bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The range of outcomes and outcome measurement instruments collected in multisectoral community‐based obesity prevention interventions in children: A systematic review
Authors: Sultana Marufa , Nichols Melanie , Jacobs Jane , Karacabeyli Derin , Allender Steven , Novotny Rachel , Brown Vicki
Published: March 2024

Multicomponent and multisectoral community‐based interventions (CBIs) have proven potential in preventing overweight and obesity in children. Synthesizing evidence on the outcomes collected and reported in such CBIs is critical for the evidence of effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness. This systematic review aimed to identify the range of outcomes and outcome measurement instruments collected and reported in multisectoral and multicomponent CBIs for obesity prevention in children. A systematic search updated an existing review and extended the search to 11 academic databases (2017–2023) and gray literature. Outcomes were classified into outcome domains, and common measurement instruments were summarized. Seventeen outcome domains from 140 unique outcomes were identified from 45 included interventions reported in 120 studies. The most frequently collected outcome domains included anthropometry and body composition (91% of included interventions), physical activity (84%), dietary intake (71%), environmental (71%), and sedentary behavior (62%). The most frequently collected outcomes from each of these domains included body mass index (89%), physical activity (73%), fruit and vegetable intake (58%), school environment (42%), and screen time (58%). Outcome measurement instruments varied, particularly for behavioral outcomes. Standardization of reported outcomes and measurement instruments is recommended to facilitate data harmonization and support quantifying broader benefits of CBIs for obesity prevention.
mTor‐inhibition within the first days after pediatric heart transplantation is a potentially safe option to prevent cardiac allograft vasculopathy
Authors: Kreienbaum Hannah , Stiller Brigitte , Kubicki Rouven , Bobrowski Alexej , Kroll Johannes , Fleck Thilo
Published: March 2024

Background

Immunosuppression after heart transplantation (HTX) with mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors serves as a prophylaxis against rejection and to treat coronary vascular injury. However, there is little data on the early, preventive use of everolimus after pediatric HTX.

Methods

Retrospective study of 61 pediatric HTX patients (48 cardiomyopathy and 13 congenital heart disease), 28 females, median age 10.1 (range 0.1–17.9) years transplanted between 2008 and 2020. We analyzed survival, rejection, renal function, occurrence of lymphoproliferative disorder, and allograft vasculopathy together with adverse effects of early everolimus therapy combined with low‐dose calcineurin inhibitors.

Results

Everolimus therapy was started at a median 3.9 (1–14) days after HTX. Median follow‐up was 4.3 (range 0.5–11.8) years, cumulative 184 patient years. The estimated 1‐ and 5‐year survival probability was 89% (CI 82%:98%) and 87% (CI 78%:97%). Four patients developed rejection (6.6%) (maximum 2R ISHLT criteria). No patient suffered from chronic renal failure. Three patients (4.9%) developed post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. Five patients suffered relevant wound‐healing disorders after transplantation, four of them carrying relevant risk factors before HTX (mechanical circulatory support (n = 3), delayed chest closure after HTX (n = 3)). No recipient developed cardiac allograft vasculopathy.

Conclusion

Initiating everolimus within the first 14 days after HTX seems to be well tolerated, enabling a low incidence of rejection, post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders, renal failure, and reveals no evidence of cardiac allograft vasculopathy as well as good overall survival in pediatric heart transplant recipients.
Good outcomes after repeated pediatric liver retransplantations: A justified procedure even in times of organ shortage
Authors: Junger Henrik , Knoppke Birgit , Schurr Leonhard , Brennfleck Frank W. , Grothues Dirk , Melter Michael , Geissler Edward K. , Schlitt Hans J. , Brunner Stefan M. , Goetz Markus
Published: March 2024

Background

Pediatric liver transplantations generally represent advanced surgery for selected patients. In case of acute or chronic graft failure, biliary or vessel complications, a retransplantation (reLT) can be necessary. In these situations massive adhesions, critical patient condition or lack of good vessels for anastomosis often are problematic.

Methods

Between 2008 and 2021, 208 pediatric patients received a liver transplantation at our center. Retrospectively, all cases with at least one retransplantation were identified and stored in a database. Indication, intra‐ and postoperative course and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

Results

Altogether 31 patients (14.9%) received a reLT. In 22 cases only one reLT was done, 8 patients received 2 reLTs and 1 patient needed a fourth graft. Median age for primary transplantation, first, second and third reLT was 14 (range: 1–192 months), 60.5 (range: 1–215 months), 58.5 (range: 14–131 months) and 67 months, respectively. Although biliary atresia (42%) and acute liver failure (23%) represented the main indications for the primary liver transplantation, acute and chronic graft failure (1st reLT: 36%, 2nd reLT: 38%), hepatic artery thrombosis (1st reLT: 29%, 2nd reLT: 25%, 3rd reLT: 100%) and biliary complications (1st reLT: 26%, 2nd reLT: 37%) were the most frequent indications for reLT. OS was 81.8% for patients with 1 reLT, 87.5% with 2 reLTs and 100% with 3 reLTs.

Conclusion

Pediatric liver retransplantation is possible with a good outcome even after multiple retransplantations in specialized centers. Nevertheless, careful patient and graft selection, as well as good preoperative conditioning, are essential.
Applications of motivational interviewing in adolescent solid organ transplant
Authors: Gettings Julie M. , Lefkowitz Debra S.
Published: March 2024

Background

Adolescence is a developmental period that is known for the highest risk of difficulties with adoption and maintenance of health behaviors for successful transplant. Motivational interviewing (MI) has been demonstrated to be an effective strategy in the management of modifiable factors impacting adherence in both adult transplant and analogous pediatric chronic illness populations.

Aims

This paper describes MI and its applicability to adolescent transplant, providing examples of its potential use at each stage of the transplant journey.

Materials and Methods

Literature on the principles and utilization of MI are reviewed, as well as the use of MI in adult transplant and similar pediatric populations.

Results

Evidence suggests high applicability of concepts of MI to pediatric transplant.

Discussion

Systems‐level factors influencing health behavior change are discussed, along with the importance of recognizing and managing provider bias in MI‐based interactions. MI does not require a licensed behavioral health provider to use it effectively; rather, it can be used by various multidisciplinary team members throughout the course of clinical care.

Conclusion

MI shows great promise as a useful intervention through all stages in the transplant journey. Though particularly well‐suited to adolescents, its principles are effective across the lifespan, including with caregivers. It represents an interactional style for use by multidisciplinary team members in many patient‐and caregiver‐facing scenarios. As the goal is to support the patient's autonomy in decision‐making, it is important for providers to recognize their own biases. Further resources for training are provided.
Biodegradable biliary stents placement using a “kissing‐stent” technique for management of a recalcitrant stricture post‐live donor liver transplant
Authors: Malik Aleena , Ng Vicky L. , Sayed Blayne A. , Siddiqui Asad , Parra Dimitri A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Biliary complications are common in pediatric liver transplant. Strictures resistant to interventional radiology procedures can be extremely challenging to manage and may result in the need of surgery or retransplantation.

Methods

This case report illustrates the use of biodegradable stents post left lateral segment live donor liver transplant in a pediatric patient with a recalcitrant chronic stricture of the biliary‐enteric anastomosis. The patient developed a high stricture requiring multiple interventions and eventual access of both the segment II and segment III ducts of the graft.

Results

To ensure adequate biliary drainage, two biodegradable stents were deployed using a “kissing‐stent” technique. The stents were successfully deployed and allowed the patient to remain free from an internal–external biliary drain for 11 months, with eventual redeployment of an additional biodegradable stent.

Conclusion

In patients with recalcitrant stenosis of the biliary anastomosis, biodegradable stents may provide durable drainage, optimizing graft function and delaying retransplantation in addition to keeping patients without external devices, thus improving quality of life.
Antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) in pediatric lung transplantation—Current state and future directions
Authors: Benden Christian , Wikenheiser‐Brokamp Kathryn A.
Published: March 2024

Lung transplantation is considered as the ultimate therapy for children with advanced pulmonary disease. International data show a median conditional 1‐year post‐transplantation survival of 9.1 years. Recently, antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) has increasingly been recognized as an important cause of allograft dysfunction although pediatric reports are still scarce. Donor‐specific anti‐human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies (DSA) are known to play a role in AMR development post‐transplant but AMR pathogenesis is still poorly understood. Central to the concept of pulmonary AMR is immune activation with the production of allo‐specific B‐cells and plasma cells directed against donor lung antigens. The frequency of pulmonary AMR in children is currently unknown. Due to the lack of AMR data in children, the diagnostic approach for pediatric pulmonary AMR is solely based on adult literature. This personal viewpoint article evaluates the rational for the creation of age‐based thresholds for different diagnostic categories of pulmonary AMR and data on the management of pulmonary AMR in children. To the authors' knowledge, there have been no randomized controlled trials comparing different management regimes in pulmonary AMR, and thus, management and treatment algorithms for pulmonary AMR in children are only extrapolated from adults. To advance the knowledge of AMR in children, the authors propose that children be included in collaborative, multi‐center trials. It is vital that future decisions on internationally agreed upon guidelines for pulmonary AMR take its impact on children into consideration. Research is needed to fill the current knowledge gaps in the field of pulmonary AMR in children focused on optimizing outcomes.
The acid sphingomyelinase inhibitor imipramine enhances the release of UV photoproduct‐containing DNA in small extracellular vesicles in UVB‐irradiated human skin
Authors: Carpenter M. Alexandra , Thyagarajan Anita , Owens Madison , Annamraju Risha , Borchers Christina B. , Travers Jeffrey B. , Kemp Michael G.
Published: March 2024

Nucleic acids, lipids, and other cell components can be found within different types of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which include apoptotic bodies (ABs), large extracellular vesicles (LEVs), and small extracellular vesicles (SEVs). Release of LEVs from cells can be reduced by genetic or pharmacological inhibition of the enzyme acid sphinogomyelinase (aSMase), and indeed several studies have demonstrated a role for the clinically approved aSMase inhibitor imipramine in blocking LEV release, including in response to UVB exposure. Given that exposure of keratinocytes to UVB radiation results in the generation of UVR photoproducts in DNA that can subsequently be found in association with ABs and SEVs, we examined how imipramine impacts the release of extracellular DNA containing UVR photoproducts at an early time point after UVR exposure. Using several different model systems, including cultured keratinocytes in vitro, discarded human surgical skin ex vivo, and skin biopsies obtained from treated human subjects, these pilot studies suggest that imipramine treatment stimulates the release of CPD‐containing, SEV‐associated DNA. These surprising findings indicate that LEV and SEV generation pathways could be linked in UVB‐irradiated cells and that imipramine may exacerbate the systemic effects of extracellular UVR‐damaged DNA throughout the body.
An investigation into the potential for upward range expansion in high‐montane species on the roof of the world
Authors: White F. J. , Mondoni A. , Corli A. , Shrestha B. B. , Rossi G. , Orsenigo S.
Published: March 2024

Climate warming is occurring in high‐mountain areas at a faster rate than the global average. To escape the increasing temperatures, alpine species may shift in distribution upwards, threatening cold‐adapted nival plant specialists. However, little is known about the success of seedling emergence and establishment at high altitudes outside the current range, particularly in the highest mountain areas of the Himalayas.

We selected four native alpine species occurring around 4000 m a.s.l. and sowed seeds at the natural growing site (GS), at a high elevation site (HS; 5000 m a.s.l.) and at high elevation with soil from the growing site (HS‐S) in the Khumbu Valley, north‐eastern Nepal. We monitored seedling emergence and establishment for two consecutive years.

Seedling emergence and establishment varied between species. Emergence was similar between GS and HS and improved at HS‐S. Establishment was low at high elevations with all but one species having high mortality after winter. Seedling emergence of low elevation plants is possible at high elevations in the Everest region, indicating species may be able to shift their distribution range upwards. However, successful establishment may be limited by the soil and high winter mortality at high elevations, although not in all species.

Climate warming will potentially lead to upward migration of some Himalayan plant species, leading to altered community composition in high‐mountain areas.
Rubisco and sucrose synthesis and translocation are involved in the regulation of photosynthesis in wheat with different source‐sink relationships
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Sun Jiawei , Lu Yanhua , Yang Shuke , Zhang Yafang , Chai Huimin , Jiang Dong , Dai Tingbo , Tian Zhongwei
Published: March 2024

Source‐sink relationships influence photosynthesis. So far, the limiting factors for photosynthesis of wheat cultivars with different source‐sink relationships have not been determined. We aimed to determine the variation patterns of photosynthetic characteristics of wheat cultivars with different source‐sink relationships. In this study, two wheat cultivars with different source‐sink relationships were selected for photosynthetic physiological analyses. The results showed that YM25 (source‐limited cultivar) had higher photosynthetic efficiency compared to YM1 (sink‐limited cultivar). This is mainly due to a stronger photochemical efficiency, electron transfer capacity, and Rubisco carboxylation capacity of YM25. YM25 accumulated less soluble carbohydrates in flag leaves than YM1. This is mainly due to the stronger sucrose synthesis and transport capacity of YM25 by presenting higher sucrose‐related enzyme activities and gene expression. A PCA analysis showed that Rubisco was the main factor limiting the photosynthetic capacity of YM25. The soluble sugar accumulation in flag leaves and sink limitation decreased the photosynthetic activity of YM1. Increased N application improved source‐sink relationships and increased grain yield and source leaf photosynthetic capacity in both two wheat cultivars. Taken together, our findings suggest that Rubisco and sucrose synthesis and translocation are involved in the regulation of photosynthesis of wheat cultivars with different source‐sink relationships and that source and sink limitation effects should be considered in photosynthesis.
Combined high light and salt stress enhances accumulation of PsbS and zeaxanthin in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Hemker Fritz , Zielasek Fabian , Jahns Peter
Published: March 2024

The performance and acclimation strategies of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii under stress conditions are typically studied in response to single stress factors. Under natural conditions, however, organisms rarely face only one stressor at a time. Here, we investigated the impact of combined salt and high light stress on the photoprotective response of C. reinhardtii. Compared to the single stress factors, the combination of both stressors decreased the photosynthetic performance, while the activation of energy dissipation remained unaffected. However, the PsbS protein was strongly accumulated and the conversion of violaxanthin to zeaxanthin was enhanced. These results support an important photoprotective function of PsbS and zeaxanthin independently of energy dissipation under combined salt and high light stress in C. reinhardtii.
Political animality
Authors: Toivanen Juhana
Published: March 2024

This essay contributes to contemporary discussions concerning so‐called animal politics by drawing from the history of the notion of political animal. Two different historical meanings of the notion are identified: (1) normative political animality that is intrinsically linked with rationality, language, and justice; (2) biological political animality that focuses on collaboration for the sake of a common aim. The former is applicable only to human beings, while the latter can also be used in relation to other animals. After briefly discussing the Aristotelian background of the notion, the essay argues that in medieval Aristotelian tradition, the normative meaning prevailed and the biological one was set aside. However, it is precisely the biological notion that appears useful today. The essay suggests several ways in which it might benefit contemporary theoretical discussions concerning animals, thus laying ground for further developments in animal politics.
Psychological mechanisms of the development of suicidal ideation: Longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Shou Yiyun , Gulliver Amelia , Farrer Louise M. , Dawel Amy , Burns Richard , Calear Alison L. , Cherbuin Nicolas , Batterham Philip J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of the development of suicidal ideation and its moderating and protective factors. Drawing on the Interpersonal‐psychological theory of suicide, we proposed that disruptions to belongingness, in conjunction with tolerance of health risk, may influence the development of suicidal ideation above and beyond psychosocial changes such as disruptions to finances and work.

Methods

The study involved a longitudinal investigation of an Australian representative sample reporting suicidal ideation fortnightly for 12 weeks between March and June 2020.

Results

The results indicated that participants who reported higher levels of belongingness, mastery, and intolerance of health risk were less likely to experience suicidal ideation and had lower severity of suicidal ideation. Mastery significantly strengthened the negative link between belongingness and the incidence of suicidal ideation, while agreeableness significantly strengthened the negative link between belongingness and the severity of suicidal ideation over time.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that supporting effective social connectedness during times of isolation and promoting self‐efficacy, mastery, and regulation of risk tolerance, may be crucial for suicide prevention and therapeutic intervention.
Analyzing and modeling massive transfusion strategies and the role of fibrinogen—How much is the patient actually receiving?
Authors: Keltner Nadia M. , Cushing Melissa M. , Haas Thorsten , Spinella Philip C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in trauma, cardiac surgery, liver transplant, and childbirth. While emphasis on protocolization and ratio of blood product transfusion improves ability to treat hemorrhage rapidly, tools to facilitate understanding of the overall content of a specific transfusion strategy are lacking. Medical modeling can provide insights into where deficits in treatment could arise and key areas for clinical study. By using a transfusion model to gain insight into the aggregate content of massive transfusion protocols (MTPs), clinicians can optimize protocols and create opportunities for future studies of precision transfusion medicine in hemorrhage treatment.

Methods

The transfusion model describes the individual round and aggregate content provided by four rounds of MTP, illustrating that the total content of blood elements and coagulation factor changes over time, independent of the patient's condition. The configurable model calculates the aggregate hematocrit, platelet concentration, percent volume plasma, total grams and concentration of citrate, percent volume anticoagulant and additive solution, and concentration of clotting factors: fibrinogen, factor XIII, factor VIII, and von Willebrand factor, provided by the MTP strategy.

Results

Transfusion strategies based on a 1:1:1 or whole blood foundation provide between 13.7 and 17.2 L of blood products over four rounds. Content of strategies varies widely across all measurements based on base strategy and addition of concentrated sources of fibrinogen and other key clotting factors.

Discussion

Differences observed between modeled transfusion strategies provide key insights into potential opportunities to provide patients with precision transfusion strategy.
Robots in action
Authors: Shahin Taraneh , Ballestar de las Heras María Teresa , Sanz Ismael
Published: March 2024

This empirical study delves into the intricate factors that shape firms' choices regarding the adoption of robots within the Spanish context. Using a dataset encompassing a diverse set of industries, we employ an empirical analysis to uncover the determinants of robot adoption and investigate the associated outcomes on market variables. Our findings reveal several key factors that significantly influence a firm's likelihood of adopting robots. We find that firm profitability, exporter status, the control variables including share of R&D, and capital intensity exhibit strong positive relationships with robot adoption. Conversely, the impact of the level of human capital on adoption decisions is less pronounced. Furthermore, our study explores the impact of robot adoption on firm performance. We observe that firms embracing robotisation experience notable improvements in the output, exporting activities, and reduction in labour cost share. This study incorporates a gradient boosting‐based machine‐learning model, specifically XGBoost, along with instrumental variable regression models, to conduct rigorous robustness analyses and validate the obtained results. These findings contribute to the understanding of the dynamics and implications of robot adoption in the manufacturing sector, explaining the factors that drive firms' decisions and the subsequent market effects.
Crisis averted: Cross‐market reallocation during the great trade collapse
Authors: Oglend Atle , Asche Frank , Straume Hans‐Martin
Published: March 2024

This article investigates cross‐market reallocation of trade to mitigate negative effects of large economic shocks. We propose a simple measure of trade reallocation and apply it to Norwegian exports during the great trade collapse following the financial crisis in 2008–2009. The results indicate statistically significant cross‐market reallocation of trade away from markets hit hard by the crisis as measured by GDP/growth. Norwegian exports declined by 16.9% from 2008 and 2009. Without reallocation, the decline would have been between 1.6 and 3.8 percentage points greater. Successful reallocation at the firm level is done primarily along the intensive margin, by shifting physical products towards less affected markets within their pre‐crisis trade networks.
Latent Crossover for Data-Driven Multifidelity Topology Design
Authors: Kii Taisei , Yaji Kentaro , Fujita Kikuo , Sha Zhenghui , Conner Seepersad Carolyn
Published: March 2024

Topology optimization is one of the most flexible structural optimization methodologies. However, in exchange for its high level of design freedom, typical topology optimization cannot avoid multimodality, where multiple local optima exist. This study focuses on developing a gradient-free topology optimization framework to avoid being trapped in undesirable local optima. Its core is a data-driven multifidelity topology design (MFTD) method, in which the design candidates generated by solving low-fidelity topology optimization problems are updated through a deep generative model and high-fidelity evaluation. As its key component, the deep generative model compresses the original data into a low-dimensional manifold, i.e., the latent space, and randomly arranges new design candidates over the space. Although the original framework is gradient free, its randomness may lead to convergence variability and premature convergence. Inspired by a popular crossover operation of evolutionary algorithms (EAs), this study merges the data-driven MFTD framework and proposes a new crossover operation called latent crossover. We apply the proposed method to a maximum stress minimization problem in 2D structural mechanics. The results demonstrate that the latent crossover improves convergence stability compared to the original data-driven MFTD method. Furthermore, the optimized designs exhibit performance comparable to or better than that in conventional gradient-based topology optimization using the P-norm measure.
Experimental Research on an Embedded Heat Source Vapor Chamber for Aerospace Electronic Cooling
Authors: Ren Lianfeng , Zhang Le , Liang Yifu , Su Yujun , Li Xin , Tang Yong
Published: March 2024

In this work, an embedded heat source vapor chamber (EHS-VC) is proposed for efficient and cost-effective heat dissipation in a limited space of aerospace electronics. The effect of the filling liquid mass and the layers of copper mesh under different working conditions on the heat transfer performance is systematically investigated. EHS-VCs are filled by deionized water with different filling liquid mass of 0.5 g, 0.75 g, 1.0 g, 1.25 g, and 1.5 g. The layer numbers of 250 in−1 copper mesh in EHS-VC are 3, 5, and 7. The results indicate that the optimized EHS-VC with a filling liquid mass of 1.0 g and 5 layers of copper mesh shows superior thermal performance among all tested working conditions. The surface temperature distribution of the optimized EHS-VC remains relatively stable and the surface temperature of the optimized EHS-VC increases linearly with heat load. The optimized EHS-VC can achieve a minimum thermal resistance of 0.19 ℃/W and a maximum critical power of 140 W. Compared with diamond/copper composite plate (D/C CP), EHS-VC shows great potential for efficient and cost-effective heat dissipation in a limited space of aerospace electronics, resulting in a 25% reduction in thermal resistance at the same heat load of 140 W.
An In-Depth Comparison of Straight and Wavy Microchannel Heat Exchangers
Authors: Pandey Vishwas Kumar , Negi Vinay Pratap Singh , Ranganayakulu Chennu
Published: March 2024

This paper presents extensive fluid flow and Heat-Transfer studies conducted using a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) package known as CFD-ACE® to elaborate and expand on the reference studies available for ceramic-compact counterflow microchannel heat exchangers (MCHEs). The computational 3D model was developed using an experimentally tested MCHE and validated with experimental data with 3–5% variation for hot fluid and 6–12% variation for cold fluid for the entire design of experiments (DoEs). This study aimed to identify the performance of novel microchannel shapes using numerical analysis. The MCHE has good heat exchange properties, a compact design at industrial throughput, and a lower inner volume. During the study and identification of novel channel shapes, the segmented wavy MCHE was evaluated. The results were compared with those of the same volume and area straight MCHE baseline design under various identical operating conditions. Although the performance in terms of effectiveness is increased up to ∼12–25% in wavy MCHE with respect to straight MCHE simultaneously, the pressure drop is also increased by ∼60–80% under the same operating conditions. Therefore, performance and trade-offs are required to make the correct decision regarding feasibility. The effectiveness of the heat-transfer enhancement was also evaluated by plotting the heat-transfer coefficient ratio with respect to the pressure ratio of the two designs under identical operating conditions. This numerical study clearly indicates that wavy channels are better from the thermal performance point of view, whereas straight channels are better from the pumping power point of view, and the quantitative values are presented in graphical form.
The Quantification of Physical Performance and Internal Training Load in Youth Male Soccer Players During Preseason
Authors: Martinho Diogo V. , Rebelo André , Field Adam , Ribeiro Alex S. , Pereira Filipa , Bizarro Bruno , Ribeiro João , Len Silvano M. , Gouveia Élvio R. , Sarmento Hugo
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The monitoring of training loads and quantification of physical performance are common practices in youth soccer academies to support coaches in prescribing and programming training for individuals. The interaction between training load and physical performance is unknown during a preseason period in youth soccer players. The current study assessed changes in training load and physical assessments across a 4-week preseason period. The relationship between physical performance and match playing time in youth male soccer players was also investigated. Methods: The training loads of 25 professional youth academy male soccer players were monitored throughout a 4-week preseason period. Assessments of power, agility, speed, and aerobic capacity were undertaken in the first training session. Session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE) and well-being questionnaires were collected during all training sessions and preseason matches. Playing time during subsequent competitive matches was recorded. Results: T test and 30-m-sprint assessments, conducted on the first day of preseason, were predictors of sRPE throughout preseason (t test χ2/df = 2.895, poor adjustment; 30-m sprint χ2/df = 1.608, good adjustment). YoYo Test performance was related with changes in perceived fatigue (χ2/df = 0.534, very good adjustment). Faster players reported higher values of sRPE, and players with higher aerobic capacity reported higher levels of fatigue across preseason. Well-being, perceived fatigue and soreness, and sRPE decreased across preseason. Greater match durations were related to higher levels of fatigue during preseason (P < .05). Conclusion: The current study highlights the relationship between training load, physical assessments, and playing time. Coaches and practitioners can use physical test data at the start of preseason as an indication of players that report higher sRPE, perceived fatigue, and reduced well-being across preseason, supporting decisions around individualized training prescriptions.
At-home testing for respiratory viruses: a minireview of the current landscape
Authors: Smy Laura , Ledeboer Nathan A. , Wood Macy G.
Published: March 2024

The landscape of at-home testing using over-the-counter (OTC) tests has been evolving over the last decade. The United States Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization rule has been in effect since the early 2000s, and it was widely employed during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic to authorize antigen and nucleic acid detection tests for use in central laboratories as well as OTC. During the pandemic, the first at-home tests for respiratory viruses became available for consumer use, which opened the door for additional respiratory virus OTC tests. Concerns may exist regarding the public’s ability to properly collect samples, perform testing, interpret results, and report results to public health authorities. However, favorable comparison studies between OTC testing and centralized laboratory test results suggest that OTC testing may have a place in healthcare, and it is likely here to stay. This mini-review of OTC tests for viral respiratory diseases will briefly cover the regulatory and reimbursement environment, current OTC test availability, as well as the advantages and limitations of OTC tests.
Spatiotemporal distribution of giant magnetofossils holds clues to their biological origin
Authors: Xue Pengfei , Chang Liao
Published: March 2024

Micrometer-size magnetite crystals with peculiar morphologies, such as spearhead, spindle, needle, and giant bullet, known as giant magnetofossils, were previously identified in marine sediments mainly during the Eocene epoch. The origin of these unusual magnetite crystals remains unclear because no known modern analogues have been found, and data about their spatiotemporal distribution are sparse. Here, using electron microscope observations, we performed a large-scale spatiotemporal search for these mysterious magnetite crystals. We report the occurrence of giant magnetofossils in variable marine sedimentary environments, including the first report in modern South Atlantic and Indian Ocean environments and the oldest occurrence at ca. 93 Ma in the North Atlantic Ocean. Grain-size data for the giant magnetofossils in the Southwest Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans suggest that the dimension of spearheads is sensitive to regional environments during similar warming periods but is insensitive to environmental conditions across the distinct geological periods at the same locality. The grain-size distributions of needles and giant bullets do not show significant changes in diverse environments. These observations greatly expand the known temporal and geographic distribution of giant magnetofossils, shedding new light on their likely biological origin.
Cosmological test of dark energy parameterizations in Hořava–Lifshitz gravity
Authors: Chaudhary Himanshu , Molla Niyaz Uddin , Khurana Madhur , Debnath Ujjal , Mustafa G.
Published: March 2024

In this work, we assume that the FLRW universe, which is filled with dark matter along with dark energy, is in the framework of Hořava–Lifshitz (HL) gravity. The dark energy is considered as the linear (Model I) and CPL (Model II) parameterizations of the equation of state parameter. For both models, we express the Hubble parameter H(z) in terms of the model parameters and redshift z. To rigorously constrain the model, we have employed a comprehensive set of recent observational datasets, including cosmic chronometers (CC), type Ia supernovae (SNIa), baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO), gamma-ray burst (GRB), quasar (Q) and cosmic microwave background radiation (CMB). Through the joint analysis of this diverse collection of datasets, we have achieved tighter constraints on the model’s parameters. This, in turn, allows us to delve into both the physical and geometric aspects of the model with greater precision. Furthermore, our analysis has enabled us to determine the present values of crucial cosmological parameters, including $$H_{0}$$

H
0

, $$\Omega _{m0}$$

Ω

m
0

, $$\Omega _{k0}$$

Ω

k
0

and $$\Omega _{\Lambda 0}$$

Ω

Λ
0

. It is noteworthy that our results are consistent with recent findings from Planck 2018, underscoring the reliability and relevance of our models in the current cosmological context. We also conduct analysis of cosmographic parameters and apply statefinder and diagnostic tests to explore the evolution of the Universe. In addition, the statistical analysis suggests that the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM model is the preferred model among all our considered models. Our investigation into the models has unveiled intriguing features of the late Universe.
Thermal evolution and axion emission properties of strongly magnetized neutron stars
Authors: Yadav Shubham , Mishra M. , Sarkar Tapomoy Guha , Singh Captain R.
Published: March 2024

Emission properties of compact astrophysical objects such as Neutron stars (NSs) are associated with crucial astronomical observables. In the current work, we obtain the mass, pressure profiles of the non-rotating NSs using the modified Tolman Oppenheimer Volkoff (TOV) system of equations in the presence of intense magnetic field. We obtain the profiles by using a specific distance-dependent magnetic field in the modified TOV equations. We employ three different equations of states (EoS) to solve the TOV equations by assuming the core of NSs comprises a hadronic matter. Employing the above profiles, we determine the cooling rates of spherically symmetric NSs as a function of time with and without including the magnetic field using the NSCool code. We have also determined the cooling rates as a function of radius for three different NSs. Furthermore, we determine the luminosity of neutrinos, axions, and photons emitting from the NSs in the presence and absence of a magnetic field for an axion mass 16 meV and three different EoS. Our comparative study indicates that the cooling rate and luminosities of neutrinos, axions, and photons change significantly due to the impact of the strong magnetic field. We also find that due to the magnetic field, the axion mass bound increases slightly compared to without a magnetic field.
Effects of soil moisture variations on the neutron spectra measured above ground: feasibility of a soil moisture monitor system based on neutron moderating cylinders
Authors: Calamida A. , Fontanilla A. , Russo L. , Pietropaolo A. , Pacheco M. A. Caballero , Domingo C. , Ayad R. , Alatawi M. S. , Bedogni R.
Published: March 2024

Mapping the soil moisture is a key activity in water management and sustainable agriculture, especially in regions characterised by fragile agri-food systems and water scarcity. Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensors (CRNS) is a contactless nuclear technology used for estimating soil moisture (SM) content on a 20–30 m scale at the landscape level. Very interestingly, this corresponds to the so-called intermediate scale gap between the local probes, operating on the meter scale, and the satellite-based technologies, working on the kilometre scale and above. In state-of-art CRNS, the cosmic neutrons degraded by the soil are simply counted by a slightly moderated thermal neutron counter. After a calibration procedure, the SM is inferred by combining this count rate with environmental parameters: the atmospheric pressure, temperature and the air humidity. As the SM affects not only the environmental neutron fluence rate but also its energy distribution, this study was organised in such a way to understand if a CRNS with spectrometric capabilities could provide improved information on the SM distribution. To this aim, an environmental neutron spectrometer was designed by extending the Bonner Spheres to a more sensitive system made of moderating cylinders embedding long BF$$ _3 $$

3

proportional counters, the Moderating Cylinders Spectrometer (MCS). Relying on literature environmental neutron spectra, corresponding to different SM values in a standardised soil, the count rates in the MCS were calculated for different values of SM. To simulate various counting scenarios, these count rates were associated to different levels of “realistic” uncertainties and unfolded by means of the FRUIT code. The resulting neutron spectra are compared to the literature ones, allowing at estimating the resolving power of the spectrometer in terms of SM.
Insight on the optoelectronic properties of novel quaternary Ge–Se–Tl–Sb non-crystalline glassy alloy films for optical fiber sensing devices
Authors: Ismail A. M. , El-Metwally E. G.
Published: March 2024

Chalcogenide glass (Ge0.1Se0.7Tl0.2)85Sb15 is synthesized in bulk form by the melt quenching method and thermally evaporated as thin films. The amorphous character of the studied films is examined by XRD analysis. The values of refractive index ($$n$$
n
) and extinction index ($$k$$
k
) are estimated from transmittance $$T(\lambda )$$

T
(
λ
)

data using Swanepoel’s method and are found to be thickness independent. The values of the indirect optical band gap ($${E}_{g}^{{\text{opt}}}$$

E

g

opt

) and Urbach tail ($${E}_{{\text{U}}}$$

E
U

) energies are 1.164 eV and 0.176 eV, respectively. The optical $${\sigma }_{{\text{opt}}}$$

σ
opt

and electrical $${\sigma }_{{\text{elec}}}$$

σ
elec

conductivities of (Ge0.1Se0.7Tl0.2)85Sb15 films increase while the penetration depth $${P}_{{\text{d}}}$$

P
d

decreases with photon energy ($$h\nu$$

h
ν

). The Wemple-DiDomenico (WDD) oscillator model calculates optical parameters such as single-oscillator $${E}_{{\text{o}}}$$

E
o

and strength $${E}_{{\text{d}}}$$

E
d

energies, lattice dielectric constant $${\varepsilon }_{{\text{L}}}$$

ε
L

and ratio $${\text{N}}/{{\text{m}}}^{*}$$

N
/

m

∗

. The calculated values of third-order susceptibility $${\chi }^{(3)}$$

χ

(
3
)

and nonlinear index of refraction $${n}_{2}$$

n
2

are 6.34 × 10–12 and 3.76 × 10–11 $${\text{esu}}$$
esu
. Dielectric constant $${\varepsilon }^{\prime}$$

ε

′

and loss $${\varepsilon }^{{\prime}{\prime}}$$

ε

′
′

decrement with frequency and increment with temperature. The ac conductivity $${\sigma }_{{\text{ac}}}$$

σ
ac

increases with frequency and temperature, which is proportional to $${\omega }^{s}$$

ω

s

and the exponent $$s$$
s
decreases with temperature. The obtained results of $${\sigma }_{{\text{ac}}}$$

σ
ac

and $$s$$
s
are interpreted via the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model. Values of the density of localized states $$N\left({E}_{{\text{F}}}\right)$$

N

E
F

are enhanced with frequency and temperature. The results obtained suggest that $${\varepsilon }^{\prime}$$

ε

′

, $${\varepsilon }^{{\prime}{\prime}}$$

ε

′
′

, $${\sigma }_{{\text{ac}}}$$

σ
ac

and $$N\left({E}_{{\text{F}}}\right)$$

N

E
F

are improved by decreasing the film thickness. These research results emphasize the composition’s applicability for several optical potential applications, like optical fiber sensing devices, photo-detectors, and narrow band optical filters.
Environmental Performance Assessment of Iranian Gas Refineries: A Non-Parametric Approach
Authors: Ghiyasi Mojtaba , Mokhberian Sina
Published: March 2024

Gas refineries are an important part of the energy supply in the world but they may produce byproducts like emissions too. Thus, both technical performance and environmental execution are important and need to be analyzed. Iran is the third-highest producer of natural gas in the world. It produces 6.5% of the natural gas in the world. This paper rummages the environmental and technical performance of Iranian gas refineries through data envelopment analysis (DEA), which is a strong frontier analysis approach is used in this study. Although the primary result shows a rather good performance of Iranian gas refineries overall, more potentials are found for improvement. We find 6% technical potential and 8% environmental potential for improvement which is still a considerable amount. Thus, national and international policymakers should consider this potential for better production and supply of natural gas. We also provided an empirical robustness check to enrich our findings.
Field geology, petrology and geochronology of pluton–dyke systems: emplacement conditions of the Trapecio and Ushuaia peninsula dyke swarms (Fuegian Andes) and their relations with tectonics
Authors: González Guillot Mauricio , Torres Carbonell Pablo J. , Cao Sebastián , Lobo Constanza , Bordese Sofía , Hollanda María-Helena B. M.
Published: March 2024

We report the field geology, petrography, and geochemical and geochronological data for two dyke swarms in the Fuegian Andes, with the aim of correlating them with known suites and improving our knowledge of the magmatism of the Late Cretaceous rear arc and its relations with ductile deformation. We provide keys for correlation based on the K
2
O content of amphiboles. The Trapecio dyke swarm is mildly alkaline and ferriferous, with a zircon U–Pb age of 75 Ma, and therefore belongs to the Fuegian potassic magmatism (78–68 Ma). The Ushuaia peninsula dyke swarm, also known as the Ushuaia Peninsula Andesites, is shown to be high-K, calc-alkaline and magnesian, with new radiometric ages of 87–86 Ma. Although the Ushuaia peninsula dyke swarm exhibits foliation associated with ductile deformation, the Trapecio dyke swarm is post-kinematic and reveals emplacement controlled by the slaty cleavage in the metapelite host. Field and geophysical evidence suggest both swarms overlie small upper crustal plutons that are mostly buried. The variable composition of the dykes suggests a protracted history of dyke injection, mostly fed from deeper reservoirs. Contact metamorphism around both pluton–dyke systems is very weak. By comparison with adjacent plutons, we argue that the main variables controlling the development of the aureole are the small magma volumes and low rates of injection.

Supplementary material:
Full analytical procedures (Online Resource 1); detailed petrography of the investigated Trapecio dyke swarm samples (Table S1 and Fig. S1) with geochemical data (Table S3 and Fig. S2) (Online Resource 2); extended petrography and photomicrographs (Fig. S3) of the Ushuaia Peninsula Andesite dyke swarm (Online Resource 3); mineral chemistry data (Table S2) and the results of zircon U–Pb and hornblende Ar–Ar age measurements and ratios (Tables S4–S8) (Online Resource 4), and thermobarometric results (Table S9) (Online Resource 5) are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.7097733
Automated Mapping of Vulnerability Advisories onto their Fix Commits in Open Source Repositories
Authors: Hommersom Daan , Sabetta Antonino , Coppola Bonaventura , Nucci Dario Di , Tamburri Damian A.
Published: March 2024

The lack of comprehensive sources of accurate vulnerability data represents a critical obstacle to studying and understanding software vulnerabilities (and their corrections). In this article, we present an approach that combines heuristics stemming from practical experience and machine-learning (ML)—specifically, natural language processing (NLP)—to address this problem. Our method consists of three phases. First, we construct an
advisory record
object containing key information about a vulnerability that is extracted from an advisory, such as those found in the National Vulnerability Database (NVD). These advisories are expressed in natural language. Second, using heuristics, a subset of candidate fix commits is obtained from the source code repository of the affected project, by filtering out commits that can be identified as unrelated to the vulnerability at hand. Finally, for each of the remaining candidate commits, our method builds a numerical feature vector reflecting the characteristics of the commit that are relevant to predicting its match with the advisory at hand. Based on the values of these feature vectors, our method produces a ranked list of candidate fixing commits. The score attributed by the ML model to each feature is kept visible to the users, allowing them to easily interpret the predictions.

We implemented our approach and we evaluated it on an open data set, built by manual curation, that comprises 2,391 known fix commits corresponding to 1,248 public vulnerability advisories. When considering the top-10 commits in the ranked results, our implementation could successfully identify at least one fix commit for up to 84.03% of the vulnerabilities (with a fix commit on the first position for 65.06% of the vulnerabilities). Our evaluation shows that our method can reduce considerably the manual effort needed to search open-source software (OSS) repositories for the commits that fix known vulnerabilities.