bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canonical domains for coadjoint orbits
Authors: Martínez Torres David
Published: August 2023

This paper describes two real analytic symplectomorphisms defined on appropriate dense open subsets of any coadjoint orbit of a compact semisimple Lie algebra. The first symplectomorphism sends the open dense subset to a bounded subset of a standard cotangent bundle. The second symplectomorphism has as target a bounded subset of a hyperbolic coadjoint orbit of an associated non‐compact semisimple Lie algebra. Therefore, coadjoint orbits of compact Lie algebras are symplectic compactifications of domains of cotangent bundles, and are in symplectic correspondence with hyperbolic orbits of non‐compact semisimple Lie algebras.
Expansion of the fundamental solution of a second‐order elliptic operator with analytic coefficients
Authors: Franceschini Federico , Glaudo Federico
Published: August 2023

Let be a second‐order elliptic operator with analytic coefficients defined in . We construct explicitly and canonically a fundamental solution for the operator, that is, a function such that . As a consequence of our construction, we obtain an expansion of the fundamental solution in homogeneous terms (homogeneous polynomials divided by a power of , plus homogeneous polynomials multiplied by if the dimension is even) which improves the classical result of [6]. The control we have on the complexity of each homogeneous term is optimal and in particular, when is the Laplace–Beltrami operator of an analytic Riemannian manifold, we recover the construction of the fundamental solution due to Kodaira [8]. The main ingredients of the proof are a harmonic decomposition for singular functions and the reduction of the convergence of our construction to a nontrivial estimate on weighted paths on a graph with vertices indexed by .
Hacia una justificación estricta de las cláusulas no negociadas que facultan al proveedor para modificar unilateralmente el contrato de consumo en el derecho chileno
Authors: Campos Micin Sebastián Nicolás , Hernández Paulsen Gabriel
Published: August 2023

El artículo busca construir una justificación estricta de las cláusulas no negociadas que facultan al proveedor para modificar unilateralmente los términos del contrato de consumo en el derecho chileno. Luego de revisar críticamente el estado de la cuestión en la doctrina chilena, se propone que los supuestos que habilitan para una modificación unilateral de aquel deben referirse a eventos que escapan a la esfera de control del proveedor, que son de ocurrencia poco probable y que tornan imposible o excesivamente oneroso el cumplimiento para este. Posteriormente, se analiza la aproximación al asunto efectuada por la jurisprudencia chilena, examinándose por vía ejemplar sobre todo la relativa a los contratos sobre productos o servicios financieros, en que se advierte una tendencia particularmente protectora del interés del adherente.
Roton-Enabled Mechanical Diode at Extremely Low Frequency
Authors: Yang Tianzhi , Duan Zhonglei , Meng Xiangbo , Liu Shuanglong , Chen Li-Qun
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a refined model for a mechanical diode based on a mass-spring system. The proposed model utilizes a bilinear spring to construct a frequency converter, which effectively disrupts the reciprocal transmission of acoustic waves. By employing a mass-spring-mass system as a filter, a nonlocal connection is introduced to generate an extremely low-frequency band gap (2–4 Hz), thereby achieving a mechanical diode with a lower operating frequency. The feasibility of these low-frequency mechanical diodes is demonstrated through comprehensive numerical simulations and experimental analyses. In addition, we evaluated the effect of bilinear springs and nonlocal connection parameters on the diode performance.
Exploring Robust Decisions in the Design of Coupled Engineered Systems
Authors: Sharma Gehendra , Allen Janet K. , Mistree Farrokh
Published: August 2023

Engineered systems can be characterized by the inherent uncertainties and interactions in the system. To effectively design such engineered systems while improving the quality of design decisions, we contend that addressing the inherent interactions and uncertainties is critical. By addressing interactions, we incorporate the ability to account for the influence of one design decision over another in the decision-making process. Through uncertainty management, we design decisions that are relatively insensitive to uncertainty. In this article, we identify various elements required for designing engineered systems and address some key elements: (i) decision identification and classification, (ii) modeling decisions and their interactions, (iii) managing the effect of uncertainties in decisions, and (iv) solution space exploration. We utilize these key elements in the formulation and exploration of design problems using three design examples: (i) design of a fender, (ii) design of a gearbox, and (iii) design of a composite structure. As a contribution, we offer a generic method that enables designers to design engineered systems when interactions and uncertainties are prevalent in design decisions.
A GPU-Based Parallel Region Classification Method for Continuous Constraint Satisfaction Problems
Authors: Zhang Guanglu , Feng Wangchuan , Cagan Jonathan
Published: August 2023

Continuous constraint satisfaction is prevalent in many science and engineering fields. When solving continuous constraint satisfaction problems, it is more advantageous for practitioners to derive all feasible regions (i.e., the solution space) rather than a limited number of solution points, since these feasible regions facilitate design concept generation and design tradeoff evaluation. Several central processing unit (CPU)-based branch-and-prune methods and geometric approximation methods have been proposed in prior research to derive feasible regions for continuous constraint satisfaction problems. However, these methods have not been extensively adopted in practice, mainly because of their high computational expense. To overcome the computational bottleneck of extant CPU-based methods, this paper introduces a GPU-based parallel region classification method to derive feasible regions for continuous constraint satisfaction problems in a reasonable computational time. Using interval arithmetic, coupled with the computational power of GPU, this method iteratively partitions the design space into many subregions and classifies these subregions as feasible, infeasible, and indeterminate regions. To visualize these classified regions in the design space, a planar visualization approach that projects all classified regions into one figure is also proposed. The GPU-based parallel region classification method and the planar visualization approach are validated through two case studies about the bird function and the welded beam design. These case studies show that the method and the approach can solve the continuous constraint satisfaction problems and visualize the results effectively and efficiently. A four-step procedure for implementing the method and the approach in practice is also outlined.
Large-Range Rotation-to-Translation Compliant Transmission Mechanism
Authors: Archer Nigel C. , Hopkins Jonathan B.
Published: August 2023

A large-range-of-motion compliant transmission mechanism is introduced that uses the screw degrees-of-freedom (DOF) of a multi-DOF compliant module, sandwiched between two other single-DOF compliant modules, to convert a rotational input to a collinear translational output and vice versa. The geometric advantages (i.e., transmission ratios) of the mechanism when driven with a rotation to a translation or with a translation to a rotation can be tuned as desired. The freedom and constraint topologies (FACT) approach is used to design the mechanism, and stiffness matrices are used to explain why the transmission ratio of the mechanism is different depending on whether the mechanism is driven with its rotational or translational inputs. A version of the mechanism is fabricated and its transmission ratio is measured to be ∼1.36 mm/deg when the mechanism is driven with a rotation, and is measured to be the inverse of ∼1.89 mm/deg when the mechanism is driven with a translation. The transmission ratios both remain impressively constant over the mechanism’s full range of motion and only vary slightly when they are actuated in different directions (i.e., counterclockwise or clockwise if the mechanism is driven with a rotation, or pushing or pulling if the mechanism is driven with a translation).
Document Understanding-Based Design Support: Application of Language Model for Design Knowledge Extraction
Authors: Qiu Yunjian , Jin Yan
Published: August 2023

Design knowledge in the vast amount of design reports and documents can be an excellent resource for designers in their practice. However, capturing such domain-specific information embedded in long-length unstructured texts is always time-consuming and sometimes tricky. Therefore, it is highly desirable for a computer system to automatically extract the main knowledge points and their corresponding inner structures from given documents. In this study of document understanding for design support (DocUDS), a design-perspective knowledge extraction approach is proposed that uses phrase-level domain-specific labeled datasets to finetune a Bidirectional Encoder Representation from Transformers (BERT) model so that it can extract design knowledge from documents. The BERT model finetuning attempts to blend in the domain-specific knowledge of well-recognized domain concepts and is based on the datasets generated from design reports. The model is utilized to map the captured sentences to the main design entities , , and . In addition, this approach uncovers inner relationships among the sentences and constructs overall structures of documents to enhance understanding. The definitions of design perspectives, inter-perspective relations, and intra-perspective relations are introduced, which together capture the main design knowledge points and their relations and constitute an understanding of the design domain knowledge of a text. The case study results have demonstrated the proposed approach's effectiveness in understanding and extracting relevant design knowledge points.
Motion Performance Study of 2UPR-1RPS/2R Hybrid Robot Based on Kinematics, Dynamics, and Stiffness Modeling
Authors: Li Jing , Lu NingHe , Shen NanYan , Ma ZeHui , Zhao ZiQi
Published: August 2023

The unique structural characteristics of hybrid robots, such as few degrees-of-freedom (DOF) and redundant constraints, lead to a series of challenges in the establishment of theoretical models. However, these theoretical models are indispensable parts of motion control. Therefore, this paper focuses on establishing the kinematics, dynamics, and stiffness models for an Exechon-like hybrid robot, which are then used for error compensation and velocity planning to improve the robot’s motion performance. First, the kinematic model is derived through intermediate parameters and the kinematics equivalent chains. By analyzing the parasitic motion due to few DOF, the redundant equations in the model are eliminated to obtain the solution of inverse kinematics. Second, based on the beam element, the optimal equivalent configuration of the moving platform which connects the parallel part and serial part is determined, and then an entire equivalent structure of the robot is formed. It helps establish the stiffness model by using the matrix structure analysis method. Next, the dynamic model is established by combining the Newton–Euler method with co-deformation theory to solve the underdetermined dynamic equations caused by redundant constraints. Finally, the compensation method is designed based on the stiffness model and kinematic model to improve the end positioning accuracy of the robot; the velocity planning algorithm is designed based on the dynamic model and kinematic model to enhance the smoothness of the robot motion. The methods proposed in this paper are also of referential significance to other Exechon-like hybrid robots.
Electrochemical imaging correlated to hydrogen evolution reaction on transition metal dichalcogenide, WS2
Authors: Kumatani Akichika , Ogawa Hiroto , Endo Takahiko , Kobayashi Yu , Lustikova Jana , Ida Hiroki , Takahashi Yasufumi , Matsue Tomokazu , Miyata Yasumitsu , Shiku Hitoshi
Published: August 2023

The ability of two-dimensional, layered transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) to promote hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has attracted much attention for hydrogen-generation applications. Their electrocatalytic active sites originally come from unique electronic properties at the edges. Here, we use scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) to visualize and quantify the electrochemical HER activities of tungsten disulfide (WS2) islands. We show that the HER correlated current distribution is affected by the number of WS2 layers. SECCM imaging provides a direction for future designs in TMD-based electrocatalysts.
Attempt of TiZrVCrAl coating on aerospace bearings—Lower friction coefficient in oil–liquid mixed media
Authors: Wang Jiahe , Zeng Qunfeng , He Wanjun , Wang Zhao , Ning Zekun , Zheng Chenjie , Pang Zeming , Wei Xunkai
Published: August 2023

In this study, the corrosion resistansce of TiZrVCrAl coating in a seawater environment was tested, providing a theoretical basis for expanding its application in a wider field. The results show that sputtering time below 1 h is beneficial to improve the coating flatness, and too long sputtering time will impel agglomeration on the coating surface. The coating raises the open circuit potential and decreases the current density of the bearing in seawater by increasing the impedance. Coating before heat treatment (coating I) was easier to be damaged during the corrosion and wear process, forming three-body wear and aggravating the coating failure. The heat-treated coating (coating II) facilitates the collection of abrasive debris and raises the dynamic fluid pressure. Although coating II has a negative impact on the corrosion resistance of the coating, it reduces the friction coefficient by 40% and prolongs the wear resistance life of the coating, which is even more valuable under the dynamic corrosion wear effect of M50 bearing steel as the background.
Enhancing the Initial Acceleration Performance of Elite Rugby Backs. Part II: Insights From Multiple Longitudinal Individual-Specific Case-Study Interventions
Authors: Wild James J. , Bezodis Ian N. , North Jamie S. , Bezodis Neil E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose: This study implemented 18-week individual-specific sprint acceleration training interventions in elite male rugby backs based on their predetermined individual technical needs and evaluated the effectiveness of these interventions. Methods: Individual-specific interventions were prescribed to 5 elite rugby backs over an 18-week period. Interventions were informed by the relationships between individual technique strategies and initial acceleration performance, and their strength-based capabilities. Individual-specific changes in technique and initial acceleration performance were measured at multiple time points across the intervention period and compared with 3 control participants who underwent their normal training. Results: Of the technique variables intentionally targeted during the intervention period, moderate to very large (|d| = 0.93–3.99) meaningful changes were observed in the participants who received an individual-specific intervention but not in control participants. Resultant changes to the intervention participants’ whole-body kinematic strategies were broadly consistent with the intended changes. Moderate to very large (|d| = 1.11–2.82) improvements in initial acceleration performance were observed in participants receiving individual-specific technical interventions but not in the control participants or the participant who received an individual-specific strength intervention. Conclusions: Individual-specific technical interventions were more effective in manipulating aspects of acceleration technique and performance compared with the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach adopted by the control participants. This study provides a novel, evidence-based approach for applied practitioners working to individualize sprint-based practices to enhance acceleration performance.
Taming the flame, from local to global extreme wildfires
Authors: Bowman David M. J. S. , Sharples Jason J.
Published: August 2023

Australia rethinks strategies after 2019 to 2020 bushfires
Plastic waste recycling is gaining momentum
Authors: Van Geem Kevin M.
Published: August 2023

Production of detergents and aldehydes could help tackle plastic pollution
Wandering seeds
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: August 2023

Millennia before Europeans arrived in Australia, humans helped shape the distribution of the continent’s plants
Key study of cancer microbiomes challenged
Authors: Offord Catherine
Published: August 2023

“Major” errors may undermine research that identified cancers based on their microbes
NASA scales back its next flagship climate mission
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: August 2023

As two landmark satellites go dark, cuts loom for new bid to probe clouds, aerosols, and warming
The Central Indian Tectonic Zone: A Rodinia supercontinent-forming collisional zone and analogy with the Grenville and Sveconorwegian orogens
Authors: Bhattacharya Abhijit , Banerjee Anwesa , Sequeira Nicole
Published: August 2023

In the paleogeographic reconstructions of the Rodinia supercontinent, the circum-global 1.1–0.9 Ga collisional belt is speculated to skirt the SE coast of India, incorporating the Rodinian-age Eastern Ghats Province. But the Eastern Ghats Province may not have welded with the Indian landmass until 550–500 Ma. Instead, the ~1500-km-long, E-striking Central Indian Tectonic Zone provides an alternate option for linking the 1.1–0.9 Ga circum-global collisional belt through India. The highly tectonized Central Indian Tectonic Zone formed due to the early Neoproterozoic collision of the North India and the South India blocks. Based on a summary of the recent findings in the different crustal domains within the Central Indian Tectonic Zone, we demonstrate that the 1.03–0.93 Ga collision involved thrusting that resulted in the emplacement of low-grade metamorphosed allochthonous units above the high-grade basement rocks; the development of crustal-scale, steeply dipping, orogen-parallel transpressional shear zones; syn-collisional felsic magmatism; and the degeneration of orogenesis by extensional exhumation. The features are analogous to those reported in the broadly coeval Grenville and Sveconorwegian orogens. We suggest that the 1.1–0.9 Ga circum-global collisional belt in Rodinia swings westward from the Australo-Antarctic landmass and passes centrally through the Greater India landmass, which for the most part welded at 1.0–0.9 Ga. It follows that the paleogeographic positions of India obtained from paleomagnetic data older than 1.1–0.9 Ga are likely to correspond to the positions of the North and South India blocks, respectively, and not to the Greater India landmass in its entirety.
cdem: A macOS program for discrete element modeling of tectonic structures
Authors: Cardozo Nestor , Hardy Stuart
Published: August 2023

cdem is a macOS document-based application for two-dimensional discrete element modeling of tectonic structures and their associated deformation. Documents encapsulate simulations that can be run and explored simultaneously. A document contains three main views: (1) Set-up view, to define the assembly size, element properties, anisotropy, boundary conditions (type of faulting), overburden stress, erosion, and syn-tectonic sedimentation; (2) Summary view, which displays the details of the model after initialization; and (3) Results view, which displays the geometry of the model while it is running or after the run and allows exploring the model’s evolution in terms of geometry, displacement, strain, or stress. We illustrate the use of the program for assembly calibration and the modeling of contractional and extensional structures without and with syn-tectonic sedimentation. In all these cases, cdem produces realistic incremental and finite deformation. cdem is less powerful than its precursor cdem2D, but it can import and visualize cdem2D results, making the combined use of these two programs a robust suite for mechanically modeling tectonic structures.
Potential cost of assumptions within a visual assessment
Authors: Shipton Chloe , Ramaesh Kanna , Lockington David
Published: August 2023

We report a man in his 80s who described sudden unilateral loss of vision, resulting in extensive urgent investigations by the accident and emergency department team. Subsequent evaluation of visual acuity with pinhole demonstrated significant improvement, triggering further questioning. It transpired that he was mistakenly wearing his wife’s glasses, which accounted for his visual symptoms. This case illustrates the importance of a stepwise approach to visual assessment, and avoiding assumptions, as using the simple pinhole test could have avoided extensive investigations and their subsequent costs.
Gastrointestinal histoplasmosis presenting as a small bowel obstruction in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Wynn Jessica , Chan Stephen , Yeung Justin MC , Pellegrino Samantha Ann
Published: August 2023

The clinical presentation of gastrointestinal histoplasmosis (GIH) is often non-specific, mimicking several other gastrointestinal diseases, making diagnosis difficult. We present a case of GIH, causing bowel obstruction in an immunocompetent patient. A woman in her 80s presented with anorexia and a distended abdomen. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis (CTAP) showed ileal thickening. Endoscopy was performed and ileal biopsies were taken. A diagnosis of histoplasmosis was made by histopathology, and she began treatment with liposomal amphotericin and itraconazole. Despite presenting well at her routine follow-up appointments, she presented 4 months after diagnosis with worsening symptoms of anorexia and abdominal distention. CTAP showed the ileal stricture causing bowel obstruction. She underwent itraconazole and steroid treatment while having nasogastric tube decompression. Subsequent gastrografin follow through showing partial obstruction and surgical resection was planned. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated, her kidney function worsened and she suffered from aspiration pneumonia with eventual demise.
Effects of early enteral nutrition on pancreatic fistula and long-term prognosis after distal pancreatectomy or enucleation of pancreatic tumours in a major academic university hospital in China: protocol for a single-centre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yuan Jingya , Xiu Dianrong
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains one of the main complications following pancreatic resection. Despite pancreatic fistula having a low postoperative mortality rate, the readmission and intervention rates in patients with pancreatic fistula are still considerable. Although there are several studies on pancreatic fistula development after pancreaticoduodenectomy, there are only a few studies on the feeding protocols applied after distal pancreatectomy or enucleation of pancreatic tumours. We designed this trial to test the hypothesis that early feeding does not increase the incidence of POPF and positively influences the long-term prognosis in patients who undergo distal pancreatectomy or enucleation of pancreatic tumours.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective randomised controlled trial that will be conducted in a single centre. A total of 106 patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy or enucleation of pancreatic tumours will be recruited after providing informed consent. They will be randomly assigned to either an early or late feeding group. The early feeding group will begin enteral nutrition on postoperative day (POD) 3, and the late feeding group will begin enteral nutrition on POD7. The primary outcome is the incidence of POPF. The secondary outcomes include the length of postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, and indicators of long-term prognosis.

Ethics and dissemination

Peking University Third Hospital Medical Science Research Ethics Committee approved the study (M2021395). Findings will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and in national and/or international meetings to guide future practice.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100053978.
The STAIR OF KNOWLEDGE—a codesigned intervention to prevent pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes in Sweden: development of a complex intervention
Authors: Neziraj Merita , Axelsson Malin , Kumlien Christine , Hellman Peter , Andersson Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To describe the development of a codesigned complex intervention intended to prevent the risks of pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes.

Design

A complex intervention development study. The development of the intervention was conducted in three phases. We established contact with stakeholders in the municipality, updated us of current status of the literature in this area and conducted studies in the local context (1). We codesigned the intervention in workshops together with end users (2). We codesigned the final outline of the intervention in an iterative process with stakeholders (3).

Setting: Nursing homes in the municipality in southern Sweden.

Participants

End users (n=16) in nursing homes (n=4) codesigned the intervention together with the research group in workshops (n=4) in March–April 2022. Additionally, stakeholders (n=17) who were considered to play an important role in developing the intervention participated throughout this process. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four workshops were conducted with end users (n=16) and 13 meetings with stakeholders (n=12) were held during the development process. The intervention aims to bridge the evidence-practice gap regarding the preventive care process of the risks of pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes. The intervention is aimed at end users, lasts for 3 weeks and is divided into two parts. First, end users obtain knowledge on their own by following written instructions. Second, they meet, interact and discuss the knowledge acquired during part 1.

Conclusion

The intervention is robustly developed and thoroughly described. The study highlights the extensive process that is necessary for developing tailored complex interventions. The description of the entire development process may enhance the replicability of this intervention. The intervention needs to be tested and evaluated in an upcoming feasibility study.

Trial registration number

NCT05308862.
Are temporal trends in retained foreign object rates after surgery in Switzerland impacted by increasing coding intensity? A retrospective analysis of hospital routine data from 2000 to 2019
Authors: Schwappach David , Havranek Michael M
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Retained foreign objects (RFOs) after surgery can cause harm to patients and negatively impact clinician and hospital reputation. RFO incidence based on administrative data is used as a metric of patient safety. However, it is unknown how differences in coding intensity across hospitals and years impact the number of reported RFO cases. The objective of this study is to investigate the temporal trend of RFO incidence at a national level and the impact of changes in coding practices across hospitals and years.

Design

Retrospective study using administrative hospital data.

Setting and participants

21 805 005 hospitalisations at 354 Swiss acute-care hospital sites

Primary and secondary outcome measures

RFO incidence over time, the distribution of RFOs across hospitals and the impact of differences in coding intensity across the hospitals and years.

Results

The annual RFO rate more than doubled between 2000 and 2019 (from 4.6 to 11.8 with a peak of 17.0 in 2014) and coincided with increasing coding intensity (mean number of diagnoses: 3.4, SD 2.0 in 2000; 7.40, SD 5.2 in 2019). After adjusting for patient characteristics, two regression models confirmed that coding intensity was a significant predictor of both whether RFO cases were reported at the hospital level (OR: 12.94; 95% CI: 7.38 to 22.68) and the number of reported cases throughout the period at the national level (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR): 5.95; 95% CI: 1.11 to 31.82).

Conclusions

Our results raise concerns about the use of RFO incidence for comparing hospitals, countries and years. Utilising coding indices could be employed to mitigate the effects of coding intensity on RFO rates.
Biases in the collection of blood alcohol data for adult major trauma patients in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Lau Georgina , Gabbe Belinda , Mitra Biswadev , Dietze Paul , Reeder Sandra , Cameron Peter , Read David J , Symons Evan , Beck Ben
Published: August 2023

Background

In-hospital alcohol testing provides an opportunity to implement prevention strategies for patients with high risk of experiencing repeated alcohol-related injuries. However, barriers to alcohol testing in emergency settings can prevent patients from being tested. In this study, we aimed to understand potential biases in current data on the completion of blood alcohol tests for major trauma patients at hospitals in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Victorian State Trauma Registry data on all adult major trauma patients from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021 were used. Characteristics associated with having a blood alcohol test recorded in the registry were assessed using logistic regression models.

Results

This study included 14 221 major trauma patients, of which 4563 (32.1%) had a blood alcohol test recorded. Having a blood alcohol test completed was significantly associated with age, socioeconomic disadvantage level, preferred language, having pre-existing mental health or substance use conditions, smoking status, presenting during times associated with heavy community alcohol consumption, injury cause and intent, and Glasgow Coma Scale scores (p<0.05). Restricting analyses to patients from a trauma centre where blood alcohol testing was part of routine clinical care mitigated most biases. However, relative to patients injured while driving a motor vehicle/motorcycle, lower odds of testing were still observed for patients with injuries from flames/scalds/contact burns (adjusted OR (aOR)=0.33, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.61) and low falls (aOR=0.17, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.25). Higher odds of testing were associated with pre-existing mental health (aOR=1.39, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.89) or substance use conditions (aOR=2.33, 95% CI to 1.47–3.70), and living in a more disadvantaged area (most disadvantaged quintile relative to least disadvantaged quintile: aOR=2.30, 95% CI 1.52 to 3.48).

Conclusion

Biases in the collection of blood alcohol data likely impact the surveillance of alcohol-related injuries. Routine alcohol testing after major trauma is needed to accurately inform epidemiology and the subsequent implementation of strategies for reducing alcohol-related injuries.
Trends in emergency department visits for fall-related fractures in U.S. older adults, 2001- 2020
Authors: Orces Carlos H
Published: August 2023

The present study analysed data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System All Injury Programme to examine trends in emergency department visits (EDs) for fall-related fractures in adults aged 65 years or older between 2001 and 2020. Overall, the estimated number of ED’s visits for fall-related fractures increased from 574 000 in 2001 to 9 84 000 in 2020. After adjusting for age, fall-related fracture rates increased annually by 1.1% (95% CI: 0.4%, 1.7%) in women and by 1.3% (95% CI: 0.4%, 2.2%) in men between 2001 and 2012. Moreover, a non-significant increase in fracture rates was seen in both sexes between 2012 and 2016. From 2016 onward, fracture rates decreased annually in women by −5.0% (95% CI: −7.9%, −2.0%) and did not significantly change in men. This downward trend was mostly attributed to a decrease in fall-related fractures of the arm/hand, lower trunk, and among subjects aged 75 years and older. Therefore, it appears that fall-related fracture rates have recently decreased in U.S. older women.
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NET): not only antimicrobial but also modulators of innate and adaptive immunities in inflammatory autoimmune diseases
Authors: Melbouci Dyhia , Haidar Ahmad Ahmad , Decker Patrice
Published: August 2023

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) represent one of the first lines of defence against invading pathogens and are the most abundant leucocytes in the circulation. Generally described as pro-inflammatory cells, recent data suggest that PMN also have immunomodulatory capacities. In response to certain stimuli, activated PMN expel neutrophil extracellular traps (NET), structures made of DNA and associated proteins. Although originally described as an innate immune mechanism fighting bacterial infection, NET formation (or probably rather an excess of NET together with impaired clearance of NET) may be deleterious. Indeed, NET have been implicated in the development of several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus, as well as fibrosis or cancer. They have been suggested as a source of (neo)autoantigens or regulatory proteins like proteases or to act as a physical barrier. Different mechanisms of NET formation have been described, leading to PMN death or not, depending on the stimulus. Interestingly, NET may be both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory and this probably partly depends on the mechanism, and thus the stimuli, triggering NET formation. Within this review, we will describe the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory activities of NET and especially how NET may modulate immune responses.
Longitudinal relationship between relative harm perceptions, beliefs about organic and additive-free tobacco, and cigarette brand switching among Natural American Spirit, Camel and Marlboro cigarette smokers
Authors: Pearson Jennifer , Gratale Stefanie Kristen , Ganz Ollie , Erinoso Olufemi A , Ohman-Strickland Pamela , Wackowski Olivia A
Published: August 2023

Introduction

While previous research has examined misperceptions related to Natural American Spirit (NAS), a premium cigarette brand using ‘natural’-themed marketing, the longitudinal relationship between NAS-related harm beliefs and switching to NAS has not been established.

Methods

Using data from the PATH study, we modelled the longitudinal relationship between (1) brand switching and subsequent belief that one’s own brand might be less harmful than other brands (Waves 1–5); (2) belief that organic and/or additive-free tobacco products are less harmful and subsequent brand switching (Waves 3–5); and (3) belief that some types of cigarettes are less harmful and subsequent brand switching (Waves 3–5) for NAS and two leading comparator brands (Camel and Marlboro).

Results

Among people who did not think their prior brand might be less harmful, switching to NAS or maintaining NAS preference increased the odds of believing one’s own brand might be less harmful (aOR 19.4; 95% CI: 15.19, 24.8; aOR 6.1; 95% CI: 4.23, 8.67, respectively). Prior belief that organic and additive-free tobacco products were less harmful increased the odds of switching to (aOR 2.5; 95% CI: 1.68, 3.74) and decreased the odds of switching away (0.57; 955 CI: 0.36, 0.92) from NAS in the subsequent wave. Parallel analyses for Marlboro/Camel were largely null or in the opposite direction.

Conclusions

NAS use may maintain or shape new beliefs that the brand may be less harmful than other brands; holding pre-existing beliefs about the relative harm of some tobacco products may increase risk for NAS use.
Dynamic vegetation cover and decline in common eider breeding numbers in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Tomlik Molly D. , Milton G. Randy , Parsons Glen J. , Mallory Mark L.
Published: August 2023

The American common eider ( Somateria mollissima dresseri) is a colonially nesting sea duck breeding on islands in the coastal regions of Atlantic Canada. Declines in colony size have been pronounced in some parts of its range, notably in Nova Scotia, and may be attributable to a variety of interconnected factors including changes in habitat conditions. Using surveys collected two decades apart, we compared nesting habitat types, availability, and use by breeding eiders on 16 islands that supported >1600 eider nests in 1992–1993, but 830 nests in 2013. While general patterns of eider nesting habitat use remained consistent (e.g., nesting preferences exhibited for Low Shrubland and Grassland habitats, and avoidance of forest or beach habitats), overall vegetation cover declined, but relative habitat changes were inconsistent across islands. Three of the islands with the greatest change in vegetation had cormorant ( Phalacrocorax spp.) colonies in 2013 that were not there in the earlier years. We suggest that changes in vegetation, in some cases facilitated by cormorant colony formation, influenced susceptibility of nesting females to predators, and these interconnected factors may be contributing to local population declines.
Electron transport measurements in liquid xenon with Xenoscope, a large-scale DARWIN demonstrator
Authors: Baudis L. , Biondi Y. , Bismark A. , Cimental Chávez A. P. , Cuenca-García J. J. , Franchi J. , Galloway M. , Girard F. , Peres R. , Ramírez García D. , Sanchez-Lucas P. , Thieme K. , Wittweg C.
Published: August 2023

The DARWIN observatory is a proposed next-generation experiment with 40 tonnes of liquid xenon as an active target in a time projection chamber. To study challenges related to the construction and operation of a multi-tonne scale detector, we have designed and constructed a vertical, full-scale demonstrator for the DARWIN experiment at the University of Zurich. Here, we present the first results from a several-months run with $$343\,\hbox {kg}$$

343

kg

of xenon and electron drift lifetime and transport measurements with a $$53\,\hbox {cm}$$

53

cm

tall purity monitor immersed in the cryogenic liquid. After $$88\,\hbox {days}$$

88

days

of continuous purification, the electron lifetime reached a value of $$(664\,\pm \,23)\,\upmu \hbox {s}$$

(
664

±

23
)

μ
s

. We measured the drift velocity of electrons for electric fields in the range (25–75) V/cm, and found values consistent with previous measurements. We also calculated the longitudinal diffusion constant of the electron cloud in the same field range, and compared with previous data, as well as with predictions from an empirical model.
Study of exclusive two-body W decays with fully reconstructible kinematics
Authors: Bagdatova Alsu G. , Baranov Sergey P. , Sakharov Alexander S.
Published: August 2023

In the framework of electroweak theory and perturbative quantum chromodynamics, we examine various exclusive decay channels of [Formula: see text] bosons that can be fully or partially reconstructed. Our findings provide predictions for the partial widths and address some gaps in previous literature. We also place a strong emphasis on understanding and estimating the associated theoretical uncertainties.
The Evolutionary Importance of Intraspecific Variation in Sexual Communication Across Sensory Modalities
Authors: Groot Astrid T. , Blankers Thomas , Halfwerk Wouter , Burdfield Steel Emily
Published: August 2023

The evolution of sexual communication is critically important in the diversity of arthropods, which are declining at a fast pace worldwide. Their environments are rapidly changing, with increasing chemical, acoustic, and light pollution. To predict how arthropod species will respond to changing climates, habitats, and communities, we need to understand how sexual communication systems can evolve. In the past decades, intraspecific variation in sexual signals and responses across different modalities has been identified, but never in a comparative way. In this review, we identify and compare the level and extent of intraspecific variation in sexual signals and responses across three different modalities, chemical, acoustic, and visual, focusing mostly on insects. By comparing causes and possible consequences of intraspecific variation in sexual communication among these modalities, we identify shared and unique patterns, as well as knowledge needed to predict the evolution of sexual communication systems in arthropods in a changing world.
Leveraging Single-Cell Populations to Uncover the Genetic Basis of Complex Traits
Authors: Minow Mark A.A. , Marand Alexandre P. , Schmitz Robert J.
Published: August 2023

The ease and throughput of single-cell genomics have steadily improved, and its current trajectory suggests that surveying single-cell populations will become routine. We discuss the merger of quantitative genetics with single-cell genomics and emphasize how this synergizes with advantages intrinsic to plants. Single-cell population genomics provides increased detection resolution when mapping variants that control molecular traits, including gene expression or chromatin accessibility. Additionally, single-cell population genomics reveals the cell types in which variants act and, when combined with organism-level phenotype measurements, unveils which cellular contexts impact higher-order traits. Emerging technologies, notably multiomics, can facilitate the measurement of both genetic changes and genomic traits in single cells, enabling single-cell genetic experiments. The implementation of single-cell genetics will advance the investigation of the genetic architecture of complex molecular traits and provide new experimental paradigms to study eukaryotic genetics.
Planning and implementation of participant-centric group activity on research methodology: perceptions of postgraduate medical students in physiology
Authors: Revand Ravindran , Kaur Simran , Deepak Kishore Kumar , Kochhar Kanwal Preet
Published: August 2023

Postgraduate medical education is underpinned by supervised and unsupervised learning processes. The current study incorporates an innovative approach to inculcate the basic skills of “research methodology” through three goal-oriented participant-centric group exercises, namely, 1) framing a research question, 2) critiquing a research article, and 3) writing a research protocol. The activities encompass components of self-directed learning through unsupervised group dynamics. They focus on critical thinking, acceptance, communication skills, and teamwork during supervised group dynamics.
Role of Alström syndrome 1 in the regulation of glomerular hemodynamics
Authors: Monu Sumit R. , Potter D’Anna L. , Liao Tang-Dong , King Keyona Nicole , Ortiz Pablo A.
Published: August 2023

ALMS1 is a novel protein involved in regulating tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) sensitivity, glomerular capillary pressure, and blood pressure, and its dysfunction may reduce renal function and cause glomerular damage.
Effects of a mitochondrial-targeted ubiquinol on vascular function and exercise capacity in chronic kidney disease: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Kirkman Danielle L. , Stock Joseph M. , Shenouda Ninette , Bohmke Natalie J. , Kim Youngdeok , Kidd Jason , Townsend Raymond R. , Edwards David G.
Published: August 2023

In this randomized controlled pilot study, we investigated the effects of a mitochondria-targeted ubiquinol (MitoQ) on vascular function and exercise capacity in chronic kidney disease. Our novel findings showed that 4-wk supplementation of MitoQ was well tolerated and improved macrovascular endothelial function, arterial hemodynamics, and microvascular function in patients with stage 3–4 chronic kidney disease. Our mechanistic findings also suggest that MitoQ improved microvascular function in part by reducing the NADPH oxidase contribution to vascular dysfunction.
Study on Dynamic Amplification Coefficient of U-Shaped Girder Based on Vehicle-Bridge Coupling Dynamics
Authors: Bai Tangying , Li Hui , Tian Yu , Chen Yipeng , Wen Yudong , Xia Chaoyi
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a vehicle-bridge coupling dynamic model is established considering the vertical wheel-rail tight contact and the lateral simplified wheel-rail creeping. Through the site test and the numerical calculation, the dynamic deflections and the stresses of the U-shaped girder in the Nanjing S6 Urban Rail Transit in China are obtained, and the effectiveness of the established numerical model is verified. By changing the vehicle types and speeds, the dynamic amplification coefficients (DAFs) of the vertical deflections and the biaxial stresses at the girder bottom including the key points at the plate and section intersections are calculated. The research shows that the distribution of the lateral stresses is more complex than that of the deflection and the longitudinal stresses. Based on the calculation results considering various vehicle types, it is suggested that the DAFs of the vertical deflections and the longitudinal stresses are taken as 1.30, and the DAF of the lateral stresses remains at 1.40 as stipulated by the code. The research of this paper is to provide a reference for the structural design and size optimization of the U-shaped girders for urban rail transit.
Quality Control of 11 Cannabinoids by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS)
Authors: Duzan Ashraf , Reinken Desiree , Basti Mufeed M.
Published: August 2023

Objective. Cannabinoid extraction from Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) for nonmedical purposes has become popular in the United States. Concerns, however, have been raised regarding the accuracy of the labels for cannabinoid levels in the commercial products. Methods. In this study, we developed rapid, sensitive, selective, accurate, and validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the quantification of cannabinoids. The methods are for determining 11 cannabinoids in cannabis (hemp) extracted in oil form, and we investigated the accuracy of the labeling and thermal stability regarding the cannabinoids on 17 oil cannabis samples. Results. In the UPLC chromatogram, we see a good resolution and there is no matrix effect and the accuracy were 98.2% to 102.6%, and the precision was 0.52%–8.18%. The linearity of the calibration curves in methanol was with a regression r2 ≥ 0.99. The lowest of detection (LOD) was 5–25 ng/mL, and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 10–50 ng/mL. The study showed that only 30% of the commercial samples were within the acceptable range of +/−10% compared to the labeled ingredient concentrations. The thermal stability test profile showed a change in the concentration of cannabinoids in each sample at 37°C for one week, with an average loss of cannabinoids up to 15%. Conclusion. The validated method proved to be selective, accurate, and precise, with acceptable linearity within the calibration range with no matrix effect. The stability profile data indicated that high temperatures could change the quality of commercial samples.