bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermolecular Interactions, Morphology, and Photovoltaic Patterns in p–i–n Heterojunction Solar Cells With Fluorine‐Substituted Organic Photovoltaic Materials
Authors: Li Qingduan , Liao Xiaolan , Sun Yun , Xu Yuanjie , Liu Shengjian , Wang Li‐Ming , Cao Zhixiong , Zhan Xiaozhi , Zhu Tao , Xiao Biao , Cai Yue‐Peng , Huang Fei
Published: November 2023

During the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) processing of polymer solar cells (PSCs), the swelling and molecule interdiffusion are essential for achieving precise, controllable vertical morphology, and thus efficient PSCs. However, the influencing mechanism of material properties on morphology and correlated device performance has not been paid much attention. Herein, a series of fluorinated/non‐fluorinated polymer donors (PBDB‐T and PBDB‐TF) and non‐fullerene acceptors (ITIC, IT‐2F, and IT‐4F) are employed to investigate the performance of LBL devices. The impacts of fluorine substitution on the repulsion and miscibility between the donor and acceptor, as well as the molecular arrangement of the donor/acceptor and the vertical distribution of the LBL devices are systematically explored by the measurement of donor/acceptor Flory–Huggins interaction parameters, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and neutron reflectivity, respectively. With efficient charge transfer due to the ideal vertical and horizon morphology properties, devices based on PBDB‐TF/IT‐4F exhibit the highest fill factors (FFs) as well as champion power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). With this guidance, high‐performance LBL devices with PCE of 17.2%, 18.5%, and 19.1% are obtained by the fluorinated blend of PBDB‐TF/Y6, PBDB‐TF/L8‐BO, and D18/L8‐BO respectively.
The early Paleocene (Danian) climate of Svalbard based on palaeobotanical data
Authors: Golovneva Lina B. , Zolina Аnastasia А. , Spicer Robert A.
Published: November 2023

The early Paleocene (Danian) Barentsburg flora from the Firkanten Formation, Svalbard, provides a valuable insight into the environment and climate of the Arctic early in the warm Palaeogene prior to the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) event. The flora includes c. 50 species of ferns, ginkgos, conifers and angiosperms. Angiosperms predominate and are represented by the families Platanaceae, Cercidiphyllaceae, Trochodendraceae, Hamamelidaceae, Fagaceae, Betulaceae, Nyssaceae and several taxa of uncertain taxonomic position. Palaeoclimate parameters, calculated using a new calibration of the Climate Leaf Analysis Multivariate Program (CLAMP), indicate that Svalbard in the early Paleocene was characterized by a temperate, maritime, humid, seasonal climate with cool mild winters and warm summers. Humidity was highest during winter months. Short‐term winter snow cover and light frosts were likely to have been frequent. The CLAMP analysis yields a mean annual temperature of 10.1 ± 1.98°С, a warmest month mean temperature of 19.2 ± 2.49°C and a coldest month mean temperature of 1.7 ± 3.24°С. The growing season lasted c. 6 months. Precipitation during this growth period was 572.4 ± 296.50 mm, while vapour pressure deficit and potential evapotranspiration indicate very high humidity year‐round, with summer being only slightly drier than winter. Taken together with data from other early Paleocene circum‐Arctic sites, these results point to highly uniform, temperate and extremely humid conditions around the margins of the early Cenozoic Arctic Ocean. This condition represents the warm background condition that dominated in the Arctic prior to the anomalous extreme warmth of the early Eocene.
Numerical heat featuring in Blasius/Sakiadis flow of advanced nanofluid under dissipation and convective heat condition effects
Authors: Adnan  , Mishra Nidhish Kumar , Mahmood Ishtiaque , Abbas Waseem , Bani‐Fwaz Mutasem Z. , Eldin Sayed M.
Published: November 2023

The study of advanced nanofluids termed as Tetra nanofluid is of potential interest now a days. These fluids are upgraded generation of conventional nano to ternary hybrid nanofluids with outstanding characteristics. Applications of this class frequently occur in applied thermal engineering, nano‐lubrication, chemo‐therapy, chemical engineering, oil paint industry, coolant of nuclear plant and many other applied research areas. This study concerns with the development of innovative thermophysical rules for Tetra Hybrid nanofluid and their utilization in advanced heat transfer model. The governing laws updated through addition of thermal condition, dissipation effects, thermal radiations and upgraded nanofluid properties. Finally, the Blasius and Sakiadis model achieved and analyzed the heat transfer trends through numerical technique. Keen analysis of the drawn results show that Blasius model has much ability to transfer the heat than Sakiadis model. Induction of thermal radiations, dissipation effects and thermal convective condition is like a catalysis in the study of advanced tetra nanofluid model and boosts the temperature.
Policies to Stimulate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Authors: Braunerhjelm Pontus , Henrekson Magnus
Published: November 2023

Most advanced industrialized countries today justify their innovation policies on the basis of the dominant knowledge-based growth paradigm—primarily investment in R&D and education, as we saw in Chap.2. However, in terms of how growth policy should be formulated, this provides an incomplete guide which even borders on the misleading. The reason behind this misguided thinking is simplistic assumptions, both about how an economy functions and about the innovation process itself. Innovation is still seen as an exogenous force that can be stimulated through government funding targeting R&D, start-ups, and small businesses, which will then fuel higher growth and increased prosperity.
Early time-restricted carbohydrate consumption vs conventional dieting in type 2 diabetes: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tricò Domenico , Masoni Maria Chiara , Baldi Simona , Cimbalo Noemi , Sacchetta Luca , Scozzaro Maria Tiziana , Nesti Giulia , Mengozzi Alessandro , Nesti Lorenzo , Chiriacò Martina , Natali Andrea
Published: November 2023

Aims/hypothesis

Early time-restricted carbohydrate consumption (eTRC) is a novel dietary strategy that involves restricting carbohydrate-rich food intake to the morning and early afternoon to align with circadian variations in glucose tolerance. We examined the efficacy, feasibility and safety of eTRC in individuals with type 2 diabetes under free-living conditions.

Methods

In this randomised, parallel-arm, open label, controlled trial, participants with type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity (age 67.2±7.9 years, 47.8% women, BMI 29.4±3.7 kg/m2, HbA1c 49±5 mmol/mol [6.6±0.5%]) were randomised, using computer-generated random numbers, to a 12 week eTRC diet or a Mediterranean-style control diet with matched energy restriction and macronutrient distribution (50% carbohydrate, 30% fat and 20% protein). The primary outcome was the between-group difference in HbA1c at 12 weeks. Body composition, 14 day flash glucose monitoring and food diary analysis were performed every 4 weeks. Mixed meal tolerance tests with mathematical beta cell function modelling were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks.

Results

Twelve (85.7%) participants in the eTRC arm and 11 (84.6%) participants in the control arm completed the study, achieving similar reductions in body weight and fat mass. The two groups experienced comparable improvements in HbA1c (−3 [−6, −0.3] mmol/mol vs −4 [−6, −2] mmol/mol, corresponding to −0.2 [−0.5, 0]% and −0.3 [−0.5, −0.1]%, respectively, p=0.386), fasting plasma glucose, flash glucose monitoring-derived glucose variability and mixed meal tolerance test-derived glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, insulin clearance and plasma glucagon levels, without changes in model-derived beta cell function parameters, glucagon-like peptide-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and non-esterified fatty acid levels. The two diets similarly reduced liver function markers and triglyceride levels, being neutral on other cardiometabolic and safety variables. In exploratory analyses, diet-induced changes in body weight and glucometabolic variables were not related to the timing of carbohydrate intake.

Conclusions/interpretation

The proposed eTRC diet provides a feasible and effective alternative option for glucose and body weight management in individuals with type 2 diabetes, with no additional metabolic benefits compared with conventional dieting.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05713058

Funding

This study was supported by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the Italian Society of Diabetology (SID).

Graphical Abstract
Transcriptome analysis of the cerebral cortex of acrylamide-exposed wild-type and IL-1β-knockout mice
Authors: Fergany Alzahraa , Zong Cai , Ekuban Frederick Adams , Wu Bin , Ueha Satoshi , Shichino Shigeyuki , Matsushima Kouji , Iwakura Yoichiro , Ichihara Sahoko , Ichihara Gaku
Published: November 2023

Acrylamide is an environmental electrophile that has been produced in large amounts for many years. There is concern about the adverse health effects of acrylamide exposure due to its widespread industrial use and also presence in commonly consumed foods and others. IL-1β is a key cytokine that protects the brain from inflammatory insults, but its role in acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity remains unknown. We reported recently that deletion of IL-1β gene exacerbates ACR-induced neurotoxicity in mice. The aim of this study was to identify genes or signaling pathway(s) involved in enhancement of ACR-induced neurotoxicity by IL-1β gene deletion or ACR-induced neurotoxicity to generate a hypothesis mechanism explaining ACR-induced neurotoxicity. C57BL/6 J wild-type and IL-1β KO mice were exposed to ACR at 0, 12.5, 25 mg/kg by oral gavage for 7 days/week for 4 weeks, followed by extraction of mRNA from mice cerebral cortex for RNA sequence analysis. IL-1β deletion altered the expression of genes involved in extracellular region, including upregulation of PFN1 gene related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and increased the expression of the opposite strand of IL-1β. Acrylamide exposure enhanced mitochondria oxidative phosphorylation, synapse and ribosome pathways, and activated various pathways of different neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Huntington disease, and prion disease. Protein network analysis suggested the involvement of different proteins in related to learning and cognitive function, such as Egr1, Egr2, Fos, Nr4a1, and Btg2. Our results identified possible pathways involved in IL-1β deletion-potentiated and ACR-induced neurotoxicity in mice.
Mechanisms underlying treatment effects of vestibular noise stimulation on postural instability in patients with bilateral vestibulopathy
Authors: Wuehr Max , Eder Josefine , Kellerer Silvy , Amberger Tamara , Jahn Klaus
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous studies indicate that imbalance in patients with bilateral vestibulopathy (BVP) may be reduced by treatment with low-intensity noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS).

Objective

To elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying this therapeutic effect. In particular, we determined whether nGVS-induced balance improvements in patients are compatible with stochastic resonance (SR)—a mechanism by which weak noise stimulation can paradoxically enhance sensory signal processing.

Methods

Effects of nGVS of varying intensities (0–0.7 mA) on body sway were examined in 19 patients with BVP standing with eye closed on a posturographic force plate. We assumed a bell-shaped response curve with maximal sway reductions at intermediate nGVS intensities to be indicative of SR. An established SR curve model was fitted on individual patient outcomes, and three experienced human raters had to judge whether responses to nGVS were consistent with the exhibition of SR.

Results

nGVS-induced reductions of body sway compatible with SR were found in 12 patients (63%) with optimal improvements of 31 ± 21%. In 10 patients (53%), nGVS-induced sway reductions exceeded the minimally important clinical difference (optimal improvement: 35 ± 21%), indicative of strong SR. This beneficial effect was more likely in patients with severe vestibular loss (i.e. lower video head impulse test gain; R = 0.663; p = 0.002) and considerable postural imbalance (baseline body sway; R = 0.616; p = 0.005).

Conclusions

More than half of the assessed patients showed robust improvements in postural balance compatible with SR when treated with nGVS. In particular, patients with a higher burden of disease may benefit from the non-invasive and well-tolerated treatment with nGVS.
The impact of cardiorespiratory fitness and physical workload on disability pension–a cohort study of Swedish men
Authors: Berglund Karin , Almroth Melody , Falkstedt Daniel , Hemmingsson Tomas , Kjellberg Katarina
Published: November 2023

Objective

Understanding the impact of physical capacity in combination with high physical workload could be beneficial for the prevention of health-related exits from work. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the separate and combined effects of low cardiorespiratory fitness and high physical workload on disability pension (DP) due to any cause, musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods

A total of 279 353 men born between 1951 and 1961 were followed regarding DP between 2006 and 2020, ages 45–64. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed during military conscription, using an ergometer bicycle test. Physical workload was based on a job-exposure matrix (JEM) linked to occupational title in 2005. Cox regression models estimated separate and combined associations with DP.

Results

Low cardiorespiratory fitness and high physical workload were associated with increased risk of DP. For all cause DP, the fully adjusted hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval for those with low cardiorespiratory fitness was 1.38 (1.32–1.46) and for those with high physical workload 1.48 (1.39–1.57). For all cause and MSD DP, but not for CVD DP, the combination of low cardiorespiratory fitness and high physical workload resulted in higher risks than when adding the effect of the single exposures.

Conclusion

Both low cardiorespiratory fitness in youth and later exposure to high physical workload were associated with an increased risk of DP, where workers with the combination of both low cardiorespiratory fitness and a high physical workload had the highest risks (all-cause and MSD DP).
Age-specific effects of density and weather on body condition and birth rates in a large herbivore, the Przewalski’s horse
Authors: Rödel Heiko G. , Ibler Benjamin , Ozogány Katalin , Kerekes Viola
Published: November 2023

Reproduction in young females can show a particularly sensitive response to environmental challenges, although empirical support from individual-based long-term studies is scarce. Based on a 20-year data set from a free-roaming Przewalski’s horse population (Equus ferus przewalskii), we studied effects of large-herbivore density (horses + cattle) and weather conditions experienced during different life stages on females’ annual birth rates. Foaling probability was very low in 2-year-olds, reaching maximum values in 5 to 10-year-olds, followed by a decrease in older females indicating reproductive senescence. Mother’s previous reproductive investment affected her current reproduction; young and old mothers (as opposed to middle-aged ones), which had nursed a foal for at least 60 days during the previous year, reproduced with a lower probability. Foaling probability and body condition of young females were lower when large-herbivore density was high. Reproduction was also influenced by interactive weather effects during different life stages. Low late-summer precipitation during the females’ year of birth was associated with a pronounced decrease in foaling probability in response to harsh late-winter temperatures prior to the mating season. In turn, increased amounts of late-summer rain during this early age together with more late-summer rain during the females’ current pregnancy led to an increased reproductive probability in 2–3-year-olds. These results were corroborated by the ameliorating effects of late-summer rain on body condition in such females. In conclusion, our findings highlight the interactive importance of weather conditions experienced during early life, and of density and weather during current pregnancy on foaling probability, particularly in young females.
The limits of stress-tolerance for zooplankton resting stages in freshwater ponds
Authors: Santos Joana L. , Ebert Dieter
Published: November 2023

In seasonal environments, many organisms evolve strategies such as diapause to survive stressful periods. Understanding the link between habitat stability and diapause strategy can help predict a population’s survival in a changing world. Indeed, resting stages may be an important way freshwater organisms can survive periods of drought or freezing, and as the frequency and extent of drought or freezing vary strongly among habitats and are predicted to change with climate change, it raises questions about how organisms cope with, and survive, environmental stress. Using Daphnia magna as a model system, we tested the ability of resting stages from different populations to cope with stress during diapause. The combination of elevated temperatures and wet conditions during diapause shows to prevent hatching altogether. In contrast, hatching is relatively higher after a dry and warm diapause, but declines with rising temperatures, while time to hatch increases. Resting stages produced by populations from summer-dry habitats perform slightly, but consistently, better at higher temperatures and dryness, supporting the local adaptation hypothesis. A higher trehalose content in resting eggs from summer-dry habitat might explain such pattern. Considering that temperatures and summer droughts are projected to increase in upcoming years, it is fundamental to know how resting stages resist stressful conditions so as to predict and protect the ecological functioning of freshwater ecosystems.
Noninvasive imaging of rat-derived microglia and its reactivity to inflammatory molecules via acoustic impedance microscopy
Authors: Lee Christine Li Mei , Yap Pey Shin , Umemura Kiyoshi , Shintani Taichi , Kobayashi Kazuto , Hozumi Naohiro , Yoshida Sachiko
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, play important roles in neuronal differentiation, survival, and death. The function of microglia is deeply related to the morphologies; however, it is too complex to observe conventionally and identify the condition of living microglia using optical microscopes. Herein, we proposed a new method to observe living cultured microglia and their reactivity to inflammation via the acoustic impedance mode of a scanning acoustic microscope.

Methods

Primary cultured microglia collected from rat pups exposed to acetamiprid, an insecticide, in utero were observed with both acoustic interface impedance mode (C-mode) and transparent three-dimensional impedance mode (B-mode).

Results

We characterized microglia into four types based on the results obtained from acoustic impedance, cytoskeletal information, and laser confocal imaging. Biphasic acoustic observation using B-mode and C-mode gave us information regarding the dynamic morphologies of living microglia treated with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (600 μmol/L), which reflects distress signals from inflamed neurons. Acetamiprid exposure induced microglia response even in the neonatal period. ATP stimulus altered the shape and thickness of microglia with a change in the bulk modulus of the cell. Three-dimensional alteration with ATP stimulus could be observed only after biphasic acoustic observation using B-mode and C-mode. This acoustic observation was consistent with confocal observation using anti-Iba-1 and P2Y12 immunocytochemistry.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the adequacy of using a scanning acoustic microscope in analyzing microglia's shape, motility, and response to inflammation.
Facilitators and Barriers to the Implementation of a School-Based Intervention for Anxiety
Authors: Brown Gemma K. , Owens Jane , Richards Cathy , Di Folco Simona , Schwannauer Matthias
Published: November 2023

School-based cognitive behavioural interventions for anxiety are found to be effective, but there is a lack of research on their implementation in real world settings. The current study aims to explore the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of a school-based intervention for anxiety through a qualitative process evaluation. Evaluation of the implementation of Let’s Introduce Anxiety Management (LIAM), a six-session school-based cognitive behavioural intervention, was conducted. LIAM was implemented by non-mental health professionals trained and coached on the model. Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders (N = 15) were analysed with grounded theory and framework analysis. Forty-one practitioners were trained and coached on LIAM, with thirty-five children and young people receiving the intervention. Facilitators (e.g. systemic collaboration, self-efficacy and an enabling context) and barriers (e.g. the exclusivity of the intervention and a lack of systemic understanding) to implementation emerged as themes. Implementing school-based interventions is complex and requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders.
Viscosity Measurements on Natural Gas: Re-evaluation
Authors: Herrmann Sebastian , Vogel Eckhard
Published: November 2023

Previous experimental viscosity data for natural gas, published by Schley et al. (Int J Thermophys 25:1623, 2004) and originally obtained using a vibrating-wire viscometer in the temperature range between 260 K and 320 K, were re-evaluated after an improved re-calibration. For this purpose, a new reference value for the viscosity of argon at 298.15 K and at zero density, proposed by Vogel et al. (Mol Phys 108:3335, 2010) and further updated by Hellmann (Private communication, University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, Hamburg, 2020), was applied. In addition, the density computed from the measured temperatures and pressures was determined using the equation of state by Kunz and Wagner (J Chem Eng Data 57:3032, 2012) instead of employing a calculation according to the International Standard ISO 12213 nowadays out of date.
A Retrospective Analysis Investigating Whether Case Volume Experience of the Anesthesiologist Correlates with Intraoperative Efficiency for Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Macias Alvaro A. , Bongbong Dale N. , Waterman Ruth S. , Simpson Sierra , Gabriel Rodney A.
Published: November 2023

The objective of this retrospective study was to determine if there was an association between anesthesiology experience (e.g. historic case volume) and operating room (OR) efficiency times for lower extremity joint arthroplasty cases. The primary outcome was time from patient in the OR to anesthesia ready (i.e. after spinal or general anesthesia induction was complete). The secondary outcomes included time from anesthesia ready to surgical incision, and time from incision to closing completed. Mixed effects linear regression was performed, in which the random effect was the anesthesiology attending provider. There were 4,575 patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty included. There were 82 unique anesthesiology providers, in which the median [quartile] frequency of cases performed was 79 [45, 165]. On multivariable mixed effects linear regression – in which the primary independent variable (anesthesiologist case volume history for joint arthroplasty anesthesia) was log-transformed – the estimate for log-transformed case volume was − 0.91 (95% confidence interval [CI] -1.62, -0.20, P = 0.01). When modeling time from incision to closure complete, the estimate for log-transformed case volume was − 2.07 (95% -3.54, -0.06, P = 0.01). Thus, when comparing anesthesiologists with median case volume (79 cases) versus those with the lowest case volume (10 cases), the predicted difference in times added up to only approximately 6 min. If the purpose of faster anesthesia workflows was to open up more OR time to increase surgical volume in a given day, this study does not support the supposition that anesthesiologists with higher joint arthroplasty case volume would improve throughput.
Better self-explaining backwards or forwards? Prompting self-explanation in video-based modelling examples for learning a diagnostic strategy
Authors: Meier Julius , Hesse Peter , Abele Stephan , Renkl Alexander , Glogger-Frey Inga
Published: November 2023

Self-explanation prompts in example-based learning are usually directed backwards: Learners are required to self-explain problem-solving steps just presented (retrospective prompts). However, it might also help to self-explain upcoming steps (anticipatory prompts). The effects of the prompt type may differ for learners with various expertise levels, with anticipatory prompts being better for learners with more expertise. In an experiment, we employed extensive modelling examples and different types of self-explanations prompts to teach 78 automotive apprentices a complex and job-relevant problem-solving strategy, namely the diagnosis of car malfunctions. We tested the effects of these modelling examples and self-explanation prompts on problem-solving strategy knowledge and skill, self-efficacy, and cognitive load while learning. In two conditions, the apprentices learned with modelling examples and received either retrospective or anticipatory prompts. The third condition was a control condition receiving no modelling examples, but the respective open problems. In comparison with the control condition, modelling examples did not promote learning. However, we observed differential effects of the self-explanation prompts depending on the learner’s prior knowledge level. Apprentices with higher prior knowledge learned more when learning with anticipatory prompts. Apprentices with less prior knowledge experienced a greater increase in self-efficacy and a higher germane cognitive load when learning with retrospective prompts. These findings suggest using different self-explanation prompts for learners possessing varying levels of expertise.
Groundwater nitrate pollution risk assessment based on the potential impact of land use, nitrogen balance, and vulnerability
Authors: Duda Robert , Zdechlik Robert , Kania Jarosław
Published: November 2023

The predicting groundwater nitrate pollution risk, especially in terms of changes in fertilizing, has not been fully investigated so far. In particular, there is no comprehensive method to assess this risk in areas of different land use type, and not only in agricultural areas. The aim of this study was to develop a novel multicriteria methodology for groundwater nitrate pollution risk assessment, which meets these issues. A further aim was to determine how much this risk would change if the amount of organic and synthetic fertilization was reduced. An assumption was that groundwater pollution risk is a combination of the potential adverse impacts of land use, fertilization, and intrinsic groundwater vulnerability to pollution. The impact of fertilization was holistically evaluated by balancing nitrogen from spatially differentiated the size of the breeding, species of livestock, manure and synthetic fertilizers input, and spatially differentiated topsoil, with nitrogen uptake by different crops. The nitrate concentration in the leachate was used as a measure of the impact of fertilization. This concentration was compared to the natural baseline nitrate concentration in groundwater. Three fertilization scenarios for groundwater pollution risk assessment in two study areas were discussed. Under typical agricultural, climatic, soil, and geological conditions in Europe for the current total fertilization level of 95-120 kg N ha−1 groundwater nitrate pollution risk is low and moderate, but for fertilization of 150-180 kg N ha−1, a reduction in the total fertilization (synthetic and manure) by 40 to 50% may be required to achieve low risk of degradation of natural groundwater quality. Predictive simulations of groundwater nitrate pollution risk confirmed that reducing synthetic and organic fertilization has an effect, especially in areas with intensive fertilization. This method may allow for a holistic and scenario-based assessment of groundwater pollution risk and may help decision-makers introduce solutions to manage this risk under conditions of climate change, preservation of groundwater quality, and food security.
Application of MoS2 in the space environment: a review
Authors: Zhou Menghe , Tong Ruiting , Zhang Tao , Liu Geng
Published: November 2023

A considerable portion of space mechanism failures are related to space tribological problems. Cold welding in high vacuum; surface erosion and collision damage caused by various radiations, high temperature oxidation under atomic oxygen (AO) bombardment; and thermal stress caused by temperature alternation all alter the physical, chemical, and friction properties of materials. In particular, the space vibration caused by alternating temperatures and microgravity environments can alter the motion of the contact body, further affecting its friction properties. Improving the friction properties of contact surfaces in the space environment is an important way to extend the service life of spacecraft. Traditional lubricants can no longer meet the lubrication requirements of the space environment. This study describes the characteristics of the space environment and the applications of solid lubricants. The friction properties of MoS2, a solid lubricant widely used in space, are discussed. The synergistic lubrication of MoS2 with surface textures or metals is presented. Advances in research on the friction properties of collision sliding contacts in the space environment are reviewed. The combination of MoS2 and soft metals with surface textures is introduced to reduce the effects of vibration environments on the friction properties of moving parts in space mechanisms. Finally, the challenges and future research interests of MoS2 films in space tribology are presented.
Impact of Urban Slum Residence on Coverage of Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health Service Indicators in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana: an Ecological Time-Series Analysis, 2018–2021
Authors: Dwomoh Duah , Iddi Samuel , Afagbedzi Seth Kwaku , Tejedor-Garavito Natalia , Dotse-Gborgbortsi Winfred , Wright Jim , Tatem Andrew J , Nilsen Kristine
Published: November 2023

Among other focus areas, the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 11 seek to advance progress toward universal coverage of maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) services and access to safe and affordable housing and basic services by 2030. Governments and development agencies have historically neglected the health and well-being associated with living in urban slums across major capital cities in sub-Saharan Africa since health policies and programs have tended to focus on people living in rural communities. This study assessed the trends and compared inequities in MNCH service utilization between slum and non-slum districts in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. It analyzed information from 29 districts using monthly time-series Health Management Information System (HMIS) data on MNCH service utilization between January 2018 and December 2021. Multivariable quantile regression models with robust standard errors were used to quantify the impact of urban slum residence on MNCH service utilization. We assessed the inequality of MNCH coverage indicators between slum and non-slum districts using the Gini index with bootstrapped standard errors and the generalized Lorenz curve. The results indicate that rates of vaccination coverage and antenatal care (ANC) attendance have declined significantly in slum districts compared to those in non-slum districts. However, skilled birth delivery and postnatal care (PNC) were found to be higher in urban slum areas compared to those in non-urban slum areas. To help achieve the SDGs’ targets, it is important for the government of Ghana and other relevant stakeholders to prioritize the implementation of effective policies, programs, and interventions that will improve access to and utilization of ANC and immunization services among urban slum dwellers.
Combined model integrating deep learning, radiomics, and clinical data to classify lung nodules at chest CT
Authors: Lin Chia-Ying , Guo Shu-Mei , Lien Jenn-Jier James , Lin Wen-Tsen , Liu Yi-Sheng , Lai Chao-Han , Hsu I-Lin , Chang Chao-Chun , Tseng Yau-Lin
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The study aimed to develop a combined model that integrates deep learning (DL), radiomics, and clinical data to classify lung nodules into benign or malignant categories, and to further classify lung nodules into different pathological subtypes and Lung Imaging Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS) scores.

Materials and methods

The proposed model was trained, validated, and tested using three datasets: one public dataset, the Lung Nodule Analysis 2016 (LUNA16) Grand challenge dataset (n = 1004), and two private datasets, the Lung Nodule Received Operation (LNOP) dataset (n = 1027) and the Lung Nodule in Health Examination (LNHE) dataset (n = 1525). The proposed model used a stacked ensemble model by employing a machine learning (ML) approach with an AutoGluon-Tabular classifier. The input variables were modified 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) features, radiomics features, and clinical features. Three classification tasks were performed: Task 1: Classification of lung nodules into benign or malignant in the LUNA16 dataset; Task 2: Classification of lung nodules into different pathological subtypes; and Task 3: Classification of Lung-RADS score. Classification performance was determined based on accuracy, recall, precision, and F1-score. Ten-fold cross-validation was applied to each task.

Results

The proposed model achieved high accuracy in classifying lung nodules into benign or malignant categories in LUNA 16 with an accuracy of 92.8%, as well as in classifying lung nodules into different pathological subtypes with an F1-score of 75.5% and Lung-RADS scores with an F1-score of 80.4%.

Conclusion

Our proposed model provides an accurate classification of lung nodules based on the benign/malignant, different pathological subtypes, and Lung-RADS system.
An interactive graph-based tool to support the designing of human–robot collaborative workplaces
Authors: Di Marino Castrese , Rega Andrea , Pasquariello Agnese , Fruggiero Fabio , Vitolo Ferdinando , Patalano Stanislao
Published: November 2023

In the context of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, the introduction of collaborative workplaces, where humans and robots work together, represents a growing trend to improve the productivity, adaptability, and flexibility of production plants. Indeed, human–robot collaboration (HRC) is a very deepened topic in the scientific community and the designing of collaborative workplaces is a challenging issue due to the high level of complexity and multidisciplinary of its features. This work tackles the complexity of collaborative workplaces and proposes a structured framework to support strategic decisions in designing. A multi-level designing framework is proposed as a supporting tool for designers. Within five domains of collaborative robotics, the elements of a collaborative workplace are identified and proposed in a framework in order to better consider human safety and working conditions during the designing process. A decomposition matrix and an adjacency matrix are used to develop a multi-level designing workflow. Finally, an interactive tool is presented, named “Smart Graph Interface” (SGI), to read and exploit the contents of the framework. The SGI is applied to three case studies from the literature, to spread out principal outcomes in terms of applicability and robustness.
Beneficial Effect of Fingolimod in a Lafora Disease Mouse Model by Preventing Reactive Astrogliosis-Derived Neuroinflammation and Brain Infiltration of T-lymphocytes
Authors: Rubio Teresa , Campos-Rodríguez Ángela , Sanz Pascual
Published: November 2023

Lafora disease (LD; OMIM#254780) is a rare, devastating, and fatal form of progressive myoclonus epilepsy that affects young adolescents and has no treatment yet. One of the hallmarks of the disease is the accumulation of aberrant poorly branched forms of glycogen (polyglucosans, PGs) in the brain and peripheral tissues. The current hypothesis is that this accumulation is causative of the pathophysiology of the disease. Another hallmark of LD is the presence of neuroinflammation. We have recently reported the presence of reactive glia-derived neuroinflammation in LD mouse models and defined the main inflammatory pathways that operate in these mice, mainly TNF and IL-6 signaling pathways. In addition, we described the presence of infiltration of peripheral immune cells in the brain parenchyma, which could cooperate and aggravate the neuroinflammatory landscape of LD. In this work, we have checked the beneficial effect of two compounds with the capacity to ameliorate neuroinflammation and reduce leukocyte infiltration into the brain, namely fingolimod and dimethyl fumarate. Our results indicate a beneficial effect of fingolimod in reducing reactive astrogliosis-derived neuroinflammation and T-lymphocyte infiltration, which correlated with the improved behavioral performance of the treated Epm2b-/- mice. On the contrary, dimethyl fumarate, although it was able to reduce reactive astrogliosis, was less effective in preventing neuroinflammation and T-lymphocyte infiltration and in modifying behavioral tests.
On the Ohsawa–Takegoshi Extension Theorem
Authors: Cao Junyan , Paun Mihai , Berndtsson Bo
Published: November 2023

We establish a new extension result for twisted canonical forms defined on a hypersurface with simple normal crossings of a projective manifold. Some of the examples presented in the appendix show that the bounds we obtain for the extension are sharp.
A Review of Taxonomic Concepts and Species Delimitation in Cycadales
Authors: Martínez-Domínguez Lilí , Nicolalde-Morejón Fernando , Vergara-Silva Francisco , Stevenson Dennis Wm.
Published: November 2023

Taxonomic data is essential to advance the discovery and description of biodiversity, as well as the study of evolutionary processes. Emerging large-scale datasets and new methods of analysis have provided different approaches to describe biodiversity. Here, we present a review of the taxonomic history in Cycadales including an analysis of historical taxonomic concepts and approaches used for species delimitation. We examine the trends in the publication of new species following taxonomic works in books, journals and horticultural catalogues, monographic projects and floras where species treatments were published. In addition, we review the studies concerning species delimitations using the literature available in scientific journals appearing in the database ISI Web of Knowledge. The approaches used were discussed throughout all research focused on empirical and theoretical considerations in each study. We review the current state of the studies on causal processes that have given rise to the currently recognized diversity. The trend shows that taxonomic work on discovery and description of species has been intensive in the last 40 years culminating in 38.8% of binomials published. As a result, we consider the relevance of the monographs and floras for identification of species for other biological disciplines and the content of these contributions is compared and discussed. A total of six criteria (diagnosability, phenetic, phylogenetic, genotypic cluster, niche specialization and coalescent) were detected from the following three approaches to species delimitation within Cycadales: traditional, integrative taxonomy, and monophyletic. In all cases, the results from these species delimitations not only provided a taxonomic treatment or proposed a new species, but also supposedly clarified the other species involved as a result of the new taxonomic concept of the new species described. Most investigations of species delimitation used the traditional approach or a phenetic criteria. Finally, we discuss evolutionary studies on causal processes involved in cycad diversity. This is considered in the context of species delimitation as hypothesis testing for a successful evaluation of variation in both genetic and morphological understanding.
The Japanese breast cancer society clinical practice guidelines for breast cancer screening and diagnosis, 2022 edition
Authors: Kubota Kazunori , Nakashima Kazutaka , Nakashima Kazuaki , Kataoka Masako , Inoue Kenich , Goto Mariko , Kanbayashi Chizuko , Hirokaga Koichi , Yamaguchi Ken , Suzuki Akihiko
Published: November 2023

This article provides updates to readers based on the newly published Japanese Breast Cancer Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis, 2022 Edition. These guidelines incorporate the latest evaluation of evidence from studies of diagnostic accuracy. For each clinical question, outcomes for benefits and harms were established, and qualitative or quantitative systematic reviews were conducted. Recommendations were determined through voting by a multidisciplinary group, and guidelines were documented to facilitate shared decision-making among patients and medical professionals. The guidelines address screening, surveillance, and pre- and postoperative diagnosis of breast cancer. In an environment that demands an integrated approach, decisions are needed on how to utilize modalities, such as mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and PET/CT. Additionally, it is vital to understand the appropriate use of new technologies, such as tomosynthesis, elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and to consider how best to adapt these methods for individual patients.
Water insecurity is associated with greater food insecurity and lower dietary diversity: panel data from sub-Saharan Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Miller Joshua D. , Young Sera L. , Bryan Elizabeth , Ringler Claudia
Published: November 2023

There is growing recognition that water insecurity – the inability to reliably access sufficient water for all household uses – is commonly experienced globally and has myriad adverse consequences for human well-being. The role of water insecurity in food insecurity and diet quality, however, has received minimal attention. Data are from panel surveys conducted during 2020–21 among adults involved in smallholder agriculture in Niger (n = 364, 3 rounds), Nigeria (n = 501, 5 rounds), Senegal (n = 501, 5 rounds), and Ghana (n = 543, 5 rounds). We hypothesized that household water insecurity (measured using the brief Household Water Insecurity Experiences Scale) would be associated with greater individual food insecurity (using 5 of the 8 Food Insecurity Experiences Scale items) and lower dietary diversity (using the Minimum Dietary Diversity Score for Women). At baseline, 37.1% of individuals were living in water-insecure households and of these, 90.6% had some experience of food insecurity. In multilevel mixed-effects regressions, individuals living in water-insecure households had 1.67 (95% CI: 1.47, 1.89) times higher odds of reporting any food insecurity experience and were estimated to consume 0.38-fewer food groups (95% CI: -0.50, -0.27) than those living in water-secure households. Experiences with suboptimal water access and use are associated with poor nutrition. The pathways by which water insecurity impacts nutrition should be identified. Global and national food and nutrition security policies could be strengthened by monitoring and developing strategies to address household water insecurity.
Exosomal miR-200c and miR-141 as cerebrospinal fluid biopsy biomarkers for the response to chemotherapy in primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Hu Yao , Zhang Qingyun , Wu Zhiyuan , Chen Kun , Xu Xiao , Ma Weizhe , Chen Bobin , Jin Limin , Guan Ming
Published: November 2023

Background

To improve early diagnosis and chemotherapy efficacy monitoring in primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exosomal microRNA (miRNA) studies were performed.

Method

Small RNA sequencing was performed to identify candidate exosomal miRNAs as CSF biopsy biomarkers from two patients with de novo PCNSL and two patients in remission after chemotherapy. miR-200c and miR-141 expression in CSF exosomes was further validated using relative quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in patients with PCNSL (n = 20), patients with other neurological diseases (n = 10), and normal subjects (n = 10). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses of miR-200c and miR-141 in the diagnosis and prediction of chemotherapy efficacy in PCNSL were performed in patients treated with methotrexate. Additionally, bioinformatics tools were utilized to predict the potential targets of miR-200c and miR-141.

Results

Exosomal miR-200c and miR-141 levels in CSF from patients with PCNSL were significantly lower than those in control subjects. Importantly, miR-200c and miR-141 were upregulated in patients with PCNSL after chemotherapy (P = 0.002). There was a significant correlation between the levels of miR-141 and IL-10 in CSF (P = 0.04). The combination of miR-200c and miR-141 yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.761 for distinguishing PCNSL with sensitivity and specificity of 60.0% and 96.7%, respectively. The potential target genes of miR-200c and miR-141 in PCNSL included ATP1B3, DYNC1H1, MATR3, NUCKS1, ZNF638, NUDT4, RCN2, GNPDA1, ZBTB38, and DOLK.

Conclusion

Collectively, miR-200c and miR-141 are likely to be upregulated in CSF exosomes after chemotherapy in patients with PCNSL, highlighting their potential as reliable liquid biopsy biomarkers for PCNSL diagnosis and chemotherapy efficacy monitoring.
Holistic performance evaluation of a turbofan featuring pressure gain combustion for a short-range mission
Authors: Neumann Nicolai , Peitsch Dieter
Published: November 2023

Aviation is at the center of public interest because of its environmental impact, such as noise and pollutant emissions. Evolutionary technologies are not expected to be sufficient to contribute significantly to the 2050 CO2 emissions reduction targets. This could change if the constant pressure combustion of the Joule cycle could be replaced with a constant volume combustion (pressure gain combustion, PGC). However, PGC comes with a major drawback of a periodic, highly unsteady process that potentially reduces the stability and efficiency of the adjacent compressor and turbine. Furthermore, changes to the secondary air system (SAS) are required since the driving force of SAS stems from the pressure loss in the conventional combustor. Despite the lasting prevalence of pressure gain combustion, there is no whole system analysis taking into account not only the beneficial aspects of PGC, but also the detrimental effects on the SAS and turbo components. To close that gap, a zero-dimensional whole engine model is created. That model accounts for the individual effects of PGC. A comprehensive design methodology identifies optimum engine specifications for a short-range mission. By comparing the results of the PGC turbofan to a conventional turbofan, an SFC improvement of 3.3% was identified.