 0.19, crossings/traffic safety: 0.06, and destination and land use: 0.06). Conclusions: This study demonstrated the utility of the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-Mini tool for cities of the Gulf Cooperation Council. The low scores point to the urgent need to identify cost-effective adaptations of the built environment that could substantially increase physical activity outcomes of the population. Further regionally relevant research can help identify specific design elements needed for more walker friendly neighborhoods.
Sulfenylnitrene-mediated nitrogen-atom insertion for late-stage skeletal editing of
N
-heterocycles
Authors: Ghosh Bidhan , Kafle Prakash , Mukherjee Rishav , Welles Randall , Herndon Deacon , Nicholas Kenneth M. , Shao Yihan , Sharma Indrajeet
Published: January 2025

Given the prevalence of nitrogen-containing heterocycles in commercial drugs, selectively incorporating a single nitrogen atom is a promising scaffold hopping approach to enhance chemical diversity in drug discovery libraries. We harness the distinct reactivity of sulfenylnitrenes, which insert a single nitrogen atom to transform readily available pyrroles, indoles, and imidazoles into synthetically challenging pyrimidines, quinazolines, and triazines, respectively. Our additive-free method for skeletal editing employs easily accessible, benchtop-stable sulfenylnitrene precursors over a broad temperature range (−30 to 150°C). This approach is compatible with diverse functional groups, including oxidation-sensitive functionalities such as phenols and thioethers, and has been applied to various natural products, amino acids, and pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, we have conducted mechanistic studies and explored regioselectivity outcomes through density functional theory calculations.
Solar geoengineering research faces geopolitical deadlock
Authors: McLaren Duncan , Corry Olaf
Published: January 2025

The permissive “science first” approach has failed, but a nondeployment deal might yet enable responsible research
Sensation is dispensable for the maturation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex
Authors: Leary Paige , Bellegarda Celine , Quainoo Cheryl , Goldblatt Dena , Rosti Başak , Schoppik David
Published: January 2025

Vertebrates stabilize gaze using a neural circuit that transforms sensed instability into compensatory counterrotation of the eyes. Sensory feedback tunes this vestibulo-ocular reflex throughout life. We studied the functional development of vestibulo-ocular reflex circuit components in the larval zebrafish, with and without sensation. Blind fish stabilize gaze normally, and neural responses to body tilts mature before behavior. In contrast, synapses between motor neurons and the eye muscles mature with a time course similar to behavioral maturation. Larvae without vestibular sensory experience, but with mature neuromuscular junctions, had a strong vestibulo-ocular reflex. Development of the neuromuscular junction, and not sensory experience, therefore determines the rate of maturation of an ancient behavior.
Bat tracking across Europe
Authors: McGuire Liam P.
Published: January 2025

New technology answers questions about the seasonal migration of bats
Trump names AI-focused team as leaders of his science office
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

Michael Kratsios and Lynne Parker, veterans of Trump’s first term, come with technology backgrounds
Historic U.K. medical research units under threat
Authors: O’Grady Cathleen
Published: January 2025

New focus on “challenge-led” funding may see decades-old institutes close, scientists warn
Supplemental Material: Re-evaluating the tectonic affinity of Proterozoic crustal provinces in the Southwest USA: Detrital zircon evidence for a Laurentian source for the Yavapai and Mojave Provinces
Authors: Hillenbrand Ian W. , al. et
Published: January 2025

Detailed sample documentation, zircon U-Pb geochronology, and compiled source data for multi-dimensional scaling analysis.
Diagnostic accuracy of prehospital ultrasound in detecting lung injury in patients with trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sen James Paul Benjamin , Emerson Jonathan , Franklin John
Published: January 2025

Background

Ultrasound is now readily available in the prehospital setting and its use has been highlighted as one of the top research priorities in prehospital care. Clinical examination remains the standard care for diagnosing lung injury in the prehospital setting, yet this can be challenging and has poor diagnostic accuracy. This review evaluates the accuracy of prehospital ultrasound for the diagnoses of pneumothorax, haemothorax and pulmonary contusions in patients with trauma.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched. Only papers reporting on the diagnostic accuracy of lung ultrasound for traumatic pneumothorax, haemothorax or pulmonary contusions; in a prehospital or helicopter emergency medical service setting; and with CT or operative findings as a reference standard, were included. Non-English studies or articles that reported on animal studies were excluded. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.

Results

Six observational studies, four with low risk of bias and two with some concerns, reporting on 1908 thoracic ultrasound examinations in patients with trauma, were included. For pneumothorax, meta-analysis yielded pooled sensitivity of 29% (95% CI 22% to 37%, I2=0%) and pooled specificity of 98% (95% CI 97% to 99%, I2=0%). Insufficient data were reported for a reliable meta-analysis on the presence of haemothorax. Only one study reported on the presence of pulmonary contusions and therefore no analysis was conducted.

Conclusion

Prehospital ultrasound is highly specific but has a lower sensitivity for the presence of pneumothorax when compared with hospital studies. Further research is required, alongside education and training of prehospital providers, to further explore the factors that account for the differences observed in this review.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023365034.
Aspirin is associated with lower risk of pancreatic cancer and cancer-related mortality in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tan Jing Tong , Mao Xianhua , Cheng Ho-Ming , Seto Wai-Kay , Leung Wai-K , Cheung Ka-Shing
Published: January 2025

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have higher pancreatic cancer (PC) risk. While aspirin has chemopreventive effects on digestive cancers, its effect on PC among patients with T2DM is unclear.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study identified newly diagnosed adult patients with T2DM in Hong Kong between 2001 and 2015 from a territory-wide healthcare registry. Exclusion criteria were history of PC, pancreatic cyst, IgG4 disease, or pancreatectomy. To address reverse causality between PC and T2DM, we excluded patients with PC diagnosed within 1 year of T2DM. We also excluded patients with less than 1 year of observation. Primary outcome was PC, and secondary outcomes were PC-related and all-cause mortality. Aspirin use was treated as time-varying variable (≥180 day-use/year) to address immortal-time bias, and multivariable Cox regression model was employed to derive adjusted HR (aHR). Propensity-score (PS) matching was used as secondary analysis.

Results

Among 343 966 newly diagnosed patients with T2DM (median follow-up: 10.5 years; IQR: 7.7–14.5 years), 1224 (0.36%) developed PC. There were 51 151 (14.9%) deaths from any cause, and 787 (0.2%) died from PC. Aspirin use was associated with lower PC risk in both time-dependent (aHR: 0.58; 95% CI 0.49 to 0.69) and PS matching analysis (aHR: 0.61; 95% CI 0.48 to 0.77). An inverse relationship was observed with increasing dose and duration of aspirin use (Ptrend<0.001). Aspirin was also associated with a lower risk of PC-related mortality (aHR: 0.43; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.53) and all-cause mortality (aHR: 0.78; 95% CI 0.76 to 0.80).

Conclusion

Aspirin use may be an oncopreventive strategy to reduce PC risk in patients with T2DM. Further studies are warranted to validate the study findings.
Prevalence of indications of alcohol and drug use among patients treated for injurious falls by Emergency Medical Services in the USA
Authors: Itzkowitz Nicole G , Burford Kathryn G , Crowe Remle P , Wang Henry E , Lo Alexander X , Rundle Andrew G
Published: January 2025

Objective

The association between alcohol consumption and increased injuries from falls is well established, but there is a lack of data on the prevalence of substance use by fall type. This study aims to describe the distribution of alcohol and drug involvement in injurious falls.

Methods

Using the 2019 National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Information System data set, we identified 1 854 909 patients injured from falls requiring an EMS response and determined the fall location (eg, indoors or on street/sidewalk). We analysed data on the EMS clinician’s notation of alcohol or drug involvement and Glasgow Coma Scale.

Results

Overall, for 7.4% of injurious falls, there was a notation of substance use: 6.5% for alcohol alone, 0.6% for drugs and 0.3% for alcohol and drugs. 21.2% of falls that occurred on a street or sidewalk had a notation of substance use. Substance use prevalence was highest, at 30.3%, in the age group 21–64 years, for falls occurring on streets and sidewalks, without syncope or heat illness as contributing factors. Reported substance use involvement was more frequent for men compared with women for each location type. Glasgow Coma Scale scores indicative of moderate or severe trauma were more prevalent among falls involving alcohol and/or drugs.

Conclusions

Overall, one in five injurious falls on streets and sidewalks and requiring EMS attention involved substance use, and these numbers likely underestimate the true burden. As cities seek to expand nightlife districts, design strategies to protect pedestrians from falls should be enacted.
Sexual dimorphism inSMAD3pathogenic variant-harbouring individuals
Authors: Richer Julie , Velchev Joe Davis , Goobie Sharan , Boswell-Patterson Christie A , van de Laar Ingrid M B H , Verhagen Judith M A , Wessels Marja W , Roos-Hesselink Jolien W , Luyckx Ilse , Al-Amodi Hussein , Chu Michael W A , Laberge Anne-Marie , Sadikovic Bekim , Balci Tugce , Verstraeten Aline , Loeys Bart
Published: January 2025

Background

Individuals harbouringSMAD3pathogenic variants are at risk for aneurysms/dissections throughout the arterial tree. Based on prior reports of sex differences in thoracic aortic aneurysm/dissection, we investigated the sexual dimorphism for vascular events inSMAD3-variant-harbouring patients.

Methods

We analysed two large pedigrees comprising 84 individuals segregating pathogenic missense variants affecting the same p.Arg287 residue inSMAD3. We excluded individuals<40 years without vascular involvement, as they were too young to be classified. Individuals were subcategorised according to sex, the presence or absence and localisation (aneurysm/dissection with or without involvement of the aortic root/ascending aorta) of vascular lesions. We complemented our familial patient cohort with 178SMAD3patients reported in the literature between 2011 and 2023.

Results

In our two pedigrees, 11/30 (37%) variant-harbouring females had no vascular involvement, whereas none of the variant-harboring males (n=23) had no vascular involvement (p=0.001). While the two groups did not differ by age, males were at higher risk of vascular complications (p=0.037), there was no age difference between sexes. Of the 19 females with vascular involvement, six (32%) had vascular involvment sparing the aortic root/ascending aorta, whereas of the 23 males with vascular invovlement, only one (4%) had vascular involvement sparing the aortic root/ascending aorta (p=0.034). In the literature, we identified 116 male and 62 female additional patients. In the combined cohort of 220 patients, we demonstrated an over-representation of males (p<0.001) and non-penetrance in females for vascular pathology involving the aortic root/ascending aorta (p=0.028).

Conclusions

Non-penetrance is more common in women, and normal echocardiography in at-risk females is not as reassuring for risk of vasculopathy in other locations. The higher non-penetrance in women creates an ascertainment bias and results in an over-representation of male patients in the literature.
Quasi-Periodic Orbits of a Difference Equation with Varied Coefficients
Authors: Ren Xiufang , Zhang Yuhang , Zhao Shiji
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we study the stability of the equilibrium point and investigate the periodicity properties of a class of difference equations [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] whose parameters and initial values are positive. In particular, [Formula: see text] is a two-periodic coefficient with respect to n. Moreover, we depict the phase transition of orbits and analyze the deviation of the quasi-periodic orbits from some periodic orbits related to the arithmetic property of [Formula: see text], including Diophantine and Liouvillean numbers. We associate the response solution problem of differential equations with the fixed point problem of the area-preserving mapping related to multiperiodic difference equations, and pose some future work. The techniques are based on Moser’s twist mapping theorem, reversibility and some invariant structures embedded in the system.
Improving an Image Encryption Scheme Based on Chaotic Signals with Finite-Precision Error
Authors: Zhang Chengrui , Chen Dongming , Wang Dongqi
Published: January 2025

Recently, an image encryption scheme with new chaotic signals has been proposed. Some limitations of this scheme will be pointed out. It adopts a “diffusion–permutation” architecture. The diffusion encryption is linear and can be simplified. Bit-level permutation significantly decreases the encryption efficiency. To solve the above problems, an improved scheme is proposed. The new scheme employs a Feistel-like network with four rounds of encryption. The dynamic substitution box (S-box) generated by Fisher–Yates permutation increases the nonlinearity of encryption. The optimized diffusion process is applied to obtain the avalanche effect. The experimental results show that the improved scheme performs well. In addition, the resistance against various attacks is analyzed from the perspective of a cryptanalyst.
Codimension-1 and Codimension-2 Bifurcations Analysis of Discrete Predator–Prey Model with Herd Behavior
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Chunrui
Published: January 2025

The herd behavior of prey plays an important role in the predator–prey system. In this paper, we analyze the dynamical properties of a discrete predator–prey model with herd behavior. We found that due to the introduction of herd effects, this model exhibits complex dynamical behavior such as codimension-1 bifurcation (Flip and Neimark–Sacker bifurcations) and codimension-2 bifurcation (1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 strong resonance). Using the center manifold theorem and normal form theory, we obtained the critical conditions that may lead to changes in the stability of the system and even the emergence of new stable states or oscillating behaviors. Numerical simulations not only validate theoretical proofs but also reveal the complex and rich dynamical behavior of the discrete model.