bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of continuous carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene composites by injection compression molding with self‐resistance electric heating
Authors: He Qingzhu , Jiang Bailong , Zhai Zhanyu , Hao Changqian
Published: May 2023

Injection compression molding technique with self‐resistance electric heating provides an effective way to fabricate continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics (cCFRTs) components, but it may also have a significant impact on the properties of the components by inducing undesirable effects. It is necessary to understand the manufacturing process and minimize the introduction of undesirable factors. Thus, this work is to investigate the influence of process parameters (i.e., melt temperature, current intensity, holding pressure, and holding time) on the impregnation quality and mechanical properties of cCFRTs. The results show that fiber fabrics cannot be uniformly distributed in all cCFRTs, resulting in a thick polymer layer on the top of all cCFRTs. Moreover, the fiber distribution shows insensitive to the processing parameters. The increase of melt temperature, the decrease of current intensity and the extension of holding time are conducive to reduce void content and the frequency of macro void; While excessive holding pressure cannot reduce void content due to serious overflow of resin. Meanwhile, the effect of processing parameters on the mechanical properties and fracture morphology of the sample was also determined. The findings show that the flexural strength of the sample is 106.7 ± 0.8 MPa using the optimal processing parameters.
Development of convergent hybrid phase ligation for efficient and convenient total synthesis of proteins
Authors: Hong Ziyong Z. , Yu Ruixuan R. , Zhang Xiaoyu , Webb Allison M. , Burge Nathaniel L. , Poirier Michael G. , Ottesen Jennifer J.
Published: May 2023

Simple and efficient total synthesis of homogeneous and chemically modified protein samples remains a significant challenge. Here, we report development of a convergent hybrid phase native chemical ligation (CHP‐NCL) strategy for facile preparation of proteins. In this strategy, proteins are split into ~100‐residue blocks, and each block is assembled on solid support from synthetically accessible peptide fragments before ligated together into full‐length protein in solution. With the new method, we increase the yield of CENP‐A synthesis by 2.5‐fold compared to the previous hybrid phase ligation approach. We further extend the new strategy to the total chemical synthesis of 212‐residue linker histone H1.2 in unmodified, phosphorylated, and citrullinated forms, each from eight peptide segments with only one single purification. We demonstrate that fully synthetic H1.2 replicates the binding interactions of linker histones to intact mononucleosomes, as a proxy for the essential function of linker histones in the formation and regulation of higher order chromatin structure.
Symmetries, Conservation and Dissipation in Time‐Dependent Contact Systems
Authors: Gaset Jordi , López‐Gordón Asier , Rivas Xavier
Published: May 2023

In contact Hamiltonian systems, the so‐called dissipated quantities are akin to conserved quantities in classical Hamiltonian systems. In this article, a Noether's theorem for non‐autonomous contact Hamiltonian systems is proved, characterizing a class of symmetries which are in bijection with dissipated quantities. Other classes of symmetries which preserve (up to a conformal factor) additional structures, such as the contact form or the Hamiltonian function, are also studied. Furthermore, making use of the geometric structures of the extended tangent bundle, additional classes of symmetries for time‐dependent contact Lagrangian systems are introduced. The results are illustrated with several examples. In particular, the two‐body problem with time‐dependent friction is presented, which could be interesting in celestial mechanics.
Toxoplasma gondii among pregnant women attending antenatal care in a district hospital in Ghana
Authors: Addo Seth Offei , Asare Thelma Ohene , Arthur Christina , Amoateng Kenneth , Addo Kelvin , Larbi John Asiedu
Published: May 2023

Background

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease that is asymptomatic in many but can spread through the placenta during pregnancy causing miscarriage, stillbirth, intrauterine death, and neurologic impairments. This study reports on the proportion and risk factors associated with the seropositivity of Toxoplasma gondii among pregnant women visiting the antenatal care unit of the Nkawie‐Toase Government Hospital, Ghana.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a district hospital in Ghana. The participants were selected randomly for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information and data on possible risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis. Serum samples from the participants were screened for exposure to T. gondii using a commercial ELISA kit. The associations of the risk factors with seropositivity were tested using logistic regression.

Results

There were 84 women who participated in this study. The mean age of the sample was 26.96 ± 5.67 years; 64.29% had basic education, 21.43% were traders and 14.29% were farmers. Forty‐seven women (55.95%) tested seropositive for T. gondii, 44 (52.38%) for IgG and 3 (3.57%) for IgM. Women involved as traders (OR 18, 95% CI 2.74–118.39, p = 0.003) and farmers (OR 6.75, 95% CI 1.16–39.20, p = 0.033) had significantly higher risk of testing seropositive.

Conclusion

High proportions of pregnant women in this study were found to be exposed to T. gondii. To prevent negative pregnancy outcomes, pregnant women attending antenatal care be educated and routinely screened for T. gondii infection.
The exponentially‐weighted control charts for geometrically moving averages
Authors: Maghsoodloo Saeed , Silva Daniel F.
Published: May 2023

This article is a sequel to the previous entitled “A Further Note on the Exponentially‐Weighted Moving Average Control Charts for Monitoring Gradual Shifts in a Process Mean” where the constant sample size n was equal to 1 in each subgroup. We have now generalized the results of the previous article first to the case of constant sample size n > 1 in each subgroup, and then to varying sample sizes; although, the average run length for the most general case of varying sample sizes is a weighted approximation. In our Section 2, we are proposing an estimator of process standard deviation (STD) σX that is more accurate than all previously available in statistical literature only if the targeted average, μ0, is the required standard process mean.
Isomorphous and Isostructural Coordination Polymers Besides Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) of bis(4‐Nitrophenyl)‐phosphoric Acid in Conjunction with Some N‐donor Compounds
Authors: Kumari Pattnaik Archana , Rao Pedireddi Venkateswara
Published: May 2023

Various coordination complexes, in the form of infinite coordination polymers and metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) of an organophosphorous acid, bis(4‐nitrophenyl)phosphoric acid (BNPP), in the presence of some N‐donor compounds like 4,4′‐bipyridine (bpy), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethene (bpyee), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethane (bpyea) and 1,3‐bis(4‐pyridyl)propane (bpypa) along with metal ions, Co+2, Cd+2, Cu+2, and Ni+2, have been reported. Using the single crystal X‐ray diffraction method, the obtained structures are classified into isomorphous, isostructural coordination polymers, and metal‐organic framework structures. Except for the structures, formed by bpy with Ni(II) and Cu(II), bpypa with Cu(II) and bpyee with Co(II) and Ni(II), all of the complexes crystallize with both BNPP and N‐donor ligands forming coordinate bonds with the metal ions, yielding dumbbell‐shaped moieties in the lattices. A noteworthy feature in the structures obtained with bpyee, is that BNPP molecules do not form coordination bonds with metal ions Co(II) and Ni(II), while N‐donor ligands (bpyee) are only connected to the metal ions. Furthermore, in these complexes, the BNPP molecules occupy the same positions in the crystal lattice as those of coordinated BNPP moieties, but by hydrogen bonds, thus, establishing a high correlation of isostructurality in three‐dimensional packing between structures having coordinated and uncoordinated BNPP molecules, and highlighting the significance of hydrogen bonds in comparison with coordinated bonds. All of the complexes described, herein, are stabilized by different types of intermolecular interactions, specifically through a large number of C−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds. Hirshfeld analysis further demonstrates surface properties and establishes accountability of various intermolecular interactions towards the stabilization of the complexes, emphasising, in particular, the importance of the C−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds
Design and Synthesis of Imine Derivatives: DFT, Molecular Docking and Antimicrobial Analysis
Authors: Kumari Beauty , Ahmad Khursheed
Published: May 2023

Fifteen imine compounds were synthesized from the condensation of (Z)‐3‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐3‐(5‐methyl‐2‐thioxo‐1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐3(2H)‐yl) acrylaldehyde and various derivatives of primary amine, and their crystal structure was validated by single‐crystal XRD. Hirshfeld surface studies comprehensively explore intermolecular interactions in crystal packing. A state‐of‐the‐art dual computational strategy using quantum chemistry and molecular docking methodologies illuminates the molecular structure, electronic characteristics, and bioactivity of synthesized imines. Optimized and experimental molecule geometries were compared. By the agar well diffusion method, the synthesized imines were tested for antibacterial and antifungal activity against E. Coli, S. Aureus, A. Niger, and C. Albicans respectively. Based on their biofunctions synthesized imine derivatives were tested for their ability to inhibit E. Coli, C. Albicans, and ACE2. We observed that imine interaction energy values were excellent. We anticipate the current combination study using experiments and computational tools will attract the scientific community and inspire further in vitro and in vivo research.
3D‐Printed Hydrogels and Aerogels for Water Treatment and Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Gusain Rashi , Kumar Neeraj , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: May 2023

Recently, three‐dimensional (3D) printing has become a research focus point and has evolved as a powerful tool for manufacturing complex objects for advanced technology platform designs. Herein, we review the current state‐of‐the‐art 3D‐printed hydrogels and aerogels for wastewater treatment and energy storage applications. Several 3D printing methods such as direct ink writing, digital light processing, and fused filament fabrication have been discussed. Among these, direct ink writing is the most employed 3D printing technique for hydrogels and aerogels. We systematically investigated the most important results of several 3D‐printed hydrogels and aerogels for adsorption, photocatalysis, membrane filtration, and desalination for wastewater treatment, supercapacitors, and batteries in energy storage applications. Finally, we conclude our understanding with the prospect of future opportunities in this field using 3D‐printed hydrogels and aerogels for wastewater treatment and energy storage applications. In summary, the fundamental knowledge of 3D printing and critical assessment of the key literature on 3D‐printed hydrogels and aerogels and their applications in water treatment and energy storage will provide guidance for future studies in smart materials and waste management aspects of sustainability.
Diversity of Rationally Modified Polysaccharides for Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Fatima Rabab , Sharma Mousmee , Prasher Parteek , Singh Sachin Kumar , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Kaur Indu Pal , Dua Kamal
Published: May 2023

The pressing need for the development of diversified and non‐toxic biomaterials in recent decades has led to the emergence of novel and valuable structural modifications in polysaccharides to broaden their spectrum of applications. Polysaccharides are macromolecules with multifaceted diverse structures and exhibit wide range of pharmacological and biological activities. Naturally occurring polysaccharides such as starch, chitosan, alginate, acetalated dextran and pectin could potentially negate major concerns associated with the selection of suitable polysaccharides without compromising their unique bioactive nature. Chemical modification of polysaccharides offers distinctive benefits such as improved biocompatibility, stability, solubility, and functionality making them more valuable for a variety of biomedical applications such as drug delivery, gene delivery, cell culture technology and tissue engineering. The present review is a compendium of relevant chemically modified polysaccharides and discusses their role in diverse fields of pharmacy and medicine.
Adverse childhood experiences and human immunodeficiency virus testing among adults with human immunodeficiency virus risk behaviours
Authors: Liu Jun , Guo Tingting , Han Baihui , Cheng Xiaowei , Qu Shifang , Wang Ruying , Dong Xinxin , Fang Jiaxin , Wang Jin , Tang Mengyao , Yao Yan , Jin Lina
Published: May 2023

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been associated with poor HIV testing in adulthood yet, they have not been extensively described in those at increased risk for HIV. Cross‐sectional analysis data (n = 204,231) on ACEs and HIV testing were obtained from the 2019–2020 Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance Survey. Weighted logistic regression models were used to access the association of ACEs exposure, ACEs score, and ACEs type with HIV testing among adults with HIV risk behaviours, and stratified analysis was also performed to examine gender differences. The results indicated the overall rate of HIV testing was 38.8% and was higher among those with HIV risk behaviours (64.6%) than those without (37.2%). In populations with HIV risk behaviours, the negative association of HIV testing with ACEs exposure, ACEs score, and ACEs type was identified. Relative to those without ACEs, adults who were exposed to ACEs might decrease the rate of HIV testing, participants with ≥4 ACEs scores were less likely to have HIV testing, and childhood exposure to sexual abuse had the greatest impact on HIV testing. For both males and females, childhood exposure to ACEs was associated with lower odds of HIV testing and ACEs score ≥4 had the most robust associations with HIV testing. For males, those who experienced witnessed domestic violence had the lowest odds of HIV testing but the odds of engaging in HIV testing for females were the lowest among those who experienced childhood sexual abuse.
Harnessing Oncolytic Extracellular Vesicles for Tumor Cell‐Preferential Cytoplasmic Delivery of Misfolded Proteins for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Kim Gi Beom , Kim Seonghyun , Hwang Yeong Ha , Kim Seohyun , Lee Inkyu , Kim Seong A , Goo Jiyoung , Yang Yoosoo , Jeong Cherlhyun , Nam Gi‐Hoon , Kim In‐San
Published: May 2023

In this study, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are reimagined as more than just a cellular waste disposal system and are repurposed for cancer immunotherapy. Potent oncolytic EVs (bRSVF‐EVs) loaded with misfolded proteins (MPs) are engineered, which are typically considered cellular debris. By impairing lysosomal function using bafilomycin A1 and expressing the respiratory syncytial virus F protein, a viral fusogen, MPs are successfully loaded into the EVs expressing RSVF. bRSVF‐EVs preferentially transplant a xenogeneic antigen onto cancer cell membranes in a nucleolin‐dependent manner, triggering an innate immune response. Furthermore, bRSVF‐EV‐mediated direct delivery of MPs into the cancer cell cytoplasm initiates endoplasmic reticulum stress and immunogenic cell death (ICD). This mechanism of action leads to substantial antitumor immune responses in murine tumor models. Importantly, when combined with PD‐1 blockade, bRSVF‐EV treatment elicits robust antitumor immunity, resulting in prolonged survival and complete remission in some cases. Overall, the findings demonstrate that utilizing tumor‐targeting oncolytic EVs for direct cytoplasmic delivery of MPs to induce ICD in cancer cells represents a promising approach for enhancing durable antitumor immunity.
A General “In Situ Etch‐Adsorption‐Phosphatization” Strategy for the Fabrication of Metal Phosphides/Hollow Carbon Composite for High Performance Liquid/Flexible Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Wang Fengbo , Jing Zhongxin , Chen Ming , Wang Bin , Wang Lu , Qu Guangmeng , Kong Yueyue , Xu Liqiang
Published: May 2023

Benefiting from the admirable energy density (1086 Wh kg−1), overwhelming security, and low environmental impact, rechargeable zinc–air batteries (ZABs) are deemed to be attractive candidates for lithium‐ion batteries. The exploration of novel oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) bifunctional catalysts is the key to promoting the development of zinc–air batteries. Transitional metal phosphides (TMPs) especially Fe‐based TMPs are deemed to be a rational type of catalyst, however, their catalytic performance still needs to be further improved. Considering Fe (heme) and Cu (copper terminal oxidases) are nature's options for ORR catalysis in many forms of life from bacteria to humans. Herein, a general “in situ etch‐adsorption‐phosphatization” strategy is designed for the fabrication of hollow FeP/Fe2P/Cu3P‐N, P codoped carbon (FeP/Cu3P‐NPC) catalyst as the cathode of liquid and flexible ZABs. The liquid ZABs manifest a high peak power density of 158.5 mW cm−2 and outstanding long‐term cycling performance (≈1100 cycles at 2 mA cm−2). Similarly, the flexible ZABs deliver superior cycling stability of 81 h at 2 mA cm−2 without bending and 26 h with different bending angles.
Gerrymandering in the laboratory
Authors: An SunAh , Anderson Michael , Deck Cary
Published: May 2023

Gerrymandering, the drawing of electoral boundaries for political advantage, is a controversial political topic. Previous theoretical work has treated gerrymandering as a one‐stage strategic game against nature, but this paper treats drawing districts as the first stage in a two stage game where parties subsequently compete for undecided voters within districts. In a laboratory experiment, subjects overwhelmingly engage in gerrymandering, which maximizes their probability of winning a majority of the districts and maximizes their expected payoff. However, the subjects self‐report being opposed to the practice in politics regardless of their own political ideology. When forced to draw the electoral map behind a veil of ignorance, the subjects indicate a clear preference for symmetric maps although not the map with the highest theoretical expected payoff. Additionally, while subjects overspend in second stage competition, average spending is similar across electoral maps.
Acceleration of the EM algorithm
Authors: Kuroda Masahiro , Geng Zhi
Published: May 2023

The expectation–maximization (EM) algorithm is a well‐known iterative algorithm for finding maximum likelihood estimates from incomplete data and is used in several statistical models with latent variables and missing data. The algorithm also exhibits a monotonic increase in a likelihood function and satisfies parameter constraints for its convergence. The popularity of the EM algorithm can be attributed to its stable convergence, simple implementation and flexibility in interpreting data incompleteness. Despite these computational advantages, the algorithm is linear convergent and suffers from very slow convergence when a statistical model has many parameters and a high proportion of missing data. Various algorithms have been proposed to accelerate the convergence of the EM algorithm. We introduce the acceleration of the EM algorithm using root‐finding and vector extrapolation algorithms. The root‐finding algorithms include Aitken's method and the Newton–Raphson, quasi‐Newton and conjugate gradient algorithms. These algorithms with faster convergence rates allow the EM algorithm to be sped up. The vector extrapolation algorithms transform the sequence of estimates from the EM algorithm into a fast convergent sequence and can accelerate the convergence without modifying the EM algorithm. We describe the derivation of these acceleration algorithms and attempt to apply them to two examples.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > EM Algorithm
TCC bounds on the static patch of de Sitter space
Authors: Blamart Mattéo , Laliberte Samuel , Brandenberger Robert
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Recently, Pei-Ming Ho and Hikaru Kawai [1] have argued that treating particles as wave packets can lead to a shutdown of Hawking radiation after a scrambling time in the case of Schwarzschild black holes. This shutdown arises from viewing quantum field theory near the black hole horizon as an effective field theory, and imposing an appropriate UV cutoff. We show that this effect is also present in the static patch of de Sitter space, leading to a shutdown of Gibbons-Hawking radiation at late times. Assuming this effect is due to the breakdown of effective field theory, we obtain a bound t ≲ H−1 ln(H−1MP) on the time scale of validity of effective field theory in de Sitter space, which matches with the predictions of the Trans-Planckian Censorship Conjecture.
S3-Leitlinie Depressive Störungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter: Wo geht es hin?
Authors: Schulte-Körne Gerd , Klingele Cosima , Zsigo Carolin , Kloek Maria
Published: May 2023

Im Juli 2013 wurde die erste deutschsprachige Leitlinie zur Behandlung depressiver Störungen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen veröffentlicht. Aktuell befindet sich die Leitlinie in einem Revisionsprozess, in welchem die Empfehlungen erneut betrachtet und aktualisiert werden. In diesem Bericht sollen ein Überblick über den aktuellen Stand sowie ein Ausblick auf die zukünftige Entwicklung der Revision gegeben werden.

Innerhalb des Revisionsprozesses wurden die Schlüsselfragen der Erstfassung durch neue Schlüsselfragen erweitert, welche unter anderem den Bereich der ergänzenden Therapien, also Therapien, die zusätzlich zur üblichen Behandlung eingesetzt werden können, sowie den Übergangsbereich vom Jugend- ins Erwachsenenalter abdecken. Zu allen Schlüsselfragen wurden aktualisierende systematische Literaturrecherchen durchgeführt, wobei sowohl randomisierte kontrollierte Studien als auch systematische Übersichtsarbeiten und nicht-kontrollierte Interventionsstudien berücksichtigt wurden. Die Studien wurden daraufhin auf Anwendbarkeit und mögliche Biasrisiken geprüft, sodass Evidenzgrade vergeben werden konnten, welche die Qualität und Relevanz der verfügbaren Evidenz widerspiegeln.

In diesem Bericht wird ein kurzer Überblick über die wichtigsten Erkenntnisse, die aus der neuen Evidenzlage geschlossen werden können, gegeben. Während sich im Bereich Psychotherapie keine wesentlichen neuen Erkenntnisse ergaben, hat sich die Evidenzlage zu einigen Antidepressiva geändert. Im Bereich der ergänzenden Therapien wurde vor allem neue Evidenz zu sportlicher Aktivität gefunden. Allgemein ist mit Änderungen an den Empfehlungen zu Erst- und Alternativbehandlungen zu rechnen. Ein Abschluss des Revisionsprozesses und die Veröffentlichung der revidierten Leitlinie sind bis Ende 2023 geplant.
Principle of virtual power and drilling degrees of freedom for dynamic modeling of the behavior of liquid crystal elastomer films
Authors: Concas Francesca , Groß Michael
Published: May 2023

In this work, we aim to model the reorientation process of mesogens in nematic liquid crystal elastomers within the context of dynamics. We consider a continuum model with separate mappings for the deformation of the monolithic material and the orientation of the nematic director, where the latter describes the inclination of the mesogens. We achieve the inextensibility of the nematic director through the introduction of drilling degrees of freedom. We combine this approach with the application of the principle of virtual power and a mixed finite element formulation, in order to formulate distinct momentum and angular momentum balance laws for the two separate mappings. Furthermore, we include in our continuum model a volume load and a surface load associated only with the orientation mapping. We show in the presented three numerical examples that our formulation enables the fulfillment of all momentum and angular momentum balance laws.
Urban growth in the long term: Belgium, 1880–1970
Authors: González-Val Rafael , Ramos Arturo , Standaert Samuel
Published: May 2023

We take advantage of a new data set on Belgian cities to test random growth, that is, Gibrat’s law. This unique data set provides annual population estimates for all Belgian municipalities (2680 cities) from 1880 to 1970. The use of panel data methodology and unit root tests can provide a precise test of Gibrat’s law (a unit root is equivalent to random growth). We run both time series and panel data unit root tests, thus obtaining strong support for random growth in the long term. Results hold when allowing for the presence of one and two structural breaks in the mean, with the timing of the breaks coinciding with some major historical events, such as the World Wars and the economic crisis of 1929–1933.
The internal fragility of representative democracy: was Schumpeter right?
Authors: Egidi Massimo
Published: May 2023

In recent decades, the rapid emergence of new political leaders capturing growing social discontent with populist promises has highlighted elements of the internal fragility of democracy. Schumpeter predicts such fragility in Capitalism, Socialism and Democracy, where, in analyzing thse “competitive struggle for the popular vote,” he makes two assumptions that reverse the classical model of rational decision-making: the limited use of “conscious rationality” by voters and the potential unfairness of political leaders. These two elements introduce systematic distortions into the process of collective decision-making in democracy, suggesting a possible explanation for the rise of populism. Based on delegation, representative democracy must function despite the small amount of intellectual effort that most citizens put into forming their political opinions. Ideologies have historically functioned as implicit heuristics, allowing citizens to evaluate political facts, shape their expectations, and simplify political reasoning; as such, they have been the tools used by parties to give credibility to their programs while at the same time affiliating and polarizing the electorate. While they continue to serve as anchors for defining political identity, today's ideologies are fragmented and therefore less effective in supporting long-term programs and retaining voters; thus, keeping voters close to their political affiliation requires massive use of the media, and for emerging parties lacking strong identitarian values, a short-term political offer becomes less risky than formulating long-term political strategies. At the same time, the decline of classical ideologies makes any political commitment to long-term perspectives hardly credible to the electorate. This leads to an adverse selection process in which populist programs have a better chance of success than long-term policy programs. As a result, the role of the political leader as an entrepreneur is severely weakened. The competition for votes becomes unfair (since it is not based on the quality or plausibility of policy results), while at the same time the process of polarization disrupts the elements of mediation. The result is a process of democratic backsliding that can ultimately lead to a loss of trust in democracy.
Alcohol Consumption and Measures of Sarcopenic Muscle Risk: Cross-Sectional and Prospective Associations Within the UK Biobank Study
Authors: Skinner Jane , Shepstone Lee , Hickson Mary , Welch Ailsa A.
Published: May 2023

Alcohol intake is a major modifiable risk factor for many diseases. Alcohol can also damage skeletal muscle health during ageing which in turn increases risk of sarcopenia, frailty and falls but this relationship is understudied. The aim of this study was to model the relationship between a full range of alcohol consumption and components of sarcopenic risk, skeletal muscle mass and function, in middle-aged and younger older-aged men and women. A cross-sectional analyses was undertaken of 196,561 white participants from the UK Biobank with longitudinal analysis also in 12,298 of these participants, with outcome measures for the latter repeated after around four years. For the cross-sectional analysis fractional polynomial curves were fitted in models of measures of skeletal muscle mass, appendicular lean mass/body mass index (ALM/BMI), fat-free mass as a percentage of body weight (FFM%) and grip strength, all predicted from alcohol consumption with models fitted for men and women separately. Alcohol consumption at baseline was based on the mean of up to five dietary recalls, typically over 16 months. Linear regression was used for longitudinal analyses to model the effects of alcohol consumption groups on these measures. All models were adjusted for covariates. In the cross-sectional analysis, modelled values of the muscle mass measures all showed a peak at medium levels of alcohol consumption and a steep decline with increasing alcohol consumption. Modelled differences in muscle mass from zero consumption of alcohol to 160 g/d ranged from 3.6 to 4.9% for ALM/BMI for men and women, respectively, and 3.6 to 6.1% for FFM%. Grip strength consistently increased with alcohol consumption. No association between alcohol consumption and muscle measures were seen in the longitudinal results. Our results suggest that higher levels of alcohol consumption could have detrimental effects on muscle mass in middle- and older-aged men and women.
Fledgling discrimination in the hoopoe, a potential host species of the great spotted cuckoo
Authors: Arco Laura , Peralta-Sánchez Juan Manuel , Martín-Vivaldi Manuel , Soler Manuel
Published: May 2023

Obligate brood parasites lay their eggs in nests of other species, with host parents bearing the cost of raising their offspring. These costs imposed on hosts select for the evolution of host defenses against parasitism at all stages of the reproductive cycle. The most effective defense is egg rejection at early stages of the breeding cycle, with later-stage defenses (nestling and fledgling discrimination) being less common. In this study, we tested whether the hoopoe (Upupa epops), a potential host of the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) without egg rejection ability, presents defenses after the egg stage. We experimentally parasitized hoopoe nests with great spotted cuckoo nestlings creating mixed broods (with hoopoe and cuckoo nestlings) and broods with only cuckoo nestlings and measured parental feeding behavior and survival of nestlings and fledglings of both species. Cuckoo fledglings were fed fewer often than hoopoe fledglings in mixed broods, and adults approached more often to feed hoopoe fledglings than cuckoo fledglings. Consequently, the survival of cuckoo fledglings in both mixed and only-cuckoo-broods, was significantly lower than that of hoopoe fledglings. These results suggest that hoopoes would discriminate great spotted cuckoo fledglings, with or without direct comparison with their own fledglings. However, the survival of some cuckoos suggests that hoopoes have not reached highly efficient defenses so, other life history traits hindering parasitism by cuckoos may explain low parasitism rates and low levels of defenses in this species.

Significance statement

Brood parasites lay their eggs in nests of other species, tricking hosts into raising their parasitic offspring. However, hosts may fight back impeding successful parasitism by developing defences at any of the stages of their breeding cycle. We investigated why the hoopoe is not parasitized by the great spotted cuckoo despite this potential host apparently does not show such anti-parasitic defenses. We found that hoopoes have evolved the less common host defense: discrimination of parasite fledglings, even in the absence of their own fledgling for comparison. Our study supports the idea that discrimination during the later stages of the nesting cycle (i.e. nestling and fledgling periods) may be more common that previously assumed.
Open versus laparoscopic ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Greuter Ladina , Ruf Linus , Guzman Raphael , Soleman Jehuda
Published: May 2023

Background

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) surgery is the traditional method for treating hydrocephalus, remaining one of the most regularly used procedures in pediatric neurosurgery. The reported revision rate of VPS can reach up to 80% and significantly reduces the quality of life in the affected children and has a high socioeconomic burden. Traditionally, distal VPS placement has been achieved open via a small laparotomy. However, in adults several studies have shown a lower rate of distal dysfunction using laparoscopic insertion. As the data in children are scarce, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare open and laparoscopic VPS placement in children regarding complications.

Methods

PubMed and Embase databases were searched using a systematic search strategy to identify studies comparing open and laparoscopic VPS placement up to July 2022. Two independent researchers assessed the studies for inclusion and quality. Primary outcome measure was distal revision rate. A fixed effects model was used if low heterogeneity (I2 < 50%) was present, otherwise a random effects model was applied.

Results

Out of 115 screened studies we included 8 studies in our qualitative assessment and three of them in our quantitative meta-analysis. All studies were retrospective cohort studies with 590 analyzed children, of which 231 children (39.2%) received laparoscopic, and 359 children (60.8%) open shunt placement. Similar distal revision rates were observed between the laparoscopic and open group (3.75% vs. 4.3%, RR 1.16, [ 95% CI 0.48 to 2.79], I2 = 50%, z = 0.32, p = 0.74). There was no significant difference in postoperative infection rate between the two groups (laparoscopic 5.6% vs. open 7.5%, RR 0.99, (95% CI [0.53 to 1.85]), I2=0%, z = -0.03, p= 0.97). The meta-analysis showed a significantly shorter surgery time in the laparoscopic group (49.22 (±21.46) vs. 64.13 (±8.99) minutes, SMD-3.6, [95% CI -6.9 to -0.28], I2=99%m z= -2.12, p= 0.03) compared to open distal VPS placement.

Conclusion

Few studies are available comparing open and laparoscopic shunt placement in children. Our meta-analysis showed no difference in distal revision rate between laparoscopic and open shunt insertion; however, laparoscopic placement was associated with a significantly shorter surgery time. Further prospective trials are needed to assess possible superiority of one of the techniques.
Moisture sources for precipitation variability over the Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Horan Matthew F. , Batibeniz Fulden , Kucharski Fred , Almazroui Mansour , Abid Muhammad Adnan , Fu Joshua S. , Ashfaq Moetasim
Published: May 2023

We apply the Lagrangian-based moisture back trajectory method to two reanalysis datasets to determine the moisture sources for wet season precipitation over the Arabian Peninsula, defined as land on the Asian continent to the south of the Turkish border and west of Iran. To accomplish this, we make use of the evaporative source region between 65°W–120°E and 30°S–60°N, which is divided into twelve sub-regions. Our comparison of reanalyses and multiple observations allows us to validate datasets and highlight broad-scale similarities in characteristics, notwithstanding some inconsistencies in the southwest AP. The results indicate north-to-south spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the characteristics of dominant moisture sources. In the north, moisture for precipitation is mainly sourced from midlatitude land and water bodies, such as the Mediterranean and Caspian Seas. Areas further south are dependent on moisture transport from the Western Indian Ocean and parts of the African continent. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) exhibits an overall positive but sub-seasonally varying influence on the precipitation variability over the region, with noticeable moisture anomalies from all major source regions. A significant drying trend exists over parts of the Peninsula, which both reanalyses partially attribute to anomalies in the moisture advection from the Congo Basin and South Atlantic Ocean. However, considerable uncertainty in evaporation trends over the terrestrial evaporative sources in observations warrants additional modeling studies to further our understanding of key processes contributing to the negative trends.
Skin surface debris as an archive of environmental traces: an investigation through the naked eye, episcopic microscope, ED-XRF, and SEM–EDX
Authors: Merelli Vera , Caccia Giulia , Mazzarelli Debora , Franceschetti Lorenzo , Paciello Orlando , Bonizzoni Letizia , Caccianiga Marco , Campobasso Carlo , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: May 2023

Traces from bodies can be of various nature, for example of biological or inorganic origin. Some of these historically have received more consideration than others in forensic practice. Samplings of gunshot residues or biological fluid traces are commonly standardized, whereas macroscopically invisible environmental traces are usually ignored. This paper simulated the interaction between a cadaver and a crime scene by placing skin samples on the ground of five different workplaces and inside the trunk of a car. Traces on samples were then investigated through different approaches: the naked eye, episcopic microscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF). The purpose is to provide the forensic scientist with the awareness of the value of debris on skin and then to highlight implications for forensic investigations. Results demonstrated that even naked eye observation can reveal useful trace materials, for defining the possible surrounding environment. As a next step, the episcopic microscope can increase the number of visible particulates and their analysis. In parallel, the ED-XRF spectroscopy can be useful to add a first chemical composition to the morphological data. Finally, the SEM–EDX analysis on small samples can provide the greatest morphological detail and the most complete chemical analysis, although limited, like the previous technique, to inorganic matrices. The analysis of debris on the skin, even with the difficulties due to the presence of contaminants, can provide information on the environments involved in criminal events that can add to the investigation framework.
Safety of intracameral application of moxifloxacin and dexamethasone (Vigadexa®) after phacoemulsification surgery
Authors: Galvis Virgilio , Prada Angelica Maria , Tello Alejandro , Parra Maria Margarita , Camacho Paul Anthony , Polit María Paz
Published: May 2023

Background

Intracameral antibiotics, such as moxifloxacin and cefuroxime, are safe to corneal endothelial cells and effective prophylaxis of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. Corneal endothelial cells decrease in density after cataract surgery. Any substance used in the anterior chamber may affect corneal endothelial cells and lead to a greater decrease in density. This study wants to determine the percentage of endothelial cell loss after cataract extraction by phacoemulsification with off-label intracameral injection of moxifloxacin and dexamethasone (Vigadexa®).

Methods

An observational retrospective study was performed. The clinical records of patients undergoing cataract surgery by phacoemulsification plus intracameral injection of Vigadexa® were analyzed. Endothelial cell loss (ECL) was calculated using preoperative and postoperative endothelial cell density. The relation of endothelial cell loss with cataract grade using LOCS III classification, total surgery time, total ultrasound time, total longitudinal power time, total torsional amplitude time, total aspiration time, estimated fluid usage, and cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) was studied using univariate linear regression analysis and logistic regression analysis.

Results

The median loss of corneal endothelial cells was 4.6%, interquartile range 0 to 10.4%. Nuclear color and CDE were associated with increased ECL. ECL>10% was associated with age and total ultrasound time in seconds.

Conclusions

The endothelial cell loss after the intracameral use of Vigadexa® at the end of cataract surgery was similar to the reported in other studies of cataract surgery without the use of intracameral prophylaxis for postoperative endophthalmitis (POE). This study confirmed the association of CDE and nuclear opalescence grade with postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss.
The follower optimality cuts for mixed integer linear bilevel programming problems
Authors: Mattia Sara
Published: May 2023

We study linear bilevel programming problems, where (some of) the leader and the follower variables are restricted to be integer. A discussion on the relationships between the optimistic and the pessimistic setting is presented, providing necessary and sufficient conditions for them to be equivalent. A new class of inequalities, the follower optimality cuts, is introduced. They are used to derive a single-level non-compact reformulation of a bilevel problem, both for the optimistic and for the pessimistic case. The same is done for a family of known inequalities, the no-good cuts, and a polyhedral comparison of the related formulations is carried out. Finally, for both the optimistic and the pessimistic approach, we present a branch-and-cut algorithm and discuss computational results.
High Temperature Tensile Strength of TI6AL4V Processed by L-PBF—Influence of Microstructure and Heat Treatment
Authors: Meier Benjamin , Warchomicka Fernando , Petrusa Jelena , Kaindl Reinhard , Waldhauser Wolfgang , Sommitsch Christof
Published: May 2023

Ti6Al4V is the most widely used α‑β Titanium alloy for application in medicine, automotive, and aerospace, known for its high strength and corrosion resistance, but also its high maximal operating temperature of around 420 °C. Combined with its decent weldability under a shield atmosphere it has become a standard alloy for additive manufacturing processes, especially laser and electron beam powder bed fusion (L-PBF). Although this material is well studied, the influence of the L‑PBF process on its tensile properties at elevated temperatures remains almost unexplored. For that reason, this contribution focuses on the analysis of the tensile properties of Ti6Al4V up to 500 °C for different heat treatments and compares it to aerospace standards.

Furnace annealed samples reach a tensile strength between 1022 to 660 MPa from room temperature to 500 °C respectively, while stress-relieved specimens reach 1205 to 756 MPa. Stress-relieved samples show a lower ductility at room temperature, but elongation at break increases at high temperature and outperforms furnace annealed samples at 500 °C.
Sublevel Shrinkage (SLSh) Mining—A State-of-the-art Review
Authors: Brand Lukas , Haider Katharina
Published: May 2023

Sublevel shrinkage (SLSh) is an underground mining method similar to sublevel caving (SLC) but with continuous backfilling from the top. It features a top-down mining sequence with production drifts orientated in a longitudinal or transverse way in the orebody. Fan drilling and blasting is done from the production drifts, from where the ore is then drawn. While drawing, backfill is introduced at the top and flows down by gravity, which supports the walls and prevents caving. In this contribution, a state-of-the-art literature review is performed using various sources. Four case studies show that SLSh could be a viable alternative for stoping (e.g. sublevel open stoping “SLOS” or longhole open stoping “LHOS”) and SLC in steeply dipping, moderately thick, tabular deposits. SLSh can be applied where caving must be prevented or caveability of the hangingwall rock mass is not provided due to rock mass properties or the geometry of the deposit. SLSh also proved to be an alternative to SLOS or LHOS when only small stope sizes would be possible due to geotechnical constraints. Critical points are dilution with backfill and the backfill handling infrastructure that must have a high capacity. Stability of this infrastructure is very important and must be monitored closely. Open points are the application in massive deposits and backfill supply and handling for mines with very high production.
The inner potential in electrochemistry
Authors: Santos Elizabeth , Schmickler Wolfgang
Published: May 2023

Although the inner potential plays a fundamental role in electrochemistry, its precise definition is not clear. In fact, there are two different concepts: a physical quantity which can be measured by high energy electron scattering and calculated by density functional theory. For water, it is of the order of 4 V, and it is irrelevant for electrochemistry. For our purpose, the relevant quantity is the electrostatic potential experienced by an ion, which enters into the electrochemical potential. This is of the order of 0 to $$-$$
-
0.5 V, and may be slightly different for different ions.
From empirically to physically based early warning predictions of rainfall-induced landslides in silty volcanic soils: the Lattari Mountains case study
Authors: Rianna Guido , Reder Alfredo , Pagano Luca
Published: May 2023

The work proposes a procedure to build an early warning predictive tool to assess the occurrence of rainfall-induced landslides in silty volcanic covers. The procedure combines both an empirically and a physically based tool used sequentially: the former is designed to be calibrated using older, highly sized and coarser rainfall data, and the latter to interpret recent and finer weather data. Both approaches need to be informed by a common experimental reference summarising the rainfall history, the rainfall point, defined as the couple made of antecedent 4-month rainfall cumulative value (C4m) and last-persistent event (CPLE). The empirical approach aims to identify if, in the (C4m–CPLE) plane, the rainfall point falls in a ‘safe’ or ‘potentially unsafe’ zone where the two distinct regions are built by interpreting rainfall data associated or not with landslide events. In the physically based approach, evaporation and runoff are estimated to refine the assessment of ‘effective’ rainfall points. The resulting transformed rainfall point (C′4 m, C′PLE) is turned into a prediction of the suction level at the mid-depth assumed as a ‘reference’ for the entire cover. Such value is compared with a suction threshold empirically defined. Suction levels prediction is developed by computing in the C′4 m–C′PLE plane the iso-suction lines generated by several rainfall scenarios. The accuracy of the developed procedure is comparable with state-of-the-art literature or operational approaches, properly identifying landslide case events and minimising the number of false alarms. Furthermore, it can inform the preparedness stages more effectively, explicitly accounting for the antecedent slope wetness stage and how it could be far from the incipient slope failure conditions. The developed procedure takes into account the effects of evaporation and antecedent rainfalls that, in dry periods, lead to very dry conditions in the subsoil, making even significant rainfall events inconsequential. Conversely, other procedures already operating in LEWS or highly considered literature background overestimate the effects of rainfalls during dry periods. The developed procedure delivers a simple but robust way to derive landslide thresholds based on the interpretation of past rainfall histories. At the same time, literature methods often require sophisticated approaches to retrieve thresholds.