bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Space food packaging: A review of its past, present and future materials and technologies
Authors: Evans Robert
Published: May 2023

20 July 1969: approximately 240 000 mi away from Earth, two astronauts named Neil Armstrong and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. landed on the moon. 20 October 2020: approximately 200 million miles away from Earth, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) managed to land a spacecraft on an asteroid named Bennu and collect a sample from its surface. Sometime 2030s: approximately 34 million miles away from Earth, NASA is looking to successfully send humans to Mars. So, why is all this important? The effects of climate change are apparent on Earth today—temperatures around the world higher than normal, a rising sea level, natural disasters increasing in frequency and strength—and these effects continue to become ever more apparent as time goes on; thus, there is a need for solutions, which outer space has become one that is simultaneously grown in seriousness over the years. Colonizing space, traveling to distant planets and inhabiting them, these are definite possibilities for humans, as evidenced above by the remarkable progress NASA has made; however, one of the biggest obstacles NASA is dealing with in bringing those possibilities into fruition is their food system—all the actors and interactions within a food chain, meaning those who grow the food, those who process the food, those who transport the food, those who sell the food and finally, those who consume and dispose of the food. The shelf life of NASA's current food system will not last past 18 months in the unique environment of space, where there are the hazards of galactic cosmic rays, solar radiation and microgravity. Recognizing this—essentially recognizing that achieving such aforementioned feats would require a food system that can last much longer—NASA and others have constantly been researching and experimenting with their food system, ranging from how its food is grown, processed and preserved to the focus of this literature review: how it is packaged. Henceforth, the purpose of this literature review is to chronologically look at and discuss the major materials and technologies used in NASA's space food packaging of the past—the 1960s–1970s—look at and discuss those of the present—the 1980s–2000s—and finally, look ahead and discuss those of the future, entailing materials and technologies currently being worked on or considered for future use in NASA space missions. At that, here's to 60 years of activity in space.
Achieving green environment in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa economies: Do composite risk index, green innovation, and environmental policy stringency matter?
Authors: Udeagha Maxwell Chukwudi , Muchapondwa Edwin
Published: May 2023

The Paris Accord has brought the world's governments together to begin implementing plans for their individual economies to become carbon‐free. The goal of attaining low‐carbon growth is not, however, as simple as it would appear since the world economies, which are dependent on fossil fuels and are fast expanding, are concentrated on accelerating economic expansion at the price of worse environmental effects. In light of this, the study aims to investigate the combined effects of the composite risk index (CRI), green innovation (GINOV), and environmental policy stringency (EPS) on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the context of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) countries while controlling for gross domestic product (GDP) and renewable energy research and development (RERD) over the period from 1960 to 2020. The research addresses the problems of cross‐sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity in the data set used for analysis by using the second‐generation cross‐sectionally augmented autoregressive distributed lags framework to evaluate long‐ and short‐run models. The corresponding findings show cointegrating relationships between the research variables. Additionally, the results of the regression demonstrate that EPS, GINOV, and RERD contribute to a long‐term decrease in CO2 emissions. CRI and GDP, however, increase CO2 emissions. It is suggested that environmental policies be tightened, GINOV and RERD expenditures be promoted, political stability and institutional quality be maintained, and clean economic growth strategies be adopted in order to help the BRICS countries reduce sectoral risks, create a sustainable environment, and decarbonize their respective economies.
Review of the Scalable Core–Shell Synthesis Methods: The Improvements of Li‐Ion Battery Electrochemistry and Cycling Stability
Authors: Tubtimkuna Suchakree , Danilov Dmitri L. , Sawangphruk Montree , Notten Peter H. L.
Published: May 2023

The demand for lithium‐ion batteries has significantly increased due to the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). However, these batteries have a limited lifespan, which needs to be improved for the long‐term use needs of EVs expected to be in service for 20 years or more. In addition, the capacity of lithium‐ion batteries is often insufficient for long‐range travel, posing challenges for EV drivers. One approach that has gained attention is using core–shell structured cathode and anode materials. That approach can provide several benefits, such as extending the battery lifespan and improving capacity performance. This paper reviews various challenges and solutions by the core–shell strategy adopted for both cathodes and anodes. The highlight is scalable synthesis techniques, including solid phase reactions like the mechanofusion process, ball‐milling, and spray‐drying process, which are essential for pilot plant production. Due to continuous operation with a high production rate, compatibility with inexpensive precursors, energy and cost savings, and an environmentally friendly approach that can be carried out at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperatures. Future developments in this field may focus on optimizing core–shell materials and synthesis techniques for improved Li‐ion battery performance and stability.
Harnessing Solar Energy Towards Synergistic Photothermal Catalytic Oxidation of Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Agbovhimen Elimian Ehiaghe , Zhang Meng , Sun Yong , He Jun , Jia Hongpeng
Published: May 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are prominent air pollutants, hazardous to human health and the environment. Sunlight is a sustainable energy source capable of meeting the demands for heterogeneous catalysis. Photothermal catalysis has emerged as an energy‐efficient technology for VOCs oxidation by merging the advantages of thermochemistry and photocatalysis. This review examines the advantages of the photothermal catalytic system, such as the absorption and conversion of solar light, accelerated reaction rates, and improved product selectivity. The photothermal catalytic system is clearly categorized according to the significant contributions of light and thermal energy to the reaction. As a result of the direct conversion of photons into thermal energy to surpass the light‐off temperature and drive the catalytic reaction, an ample discussion of light‐induced thermal catalytic processes is presented. Furthermore, the participation of the localized surface plasmon resonance effect and oxygen vacancies in the surface reaction under irradiation and thermal energy are spotlighted. A comprehensive discussion is provided for the various photothermal active nanostructures. The underlying superior resistance mechanism to water vapour and coke formation as well as high oxygen concentrations in photothermal catalytic system are emphatically highlighted. Finally, current research trends and prospects are discussed.
Interpretable Machine Learning Model for the Highly Accurate Prediction of Efficiency of Ternary Organic Solar Cells Based on Nonfullerene Acceptor using Effective Molecular Descriptors
Authors: Lee Min-Hsuan
Published: May 2023

The challenge of accurately predicting the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of ternary organic solar cells (OSCs) based on a nonfullerene acceptor holds the key to the rational design of a ternary blend. Developing an effective descriptor with experimentally measurable and theoretically computable signatures for accurately predicting the PCE of OSCs based on nonfullerene acceptors is an important step toward achieving this goal. Herein, the electronegativity is first proposed as an effective molecular descriptor for predicting the PCE of OSCs based on nonfullerene acceptors and further analyzing the underlying relationships between material property and device performance. Remarkably, the high accuracy (Coefficient of Determination) > 0.9) can be achieved by constructing the machine learning model with a fewer number of descriptors. In addition, the SHapley Additive exPlanations approach is introduced to provide both local and global interpretations for extracting a deep understanding of complex molecular descriptor–PCE relationships. These results in this study validate the effectiveness of the molecular descriptor, providing an efficient modality for rapid and precise screening of high‐performance ternary materials.
Characterization of NORM‐type scales from the oil industry through spectrometry techniques and multivariate analysis
Authors: Izidório Ana Carolina A. C. , Santos Ramon S. , Gama Filho Hamilton S. , Anjos Marcelino J. , Leitão Roberta G. , Lopes Ricardo T. , Oliveira Davi F.
Published: May 2023

The oil industries have as main problem in their activities of formation of scales containing material of the naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) type on the internal walls of pipes and in some equipment that make up the process lines plant. This NORM can contribute to the exposure of workers during routine activities, either through external exposure, or internal, through inhalation or ingestion. Considering the concern with occupational exposure, environmental impacts and the plant's production capacity, resulting from the formation of the scales, this work characterized samples of scale by means of techniques of x‐ray fluorescence (XRF), x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and high‐resolution gamma spectrometry. The XRF showed concentrations of P, S, Cl, Ca, Mn, Fe, Sr, and Ba as the main elements of the sample; the XRD showed calcite and barite as predominant composition; in the gamma analysis, the concentrations of the activities varied from 104.6 to 1112.6 Bq kg−1 for 226Ra and from 16.4 to 385.2 Bq kg−1 for 228Ra, within the limits set by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The indices radium equivalent activity, absorbed dose rate and annual effective dose indices varied from 128.4 to 1665.9 Bq kg1; 58.4 to 748.0 nGy h−1 and 0.072 to 0.918 mSv y−1, respectively. Only the effective dose values ​​were within the limits established by United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, reinforcing the need for continuous monitoring on the platforms and the importance of keeping the radiological protection plan up to date, since the mobilization of NORM increases proportionally with the useful life of the production wells, thus increasing exposure indices.
Correction to: General Concepts in Ecology
Authors: Huntley Brian John
Published: May 2023

The original version of the book was inadvertently published with incorrect figure in chapter 9. Corrections to the Previously Published Version has been updated.
Figure 9.3 online version of the image has been updated.

The correction chapter and the book have been updated with change.
Multi-fair Capacitated Students-Topics Grouping Problem
Authors: Le Quy Tai , Friege Gunnar , Ntoutsi Eirini
Published: May 2023

Group work is a prevalent activity in educational settings, where students are often divided into topic-specific groups based on their preferences. The grouping should reflect students’ aspirations as much as possible. Usually, the resulting groups should also be balanced in terms of protected attributes like gender, as studies suggest that students may learn better in mixed-gender groups. Moreover, to allow a fair workload across the groups, the cardinalities of the different groups should be balanced. In this paper, we introduce a multi-fair capacitated (MFC) grouping problem that fairly partitions students into non-overlapping groups while ensuring balanced group cardinalities (with a lower and an upper bound), and maximizing the diversity of members regarding the protected attribute. To obtain the MFC grouping, we propose three approaches: a greedy heuristic approach, a knapsack-based approach using vanilla maximal knapsack formulation, and an MFC knapsack approach based on group fairness knapsack formulation. Experimental results on a real dataset and a semi-synthetic dataset show that our proposed methods can satisfy students’ preferences and deliver balanced and diverse groups regarding cardinality and the protected attribute, respectively.
The classical dynamics of gauge theories in the deep infrared
Authors: Flanagan Éanna É. , Shehzad Ibrahim
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Gauge and gravitational theories in asymptotically flat settings possess infinitely many conserved charges associated with large gauge transformations or diffeomorphisms that are nontrivial at infinity. To what extent do these charges constrain the scattering in these theories? It has been claimed in the literature that the constraints are trivial, due to a decoupling of hard and soft sectors for which the conserved charges constrain only the dynamics in the soft sector. We show that the argument for this decoupling fails due to the failure in infinite dimensions of a property of symplectic geometry which holds in finite dimensions. Specializing to electromagnetism coupled to a massless charged scalar field in four dimensional Minkowski spacetime, we show explicitly that the two sectors are always coupled using a perturbative classical computation of the scattering map. Specifically, while the two sectors are uncoupled at low orders, they are coupled at quartic order via the electromagnetic memory effect. This coupling cannot be removed by adjusting the definitions of the hard and soft sectors (which includes the classical analog of dressing the hard degrees of freedom). We conclude that the conserved charges yield nontrivial constraints on the scattering of hard degrees of freedom. This conclusion should also apply to gravitational scattering and to black hole formation and evaporation.

In developing the classical scattering theory, we show that generic Lorenz gauge solutions fail to satisfy the matching condition on the vector potential at spatial infinity proposed by Strominger to define the field configuration space, and we suggest a way to remedy this. We also show that when soft degrees of freedom are present, the order at which nonlinearities first arise in the scattering map is second order in Lorenz gauge, but can be third order in other gauges.
A counterexample to the CFT convexity conjecture
Authors: Sharon Adar , Watanabe Masataka
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Motivated by the weak gravity conjecture, [Phys. Rev. D104 (2021) 126005] conjectured that in any CFT, the minimal operator dimension at fixed charge is a convex function of the charge. In this letter we construct a counterexample to this convexity conjecture, which is a clockwork-like model with some modifications to make it a weakly-coupled CFT. We also discuss further possible applications of this model and some modified versions of the conjecture which are not ruled out by the counterexample.
Probabilistic Descriptions of Fluid Flow: A Survey
Authors: Gallenmüller Dennis , Wagner Raphael , Wiedemann Emil
Published: May 2023

Fluids can behave in a highly irregular, turbulent way. It has long been realised that, therefore, some weak notion of solution is required when studying the fundamental partial differential equations of fluid dynamics, such as the compressible or incompressible Navier–Stokes or Euler equations. The standard concept of weak solution (in the sense of distributions) is still a deterministic one, as it gives exact values for the state variables (like velocity or density) for almost every point in time and space. However, observations and mathematical theory alike suggest that this deterministic viewpoint has certain limitations. Thus, there has been an increased recent interest in the mathematical fluids community in probabilistic concepts of solution. Due to the considerable number of such concepts, it has become challenging to navigate the corresponding literature, both classical and recent. We aim here to give a reasonably concise yet fairly detailed overview of probabilistic formulations of fluid equations, which can roughly be split into measure-valued and statistical frameworks. We discuss both approaches and their relationship, as well as the interrelations between various statistical formulations, focusing on the compressible and incompressible Euler equations.
Rezidivierende Livedo-artige Hautveränderungen nach einer Vektor-basierten COVID-19-Impfung
Authors: Kränke Teresa , Cerpes Urban , Legat Franz , Arbab Emad , Kränke Birger
Published: May 2023

Die COVID-19-Pandemie stellt das weltweite Gesundheitssystem seit 2020 vor einzigartige Herausforderungen. Faszinierend und v. a. von besonderer gesundheitspolitischer Bedeutung ist es, dass es kaum 1 Jahr nach den ersten Berichten über COVID-19-Infektionen mehreren Forschungsgruppen gelungen ist, Impfstoffe gegen das Coronavirus zu entwickeln. Derzeit sind 3 Klassen von Impfstoffen verfügbar (mRNA-Impfstoffe, Vektorimpfstoffe und Impfstoffe, die das gesamte inaktivierte Virus enthalten). Wir berichten über eine Patientin, die kurz nach der ersten Gabe des Coronaimpfstoffes von AstraZeneca/Oxford (ChAdOx1) rötliche, teilweise urtikarielle Hautveränderungen am rechten Arm und der rechten Flanke entwickelte. Die Läsionen waren flüchtig, rezidivierten allerdings in loco und anderen Lokalisationen über einige Tage. Das klinische Bild war ungewöhnlich. Eine Unterscheidung zwischen einer – für uns am ehesten wahrscheinlichen – Impfstoff-getriggerten akuten Urtikaria und einem urtikariellen Exanthem war uns nicht sicher möglich.
Modulation of cellular transcriptome and proteome composition by azidohomoalanine—implications on click chemistry–based secretome analysis
Authors: Kirschner Friederike , Arnold-Schild Danielle , Leps Christian , Łącki Mateusz Krzysztof , Klein Matthias , Chen Yannic , Ludt Annekathrin , Marini Federico , Kücük Can , Stein Lara , Distler Ute , Sielaff Malte , Michna Thomas , Riegel Kristina , Rajalingam Krishnaraj , Bopp Tobias , Tenzer Stefan , Schild Hansjörg
Published: May 2023

The analysis of the secretome provides important information on proteins defining intercellular communication and the recruitment and behavior of cells in specific tissues. Especially in the context of tumors, secretome data can support decisions for diagnosis and therapy. The mass spectrometry–based analysis of cell-conditioned media is widely used for the unbiased characterization of cancer secretomes in vitro. Metabolic labeling using azide-containing amino acid analogs in combination with click chemistry facilitates this type of analysis in the presence of serum, preventing serum starvation-induced effects. The modified amino acid analogs, however, are less efficiently incorporated into newly synthesized proteins and may perturb protein folding. Combining transcriptome and proteome analysis, we elucidate in detail the effects of metabolic labeling with the methionine analog azidohomoalanine (AHA) on gene and protein expression. Our data reveal that 15–39% of the proteins detected in the secretome displayed changes in transcript and protein expression induced by AHA labeling. Gene Ontology (GO) analyses indicate that metabolic labeling using AHA leads to induction of cellular stress and apoptosis-related pathways and provide first insights on how this affects the composition of the secretome on a global scale.

Key messages

Azide-containing amino acid analogs affect gene expression profiles.

Azide-containing amino acid analogs influence cellular proteome.

Azidohomoalanine labeling induces cellular stress and apoptotic pathways.

Secretome consists of proteins with dysregulated expression profiles.
Cooling channel free surface optimisation for additively manufactured casting tools
Authors: Zeng Tongyan , Abo-Serie Essam , Henry Manus , Jewkes James
Published: May 2023

In the present study, an algorithm has been developed using the adjoint method to optimise the position and cross-section of an internal cooling channel for a 3D printed tool steel insert for use in the aluminium die-casting process. The algorithm enables the development of an optimised complex industrial mould with relatively low computational cost. A transient model is validated against multiple experimental trials, providing an adapted interface heat transfer coefficient. A steady state thermal model, based on the casting cycle and thermal behaviour at the mould surface, is developed to evaluate the spatial distribution of temperature and to serve as the initial solution for the subsequent optimisation stage. The adjoint model is then applied to optimise the cooling channel emphasising the minimisation of the temperature standard deviation for the mould surface. The original transient model is applied to the optimised mould configuration via calibration using experimental data obtained from a dedicated aluminium furnace. The optimised cooling channel geometry, which uses a non-uniform cross-section across the entire pipe surface region, improves the pressure drop and cooling uniformity across the mould/cast interface by 24.2% and 31.6%, respectively. The model has been used to optimise cooling channels for a range of industrial high-pressure aluminium die-casting (HPADC) inserts. This has yielded a significant improvement in the mould operational lifetime, rising to almost 130,000 shots compared to 40,000 shots for prior designs.
Alternating current microgrid protection method utilizing photovoltaic low-voltage ride-through characteristics
Authors: Jing Liuming , Zhao Tong , Xia Lei , Zhou Jinghua
Published: May 2023

The increasingly popular inverter distributed generation in microgrids is leading to changes in system fault characteristics. The fault behaviors of inverter distributed generation are closely related to the control mode. Here, a photovoltaic power supply in constant power mode enters a low-voltage ride-through state when there is a fault in the microgrid. The output current phase in the ride-through state is analyzed, and a local protection method based on the phase difference of the feeder positive-sequence current is proposed. The method is used to avoid interpreting voltage surges as faults, and to detect and locate faults rapidly and accurately. Electromagnetic transient simulation software is used to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed protection scheme.
From Alien Species to Alien Communities: Host- and Habitat-Associated Microbiomes in an Alien Amphibian
Authors: Leonhardt Franziska , Keller Alexander , Arranz Aveces Clara , Ernst Raffael
Published: May 2023

Alien species can host diverse microbial communities. These associated microbiomes may be important in the invasion process and their analysis requires a holistic community-based approach. We analysed the skin and gut microbiome of Eleutherodactylus johnstonei from native range populations in St Lucia and exotic range populations in Guadeloupe, Colombia, and European greenhouses along with their respective environmental microbial reservoir through a 16S metabarcoding approach. We show that amphibian-associated and environmental microbial communities can be considered as meta-communities that interact in the assembly process. High proportions of bacteria can disperse between frogs and environment, while respective abundances are rather determined by niche effects driven by the microbial community source and spatial environmental properties. Environmental transmissions appeared to have higher relevance for skin than for gut microbiome composition and variation. We encourage further experimental studies to assess the implications of turnover in amphibian-associated microbial communities and potentially invasive microbiota in the context of invasion success and impacts. Within this novel framework of “nested invasions,” (meta-)community ecology thinking can complement and widen the traditional perspective on biological invasions.
Juvenile social play predicts docility in Belding’s ground squirrels
Authors: Hurst-Hopf James S. , Monroy Montemayor Martha P. , Leonardi Nyla N. , Nunes Scott
Published: May 2023

We evaluated the hypothesis that social play behavior influences the development of temperament in young animals, using docility as a measure of temperament. We observed the play behavior of juvenile Belding’s ground squirrels (Urocitellus beldingi) during the developmental period in which play primarily occurs and conducted behavioral tests measuring docility at the beginning and toward the end of the play interval. Tests involved handling squirrels and recording their responses. We observed a significant but weak association between body mass and docility at the beginning of the play period, suggesting that docility may vary with size or energetic variables. Docility decreased significantly among juveniles over the play interval, and rates of social play were reliable predictors of change in docility. Juveniles who played at higher rates tended to have greater decreases in docility over the play interval, suggesting that social play might refine temperament toward more active responses in U. beldingi. Rates of social play among juveniles were reliable predictors of their scores on docility tests as yearlings, suggesting that possible effects of juvenile play on docility may extend beyond the juvenile period. Among mothers of juveniles in the study, docility during gestation and lactation were reliable predictors of docility after emergence of young from the natal burrow. However, docility of mothers decreased significantly between gestation and emergence of young, suggesting that although squirrels have individual tendencies toward docility, the expression of these tendencies may be influenced by behavioral context.

Significance statement

This study helps to elucidate ways in which juvenile social play influences the development of young animals. Various studies have suggested that juvenile play influences motor, social, and cognitive development. Here, we show an association between juvenile social play and development of temperament in Belding’s ground squirrels (Urocitellus beldingi). Juveniles who engaged in play at higher rates across the play interval had greater behavioral shifts from passive toward active responses. Refinements in temperament toward more proactive behavior might have benefits for young animals such as better preparing them to explore, investigate, and gather information about their social and physical environments as they venture away from their natal areas.
Long-term safety and efficacy of renal sympathetic denervation in atrial fibrillation: 3-year results of the AFFORD study
Authors: Zeijen Victor J. M. , Theuns Dominic A. , Feyz Lida , Saville Kari A. , Bhagwandien Rohit , Kardys Isabella , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Daemen Joost
Published: May 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia which has been associated with increased sympathetic nervous system activity and hypertension. Recent evidence indicated that renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) could safely contribute to an improvement in AF burden.

Objective

To investigate the long-term safety and efficacy of radiofrequency RDN in hypertensive patients with symptomatic AF.

Methods

This pilot study included patients with symptomatic paroxysmal or persistent AF (European Hearth Rhythm Association class ≥ II) despite optimal medical therapy, office systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140 mmHg and ≥ 2 antihypertensive drugs. AF burden was measured using an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM), implanted 3 months prior to RDN. ICM interrogation and 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring were performed at baseline and at 3/6/12/24/36 months post RDN. The primary efficacy outcome was daily AF burden. Statistical analyses were performed using Poisson and negative binomial models.

Results

A total of 20 patients with a median age [25th–75th percentiles] of 66.2 [61.2–70.8] years (55% female) were included. At baseline, office BP ± standard deviation (SD) was 153.8/87.5 ± 15.2/10.4 mmHg, while mean 24-h ambulatory BP was 129.5/77.3 ± 15.5/9.3 mmHg. Baseline daily AF burden was 1.4 [0.0–10.9] minutes/day and throughout a 3-year follow-up period, no significant change was observed (− 15.4%/year; 95% confidence interval (CI) − 50.2%, + 43.7%; p = 0.54). The number of defined daily doses of antiarrhythmic drugs and antihypertensive drugs remained stable over time, while mean 24-h ambulatory systolic BP decreased with − 2.2 (95% CI − 3.9, − 0.6; p = 0.01) mmHg/year.

Conclusions

In patients with hypertension and symptomatic AF, stand-alone RDN reduced BP but did not significantly reduce AF burden up until 3 years of follow-up.

Graphical abstract
Safety and efficacy of continuous renal replacement therapy for children less than 10 kg using standard adult machines
Authors: Kedarnath Manju , Alexander Emma C. , Deep Akash
Published: May 2023

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) machines are used off-label in patients less than 20 kg. Infant and neonates-dedicated CRRT machines are making their way into current practice, but these machines are available only in select centres. This study assesses the safety and efficacy of CRRT using adult CRRT machines in children ≤ 10 kg and to determines the factors affecting the circuit life in these children. Design: Retrospective cohort study of children ≤ 10 kg who received CRRT (January 2010-January 2018) at a PICU in a tertiary care centre in London, UK. Primary diagnosis, markers for illness severity, CRRT characteristics, length of PICU admission and survival to PICU discharge were collected. Descriptive analysis compared survivors and non-survivors. A subgroup analysis compared children ≤ 5 kg to children 5–10 kg. Fifty-one patients ≤ 10 kg received 10,328 h of CRRT, with median weight of 5 kg. 52.94% survived to hospital discharge. Median circuit life was 44 h (IQR 24–68). Bleeding episodes occurred with 6.7% of sessions and hypotension for 11.9%. Analysis of efficacy showed a reduction in fluid overload at 48 h (P = 0.0002) and serum creatinine at 24 and 48 h (P = 0.001). Blood priming was deemed to be safe as serum potassium decreased at 4 h (P = 0.005); there was no significant change in serum calcium. Survivors had a lower PIM2 score at PICU admission (P < 0.001) and had longer PICU length of stay (P < 0.001).

   Conclusion: Pending neonatal and infant dedicated CRRT machines, CRRT can be safely and effectively applied to children weighing ≤ 10 kg using adult-sized CRRT machines.

What is Known:• Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy can be used for a variety of renal and non-renal indications to improve outcomes for children in the paediatric intensive care unit. These include, persistent oliguria, fluid overload, hyperkalaemia, metabolic acidosis, hyperlactatemia, hyperammonaemia, and hepatic encephalopathy.• Young children ≤ 10 kg are most often treated using standard adult machines, off-label. This potentially places them at risk of side effects due to high extracorporeal circuit volumes, relatively higher blood flows, and difficulty in achieving vascular access.

What is New:• This study found that standard adult machines were effective in reducing fluid overload and creatinine in children ≤ 10 kg. This study also assessed safety of blood priming in this group and found no evidence of an acute fall in haemoglobin or calcium, and a fall in serum potassium by a median of 0.3 mmol/L. The frequency of bleeding episodes was 6.7%, and hypotension requiring vasopressors or fluid resuscitation occurred with 11.9% of treatment sessions.• These findings suggest that adult CRRT machines are sufficiently safe and efficacious for routine use in PICU for children ≤ 10 kg and suggest that further research is undertaken, regarding the routine rollout of dedicated machines.
Clinical and biomechanical outcomes following patellar tendon repair with suture tape augmentation
Authors: Hinz Maximilian , Geyer Stephanie , Winden Felix , Braunsperger Alexander , Kreuzpointner Florian , Irger Markus , Imhoff Andreas B. , Mehl Julian
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Patellar tendon ruptures (PTR) occur predominantly in middle-aged patients following indirect trauma. The aim of this study was to quantify the short-term results using a suture tape augmentation technique for the repair of PTR.

Methods

All consecutive patients with acute (< 6 weeks) PTR who underwent suture tape augmentation between 03/2014 and 11/2019 at a single institution with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were retrospectively evaluated. Outcome measures included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, Tegner Activity Scale (TAS) and return to sport rates, Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee form (IKDC) as well as Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Additionally, a standardized clinical examination and an isometric strength evaluation of knee extension and flexion were performed. It was hypothesized that high return to sport rates and good functional outcome would be observed and that the majority of patients would not present with a severe (> 20%) knee extension strength deficit when compared to the contralateral side.

Results

A total of 7 patients (mean age 37.0 ± SD 13.5 years; 6 male/1 female) were available for final assessment at a median follow-up of 17.0 (25–75% IQR 16.0–77.0) months. Three injuries occurred during ball sports, two injuries occurred during winter sports, and one injury each occurred during a motorcycling and skateboarding accident. The average time between trauma and surgery was 4.7 ± 2.6 days. At follow-up, patients reported little pain (VAS: 0 [0–0.4]). Return to sport was possible for all patients 8.9 ± 4.0 months postoperatively at a high level (TAS: 7.0 [6.0–7.0]). Five patients (71.4%) returned to the preinjury level of play, and 2 (28.6%) did not return to the preinjury level of play. Patient-reported outcome measures were moderate to good (Lysholm score: 80.4 ± 14.5; IKDC: 84.2 ± 10.6; KOOS subscales: pain 95.6 ± 6.0, symptoms 81.1 [64.9–89.1], activities of daily living 98.5 [94.1–100], sport and recreation function 82.9 ± 14.1 and knee-related quality of life 75.9 ± 16.3). All patients were very satisfied (57.1%) or satisfied (42.9%) with the postoperative result. No postoperative complications were reported. Strength measurements revealed a severe knee extension deficit in 3 patients (42.9%), but no significant deficit of isometric knee extension or flexion strength in comparison with the contralateral side was observed overall (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Suture tape augmentation in acute PTR repair leads to good functional outcome without major complications. Although a severe knee extension strength deficit may occur in some patients postoperatively, an excellent return to sports rate and high patient satisfaction can be expected nonetheless.

Level of evidence

Retrospective cohort study; III.
Inguinal lymph node metastases from rectal adenocarcinoma: a systematic review
Authors: Wyatt James , Powell Simon G. , Ahmed Salma , Arthur James , Altaf Kiran , Ahmed Shakil , Javed Muhammad Ahsan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Inguinal lymph nodes are a rare but recognised site of metastasis in rectal adenocarcinoma. No guideline or consensus exists for the management of such cases. This review aims to provide a contemporary and comprehensive analysis of the published literature to aid clinical decision-making.

Methods

Systematic searches were performed using the PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE and Scopus and Cochrane CENTRAL Library databases from inception till December 2022. All studies reporting on the presentation, prognosis or management of patients with inguinal lymph node metastases (ILNM) were included. Pooled proportion meta-analyses were completed when possible and descriptive synthesis was utilised for the remaining outcomes. The Joanna Briggs Institute tool for case series was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

Nineteen studies were eligible for inclusion, encompassing 18 case series and one population-based study using national registry data. A total of 487 patients were included in the primary studies. The prevalence of ILNM in rectal cancer is 0.36%. ILNM are associated with very low rectal tumours with a mean distance from the anal verge of 1.1 cm (95% CI 0.92–1.27). Invasion of the dentate line was found in 76% of cases (95% CI 59–93). In patients with isolated inguinal lymph node metastases, modern chemoradiotherapy regimens in combination with surgical excision of inguinal nodes are associated with 5-year overall survival rates of 53–78%.

Conclusion

In specific subsets of patients with ILNM, curative-intent treatment regimens are feasible, with oncological outcomes akin to those demonstrated in locally advanced rectal cancers.
Mental Health and Wellbeing of Population with Migrant Background in Switzerland – a Scoping Review and Evidence Map of Quantitative Evidence
Authors: Gondek Dawid , Bernardi Laura
Published: May 2023

We aimed to map the evidence, based on population-based and migrant-specific datasets in Switzerland, on mental health and wellbeing of the population with migrant background. The research questions were: What is known from the existing quantitative evidence about the mental health of the population with migrant background living in Switzerland? What are the research gaps that can be addressed with existing secondary datasets in Switzerland? We used the scoping review approach to describe existing research. We searched Ovid MEDLINE and APA PsycInfo (2015 - September 2022). This resulted in a total of 1862 potentially relevant studies. In addition, we manually searched other sources, such as Google Scholar. We used a evidence map to visually summarise research characteristics and identify research gaps. In total, 46 studies were included in this review. Most studies used cross-sectional design (78.3%, n = 36) and theirs aims were descriptive (84.8%, n = 39). The studies tend to examine mental health or wellbeing of the population with migrant background in the context of social determinants (69.6%, n = 32). The most frequently studied social determinants were at the individual level (96.9%, n = 31). Out of 46 included studies, 32.6% (n = 15) included depression or anxiety, and 21.7% (n = 10) post-traumatic stress disorder and other traumas. Other outcomes were less commonly investigated. There was a lack of studies using longitudinal data investigating mental health of migrants that go beyond descriptive aims (i.e., explanatory and predictive), and have large nationally representative samples. Moreover, there is a need for research examining social determinants of mental health and wellbeing at the structural, family and community levels. We propose that existing nationally representative population-based surveys are used to a greater extent to study various aspects of migrants’ mental health and wellbeing.
Thermodynamic Evolution of a Metamorphic Protein: A Theoretical-Computational Study of Human Lymphotactin
Authors: Zanetti-Polzi Laura , Daidone Isabella , Iacobucci Claudio , Amadei Andrea
Published: May 2023

Metamorphic, or fold-switching, proteins feature different folds that are physiologically relevant. The human chemokine XCL1 (or Lymphotactin) is a metamorphic protein that features two native states, an $$\alpha -\beta$$

α
-
β

and an all$$-\beta$$

-
β

fold, which have similar stability at physiological condition. Here, extended molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, principal component analysis of atomic fluctuations and thermodynamic modeling based on both the configurational volume and free energy landscape, are used to obtain a detailed characterization of the conformational thermodynamics of human Lymphotactin and of one of its ancestors (as was previously obtained by genetic reconstruction). Comparison of our computational results with the available experimental data show that the MD-based thermodynamics can explain the experimentally observed variation of the conformational equilibrium between the two proteins. In particular, our computational data provide an interpretation of the thermodynamic evolution in this protein, revealing the relevance of the configurational entropy and of the shape of the free energy landscape within the essential space (i.e., the space defined by the generalized internal coordinates providing the largest, typically non-Gaussian, structural fluctuations).
A network model for multiple selection questions in opinion surveys
Authors: Benati Stefano , Puerto Justo
Published: May 2023

Opinion surveys can contain closed questions to which respondents can give multiple answers. We propose to model these data as networks in which vertices are the eligible items and arcs are the respondents. This representation opens up the possibility of using complex networks methodologies to retrieve information and most prominently, the possibility of using clustering/community detection techniques to reduce data complexity. We will take advantage of the implicit null hypothesis of the modularity function, namely, that items are chosen without any preferential pairing, to show how the hypothesis can be tested through the usual calculation of p-values. We illustrate the methodology with an application to Eurobarometer data. There, a question about national concerns can receive up to two selections. We will show that community clustering groups together concerns that can be interpreted in a consistent way and in general terms, such as Economy, or Security or Welfare issues. Moreover, we will show how different society groups are worried by different class of items.
Valorization of lignocellulosic biomass into sustainable materials for adsorption and photocatalytic applications in water and air remediation
Authors: Mergbi Meriem , Galloni Melissa Greta , Aboagye Dominic , Elimian Ehiaghe , Su Peidong , Ikram Belhadj M. , Nabgan Walid , Bedia Jorge , Amor Hedi Ben , Contreras Sandra , Medina Francisco , Djellabi‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Ridha
Published: May 2023

An exponential rise in global pollution and industrialization has led to significant economic and environmental problems due to the insufficient application of green technology for the chemical industry and energy production. Nowadays, the scientific and environmental/industrial communities push to apply new sustainable ways and/or materials for energy/environmental applications through the so-called circular (bio)economy. One of today’s hottest topics is primarily valorizing available lignocellulosic biomass wastes into valuable materials for energy or environmentally related applications. This review aims to discuss, from both the chemistry and mechanistic points of view, the recent finding reported on the valorization of biomass wastes into valuable carbon materials. The sorption mechanisms using carbon materials prepared from biomass wastes by emphasizing the relationship between the synthesis route or/and surface modification and the retention performance were discussed towards the removal of organic and heavy metal pollutants from water or air (NOx, CO2, VOCs, SO2, and Hg0). Photocatalytic nanoparticle–coated biomass-based carbon materials have proved to be successful composites for water remediation. The review discusses and simplifies the most raised interfacial, photonic, and physical mechanisms that might take place on the surface of these composites under light irradiation. Finally, the review examines the economic benefits and circular bioeconomy and the challenges of transferring this technology to more comprehensive applications.
Algal sorbents and prospects for their application in the sustainable recovery of rare earth elements from E-waste
Authors: Pinto João , Colónia João , Abdolvaseei Azadeh , Vale Carlos , Henriques Bruno , Pereira Eduarda
Published: May 2023

Efficient and sustainable secondary sourcing of Rare-Earth Elements (REE) is essential to counter supply bottlenecks and the impacts associated with primary mining. Recycled electronic waste (E-waste) is considered a promising REE source and hydrometallurgical methods followed by chemical separation techniques (usually solvent extraction) have been successfully applied to these wastes with high REE yields. However, the generation of acidic and organic waste streams is considered unsustainable and has led to the search for “greener” approaches. Sorption-based technologies using biomass such as bacteria, fungi and algae have been developed to sustainably recover REE from e-waste. Algae sorbents in particular have experienced growing research interest in recent years. Despite its high potential, sorption efficiency is strongly influenced by sorbent-specific parameters such as biomass type and state (fresh/dried, pre-treatment, functionalization) as well as solution parameters such as pH, REE concentration, and matrix complexity (ionic strength and competing ions). This review highlights differences in experimental conditions among published algal-based REE sorption studies and their impact on sorption efficiency. Since research into algal sorbents for REE recovery from real wastes is still in its infancy, aspects such as the economic viability of a realistic application are still unexplored. However, it has been proposed to integrate REE recovery into an algal biorefinery concept to increase the economics of the process (by providing a range of additional products), but also in the prospect of achieving carbon neutrality (as large-scale algae cultivation can act as a CO2 sink).

Graphical abstract
Coronary and carotid artery dysfunction and KV7 overexpression in a mouse model of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome
Authors: Macías Álvaro , Nevado Rosa M. , González-Gómez Cristina , Gonzalo Pilar , Andrés-Manzano María Jesús , Dorado Beatriz , Benedicto Ignacio , Andrés Vicente
Published: May 2023

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is an extremely rare genetic disease caused by expression of progerin, a lamin A variant that is also expressed at low levels in non-HGPS individuals. Although HGPS patients die predominantly from myocardial infarction and stroke, the mechanisms that provoke pathological alterations in the coronary and cerebral arteries in HGPS remain ill defined. Here, we assessed vascular function in the coronary arteries (CorAs) and carotid arteries (CarAs) of progerin-expressing LmnaG609G/G609G mice (G609G), both in resting conditions and after hypoxic stimulus. Wire myography, pharmacological screening, and gene expression studies demonstrated vascular atony and stenosis, as well as other functional alterations in progeroid CorAs and CarAs and aorta. These defects were associated with loss of vascular smooth muscle cells and overexpression of the KV7 family of voltage-dependent potassium channels. Compared with wild-type controls, G609G mice showed reduced median survival upon chronic isoproterenol exposure, a baseline state of chronic cardiac hypoxia characterized by overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and 3α genes, and increased cardiac vascularization. Our results shed light on the mechanisms underlying progerin-induced coronary and carotid artery disease and identify KV7 channels as a candidate target for the treatment of HGPS.