bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superhydrophobic wrinkled structures constructed on polyester fabrics treated by plasma
Authors: Tian Ying , Xu Shaofeng , Zhang Hao , Wang Wei , Yu Dan , Shi Jianjun , Guo Ying
Published: November 2023

The controllability of wrinkled structures is a crucial issue. In this study, inspired by caterpillars, we successfully impart superhydrophobic (SH) properties to fabrics using a two‐step method to prepare wrinkled structures. Relatively controlled and ordered micron‐sized circular and labyrinthine wrinkled structures are created on polyester fabrics by promoting the cross‐linking of polydimethylsiloxane under the action of argon plasma with mechanical stretch‐release properties and thermal expansion shrinkage. The wrinkled structures improve the mechanical stability of the SH fabrics, with the water contact angle remaining above 150° after 4000 rubbing cycles.
Performance characteristics of nitramine‐based gun propellants with TEGDN as energetic plasticizer
Authors: Lin Yi‐Hsien , Chen Syuan‐Yu , Yang Tsung‐Mao , Yeh Tsao‐Fa
Published: November 2023

This study mainly explored the performance characteristics of nitramine‐based (NB) gun propellants using TEGDN as an energetic plasticizer by experimental method. Three series of NB gun propellant samples with RDX, HMX or CL‐20 were prepared referring to the formulation of JA2 gun propellant. Their thermochemical characteristics, explosion heat, chemical stability and compatibility, impact, friction and electrostatic spark sensitivities, and compressive strength were determined by various instruments. The experimental results indicated that the NB gun propellant samples with RDX have lower decomposition temperature, and those with CL‐20 have higher thermogravimetric loss. Three series of NB gun propellant samples have good chemical stability and compatibility, and their explosion heat is close to that of JA2 gun propellant, but their sensitivity is lower than that of JA2 gun propellant. The maximum stress of three series of NB gun propellant samples decreases with increasing cyclic nitramine (RDX, HMX or CL‐20) content, and their compressive strength is better than that of JA2 gun propellant.
Misgav‐Ladach or modified Misgav‐Ladach versus Pfannenstiel‐Kerr methods for cesarean deliveries: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bourdakos Natalie E. , Abdulsalam Fatma A. M. , Macaron Marie Michele , Nasser Maya L. , Yap Nathanael , Matar Reem H. , Adra Maamoun , Nakanishi Hayato , Than Christian A. , Arulkumaran Sir Sabaratnam
Published: November 2023

Background

Caesarean sections (CSs) constitute a large proportion of fetal deliveries, yet no consensus exists on optimal surgical method.

Objectives

To investigate the safety and efficacy of the Pfannenstiel‐Kerr method (PKM) in comparison to Misgav‐Ladach method (MLM) and Modified Misgav‐Ladach method (MMLM) for CS.

Search Strategy

Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, CiNAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from database inception to March 2023.

Selection Criteria

Prospective studies comparing MLM with PKM or MMLM with PKM.

Data Collection and Analysis

Three authors independently conducted data extraction and assessed quality. Pooled means and proportions were analyzed using inverse variance and Mantel‐Haenszel methods.

Main Results

Twenty‐seven studies with 15 251 patients, met the selection criteria. Both MLM (mean difference [MD]: −12.09 min, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −14.40, −9.77, Tau2 = 16.79, I2 = 97%), (MD: −125.98 mL, 95% CI: −172.13, −79.83, Tau2 = 3458.59, I2 = 87%) and MMLM (MD: −11.38 min, 95% CI: −14.72, −8.04, Tau2 = 30.56, I2 = 100%), (MD: −62.61 mL, 95% CI: −103.13, −22.09, Tau2 = 1451.35, I2 = 92%) demonstrated shorter operative time and decreased blood loss, respectively, compared to PKM. Similarly, both MLM (MD: −1.70 min, 95% CI: −2.26, −1.14, Tau2 = 0.51, I2 = 97%), (MD: −0.77 d, 95% CI: −1.35, −0.19, Tau2 = 0.60, I2 = 98%) and MMLM (MD: −2.80 min, 95% CI: −3.89, −1.70, Tau2 = 1.74, I2 = 100%), (MD: −0.58 d, 95% CI: −1.00, −0.17, Tau2 = 0.29, I2 = 100%) demonstrated shorter fetal extraction time and length of hospital stay, respectively, compared to PKM.

Conclusions

MLM and MMLM should be considered safe and effective alternative approaches to CSs.
Interfacial Plasticization Strategy Enabling a Long‐Cycle‐Life Solid‐State Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Zhang Zhihao , Zhang Ming , Wu Jintian , Hu Xin , Fu Bowen , Zhang Xingwei , Luo Bin , Khan Kashif , Fang Zixuan , Xu Ziqiang , Wu Mengqiang
Published: November 2023

The limited ionic conductivity and unstable interface due to poor solid–solid interface pose significant challenges to the stable cycling of solid‐state batteries (SSBs). Herein, an interfacial plasticization strategy is proposed by introducing a succinonitrile (SN)‐based plastic curing agent into the polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based composite polymer electrolytes (CPE) interface. The SN at the interface strongly plasticizes the PAN in the CPE, which reduces the crystallinity of the PAN drastically and enables the CPE to obtain a low modulus surface, but it still maintains a high modulus internally. The reduced crystallinity of PAN provides more amorphous regions, which are favorable for Li+ transport. The gradient modulus structure not only ensures intimate interfacial contact but also favors the suppression of Li dendrites growth. Consequently, the interfacial plasticized CPE (SF‐CPE) obtains a high ionic conductivity of 4.8 × 10−4 S cm−1 as well as a high Li+ transference number of 0.61. The Li–Li symmetric cell with SF‐CPE can cycle for 1000 h at 0.1 mA cm−2, the LiFeO4 (LFP)‐Li full‐cell demonstrates a high capacity retention of 86.1% after 1000 cycles at 1 C, and the LiCoO2 (LCO)‐Li system also exhibits an excellent cycling performance. This work provides a novel strategy for long‐life solid‐state batteries.
Dual‐Targeted Graphitic Cascade Nanozymes for Recognition and Treatment of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Deng Hui , Zhang Yi , Cai Xinqi , Yin Zhiwei , Yang Yanxia , Dong Qian , Qiu Ye , Chen Zhuo
Published: November 2023

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the major etiological factor of a variety of gastric diseases. However, the treatment of H. pylori is challenged by the destruction of targeted drugs by gastric acid and pepsin. Herein, a dual‐targeted cascade catalytic nanozyme PtCo@Graphene@Hemin‐2(L‐arginine) (PtCo@G@H2A) is designed for the treatment of H. pylori. The dual‐targeting ability of PtCo@G@H2A is derived from directly targeting the receptor protein of H. pylori through hemin and responding to the acidic environment to cause charge reversal (protonation of L‐arginine) to capture H. pylori, achieving efficient targeting effect. Compared with the single‐targeting strategy relying on hemin, the dual‐targeting strategy can greatly improve the targeting rate, achieving an increase of 850% targeting rate. At the concentration of NaHCO3 in intestinal fluid, the surface potential of PtCo@G@H2A can be quickly restored to avoid side effects. Meanwhile, PtCo@G@H2A has pH‐responsive oxidase‐like activity, which can generate nitric oxide (NO) through a cascade catalytic process that first generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) with oxygen, and further oxidizes L‐arginine through ROS, realizing a superior acid‐selective bactericidal effect. Overall, it proposes a promising strategy for the treatment of H. pylori that maintains high targeting and therapeutic effects in the environment of gastric acid and pepsin.
Confined Synthesis of Dual‐Atoms Within Pores of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Yang Xiubei , Li Xuewen , Liu Minghao , Yang Shuai , Xu Qing , Zeng Gaofeng
Published: November 2023

Dual‐atom catalysts exhibit higher reactivity and selectivity than the single‐atom catalysts. The pyrolysis of bimetal salt precursors is the most typical method for synthesizing dual‐atomic catalysts; however, the finiteness of bimetal salts limits the variety of dual‐atomic catalysts. In this study, a confined synthesis strategy for synthesizing dual‐atomic catalysts is developed. Owing to the in situ synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks in the pores of covalent organic frameworks (COFs), the migration and aggregation of metal atoms are suppressed adequately during the pyrolysis process. The resultant catalyst contains abundant Zn─Co dual atomic sites with 2.8 wt.% Zn and 0.5 wt.% Co. The catalyst exhibits high reactivity toward oxygen reduction reaction with a half‐wave potential of 0.86 V, which is superior to that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst. Theoretical calculations reveal that the Zn atoms in the Zn─Co dual atomic sites promote the formation of intermediate OOH*, and thus contribute to high catalytic performance. This study provides new insights into the design of dual‐atom catalysts using COFs.
Soap Film Transfer Printing for Ultrathin Electronics
Authors: Che Lixuan , Hu Xiaoguang , Xu Hechen , Liu Yuanbo , Lv Cunjing , Kang Zhan , Wu Mengxi , Wen Rongfu , Wu Huaping , Cui Jiayi , Li Kun , Qi Guangliang , Luo Yangjun , Ma Xuehu , Sun Feiyi , Li Ming , Liu Junshan
Published: November 2023

Flexible and stretchable electronics have attractive applications inaccessible to conventional rigid electronics. However, the mainstream transfer printing techniques have challenges for electronic films in terms of thickness and size and limitations for target substrates in terms of curvature, depth, and interfacial adhesion. Here a facile, damage‐free, and contamination‐free soap film transfer printing technique is reported that enables the wrinkle‐free transfer of ultrathin electronic films, precise alignment in a transparent manner, and conformal and adhesion‐independent printing onto various substrates, including those too topographically and adhesively challenging by existing methods. In principle, not only the pattern, resolution, and thickness of transferred films, but also the curvature, depth, and adhesion of target substrates are unlimited, while the size of transferred films can be as high as meter‐scale. To demonstrate the capabilities of soap film transfer printing, pre‐fabricated ultrathin electronics with multiple patterns, single micron resolution, sub‐micron thickness, and centimeter size are conformably integrated onto the ultrathin web, ultra‐soft cotton, DVD‐R disk with the minimum radius of curvature of 131 nm, interior cavity of Klein bottle and dandelion with ultralow adhesion. The printed ultrathin sensors show superior conformabilities and robust adhesion, leading to engineering opportunities including electrocardiogram (ECG) signal acquisition and temperature measurement in aqueous environments.
Corticotropin‐releasing factor‐dopamine interactions in male and female macaque: Beyond the classic VTA
Authors: Kelly E. A. , Love T. M. , Fudge J. L.
Published: November 2023

Dopamine (DA) is involved in stress and stress‐related illnesses, including many psychiatric disorders. Corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) plays a role in stress responses and targets the ventral midbrain DA system, which is composed of DA and non‐DA cells, and divided into specific subregions. Although CRF inputs to the midline A10 nuclei (“classic VTA”) are known, in monkeys, CRF‐containing terminals are also highly enriched in the expanded A10 parabrachial pigmented nucleus (PBP) and in the A8 retrorubral field subregions. We characterized CRF‐labeled synaptic terminals on DA (tyrosine hydroxylase, TH+) and non‐DA (TH–) cell types in the PBP and A8 regions using immunoreactive electron microscopy (EM) in male and female macaques. CRF labeling was present mostly in axon terminals, which mainly contacted TH‐negative dendrites in both subregions. Most CRF‐positive terminals had symmetric profiles. In both PBP and A8, CRF symmetric (putative inhibitory) synapses onto TH‐negative dendrites were significantly greater than asymmetric (putative excitatory) profiles. This overall pattern was similar in males and females, despite shifts in the size of these effects between regions depending on sex. Because stress and gonadal hormone shifts can influence CRF expression, we also did hormonal assays over a 6‐month time period and found little variability in basal cortisol across similarly housed animals at the same age. Together our findings suggest that at baseline, CRF‐positive synaptic terminals in the primate PBP and A8 are poised to regulate DA indirectly through synaptic contacts onto non‐DA neurons.
The history of UK weather forecasting: the changing role of the central guidance forecaster. Part 8. Operational forecasting in the twenty‐first century: enhanced capabilities from nowcasting to extended range
Authors: Young Martin V. , Grahame Nick S.
Published: November 2023

High‐resolution models have brought about capabilities in forecasting that could barely have been envisaged decades ago. The same advances in computer power and atmospheric science that enabled successful high‐resolution modelling have also led to useful forecasts further into the medium range and beyond. However, there remain problems forecasting at very short range, in particular concerning convection, for which new products and techniques are being trialled at the Met Office. We examine how these latest developments present the forecaster not only with exciting opportunities, but also fresh challenges, in particular, interpreting the plethora of output now available, whilst adhering to tight operational deadlines.
Assessing the impact of environmental enrichment on behavior in understudied armadillo species: A case study
Authors: Kelly Robert , Rose Paul E.
Published: November 2023

The implementation of environmental enrichment (EE) can be effective in promoting zoo animal welfare by enhancing the performance of natural or species‐typical behaviors. Research on the effects of EE is biased towards larger mammalian species, with less charismatic species being overlooked. Armadillos are one such overlooked example. A captive environment that results in inactivity, obesity, and associated poor health can negatively affect armadillo well‐being. The aim of this study was to evaluate how the implementation of four physical object‐based EEs could positively affect the behaviors of three armadillo species, housed in four similar exhibits. Behavioral data were collected both before (baseline) and during (treatment) EE periods, alongside of visitor number and environmental temperatures. The EE comprised of a plastic ball or a cardboard tube or a cardboard box, or a scatter‐feed, and these were rotated each week of study until each exhibit had received them in turn. Despite the presence of different EE types, activity remained low throughout the study. However, results suggest that the plastic ball and cardboard box increased exploratory behaviors in the armadillos, but no overall increase in activity was noted during the scatter feed. Visitor presence had no effect on armadillo activity, and armadillos showed reduced activity with increasing environmental temperature. Overall, the use of physical object‐based EE promoted beneficial natural behaviors in zoo‐housed armadillos, but environmental conditions (i.e., temperature) also impacted armadillo activity, suggesting a complicated relationship between an enclosure's environmental variable and any behavioral husbandry measures.
Gapped interfaces in fracton models and foliated fields
Authors: Hsin Po-Shen , Luo Zhu-Xi , Malladi Ananth
Published: November 2023

Abstract

This work investigates the gapped interfaces of 3+1d fracton phases of matter using foliated gauge theories and lattice models. We analyze the gapped boundaries and gapped interfaces in X cube model, and the gapped interfaces between the X-cube model and the toric code. The gapped interfaces are either “undecorated” or “decorated”, where the “decorated” interfaces have additional Chern-Simons like actions for foliated gauge fields. We discover many new gapped boundaries and interfaces, such as (1) a gapped boundary for X-cube model where the electric lineons orthogonal to the interface become the magnetic lineons, the latter are the composite of magnetic planons; (2) a Kramers-Wannier-duality type gapped interface between the X-cube model and the toric code model from gauging planar subsystem one-form symmetry; and (3) an electromagnetic duality interface in the X-cube model that exchanges the electric and magnetic lineons.
AdS2 holography and effective QFT
Authors: Choi Sangmin , Larsen Finn
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We discuss AdS2 quantum gravity from an unconventional perspective that emphasizes bulk geometry. In our approach, AdS2 has no boundary, there are no divergences that require renormalization, and the dilaton of JT-gravity can be omitted altogether. The result is the standard Schwarzian theory. However, it may be advantageous that our derivation just relies on conventional AdS/CFT correspondence and effective quantum field theory. For example, it clarifies the symmetry breaking pattern. It also puts the non-compact AdS2 topology on the same footing as compact Riemann surfaces.
Statistics of Feynman amplitudes in ϕ4-theory
Authors: Balduf Paul-Hermann
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The amplitude of subdivergence-free logarithmically divergent Feynman graphs in ϕ4-theory in 4 spacetime dimensions is given by a single number, the Feynman period. We numerically compute the periods of 1.3 million completed graphs, this represents more than 33 million graphs contributing to the beta function. Our data set includes all primitive graphs up to 13 loops, and non-complete samples up to 18 loops, with an accuracy of ca. 4 significant digits.

We implement all known symmetries of the period in a new computer program and count them up to 14 loops. Combining the symmetries, we discover relations between periods that had been overlooked earlier. All expected symmetries are respected by the numerical values of periods.

We examine the distribution of the numerically computed Feynman periods. We confirm the leading asymptotic growth of the average period with growing loop order, up to a factor of 2. At high loop order, a limiting distribution is reached for the amplitudes near the mean. A small class of graphs, most notably the zigzags, grows significantly faster than the mean and causes the limiting distribution to have divergent moments even when normalized to unit mean. We examine the relation between the period and various properties of the underlying graphs. We confirm the strong correlation with the Hepp bound, the Martin invariant, and the number of 6-edge cuts. We find that, on average, the amplitude of planar graphs is significantly larger than that of non-planar graphs, irrespective of O(N) symmetry.

We estimate the primitive contribution to the 18-loop beta function of the O(N)-symmetric theory. We find that primitive graphs constitute a large part of the beta function in MS for L → ∞ loops. The relative contribution of planar graphs increases with growing N and decreases with growing loop order L.
Increase in complicated upper respiratory tract infection in children during the 2022/2023 winter season—a post coronavirus disease 2019 effect?
Authors: Metz Corona , Schmid Andrea , Veldhoen Simon
Published: November 2023

Background

Upper respiratory tract infections usually peak during winter months.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether imaging of complicated upper airway infection in children increased during the winter season of 2022/2023.

Materials and methods

In a retrospective study setting, pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans for evaluation of upper respiratory tract infection performed between October 2022 and April 2023 were analyzed regarding presence of the following complications: mastoiditis, abscess, phlegmon, meningitis, reactive vasculitis, and sinus vein thrombosis. Pathogen detection, surgery, and infection parameters were obtained. Data were compared with MRI and CT scans performed in the same months of the preceding five years, distinguishing between pandemic and pre-pandemic years.

Results

During the 2022/2023 winter season, the number of MRI and CT scans in children with upper airway infections, the complication rate, the rate of detected streptococcal infections, and the rate of surgery increased significantly compared to expectations based on the five prior winter seasons (allP<0.05). During the first complete pandemic winter season in Europe (2020/2021), the number of MRI and CT scans in children with upper airway infection, the complication rate, and the rates of streptococcal detection and surgery decreased significantly compared to expectations based on the pre-pandemic, the second pandemic, and the post-pandemic winter seasons (allP<0.05).

Conclusion

After a decline during the first pandemic winter season, there was a marked rebound in complicated upper airway infection in children, with a significant increase in cases during the 2022/2023 winter season compared to the pre-pandemic and pandemic years.

Graphical Abstract
Response of an Euler–Bernoulli beam subject to a stochastic disturbance
Authors: Olawale Lukman , Gao Tao , George Erwin , Lai Choi-Hong
Published: November 2023

This work concerns the stochastic analysis of the bending of a slender cantilever beam subject to an external force with the inclusion of a stochastic effect characterised by white noise. The beam deflection is governed by the classic dynamic Euler–Bernoulli equation. Its response to the stochastic external load is investigated by learning pattern from the simulation data which are collected from numerical computations of ten thousand numerical experiments, which are achieved using a finite difference method coupled with a Monte Carlo method for the uncertainty quantification. Insightful results are presented with visualisation techniques and discussed in detail. Of note, by performing regression analysis to the data, the solution is shown to follow a centred Gaussian process with a strong numerical evidence. The associated autocovariance matrix is computed using the sample data. Then, a mild solution in the probability sense for the deflection at a fixed position and a fixed time is written explicitly in a simple form. The results obtained by the finite difference scheme were also compared to the finite-element scheme and were found to be in good agreement. Unsurprisingly, the finite-element scheme was found to be much more computationally expensive compared to finite difference scheme. Hence, for such a simple structure, the stochastic analysis using the finite difference scheme is preferred. Analysis of the results also showed that some of the regression parameters converge when the number of simulations reaches five hundred and only vary subject to numerical errors of order $$10^{-6}$$

10

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6

if the number of simulations is further increased. While others converge when the number of simulations exceeds two thousand showing that depending on the level of precision required fewer than ten thousand simulations might be required.
Eating patterns in Korean adults, 1998–2018: increased energy contribution of ultra-processed foods in main meals and snacks
Authors: Jung Sukyoung , Kim Jee Young , Park Sohyun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Unfavorable changes in eating patterns over time may contribute to upward trends in chronic diseases, such as obesity. We examined 20-year trends in the percentage of energy from main meals and snacks and the food sources of each eating occasion among Korean adults.

Methods

This study used nationally representative data from the 1st, 4th, and 7th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (1998, 2007–2009, and 2016–2018) among adults aged 20–69 years (n = 29,389). Each eating occasion (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks) was defined by respondents during a 24-h dietary recall interview. To identify the food sources of each eating occasion, we used the NOVA system. The percentage of energy at each eating occasion and that from each NOVA group across survey cycles were estimated, and tests for linear trends were conducted using orthogonal polynomial contrasts in linear regression models. All analyses accounted for the complex survey design.

Results

After adjusting for age and sex, the percentage of energy from breakfast decreased from 25.0% in 1998 to 16.7% in 2018 (difference, − 8.2%; standard error [SE], 0.3), whereas that from dinner and snacks increased from 31.1 to 33.8% (difference, + 2.7%; SE, 0.4) and from 14.0 to 19.0% (difference, + 5.0%; SE, 0.5), respectively (all P < 0.001). At all eating occasions, the percentage of energy from minimally processed foods declined (difference, − 18.6% for breakfast; − 13.1% for lunch; − 21.1% for dinner; − 20.7% for snacks), while that from ultra-processed foods increased (difference, + 17.0% for breakfast; + 11.3% for lunch; + 18.0% for dinner; + 30.7% for snacks). When stratified by age, the given trends were shown to a greater extent in younger adults (< 50 years old) than in older adults (≥ 50 years old).

Conclusions

The eating patterns of Korean adults changed from 1998 to 2018, with the greatest decrease in energy intake from breakfast and the greatest increase from snacking. At all eating occasions, the contribution of minimally processed foods declined, while that of ultra-processed foods increased, especially among younger adults.
Differences in the swallowing process of newborns and healthy preterm infants: first results with a non-invasive bioimpedance and electromyography measurement system
Authors: Hübl Nicole , Riebold Benjamin , Schramm Dirk , Seidl Rainer O.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Preterm infants (PI) have difficulty coordinating sucking, swallowing and breathing, and there is a risk of aspiration. The causes of this are not yet sufficiently understood. The aim of this study was to test a novel measurement device to measure breathing and pharyngeal processes involved in swallowing externally in everyday life to identify possible differences in neonates (NB) and PI.

Methods

Forty healthy NB were studied at 4–8 weeks of age (mean: 6.7 weeks) and 20 healthy PI (mean gestational age 30.5 weeks) at postmenstrual age (PMA) 34/35 weeks (mean PMA 35.1 weeks) during a single feeding. Surface electrodes were used to measure bioimpedance and electromyography reflecting swallow-related changes in the pharynx and muscle activation of the tongue and submental muscles. A respiratory belt was combined with recording of the depth of chest movements and the occurrence of pauses in breathing.

Results

Velocity and extent of pharyngeal closure did not differ significantly across the feeding period (velocity: p=0.09, closure: p=0.17), but during the first two suck–swallow bursts PI had greater velocity (p<0.001*) and extent of pharyngeal closure (p=0.004*) than NB. The duration of swallowing phases was significantly longer in PIs (p<0.001*), their muscle activation decreased faster (p<0.001*), and they had more pauses in breathing than NBs.

Conclusions

The novel measurement device allowed, for the first time in everyday life, the measurement of factors influencing swallowing and breath–swallow coordination in NBs and PIs. PIs showed differences from NBs most likely due to differences in muscle strength and condition.
Ethics and regulation of neuronal optogenetics in the European Union
Authors: Faltus Timo , Freise Johannes , Fluck Carsten , Zillmann Hans
Published: November 2023

Neuronal optogenetics is a technique to control the activity of neurons with light. This is achieved by artificial expression of light-sensitive ion channels in the target cells. By optogenetic methods, cells that are naturally light-insensitive can be made photosensitive and addressable by illumination and precisely controllable in time and space. So far, optogenetics has primarily been a basic research tool to better understand the brain. However, initial studies are already investigating the possibility of using optogenetics in humans for future therapeutic approaches for neuronal based diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, or to promote stroke recovery. In addition, optogenetic methods have already been successfully applied to a human in an experimental setting. Neuronal optogenetics also raises ethical and legal issues, e.g., in relation to, animal experiments, and its application in humans. Additional ethical and legal questions may arise when optogenetic methods are investigated on cerebral organoids. Thus, for the successful translation of optogenetics from basic research to medical practice, the ethical and legal questions of this technology must also be answered, because open ethical and legal questions can hamper the translation. The paper provides an overview of the ethical and legal issues raised by neuronal optogenetics. In addition, considering the technical prerequisites for translation, the paper shows consistent approaches to address these open questions. The paper also aims to support the interdisciplinary dialogue between scientists and physicians on the one hand, and ethicists and lawyers on the other, to enable an interdisciplinary coordinated realization of neuronal optogenetics.
Reference values for Jamar+ digital dynamometer hand grip strength in healthy adults and in adults with non-communicable diseases or osteoarthritis: the Norwegian Tromsø study 2015–2016
Authors: Svinøy Odd-Einar , Hilde Gunvor , Bergland Astrid , Strand Bjørn Heine
Published: November 2023

Hand grip strength (HGS) is a key indicator of intrinsic capacity and has shown good predictive ability for morbidity and mortality. Reference values from normative populations are valuable, and such data from the Norwegian population are scarce. Normative values for the digital Jamar+ dynamometer are largely lacking.HGS was assessed in the Norwegian Tromsø study, survey 7 in 2015–2016 for 7824 participants (9324 invited) aged 40+ using a Jamar+ digital dynamometer, and three measurements for each hand were performed following the Southampton protocol. To account for non-response, full Tromsø population data, by age, education and sex, were collected from registry data from microdata.no, a service from Statistics Norway, and were then used as post-stratification weights, to provide standardized HGS values. HGS was higher in men than in women and inversely associated with age. Men and women with a history of non-communicable diseases had lower HGS than those without these conditions, while osteoarthritis was associated with lower HGS only among men. Lower height was associated with lower HGS, especially at younger ages in men. This article provides up-to-date references values for HGS in the community-dwelling population aged 40+ with or without osteoarthritis or non-communicable diseases, in Tromsø, Norway. These reference values will guide clinicians and researchers.
Evaluation of the PrimeFlow RNA assay as a method of detection of SARS-CoV-2 single and dual Infections
Authors: Falkenberg Shollie M. , Buckley Alexa , Boggiatto Paola
Published: November 2023

Given the implications of increased transmissibility, virulence, host range, and immune escapes of emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2, developing in vitro models that allow for detection of variants and differences in infection dynamics is important. The objective of this study, was to evaluate the PrimeFlow RNA in-situ assay as a method of detection for multiple strains of SARS-CoV-2. Evaluation of detection and infection statuses included single infections with an Alpha, Delta, or Omicron variants and dual infections with Alpha/Omicron or Delta/Omicron. RNA probes specific for the Spike protein coding region, were designed (omicron or non-omicron specific). SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in greater frequency in the Vero E6 and minimally in the fetal deer testicle cell lines by flow cytometry using this approach for viral detection of multiple variants. Most evident in the Vero E6 cells, 24 h post infection both Alpha and Delta predominated over Omicron in dual infections. This is the first report using the PrimeFlow assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 at the single-cell level and as a potential model for competition of variants utilizing infection dynamics in cell culture.
Occurrence, source apportionment, and ecological risk assessment of organophosphate esters in surface sediment from the Ogun and Osun Rivers, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Gbadamosi Muideen Remilekun , Ogunneye Adeyemi Lawrence , Jegede David Olaoluwa , Abdallah Mohamed Abou-Elwafa , Harrad Stuart
Published: November 2023

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) are synthetic chemicals widely used as e.g., flame retardants and plasticisers in various consumer products. Due to the toxicity of OPEs in aquatic ecosystems, exposure of fauna and flora to these compounds is of potential concern. In this study, the concentrations, profiles, sources, and ecological risk of eight OPEs were investigated in the sediments from the two major rivers in southwest Nigeria. Concentrations of ∑OPEs in surface sediments were in the range 13.1 – 2110 ng/g dry weight (dw) (median: 378 ng/g dw) in the Ogun River and 24.7—589 ng/g dw (median: 174 ng/g dw) in the Osun River. These concentrations are broadly within the range of those reported in surface sediment in previous studies conducted in other locations around the world. Tris (2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP) was the dominant OPE in the sediment samples with a median concentration of 337 and 126 ng/g dw for the Ogun and Osun Rivers respectively, while tri-n-butyl phosphate (TnBP) was not detected in any sample. Excluding TBOEP, the chlorinated organophosphate esters: tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), tris(2-chloro-propyl) phosphate (TCIPP), and tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) were the dominant OPEs in the Osun River, while the aryl-OPEs: triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate (EHDPP), and tri-m-tolyl phosphate (TMTP) were dominant in the Ogun River. Under a median exposure scenario, moderate ecological risk was predicted from exposure to TCIPP in the Osun River. In contrast, under a high exposure scenario, concentrations of TDCIPP (risk quotient, RQ = 5.33—5.37) constituted a high ecological risk in both rivers, with moderate risks observed for TBOEP (RQ = 0.022—0.18) and TCIPP (RQ = 0.097 – 0.16). Therefore, the risk to aquatic organisms from concomitant exposure to mixtures of OPEs in freshwater ecosystems requires further investigation.

Graphical Abstract
IFSO Consensus on Definitions and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity Management—an International Delphi Study
Authors: Salminen Paulina , Kow Lilian , Aminian Ali , Kaplan Lee M. , Nimeri Abdelrahman , Prager Gerhard , Behrens Estuardo , White Kevin P. , Shikora Scott ,   IFSO Experts Panel, Dayyeh Barham K. Abu , Alfaris Nasreen , Al Qahtani Aayeed , Andersen Barbara , Angrisani Luigi , Bashir Ahmad , Batterham Rachel L. , Behrens Estuardo , Bhandari Mohit , Bond Dale , Chevallier Jean-Marc , Cohen Ricardo V. , Dicker Dror , Fox Claudia K. , Garneau Pierre , Gawdat Khaled , Haddad Ashraf , Himpens Jacqués , Inge Thomas , Kurian Marina , Faria Silvia Leite , Macedo Guilherme , Miras Alexander Dimitri , Moize Violeta , Pattou Francois , Poggi Luis , Ponce Jaime , Ramos Almino , Rubino Francesco , Sanchez-Pernaute Andrés , Sarwer David , Sharma Arya M. , Stier Christine , Thompson Christopher , Vidal Josep , Petry Tarissa Beatrice Zanata
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This survey of international experts in obesity management was conducted to achieve consensus on standardized definitions and to identify areas of consensus and non-consensus in metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) to assist in an algorithm of clinical practice guidelines for the management of obesity.

Methods

A three-round Delphi survey with 136 statements was conducted by 43 experts in obesity management comprising 26 bariatric surgeons, 4 endoscopists, 8 endocrinologists, 2 nutritionists, 2 counsellors, an internist, and a pediatrician spanning six continents over a 2-day meeting in Hamburg, Germany. To reduce bias, voting was unanimous, and the statements were neither favorable nor unfavorable to the issue voted or evenly balanced between favorable and unfavorable. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% inter-voter agreement.

Results

Consensus was reached on all 15 essential definitional and reporting statements, including initial suboptimal clinical response, baseline weight, recurrent weight gain, conversion, and revision surgery. Consensus was reached on 95/121 statements on the type of surgical procedures favoring Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty. Moderate consensus was reached for sleeve gastrectomy single-anastomosis duodenoileostomy and none on the role of intra-gastric balloons. Consensus was reached for MBS in patients > 65 and < 18 years old, with a BMI > 50 kg/m2, and with various obesity-related complications such as type 2 diabetes, liver, and kidney disease.

Conclusions

In this survey of 43 multi-disciplinary experts, consensus was reached on standardized definitions and reporting standards applicable to the whole medical community. An algorithm for treating patients with obesity was explored utilizing a thoughtful multimodal approach.

Graphical Abstract
The interconnection between evaluated and self-assessed performance in full flight simulator training
Authors: Tuhkala Ari , Heilala Ville , Lämsä Joni , Helovuo Arto , Tynkkynen Ilkka , Lampi Emilia , Sipiläinen Katriina , Hämäläinen Raija , Kärkkäinen Tommi
Published: November 2023

This study explores potential disparities between flight instructor evaluations and pilot self-assessments in the context of full flight simulator training. Evaluated performance was based on the Competency-based Training and Assessment framework, a recent development of competency-based education within aviation. Self-assessed performance is derived from survey responses and debriefing interviews. The simulator session involves eight multi-crew pilot training graduates and eight experienced flight captains, encompassing two tasks featuring sudden technical malfucntions during flight. The flight instructor’s evaluations reveal no significant differences in pilot performance. However, disparities become apparent when pilots engaged in reflecting their performance. Novice pilots, despite perceiving both tasks as easy, exhibited an overconfidence that led them to underestimate the inherent risks. Conversely, experienced pilots demonstrated greater caution towards the risks and engaged in discussing possible hazards. Furthermore, this study highlights the challenge of designing flight simulator training that incorporates surprise elements. Pilots tend to anticipate anomalies more readily in simulator training than during actual flights. Thus, this study underscores the importance of examining how pilots reflect on their performance, complementing the assessment of observable indicators and predefined competencies.
Development and validation of a radiomics nomogram for diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Wei Mingzhu , Zhang Yaping , Zhao Li , Zhao Zhenhua
Published: November 2023

Objective

We aimed to develop a radiomics nomogram based on computed tomography (CT) scan features and high-throughput radiomics features for diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

Methods

In this study, 507 eligible patients with PE (207 malignant and 300 benign) were collected retrospectively. Patients were divided into training (n = 355) and validation cohorts (n = 152). Radiomics features were extracted from initial unenhanced CT images. CT scan features of PE were also collected. We used the variance threshold algorithm and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) to select optimal features to build a radiomics model for predicting the nature of PE. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyzes were used to identify significant independent factors associated with MPE, which were then included in the radiomics nomogram.

Results

A total of four CT features were retained as significant independent factors, including massive PE, obstructive atelectasis or pneumonia, pleural thickening > 10 mm, and pulmonary nodules and/or masses. The radiomics nomogram constructed from 13 radiomics parameters and four CT features showed good predictive efficacy in training cohort [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.926, 95% CI 0.894, 0.951] and validation cohort (AUC = 0.916, 95% CI 0.860, 0.955). The calibration curve and decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram helped differentiate MPE from benign pleural effusion (BPE) in clinical practice.

Conclusion

This study presents a nomogram model incorporating CT scan features and radiomics features to help physicians differentiate MPE from BPE.
A machine learning-based approach to predict groundwater nitrate susceptibility using field measurements and hydrogeological variables in the Nonsan Stream Watershed, South Korea
Authors: Lee Jae Min , Ko Kyung-Seok , Yoo Keunje
Published: November 2023

Identifying and predicting the nitrate inflow and distribution characteristics of groundwater is critical for groundwater contamination control and management in rural mixed-land-use areas. Several groundwater nitrate prediction models have been developed; in particular, a nitrate concentration model that uses dissolved ions in groundwater as an input variable can produce accurate results. However, obtaining sufficient chemical data from a target area remains challenging. We tested whether machine learning models can effectively determine nitrate contamination using field-measured data (pH, electrical conductivity, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and redox potential) and existing geographic information system (GIS) data (lithology, land cover, and hydrogeological properties) from the Nonsan Stream Watershed in South Korea, an area where nitrate contamination occurs owing to intensive agricultural activities. In total, 183 groundwater samples from different wells, mixed municipal sites, and agricultural activities were used. The results indicated that among the four machine learning models (artificial neural network (ANN), classification and regression tree (CART), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM)), the RF (R2: 0.74; RMSE: 3.5) and SVM (R2: 0.80; RMSE: 2.8) achieved the highest prediction accuracy and smallest error in all groundwater parameter estimates. Land cover, aquifer type, and soil drainage were the primary RF and SVM model input variables, representing agricultural activity-related and hydrogeological infiltration effects. Our research found that in rural areas with limited hydro-chemical data, RF and SVM models could be used to identify areas at high risk of nitrate contamination using spatial variability, GIS-aided visualization, and easily accessible field-measured groundwater quality data.
Comparison of shock-buffet dynamics on a supercritical airfoil with and without a pitching degree of freedom
Authors: Scharnowski Sven , Accorinti Alessandro , Korthäuer Tim , Kähler Christian J.
Published: November 2023

With the goal of understanding the dynamics of the transonic flow around an OAT15A airfoil model, velocity field measurements were performed by means of high repetition rate particle image velocimetry. The experiments were performed at free-stream Mach numbers from 0.70 to 0.77 and at a Reynolds number of Re$$_\textrm{c}\approx 3\times 10^6$$

c

≈
3
×

10
6

. The variation of the Mach number allowed for an investigation in the pre-buffet, buffet and close to buffet-offset regime. A fixed version and a spring mounted version of the model were used to investigate the effect of the pitching degree of freedom on the shock buffet. The dominant structural frequency of the airfoil’s pitch motion was adjusted to be in the range of the natural buffet frequency of the flow with inhibited pitching motion of the model. Flow field measurements with an acquisition rate of $$4\,$$

4

 kHz allowed for the detection and analysis of the shape and the motion of the compression shock. With released pitching degree of freedom, shock buffet started at a lower Mach number and showed a larger amplitude for the shock oscillation. Furthermore, the shock motion appeared more harmonic compared to the model without pitching degree of freedom. For a Mach number of $$M_\infty =0.72$$

M
∞

=
0.72

and 0.74, the change of the angle of attack and the shock location correlated strongly with each other. From the measurements, the phase lag between both quantities during the coupled motion could be determined. From the correlation of the shock position at different heights, it can be concluded that the shock motion is controlled by events at the shock foot. The movement of the upper shock part is only a reaction to the movement of the lower part.
Weiterentwicklung der Lebertransplantation durch Maschinenperfusion
Authors: Krendl Felix J. , Gasteiger Silvia , Oberhuber Rupert , Cardini Benno , Schneeberger Stefan
Published: November 2023

Der Mangel an geeigneten Spenderlebern hat das Interesse an der Maschinenperfusion verstärkt. Während die SCS (Static-Cold-Storage)-Präservation für optimale Spenderorgane ausreichend ist, sind marginale Organe empfindlicher gegenüber Ischämie-Reperfusionsschäden. Es gibt verschiedene Maschinenperfusionstechniken die aktuell zur klinischen Anwendung kommen: Die hypotherme oxygenierte Maschinenperfusion (HOPE) fokussiert auf mitochondriale Regeneration und reduziert Reperfusionsschäden und Gallengangkomplikationen; die normotherme Maschinenperfusion (NMP) verlängert die Präservationszeit und ermöglicht eine Prüfung der Organfunktionsfähigkeit. Mit Hilfe der NMP lässt sich die Präservationszeit erheblich verlängern, wodurch Lebertransplantationen besser planbar werden. Dies ist besonders bei chirurgisch komplexen Fällen sehr hilfreich. Auch während der COVID-19-Pandemie zeigten sich die Vorteile der NMP in Bezug auf Zeit und Logistik. Eine Kombination von HOPE und NMP scheint am vielversprechendsten zu sein, um das Potenzial der Maschinenperfusion voll auszunutzen.
Quantifying AMPARs with 99mTc-omberacetam: a novel diagnostic radiotracer for ischemic stroke
Authors: Azhari Hala F. , Hashem Abdelgawad M.
Published: November 2023

Synaptic trafficking of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) is thought to cause excitotoxicity brain ischemia. However, given the current inability to quantify AMPARs density in live human brains, clinical translation has been limited. In this study, in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the factors affecting omberacetam drug labeling with technetium-99m as a potential radiotracer of AMPARs in brain imaging. Healthy Swiss albino mice (adult male; n = 25; weight 25–30 g; age 10–14 weeks) underwent Shimadzu modeling, followed by a random intravenous injection of 99mTc-omberacetam (0.2 mL, 3.7 MBq), which was subsequently radiosynthesized in the brain-targeting AMPARs utilizing a single-photon emission computed tomography nuclear neuroimaging. Under optimal conditions, 99mTc-omberacetam with a highest radiochemical purity of 98.9% was obtained with an optimum binding (energy = − 82.3 kcal/mol) to brain AMPARs and was stable in human serum for > 24 h. A high brain uptake was noted within a time window of 15–60 min. At 5 min, this signal uptake was 8.9 ± 0.1% of the injected dose per gram (ID/g), crossing the blood–brain barrier and surpassing the uptake of commercially available brain perfusion imaging agents such as 125I-iododomperidone (5.6% ID/g at 5 min) in mice, 99mTc-HMPAO (2.25% ID/g at 2 min) in rats, and 99mTc-ECD (4.7% ID/g at 6 h) in humans. This study is the first to show the feasibility of 99mTc-omberacetam radiotracing for human brain imaging. This could be a novel diagnostic and therapeutic neuroprotective target for the hyperacute stage of ischemic stroke.

Graphical abstract