bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The #metoo Movement in India: Emotions and (in)justice in feminist responses
Authors: Gangoli Geetanjali
Published: November 2023

This article will enhance and complicate existing debates on the #metoo movements internationally and in India. This will be done by focusing in particular on the feminist debates and responses to LoSHA (List of Sexual Harassers in Academia) in India, an online list naming alleged sexual harassers from academia. This was first released in the public domain in October 2017 and caused much division and strife within feminist movements, including intergenerational conflict. The article will address the underexplored role of emotions in the #metoo movement in India, and attempt to theorise this more widely in the context of ‘justice work’, particularly in the context of epistemic and procedural (in)justice models. It will address how different forms of feminist resistance can be and should be conceptualised within a general context of epistemic injustice.
Soil–Water Retention Curve Prediction for Compacted London Clay Subjected to Moisture Cycles
Authors: Dias Ana Sofia , Hughes Paul N. , Toll David G.
Published: November 2023

The evolution of the hydraulic properties of London Clay when compacted at a range of initial conditions (density and water content) was investigated. The soil–water retention curve (SWRC) is observed to change as the soil is subjected to cycles of wetting and drying. A new method is presented for predicting these changes in the soil–water retention curves (SWRCs) based on the starting conditions for each cycle. The method is based on relationships between the degree of saturation before drying (Sr,i), which includes the effect of void ratio and soil fabric, and key parameters that characterize the shape of SWRCs (air-entry value and slope of the transition zone). The relationship between the Sr,i and the air-entry value (or yield point, YP), and the relationship between the YP and the slope of the transition zone of the SWRC were established for the large experimental data set of two types of London clay of high and very high plasticity. The fitting parameters of a bi-linear SWRC model were estimated and used to constrain the fitting parameters of the van Genuchten model. As the SWRC of compacted clay continuously changes with progressive moisture cycles, this model allows the prediction of this evolution for the modelling of earthworks over the years, when subject to changing climatic conditions, without the need for an extensive experimental program.
Chitosan nanoparticle encapsulation increased the prophylactic efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum RM1 against AFM1-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats
Authors: Hassanen Eman I. , Ahmed Lamiaa I. , Fahim Karima M. , Shehata Mohamed G. , Badr Ahmed N.
Published: November 2023

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a significant contaminant of food, particularly dairy products and can resist various industrial processes. Several probiotic strains like Lactobacillus plantarum are known to reduce aflatoxin availability in synthetic media and some food products. The current work investigated the possible chitosan coating prophylactic efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum RM1 nanoemulsion (CS-RM1) against AFM1-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n = 7) as follows: group 1 received normal saline, group 2 received CS-RM1 (1mL contains 6.7 × 1010 CFU), group 3 received AFM1 (60 µg/kg bwt), and group 4 received both CS-RM1(1 mL contains 6.7 × 1010 CFU) and AFM1 (60 µg/kg bwt). All receiving materials were given to rats daily via oral gavage for 28 days. AFM1 caused a significant elevation in serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, uric acid, urea, and creatinine with marked alterations in protein and lipid profiles. Additionally, AFM1 caused marked pathological changes in the liver and kidneys, such as cellular necrosis, vascular congestion, and interstitial inflammation. AFM1 also increased the MDA levels and decreased several enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Liver and kidney sections of the AFM1 group displayed strong caspase-3, TNF-α, and iNOS immunopositivity. Co-treatment of CS-RM1 with AFM1 significantly lowered the investigated toxicological parameter changes and markedly improved the microscopic appearance of liver and kidneys. In conclusion, AFM1 induces hepatorenal oxidative stress damage via ROS overgeneration, which induces mitochondrial caspase-3-dependent apoptosis and inflammation. Furthermore, CS-RM1 can reduce AFM1 toxicity in both the liver and kidneys. The study recommends adding CS-RM1 to milk and milk products for AFM1-elimination.
The TrEase web service: inferring phylogenetic trees with ease
Authors: Mishra Bagdevi , Ploch Sebastian , Weiland Claus , Thines Marco
Published: November 2023

Phylogenetic inference is done regularly in many biological studies not focussed on the phylogeny itself, but which use phylogeny as a tool to infer hypotheses for the interpretation of laboratory experiments. However, phylogenetic inference is often performed at low standards in these studies, which can result in wrong interpretations. Using high-standard phylogenetic inference tools usually requires substantial methodological knowledge or is only possible with paid tools. To enable beginners, researchers for which phylogeny is just one tool of many, and scientists in biodiversity discovery a quick and easy access to current phylogenetic methods, the TrEase web service with an intuitive interface was developed. It offers a complete pipeline with commonly used phylogeny-related software, which can run the whole process of sequence acquisition, reference sequence search, alignment and phylogenetic inference with a single execution command once the necessary parameters have been selected from drop-down menus. It allows choosing alternate programmes for each step and also offers the flexibility to use any part of the pipeline independently. Along with providing a compact pipeline, this web service provides several functionalities to avoid manual intervention such as sorting sequences into the same orientation, cutting reference sequences, removal of redundant sequences and the possibility to choose reference sequences from top ‘species’ hits instead of top GenBank entry hits. All resulting trees and intermediate files are made available for download for subsequent use. Thus, the TrEase service offers a barrier-free entry into standard phylogenetic analyses. It is available at http://thines-lab.senckenberg.de/trease.
Effective mitigation strategies for reducing workers’ exposure to formaldehyde: a systematic review
Authors: Castellani Federica , Vitali Matteo , Antonucci Arianna , Cofone Luigi , D’Ancona Gabriele , Pindinello Ivano , Buomprisco Giuseppe , Petyx Marta , Ursini Cinzia Lucia , Protano Carmela
Published: November 2023

Formaldehyde is a toxic and carcinogenic compound, still used in several occupational settings due to its properties. Thus, in these working scenarios, it is necessary to provide effective measures to reduce workers’ exposure to formaldehyde. The aim of this systematic review is to provide a picture of the worldwide mitigation strategies implemented in occupational environments for minimizing the exposure to formaldehyde and which ones are the most effective for this purpose.

The systematic review was performed according to PRISMA statement; the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022302207). The search was performed on three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). Studies were considered eligible if they describe strategies for mitigating formaldehyde occupational exposure and their efficacy. We included articles reporting observational studies, semi-experimental, and experimental studies and published in the English language, from the inception to March 26th, 2023. The quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

In total, 28 articles were included in the review. The employment scenarios/activities studied were human and veterinary anatomy, autopsy, histopathology or pathology laboratories, embalming procedures, hospital, operating theaters, aquaculture, textile or foundry industries, industry using 3-D printers, offices, and firefighters’ activities. Different methods have proven useful in mitigating formaldehyde exposure, such as the use of personal protective equipment, engineering control methods, organization methods, and technical strategies, with a reduction of airborne formaldehyde until to 99.6%. The highest reduction was obtained in an anatomy laboratory through locally exhausted dissection tables equipped with activated carbon filters.

The specific suitable procedures should be standardized and applied in all work settings for an appropriate risk management, in order to protect the health of exposed workers.
Between Trust and Ambivalence: How Does Trainee Teachers’ Perception of the Relationship With Their Mentors Explain How Trainee Teachers Experience Their Work?
Authors: Maué Elisabeth , Goller Michael , Bonnes Caroline , Kärner Tobias
Published: November 2023

The study aims to identify profiles of trainee teachers in terms of their stress and work experiences and to uncover profile differences in regard to dropout intentions and perceived relationships between trainee teachers and their mentors. Based on data from 1,756 German trainee teachers, three distinct stress and work experience profiles could be identified. Trainee teachers with high levels of stress and negative work experiences exhibit higher dropout intentions and experience their relationship with their mentors as less transparent, fair and trusting, and more ambivalent compared to trainee teachers with low levels of stress and positive work experiences. The results underline the importance of the relationship between mentors and trainee teachers for the professional development of future teachers.
A Pilot Study Exploring the Feasibility and Acceptability of Digitally Mediated Team Communication in Primary Schools
Authors: Jones Lauren Stephanie , Russell Ailsa , Brosnan Mark
Published: November 2023

With high demand on specialist child mental health services internationally, there is significant interest in prevention and early intervention, as well as innovative and efficient approaches for increasing access to high-quality care. Digital communication technologies can improve communication between different professionals and agencies involved in young people’s lives, which is especially important in rural locations and became more necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examined the perceived value, feasibility, and acceptability of digitally mediated team communication for responding to emerging social, emotional, and mental health support needs in primary school settings in a rural county in the UK. A pre-/post-study design was used as a process evaluation of digitally mediated team communication and pilot test of feasibility and perceived value. Fifteen individual children (aged 4–9 years) were referred to a digitally mediated multidisciplinary team (with representation from relevant children’s services) where formulation was used to develop specialised action plans implemented by education staff and parents/carers. Findings suggest that digitally mediated team communication was highly valued for enhancing practice in supporting individual children by education staff and for making progress towards personalised goals by both education staff and parents/carers. Analysis further suggests that digitally mediated team communication was feasible and acceptable to education staff and parents/carers. A digitally mediated model for an early and multidisciplinary team response holds promise for empowering education staff as an extended mental health workforce, with a need for future research with larger samples to investigate service efficiency and outcomes of this health service delivery model.
Vacuum insulated glazing (VIG) units under wind load—part 1: global deformation and stresses on the outer glass surfaces
Authors: Ayvaz Isabell , Kocer Cenk , Schneider Jens
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the first part of a study on the effect of wind loads on Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) units. The study provides background information on VIG and relevant Standards, explains the numerical modelling process, and discusses the implications of the results in relation to European and North American codes and Standards. The focus of the study is on vertical windows and façade installations in low-rise buildings (< 25 m) commonly found in residential buildings. The mechanical behaviour of VIG was analysed using the Finite Element Method (FEM) with respect to various design parameters such as glass pane size, glass thickness, surface pressure magnitude, and edge boundary conditions. The study analysed global deformation as well as the stresses on the outer glass surfaces. The VIG features such as pillar geometry and contact dynamics, and material non-linear effects, were explicitly modelled. In addition, monolithic glass plates were also modelled, and the FEM results of the monolithic cases were in reasonable agreement with an analytical solution obtained from linear thin plate theory. These results highlight the limit of linear behaviour in monolithic plate bending. The centre-of-pane deflection of the VIG was in good agreement with the FEM and analytical solutions of the equivalent thickness monolithic pane, for sample sizes below 800 × 800 mm. However, for larger glass sizes, a deviation was found, and the VIG exhibited a higher plate stiffness than the equivalent thickness monolithic pane. The simulations also showed that the stresses in the glass panes are highly dependent on the edge of glass boundary condition. Finally, the results demonstrated that with appropriate design choices, the VIG can satisfy the Standards requirements for wind load and glass design in both Europe and North America.
Optimal time separation modeling and simulation for stable neon isotopes in a transient square cascade: a comprehensive study
Authors: Shadman Mohammad Mahdi , Ghazanfari Valiyollah , Amini Younes , Mansourzadeh Fatemeh , Khamseh A. Gh. , Khani Mohammad Hassan , Hassanvand Amin , Heydari Mehran
Published: November 2023

This study simulates the separation of stable Neon isotopes in a transient square cascade using the Crank–Nicolson method and the q-iteration method. The simulations show that each isotope has an optimal value in either the product or waste streams at a specific time, which affects the cost of separation. The results demonstrate that the optimal separation time for Ne-20 increases with the feed concentration and is influenced by the unit separation factor. Depending on the feed concentration and separation parameter, Ne-21 may be enriched in either the product or waste stream. The optimal separation time for Ne-22 is the maximum operation time and is not affected by changes in feed concentration or unit separation factor. Calculating the optimal separation time is crucial for obtaining target isotopes with specific purity at a designated time, depending on their intended applications.
Porites sp. deposits pink pigmentation to limit the propagation of vermitid gastropods and rhodoliths at coral surface interfaces
Authors: Ramesh Chatragadda , Shunmugaraj Thimmu , Koushik Sadhukhan , Murthy Mallavarapu Venkata Ramana
Published: November 2023

Pink pigmentation on massive corals is quite commonly observed in the global reefs, but its function on the surface area of corals is less understood. In the present study, the coral video transect method was employed to document the incidence of pink pigmentation on Porites colonies from 21 islands under the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve (GoMMBR), India. Results revealed that 19% (n = 77 out of 517) of Porites sp. colonies displayed pink pigmentation as a stress indicator in response to the colonization of epibionts. Porites colonies exhibited pink pigmentation when infected with epibionts like a vermetid snail, Ceraesignum sp. (12%; n = 49), a rhodolith, Hydrolithon sp. (5%; n = 21), or both (2%; n = 7). This study indicates that Porites pink pigment deposition aids in minimizing surface tissue area damage by preventing further progression of infesting agents such as vermitid snails and rhodoliths on the surface areas of corals.
In Search of a Moral Foundation for Capitalism
Authors: Stevens Douglas E.
Published: November 2023

The search for a moral foundation for capitalism has a long history that continues to unfold, yet many are unaware of this search or its implications for the future of capitalism. The recent pandemic has uncovered cracks in the foundation of capitalism and raised doubts regarding its ability to meet the broader needs of society. In Search of a Moral Foundation for Capitalism explains the continuing demand for a moral foundation from the perspective of business leaders, business educators, and policymakers, and tells the story of the search for that moral foundation through its leading characters. By presenting the life stories and writings of these leading characters – from Adam Smith to Amartya Sen – this book reveals the rich moral critique provided by these great thinkers and explains how that rich critique was lost through the influence of the Chicago School and its emphasis on self-interest.
Bespoke stability analysis tool in next-generation computational fluid dynamics solver
Authors: Vevek U S , Houtman J. , Timme S.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents some of the first results of global linear stability analyses performed using a bespoke eigensolver that has recently been implemented in the next generation flow solver framework CODA. The eigensolver benefits from the automatic differentiation capability of CODA that allows computation of the exact product of the Jacobian matrix with an arbitrary complex vector. It implements the Krylov–Schur algorithm for solving the eigenvalue problem. The bespoke tool has been validated for the case of laminar flow past a circular cylinder with numerical results computed using the TAU code and those reported in the literature. It has been applied with both second-order finite volume and high-order discontinuous Galerkin schemes for the case of laminar flow past a square cylinder. It has been demonstrated that using high-order schemes on coarser grids leads to well-converged eigenmodes with a shorter computation time compared to using second-order schemes on finer grids.
The 2023 Update of the OECD Guidelines sets Stronger Standards for Companies but Weak Expectations for Governments – High and Lowlights from the New Text
Authors: Ingrams Marian G.
Published: November 2023

In June 2023, the OECD published ‘targeted updates’ to the newly renamed OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct. This piece examines some of the most significant updates from the perspective of civil society. The majority of the updates strengthen the authoritative international standards on responsible business conduct; for example, by addressing new and important topics, such as climate change, and clarifying expectations on established due diligence concepts. Meanwhile, the revised implementation procedures suggest progressive measures for governments to strengthen their National Contact Points, but largely do not require specific improvements. This piece discusses the strengths and shortcomings of these changes and assesses the impact of the updates on international norms.
Barriers to Surgical Intervention and Factors Influencing Motor Outcomes in Patients with Severe Peripheral Nerve Injury: A Province Wide Cohort Study
Authors: Beveridge Julie C. , Beveridge Allison , Morhart Michael J. , Olson Jaret L. , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Midha Rajiv , Chan Christine S.M. , Wang Bonnie , Chan K. Ming
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Despite the importance of timing of nerve surgery after peripheral nerve injury, optimal timing of intervention has not been clearly delineated. The goal of this study is to explore factors that may have a significant impact on clinical outcomes of severe peripheral nerve injury that requires reconstruction with nerve transfer or graft.

Materials and Methods:

Adult patients who underwent peripheral nerve transfer or grafting in Alberta were reviewed. Clustered multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association of time to surgery, type of nerve repair, and patient characteristics on strength outcomes. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis model was used to examine factors correlated with increased time to surgery.

Results:

Of the 163 patients identified, the median time to surgery was 212 days. For every week of delay, the adjusted odds of achieving Medical Research Council strength grade ≥ 3 decreases by 3%. An increase in preinjury comorbidities was associated with longer overall time to surgery (aHR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.95). Referrals made by surgeons were associated with a shorter time to surgery compared to general practitioners (aHR 1.87, 95% CI 1.14–3.06). In patients treated with nerve transfer, the adjusted odds of achieving antigravity strength was 388% compared to nerve grafting; while the adjusted odds decreased by 65% if the injury sustained had a pre-ganglionic injury component.

Conclusion:

Mitigating delays in surgical intervention is crucial to optimizing outcomes. The nature of initial nerve injury and surgical reconstructive techniques are additional important factors that impact postoperative outcomes.
Optimal retirement with disability pensions
Authors: Fehr Hans , Fröhlich Adrian
Published: November 2023

This paper develops a general equilibrium life-cycle model with endogenous retirement that focuses on the interplay between old-age pensions (OAP) and disability pensions (DP) in Germany. Germany has introduced a phased-in increase of the normal retirement age from age 65 to 67 (Reform 2007) and closed off other routes to early OAP retirement. This reform was followed by a phased-in expansion of future DP benefits (Reform 2018). Our simulation results indicate that the first reform will induce a shift toward DP retirement, while the Reform 2018 will even neutralize the financial and economic gains of the Reform 2007 if current DP eligibility and benefit rules remain unchanged. We therefore highlight the increased relevance of DP when reforming the retirement system and retirement incentives in an aging society. Securing the financial stability of public pensions requires activation and rehabilitation of sick elderly in the workforce and tight access to disability benefits.
Convective Couplings With Equatorial Rossby Waves and Equatorial Kelvin Waves: 3. Variations of Clouds and Their Radiative Effects
Authors: Nakamura Yuhi , Takayabu Yukari N.
Published: November 2023

Utilizing spaceborne cloud radar and lidar (CloudSat/CALIPSO) observation products, we examine vertical distributions of clouds and quantify their radiative effects associated with equatorial Rossby and Kelvin waves. The most important result is that the radiative heating substantially increased the generation of the eddy available potential energy by 19% and 40%, in Rossby and Kelvin waves, respectively, adding to the convective latent heating. Composite analyses indicate a simultaneous development between deep‐convective anvil clouds and stratiform clouds of mesoscale convective systems in the Rossby waves, and a transition from low‐level clouds, anvil clouds to stratiform clouds in the Kelvin waves. These are consistent to precipitation characteristics provided by precipitation radar observation, and thus the apparent heat source can be estimated by combining convective heating and radiative heating.
Glacial‐Interglacial Circulation and Climatic Changes in the South Indian Ocean (Kerguelen Plateau Region) Recorded by Detrital and Biogenic Magnetic Minerals
Authors: Liu Yan , Kissel Catherine , Mazaud Alain , Pan Yongxin , Li Jinhua
Published: November 2023

The Southern Ocean (SO) plays a fundamental role in global climate due to the presence of the intense eastward‐flowing Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), one of the most important ocean current systems. The configuration of the frontal systems of the ACC is controlled by the orbital‐ and millennial‐scale variations of the Southern Hemisphere westerly winds (SHWW) and the SO upwelling. However, the reconstruction of paleoclimate and paleocurrent in the SO remains controversial possibly because of the complex interpretation of paleo‐proxies and the regional variations. Here, we present results from rock magnetic measurements and electron microscopic analyses on marine core MD11‐3353 over the past 150 Kyr, which is located in the Polar Front Zone, west of the Kerguelen Plateau. Our data sets indicate that magnetic mineral assemblages in the core are dominated by detrital magnetic minerals mixed with biogenic magnetic minerals (i.e., magnetofossils formed by magnetotactic bacteria) during the interglacial periods. Changes in the detrital magnetic mineral content indicate a strong modulation of the ACC intensity and the SHWW stress at the orbital scale over the last climatic cycle with an enhanced activity during the glacial periods. The increase in magnetofossils content during the interglacial periods indicates an enhanced nutrient supply from the SO upwelling resulting from the southward migration of the Antarctic Polar Front. Our results suggest that the variations of concentration and assemblage of magnetic minerals can be used as faithful proxies for reconstructing ocean circulation and upwelling changes in the South Indian Ocean over the past 150 Kyr.
Efficacy and quality of life for FOLFOX/bevacizumab +/− irinotecan in first-line metastatic colorectal cancer—final results of the AIO CHARTA trial
Authors: Schmoll Hans-Joachim , Mann Julia , Meinert Fabian , Garlipp Benjamin , Borchert Kersten , Vogel Arndt , Goekkurt Eray , Kaiser Ulrich , Hoeffkes Heinz-Gert , Rüssel Jörn , Kanzler Stephan , Edelmann Thomas , Forstbauer Helmut , Göhler Thomas , Hannig Carla , Hildebrandt Bert , Roll Carsten , Bokemeyer Carsten , Steighardt Jörg , Cygon Franziska , Ibach Stefan , Stein Alexander , Tintelnot Joseph
Published: November 2023

Background

FOLFOXIRI plus bevacizumab has demonstrated benefits for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. However, challenges arise in its clinical implementation due to expected side effects and a lack of stratification criteria.

Methods

The AIO “CHARTA” trial randomised mCRC patients into clinical Group 1 (potentially resectable), 2 (unresectable/risk of rapid progression), or 3 (asymptomatic). They received FOLFOX/bevacizumab +/− irinotecan. The primary endpoint was the 9-month progression-free survival rate (PFSR@9). Secondary endpoints included efficacy in stratified groups, QoL, PFS, OS, ORR, secondary resection rate, and toxicity.

Results

The addition of irinotecan to FOLFOX/bevacizumab increased PFSR@9 from 56 to 67%, meeting the primary endpoint. The objective response rate was 61% vs. 69% (P = 0.21) and median PFS was 10.3 vs. 12 months (HR 0.83; P = 0.17). The PFS was (11.4 vs. 12.9 months; HR 0.83; P = 0.46) in potentially resectable patients, with a secondary resection rate of 37% vs. 51%. Moreover, Group 3 (asymptomatic) patients had a PFS of 11.1 vs. 16.1 months (HR 0.6; P = 0.14). The addition of irinotecan did not diminish QoL.

Conclusion

The CHARTA trial, along with other studies, confirms the efficacy and tolerability of FOLFOXIRI/bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for mCRC. Importantly, clinical stratification may lead to its implementation.

Trial registration

The trial was registered as NCT01321957.
Comparison of non-invasive diagnostic modalities for ocular surface squamous neoplasia at a tertiary hospital, South Africa
Authors: Hӧllhumer Roland , Michelow Pamela , Williams Susan
Published: November 2023

Aims

The aim of the study is to assess non-invasive diagnostic modalities for ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) when compared to histology.

Methods

A prospective case–control study was conducted of patients presenting with conjunctival masses at a tertiary eye hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. Patients completed an interview and had three non-invasive diagnostic tests: optical coherence tomography, impression cytology and methylene blue stain. A biopsy with histology was performed as the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis.

Results

One hundred and eighty-two conjunctival masses of 175 patients were evaluated. There were 135 lesions identified as OSSN on biopsy and 47 lesions were benign on histology. Optical coherence tomography had a sensitivity and specificity of 87.2% (95% CI: 80.0–92.5) and 75.6% (95% CI: 60.5–87.1), respectively, when an epithelial thickness cutoff of 140 um was used. Shadowing was found in 46% of cases due to leukoplakia or increased thickness of the mass. Cytology had a sensitivity of 72.4% (95% CI: 62.5–81.0) and a specificity of 74.3% (95% CI: 56.7–87.5). Twenty-seven per cent of cytology specimens were excluded from analysis due to inadequate cellularity. Methylene blue had a high sensitivity of 91.9% (95% CI: 85.9–95.9), but low specificity of 55.3% (95% CI: 40.1–69.8).

Conclusion

Optical coherence tomography had a high sensitivity and specificity as a non-invasive test and liquid-based cytology performed well but had a lower sensitivity and specificity than with optical coherence tomography. Methylene blue performed well as a screening test, with a high sensitivity but low specificity.
Prevalence of chromosomal alterations in first-trimester spontaneous pregnancy loss
Authors: Essers Rick , Lebedev Igor N. , Kurg Ants , Fonova Elizaveta A. , Stevens Servi J. C. , Koeck Rebekka M. , von Rango Ulrike , Brandts Lloyd , Deligiannis Spyridon Panagiotis , Nikitina Tatyana V. , Sazhenova Elena A. , Tolmacheva Ekaterina N. , Kashevarova Anna A. , Fedotov Dmitry A. , Demeneva Viktoria V. , Zhigalina Daria I. , Drozdov Gleb V. , Al-Nasiry Salwan , Macville Merryn V. E. , van den Wijngaard Arthur , Dreesen Jos , Paulussen Aimee , Hoischen Alexander , Brunner Han G. , Salumets Andres , Zamani Esteki Masoud
Published: November 2023

Pregnancy loss is often caused by chromosomal abnormalities of the conceptus. The prevalence of these abnormalities and the allocation of (ab)normal cells in embryonic and placental lineages during intrauterine development remain elusive. In this study, we analyzed 1,745 spontaneous pregnancy losses and found that roughly half (50.4%) of the products of conception (POCs) were karyotypically abnormal, with maternal and paternal age independently contributing to the increased genomic aberration rate. We applied genome haplarithmisis to a subset of 94 pregnancy losses with normal parental and POC karyotypes. Genotyping of parental DNA as well as POC extra-embryonic mesoderm and chorionic villi DNA, representing embryonic and trophoblastic tissues, enabled characterization of the genomic landscape of both lineages. Of these pregnancy losses, 35.1% had chromosomal aberrations not previously detected by karyotyping, increasing the rate of aberrations of pregnancy losses to 67.8% by extrapolation. In contrast to viable pregnancies where mosaic chromosomal abnormalities are often restricted to chorionic villi, such as confined placental mosaicism, we found a higher degree of mosaic chromosomal imbalances in extra-embryonic mesoderm rather than chorionic villi. Our results stress the importance of scrutinizing the full allelic architecture of genomic abnormalities in pregnancy loss to improve clinical management and basic research of this devastating condition.
Uncovering developmental time and tempo using deep learning
Authors: Toulany Nikan , Morales-Navarrete Hernán , Čapek Daniel , Grathwohl Jannis , Ünalan Murat , Müller Patrick
Published: November 2023

During animal development, embryos undergo complex morphological changes over time. Differences in developmental tempo between species are emerging as principal drivers of evolutionary novelty, but accurate description of these processes is very challenging. To address this challenge, we present here an automated and unbiased deep learning approach to analyze the similarity between embryos of different timepoints. Calculation of similarities across stages resulted in complex phenotypic fingerprints, which carry characteristic information about developmental time and tempo. Using this approach, we were able to accurately stage embryos, quantitatively determine temperature-dependent developmental tempo, detect naturally occurring and induced changes in the developmental progression of individual embryos, and derive staging atlases for several species de novo in an unsupervised manner. Our approach allows us to quantify developmental time and tempo objectively and provides a standardized way to analyze early embryogenesis.
Functional adaptation after femoral intertrochanteric valgus osteotomy in Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease
Authors: Wagner Ferdinand , Weiß Barbara , Holzapfel Boris Michael , Ziegler Christian Max , Heimkes Bernhard
Published: November 2023

Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease (LCPD) requires individualized treatment in order to regain a functional hip joint. In severe cases, in which a congruent joint cannot be achieved, other options are necessary in order to improve functionality and prevent early osteoarthritis. Therefore, we analysed the clinical and radiologic outcome of 28 patients after valgus osteotomy of the proximal femur (VOF). We examined the range of hip motion, functionality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) via modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Kidscreen-10. Radiographic analysis contained quantitative and qualitative measurements of hip morphology. In particular, we correlated the results with the change of the pelvic-femoral angle (PFA). PFA was defined as the angle between the anatomical diaphyseal line of the femur and a vertical line through the pelvis. The mean follow-up was 5.5 years. Patients showed high mHHS and good HRQoL postoperatively. An increase in ROM with an improvement of 30.5° abduction and 10.3° internal rotation was evident. PFA correlated with adduction contracture and improved significantly after surgery. In consideration of careful patient selection, VOF showed a positive effect on ROM, pain, HRQoL, radiographic congruence and outcome. We identified the age at surgery and an increasing adduction contracture—objectified by a decreased PFA—as a prognostic factor.
Complicate dynamical properties of a discrete slow-fast predator-prey model with ratio-dependent functional response
Authors: Li Xianyi , Dong Jiange
Published: November 2023

Using a semidiscretization method, we derive in this paper a discrete slow-fast predator-prey system with ratio-dependent functional response. First of all, a detailed study for the local stability of fixed points of the system is obtained by invoking an important lemma. In addition, by utilizing the center manifold theorem and the bifurcation theory some sufficient conditions are obtained for the transcritical bifurcation and Neimark-Sacker bifurcation of this system to occur. Finally, with the use of Matlab software, numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the corresponding theoretical results and reveal some new dynamics of the system. Our results clearly demonstrate that the system is very sensitive to its fast time scale parameter variable.
Socioeconomic and behavioral determinants of non-compliance with physician referrals following community screening for diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Yoon Sungwon , Goh Hendra , Phang Jie Kie , Kwan Yu Heng , Low Lian Leng
Published: November 2023

Early detection of undiagnosed diabetes, hypertension or hyperlipidemia through screening could reduce healthcare costs resulting from disease complications. To date, despite ample research on the factors linked to the uptake of community health screening programs, little attention has been directed at delayed or incomplete follow-up after positive outcomes are identified in community screening tests. This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and behavioral factors that influence non-compliance with recommendations for primary care physician referrals, following community-based screening for diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. A parallel mixed-methods study was conducted. For quantitative data, we performed multivariable analysis on community-based chronic disease screening data. The qualitative component involved semi-structured interviews with individuals with both non-compliance and compliance with referral recommendations. Thematic data analysis was undertaken using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). The quantitative analysis showed that older age (OR = 0.92, 95%CI [0.89–0.96]), non-Chinese ethnicity (OR = 0.24; 95% CI [0.08–0.44]) and residing in 5-room public/ private housing (OR = 0.40; 95% CI [0.14–0.74]) were associated with lower odds of non-compliance with referral recommendations. Thematic analysis identified multiple behavioral-level determinants acting as enablers or barriers within 7 TDF domains: awareness of health risks after receiving screening results, self-management orientation and behavioral control, fear of formal diagnosis and concerns about healthcare cost, optimistic belief driven by the lack of symptoms, interpersonal relationship and social obligations, aversion to medication, communication at the result collection and sense of uncertainty regarding self-scheduling of appointment. Findings provide valuable implications for the development of interventions aimed at improving adherence to referral recommendation. Future endeavors should include culturally sensitive outreach, evidence-based information dissemination, family-centered education, positive public health messaging, brief counseling during result collection and an opt-out appointment system to enhance follow-up care.
Design and optimization of a transparent and flexible MIMO antenna for compact IoT and 5G applications
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Nawaz , Aziz Abdul , AlJaloud Khaled , Chishti Abdul Rehman , Alqahtani Ali H. , Abbasi Durria , Tahir Farooq A. , Khan Zia Ullah , Hussain Rifaqat
Published: November 2023

This work presents an optically transparent and flexible MIMO antenna that features two square patch elements placed in close proximity, aiming to meet the demands of compactness, flexibility, optical transparency, and visual appeal for IoT applications and future 5G wireless communication. The design includes a simple offset fed configuration to achieve the required isolation and impedance matching. It simplifies the process of creating closely spaced transparent MIMO antenna configurations. By optimizing and analyzing this structure, the antenna achieves better isolation and diversity gain performance, even when the patch elements are positioned very close to each other. To achieve optical transparency and flexibility, the antenna uses thin polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material as a substrate, which is a thermoplastic polymer resin from the polyester family. The wired metal mesh parameters for conducting parts of the MIMO antenna and offset position of the feed are carefully optimized to achieve required optical transparency, isolation, impedance matching and radiation performance without any complex decoupling or impedance matching network.
Captopril supported on magnetic graphene nitride, a sustainable and green catalyst for one-pot multicomponent synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromene and 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh , Alinezhad Heshmatollah , Maleki Behrooz
Published: November 2023

Captopril (CAP) is a safe, cost-effective, and environmentally organic compound that can be used as an effective organo-catalyst. Functional groups of captopril make it capable to attach to solid support and acting as promoters in organic transformations. In this work, captopril was attached to the surface of magnetic graphene nitride by employing a linker agent. The synthesized composite efficiently catalyzed two multicomponent reactions including the synthesis of 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine and 2-amino-4H-chromene derivatives. A large library of functional targeted products was synthesized in mild reaction conditions. More importantly, this catalyst was stable and magnetically recycled and reused for at least five runs without losing catalytic activity.
Social buffering of oxidative stress and cortisol in an endemic cyprinid fish
Authors: Schumann Sophia , Mozzi Gloria , Piva Elisabetta , Devigili Alessandro , Negrato Elena , Marion Andrea , Bertotto Daniela , Santovito Gianfranco
Published: November 2023

Fish exhibit complex social behaviours that can influence their stress levels and well-being. However, little is known about the link between social interactions and stress in wild fish, especially in running water environments. While many studies have explored the stress axis in fish, most have focused on specific social contexts, leaving gaps in understanding stress responses to social changes. Our study investigated collective behaviour and stress in wild Italian riffle dace (Telestes muticellus) in a controlled experimental setup simulating a natural river system. Results reveal that group-living fish have lower cortisol and oxidative stress levels in muscle tissue compared to solitary counterparts, suggesting a calming effect of conspecific presence. Additionally, we observed upregulated expression of antioxidant enzymes in group-living fish, indicating potential benefits to antioxidant defence systems. These insights shed light on the dynamic relationship between group behaviour and stress in wild fish within running water habitats and emphasise the use of multidisciplinary approaches.
Influence of parent vessel feature on the risk of internal carotid artery aneurysm rupture via computational method
Authors: Fattahi Mehdi , Abdollahi Seyyed Amirreza , Alibak Ali Hosin , Hosseini Saleh , Dang Phuyen
Published: November 2023

In this study, the role of sac section area and parent vessel diameter on the hemodynamic feature of the blood flow in selected internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms is comprehensively investigated. The changes of wall shear stress, pressure, and oscillatory shear index (OSI) of blood stream on the vessel for various aneurysms with coiling treatment. To attain hemodynamic factors, computational technique is used for the modeling of non-Newtonian transient blood flow inside the three different ICA aneurysms. Three different saccular models with various Parent vessel mean Diameter is investigated in this study. The achieved outcomes show that increasing the diameter of the parent vessel directly decreases the OSI value on the sac surface. In addition, the mean wall shear stress decreases with the increase of the parent vessel diameter.
All-in-one fabrication of a ratiometric electrochemical aptasensor with tetrahedral DNA nanostructure for fumonisin B1 detection
Authors: Dong Na , Liu Shuda , Li Yuye , Meng Shuyun , Liu Yifan , Li Xia , Liu Dong , You Tianyan
Published: November 2023

An all-in-one fabrication strategy for the fabrication of an electrochemical aptasensor was developed. This strategy simplifies the fabrication of the aptasensor and avoids instability in the assembly process.
Percolation onset and conductivity of nanocomposites assuming an incomplete dispersion of graphene nanosheets in a polymer matrix
Authors: Zare Yasser , Munir Muhammad Tajammal , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: November 2023

Graphene nanosheet stacks are considered, and the percolation onset, actual filler amount and portion of networked nanosheets are specified. These terms are also applied to develop a model for the conductivity of a graphene-filled system.
Quantitative kinetics of the atmospheric reaction between isocyanic acid and hydroxyl radicals: post-CCSD(T) contribution, anharmonicity, recrossing effects, torsional anharmonicity, and tunneling
Authors: Deng Dai-Dan , Long Bo
Published: November 2023

The post-CCSD(T) contribution is very large for the barrier height with the value of −0.86 kcal mol−1 for the H-abstraction reaction in the OH + HNCO reaction.
Structural dimerization and charge-orbital ordering in a ferromagnetic semiconductor LiV2S4 monolayer
Authors: Song Rui , Wang Bili , Feng Kai , Yao Jia , Lu Mengjie , Bai Jing , Dong Shuai , An Ming
Published: November 2023

Vanadium dimerization has been observed in the LiV2S4 monolayer instead of trimerization as occurs in its parent bulk LiVS2. Additionally, charge-orbital ordering and ferromagnetic coupling are also predicted.
Synergistic design of a semi-hollow core–shell structure and a metal–organic framework-derived Co/Zn selenide coated with MXene for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Zhao , Ma Ying , Li Zhao , Xiao Meixia , Tu Bingtian , Song Haiyang
Published: November 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries have garnered significant interest as potential energy storage systems for the future, owing to their remarkable theoretical specific capacity (1675 mA h g−1) and energy density (2600 W h kg−1).
Efficient photo-driven ion pump through slightly reduced vertical graphene oxide membranes
Authors: Du Xinyi , Liu Junchao , Han Zhitong , Chen Jiansheng , Wang Lina , Zhang Xinyi , Guo Yue , Liu Xuran , Zhou Jinming , Jia Pan
Published: November 2023

Photo-driven anti-gradient ion transport through slightly reduced vertical graphene oxide membranes.
Tuning of the antiferromagnetic-type interaction in photo-excited single-decker porphyrin–lanthanide complexes with different crown capping ligands
Authors: Adi Langit Cahya , Santria Anas , Ishikawa Naoto
Published: November 2023

By using magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), antiferromagnetic-type J–L electronic interaction (ΔJL) in heteroleptic Dy–porphyrin complexes was successfully determined. The ΔJL was tuned by changing the coordinating atoms of the non-aromatic ligands.
Multistimuli-responsive multicolor solid-state luminescence tuned by NH-dependent switchable hydrogen bonds
Authors: Zhang Rui , He Li-Hua , Liu Sui-Jun , Liao Jin-Sheng , Wen He-Rui , Chen Jing-Lin , Zhao Feng
Published: November 2023

Stimuli-responsive multicolor solid-state luminescence is tuned by NH-dependent switchable hydrogen bonds, in which luminescence vapochromism and mechanochromism are associated with hydrogen bonding with dppa-NH and bpmtzH-NH, respectively.
Novel synthetic route towards heteroleptic pnictogen-rich organometallic–inorganic coordination compounds
Authors: Shelyganov Pavel A. , Elsayed Moussa Mehdi , Seidl Michael , Zimmermann Lisa , Menezes da Silva Wagner , Scheer Manfred
Published: November 2023

The reaction of metal dimers stabilised by diphosphorus tetrahedrane [{CpMo(CO)2}2(μ,η2-P2)] with the organometallic tetrahedranes [{CpMo(CO)2}2(μ,η2-EE′)] (E = P, As, Sb; E′ = As, Sb) allows the synthesis of heteroleptic pnictogen-rich complexes.
Mechanics and electrochemistry in nature-inspired functional batteries: fundamentals, configurations and devices
Authors: Xiao Xiangjun , Meng Qi , Zhu Jiaming , Zhang Yan , Ma Yulin , Huo Hua , Yin Geping , Lou Shuaifeng
Published: November 2023

Four classifications and representative cases of natural inspired functional batteries.
A synergistic ‘push and pull’ ionic liquid biphasic system for enhanced extraction separation of cholic acid and deoxycholic acid
Authors: Ding Zexiang , Rong Fanding , Cao Yifeng , Shen Yuanyuan , Yang Liu , Chen Lihang , Yang Qiwei , Zhang Zhiguo , Ren Qilong , Bao Zongbi
Published: November 2023

A ‘push and pull’ strategy is applied to enhance the liquid–liquid extraction separation efficiency of cholic acid (CA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) based on ionic liquid (IL).
Bacterial outer membrane vesicle-modified metal–organic frameworks for sonodynamic therapy–immunotherapy of breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Ziwen , Tu Jiawei , Kuang Xiufeng , Shi Mengya , Zhang Yumeng , Li He , Huang Jiesheng , Wang Li , Yuan Huafang
Published: November 2023

A schematic illustration of the preparation process of an OCMOF and its application for sonodynamic therapy and immunotherapy of breast cancer.