bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Annual Prize Lecture 2024: Endogenous physiological mechanisms as basis for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Holst Jens Juul
Published: November 2024

In 1964, it was proven that postprandial insulin secretion is largely regulated by gut hormones and, in 1973, it was proposed that a gut hormone would also regulate appetite and food intake. Several gut hormones were tested for metabolic actions with disappointing results until the discovery of the proglucagon derivative, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1). This peptide from the distal intestine has preserved activity on insulin secretion in people with type 2 diabetes and turned out to regulate both secretion and motility in the gastrointestinal tract and importantly, appetite and food intake, thus functioning as an efficient ‘ileal brake’ hormone. However, the natural hormone acts predominantly via sensory afferent systems and is extremely rapidly removed from the circulation by enzymatic degradation and renal elimination, and increasing the doses merely results in nausea and vomiting. Lipidation of analogs turned out to provide both stability and limit renal elimination, and very slow up‐titration of dosing improves tolerance. Indeed, the most recent agonists may near‐normalize glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, may cause weight losses of up to 25% of body weight, and significantly reduce cardiovascular risk, effects that resemble those of bariatric surgery. Thus, a solution to one of the most serious health problems of modern civilization, the increased morbidity and mortality of the metabolic syndrome, may be addressed by mobilization of one of the body's own regulatory mechanisms.

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Effect of Compressive Strain Rates on Viscoelasticity and Water Content in Intact Porcine Stomach Wall Tissues
Authors: Udayamohan Vijay Shashank , Byju Achu Geetha , Harris Jason L. , Haridas Balakrishna
Published: November 2024

Laparoscopic staplers are used extensively to seal and transect tissue. These devices compress tissue between the stapler jaws to achieve a desired compressed tissue thickness in preparation for stapling. The extent and rate of compression are dependent on surgeon technique, tissue characteristics, and stapler type, all of which can impact stapling outcomes such as bleeding, staple line leaks, and tissue healing. Historically, surgeons have relied on their experience, training, and tactile feedback from the device to optimize stapling. In recent years, the transition to electromechanical and robotic staplers has greatly impacted the tactile feedback available to the surgeon. This raises new questions about the optimal rates of tissue compression and the resultant tissue forces. This study quantifies the transmural biomechanics of the porcine stomach wall. Multirate indentation tests were used to observe the effects of indentation rate on the viscoelastic behavior of the stomach tissue during indentation, stress relaxation, and unconstrained recovery. Results show that the stomach wall demonstrates higher stress relaxation (88% versus 80%) and greater strain recovery (52% versus 47%) when indented at high rates (37.5%/s) versus slow rates (7.5%/s). Additionally, water content analysis was used to study fluid flow away from indented regions. Unindented regions were found to have greater water content compared to indented regions (78% compared to 75%). This data generated in this study may be used to enable the development of constitutive models of stomach tissue, which in turn may inform the control algorithms that drive compressive surgical devices.
Structural Integrity Evaluation of Three-Dimensional-Printed Graphene-Reinforced Polylactic Acid Notched Plates Using Failure Assessment Diagrams
Authors: Cicero Sergio , Arrieta Sergio , Sanchez Marcos
Published: November 2024

Failure assessment diagrams (FADs) constitute a well-known structural integrity evaluation tool that allows structural components containing crack-like defects to be assessed through a simultaneous analysis of fracture and plastic-collapse processes. FADs are included in the most recognized structural integrity assessment procedures/standards, such as BS7910 and API 579/ASME FFS-1, and their use is generally limited to metallic components containing crack-like defects. On the other hand, structural responsibilities are being assumed by three-dimensional-printed composites, and particularly by those obtained through FFF (fused filament fabrication), beyond their most extended use as prototyping materials. The resulting structural components may contain notch-type defects (e.g., grooves, corners, holes) that determine their corresponding structural integrity. Thus, it is necessary to define structural integrity assessment criteria for this kind of materials when containing any kind of stress risers, beyond crack-like defects. This work justifies the use of BS7910 Level 1 FAD, coupled with a notch correction derived from the theory of critical distances (TCD), to analyze graphene-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) plates subjected to pure tensile loading conditions and containing U- and V-notches. The results reveal that, for U- and V-notches, the assessment points representing the plates at failure are located within the FAD area corresponding to unsafe conditions, providing conservative evaluations with moderate safety margins. For plates containing circular holes, the proposed approach provides unsafe predictions.
Effect of Various Notch Shapes on Lamb Wave Scattering Behavior in a Bent Plate
Authors: Tembhare Girish U. , Joglekar D. M.
Published: November 2024

The application of guided waves to investigate commonly used plate shapes in the aerospace, mechanical, and civil industries is plates with bend shapes. This article investigates the interaction of fundamental Lamb waves with notches in bent plates, commonly found in aerospace, mechanical, and civil engineering applications. These areas are particularly susceptible to failure due to defects such as cracks and notches, which often manifest as semicircular corrosion patches or 90-deg notches. The presence of notches affects stress distribution, necessitating thorough analysis to prevent accidents. Accordingly, this article focuses on the interaction of fundamental Lamb waves through two types of notches that could be present inside a bent metal plate section. To explore this, a hybrid numerical framework is employed which combines semianalytical finite elements (SAFEs) with the finite element method (FEM). A bent plate section with various notch types is simulated using FEM, while SAFEs facilitate the definition of wave propagation through healthy regions of the plate. The study analyzes the scattering behavior of Lamb waves for different notch configurations and examines both fundamental modes over a specified frequency range. With a change in the interrogation signal parameters, there is a noticeable difference in the sensitivity of scattered waves with different notch types. Formulating a strategy for identifying and locating a notch inside a bent plate may need careful consideration of the important conclusions drawn. Understanding these interactions, the aim of the article is to enhance the integrity assessment of structural components subject to such defects.
Irradiation Damage Evolution Dependence on Misorientation Angle for Σ 5 Grain Boundary of Nb: An Atomistic Simulation-Based Study
Authors: Manna Mouparna , Pal Snehanshu
Published: November 2024

Niobium as refractory element holds ability to arrest the primary radiation damage in reactor's fissionable conditions and can withstand high-temperature applications. We have inclined the investigation of irradiated Nb Σ 5 symmetric-tilt angled grain boundary (STGB) models at two high-angled grain boundary misorientation: 53.13 deg (Σ 5(2–10)/(120)) and 36.87 deg (Σ 5(3–10)/(130)), respectively. A hybrid of Ziegler–Biersack–Littmark (ZBL) and embedded atom method (EAM) potentials were superimposed to simulate radiation damage. Statistical averaging of the displacement cascades was conducted to study the dynamic evolution of the point defects and interstitial clusters at varying magnitudes of primary knock-on atom (PKA) energies, irradiation temperatures, and PKA directions. The irradiated grain bounary (GB) models were compared with an irradiated bulk Nb specimen, and the results of the study indicate that the irradiated Nb system with greater misorientation angle, i.e., Nb Σ 5 (ɵ = 53.13 deg) survived with lower number Frenkel pair defects as well as the population small-sized interstitial clusters. The point defect cluster analysis indicated the highest population of interstitial clusters survived in Nb STGB models were irradiated along <1 3 5> PKA direction and 100 keV recoil energies respectively.
The Effect of Scapular Orientation on Measures of Rotator Cuff Tendon Impingement: A Simulation Study
Authors: Lawrence Rebekah L. , Ivens Renee , Caldwell Cheryl A. , Harris-Hayes Marcie
Published: November 2024

Mechanical impingement of the rotator cuff tendons against the acromion (subacromial) and glenoid (internal) during shoulder motions has long been thought to contribute to tears. Clinically, the risk for impingement is thought to be influenced by scapular movement impairments. Therefore, our purpose was to determine the extent to which simulated changes in scapular orientation impact the proximity between the rotator cuff tendon footprint and the acromion and glenoid during scapular plane abduction. Specifically, shoulder kinematics were tracked in 25 participants using a high-speed biplane videoradiography system. Scapular movement impairments were simulated by rotating each participant’s scapula from their in vivo orientation about the scapular axes (±2°, ±5°, and ±10°). Subacromial and internal proximities were described using minimum distances, proximity center locations, and prevalence of contact. Statistical parametric mapping was used to investigate the extent to which these measures were impacted by simulated changes in scapular orientation. Simulated changes in scapular orientation significantly altered proximity patterns in a complex manner that depended on the impingement mechanism, humerothoracic elevation angle, and magnitude of the simulated change. Clinicians should be mindful of these factors when interpreting the potential effects during a clinical examination.
Knowledge About Sleep, Sleep Hygiene, and Sleep Behaviors of Paralympic Athletes
Authors: Grade Isadora , Esteves Andrea M. , Lira Fábio S. , Padilha Camila S. , Stieler Eduardo , Brandt Valdênio , Silva Samuel , Lourenço Thiago , de Mello Marco T. , Silva Andressa
Published: November 2024

Context: Understanding Paralympic athletes’ perspectives on the importance of sleep is the first step toward developing effective sleep hygiene (SH) strategies. We aim to describe and compare the knowledge about SH and sleep behaviors practiced by medalists and nonmedalists Paralympic athletes at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and between sexes (female vs male), identify whether the coaching staff encourages SH, and the perspective of these athletes on the importance of SH. Methods: 98 Paralympic athletes responded to the Sleep Beliefs Scale and the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire-BR. Results: Medalists (68%) and nonmedalists (78%) Paralympic athletes had low knowledge about SH (60% vs 55%; P = .20), with no difference between groups. The Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire-BR score (48.7 [5.9]) for all Paralympic athletes (n = 98) indicated high practice of maladaptive sleep behaviors. Male athletes had significantly worse sleep behaviors than female athletes (49.1 [6.0] vs 39.5 [7.2]; P < .01) and less knowledge about behaviors that can affect sleep (64% vs 72%; P < .05), 26% of Paralympic athletes considered SH practices necessary, and the frequency of coaching staff encouraging SH was higher among medalists Paralympic athletes compared to nonmedalists athletes (29% vs 13%, P = .04). Conclusions: Most Paralympic athletes have inadequate sleep behaviors and knowledge about SH. There was no difference between knowledge about SH and sleep behaviors between medalists and nonmedalists Paralympic athletes, although medalists athletes were more encouraged to practice SH. Male Paralympic athletes had worse sleep behaviors and worse knowledge about SH than female athletes.
Patient Perceptions of Psychological and Rehabilitation Experiences After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Murray Megan , Wekesser Meredith , DeFreese J.D. , Kuenze Christopher , Brinkman Caitlin , Gould Daniel , Baez Shelby
Published: November 2024

Context: Over 80% of patients anticipate fully returning to sport (RTS) within 1 year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), but only one quarter of patients succeed. Although several factors influence the RTS process, this study focused on how psychological responses to injury, such as injury-related fear and self-determined motivation, help to explain variation in rehabilitation experiences. There is limited information about how these meaningful psychological responses to injury are connected to responses such as athlete burnout or how patient perceptions of these responses relate to rehabilitation. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how patient perceptions of injury-related fear, self-determined motivation, and athlete burnout influence individual psychological and rehabilitation experiences at 4 to 6 months post-ACLR. Design: Qualitative study. Methods: Eight patients (female = 4, age = 16.3 ± 1.9) between 4 and 6 months post-ACLR who injured their knee playing or training for sports were included in the study. Patients completed the Sport Motivation Scale-6, Athlete Burnout Questionnaire, Perceived Stress Scale 4, and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 to measure self-determined motivation, athlete burnout, stress, and injury fear. These questionnaires collected descriptive data used to guide audio- and video-recorded semistructured interviews. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed in a 6-stage process of thematic analysis. Results: Thematic analysis revealed 3 themes related to how participants perceived their rehabilitation experiences: (1) acknowledging recurring struggles during recovery, (2) finding motivation to RTS and normal life, and (3) successfully navigating the recovery process. In particular, participants described the impact of positive shifts in their psychological perceptions at 4 to 6 months post-ACLR. Conclusions: Patients 4 to 6 months post-ACLR described how struggles during their recovery and rehabilitation experiences were improved by positive shifts in their psychological perceptions. Increasing positive psychological awareness within a supportive rehabilitation environment may improve rehabilitation experiences and RTS rates after ACLR.
Complete genome of
Variovorax
sp. EBFNA2, isolated from a surface-sterilized fava bean nodule
Authors: Hirsch Ann M. , Humm Ethan , Rubbi Liudmilla , Del Vecchio Giorgia , Ha Sung Min , Pellegrini Matteo , Gunsalus Robert P.
Published: November 2024

We report the complete genome sequence of
Variovorax
sp. EBFNA2, a fava bean nodule endophyte. The strain appears to be a new species, and its genome provides insight into its interactions with host plants and potential to promote plant growth and crop yield.
Codesign and evaluation of advanced therapeutic information resources for and with families of children with neurological conditions: a mixed methods cross-sectional study
Authors: Meagher Christian Elias , Kariyawasam Didu S , Concepcion Kristine A Elias , Dale Russell , Hetherington Kate , Mohammad Shekeeb , Palmer Elizabeth Emma , Woolfenden Susan , Farrar Michelle Anne
Published: November 2024

Objective

Parents and caregivers of children with neurological conditions express interest in new and developing treatments and trials; however, they have limited knowledge of, and access to, reliable information. This study aims to empower and equip decision-making and support communication in the application of advanced neurotherapeutics and personalised medicine, covering gene therapy, stem cell therapy, neurostimulation and neuroimmunotherapies.

Design

A suite of online psychoeducational resources has been created and evaluated to establish implementation success. A codesign approach was incorporated in this mixed methods cross-sectional study.

Setting

Quaternary children’s hospital network.

Patients

Across three phases, 105 parents of children with neurological conditions, clinicians and advocacy group representatives participated.

Interventions

A suite of psychoeducational resources about advanced therapeutics in clinical trials was codeveloped with parents and evaluated.

Main outcome measures

Acceptability, Appropriateness, and Feasibility of Intervention Measures, Preparedness for Decision-Making Scale, Decision Self-efficacy Scale and open-ended qualitative feedback.

Results

The resources provide an acceptable, appropriate, credible and feasible source of information. Parents also established they help with preparedness and confidence in decision-making regarding the applications of neurotherapeutics.

Conclusions

This study and its results are aligned with, and supports, the needs and preferences of caregivers of children with neurological conditions, promoting information provision, healthcare engagement and clinical decision-making. These resources will form a foundation for accurate and contemporary scientific knowledge that is distilled and available to a wide range of stakeholders.
Internet addiction prevalence and associated factors among secondary-level private school students in urban Nepal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gautam Prapti , Khanal Ganga , Shrestha Khadga Bahadur , Sapkota Sujata
Published: November 2024

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of internet addiction and its associated factors among secondary-level private school students in an urban municipality in Nepal.

Design

Cross sectional.

Setting

Private schools in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Kathmandu District in Nepal.

Participants

376 secondary-level (grades 9–12) school students.

Outcome measures

Internet addiction prevalence was the primary outcome measure. We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered structured questionnaire containing information on participants’ sociodemographic profile, technological factors associated with internet use along with Young’s internet addiction test, insomnia severity index and depression anxiety stress scales to assess internet addiction and associated factors. Pearson’s χ2 tests and binary logistic regression were performed to examine the association between dependent and independent variables at a 5% level of significance.

Result

The prevalence of internet addiction was 51.10% (95% CI 46 to 55.60). Students who lived alone or with friends in an apartment had a higher likelihood of internet addiction compared with those living with their parents (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.89, 95% CI 1.03 to 8.11). On the other hand, students residing in hostels were less likely to be affected (AOR 0.21, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.76). Additionally, spending 2 or more hours online per day was associated with a higher risk of internet addiction (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.63) compared with those who spent less than 2 hours per day online. Individuals with severe to extremely severe depression were more likely to have internet addiction (AOR 2.99, 95% CI 1.03 to 8.66) compared with individuals without depressive symptoms. Furthermore, a notable association was observed between internet addiction and insomnia. Individuals who experienced mild to moderate insomnia (AOR 5.19, 95% CI 2.93 to 9.19) and severe insomnia (AOR 21.09, 95% CI 2.09 to 212.91) were at significantly higher risk of internet addiction compared with those without clinically significant insomnia.

Conclusion

Prevalence of internet addiction among school-going adolescents in urban Nepal is high. Living situations, average time spent online, depression and insomnia are potential drivers of internet addiction.
Perspectives on the sustained engagement with digital health tools: protocol for a qualitative interview study among people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease or irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Olson Jenny L , Palumbo Amelia , Desjardins Chloé , Wicks Chantel , Bhopa Shania , Cheyne Kelsey , D'Silva Adrijana , Graff Lesley A , Narula Neeraj , Rodrigues David M , Fernandes Aida , Marshall Deborah A , Moayyedi Paul , Presseau Justin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Digital health tools can be beneficial in the care of patients with chronic conditions and have the potential for widespread impact as readily scalable and cost-effective health interventions. However, benefits are often contingent on users sustaining their engagement with these tools over time. Sustained engagement with digital health tools can be challenging, and high rates of attrition from digital interventions are common. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are prominent gastrointestinal conditions resulting in significant burdens for individuals and society. Emerging evidence suggests digital health tools can be beneficial for IBD and IBS management; however, it is not clear what barriers and enablers are experienced by people living with these conditions to sustaining their engagement with these tools, when necessary. Such knowledge could inform the tailoring of new and existing digital health tools to the needs of people living with IBD and/or IBS. This study will seek to identify the barriers and enablers of sustained engagement with digital health tools among adults living with IBD and/or IBS.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct semistructured interviews with a purposive sample of approximately 30 adults (>18 years) who (a) reside in Canada, (b) self-report that they have been diagnosed with IBD and/or IBS, (c) have ever used a digital health tool (ie, any application/platform) to manage their condition and (d) are capable of providing informed consent. Interviews will be audio and video recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data will be coded deductively and barriers and enablers to sustained engagement will be categorised in accordance with the Theoretical Domains Framework. Data analysis will be verified by a patient research partner.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board. The findings will inform the codevelopment of strategies to overcome modifiable barriers and leverage identified enablers of sustained engagement with digital health tools for IBD and IBS care. These strategies can inform the design of new, or modifications to existing, digital health tools for IBD and IBS care where sustained engagement is desirable. Strategies will be compiled into a guidebook and disseminated via the Inflammation, Microbiome and Alimentation: Gastro-Intestinal and Neuropsychiatric Effects (IMAGINE) Strategy for Patient Oriented Research chronic disease network in Canada.
Knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, antibiotic use and eHealth literacy among nursing students in Thailand: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jianvitayakij Soontaree , Niyomyart Atsadaporn , Junsawang Chuenjit , Bualoy Wunwisa , Butsing Nipaporn , Monkong Supreeda , Voss Joachim G
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Antibiotic resistance poses a major global public health threat. However, research on this issue is limited, especially among nursing students. This study aims to examine knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, antibiotic use, and eHealth literacy in Thailand.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered questionnaire. The WHO Antibiotic Resistance: Multi-Country Public Awareness Survey and the eHealth Literacy Scale were used. Descriptive and multiple regression analyses were performed.

Setting

Thailand’s North, South, Central and Northeast between January and February 2024.

Participants

A total of 1180 nursing students aged 18 or older, from first to fourth year and fluent in Thai, were invited to participate.

Results

The participants were mostly female (89.8%), with an average age of 20.64±1.81 years. Over half of the respondents (67.7%) have used antibiotics, mistakenly believing that antibiotics could treat colds and influenza (70.3%), malaria (66.8%), measles (63.6%) and sore throats (60.9%). About 71.5% recognised the impact of antibiotic resistance on themselves and their families, but 93.1% incorrectly believed antibiotic resistance means the body resists antibiotics. Participants scored 35.92±4.21 out of 40 on eHealth literacy. In a multiple regression analysis, three factors predict knowledge of antibiotic resistance: knowledge of antibiotics (B=0.199, p<0.001, 95% CI 0.165 to 0.234), eHealth literacy (B=0.078, p<0.001, 95% CI 0.056 to 0.100) and academic year (B=0.271, p<0.001, 95% CI 0.184 to 0.358), with knowledge of antibiotics being the most impact (β=0.318). These three variables explained 23.7% of the variance in antibiotic resistance knowledge scores.

Conclusions

Despite high eHealth literacy, nursing students hold misconceptions about antibiotic treatable conditions and insufficient knowledge of antibiotic resistance. This highlights the need to integrate antibiotic contents into nursing curricular and enhance eHealth literacy for better access and navigate health information.
Gender-sensitive and intersectionality-informed health indicators for health reporting: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gencer Hande , Saß Anke-Christine , Prütz Franziska
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Gender is a well-established social determinant of health and health (in)equality. Gender-sensitive health indicators for health monitoring and health reporting can support gender mainstreaming in relevant policy areas and inform strategies to promote gender equality. They generally lack theoretical approaches to explain gender inequalities in health in the context of individual, social and structural circumstances. Gender-sensitive and intersectionality-informed health indicators provide a more accurate and nuanced picture of health outcomes and risks but are often lacking. The aim of this scoping review is to map the evidence on gender-sensitive and intersectionality-informed indicators for health reporting in order to support the development of an indicator set for German Federal Health Reporting.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review follows Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework and its extension by Levacet aland will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. We will conduct a database search complemented by a backward citation search using English search terms to find research articles and grey literature (eg, reports, policy/working papers, book chapters) reporting on gender-sensitive health indicators in the context of health reporting in the European Union-27 and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development published since 2014. Electronic databases include Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL and Cochrane Library. Other resources include targeted searches on websites relevant to national and international health reporting and a Google Search to include further eligible literature. After removing duplicates, two reviewers will independently screen all titles/abstracts and full texts for eligibility for inclusion and extract the data from included articles using a data extraction form. The results will be synthesised both narratively and descriptively and, where appropriate, presented in tables and graphs.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for this study. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication, conference presentations and meetings with relevant stakeholders in health monitoring and reporting.
What is the medical requirement for a quick release system in a body armour vest?
Authors: Breeze John , Bowley D , Russell J , EJ Pugh H
Published: November 2024

A quick release system is a method by which personal armour can be rapidly doffed by the disconnection of structural components using little force. There are slight variations in the design of quick release systems available in different personal armour systems worldwide, including the position of the activation device, how many points on the vest are released at one time and how many constituent parts the vest dismantles into. Limited evidence exists, however, to justify each of these differences. We believe the medical requirements for a quickrelease system include reducing mass and bulk for rapid escape in confined areas or when transporting casualties, optimising rapid medical assessment and fully enabling medical assessment and treatment. The aim of this paper is to provide multidisciplinary evidence to support the medical requirements for this component and thereby facilitate innovation and the optimisation of future body armour design.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in aortic stenosis patients before and after aortic valve replacement
Authors: Bellander Carl , Nilsson Henric , Nylander Eva , Hedman Kristofer , Tamás Éva
Published: November 2024

Background

Knowledge about how patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) perform on cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is sparse. Since exercise testing in patients with symptomatic AS is not advised, submaximal parameters could be of special interest. We aimed to investigate maximal and submaximal physical capacity by CPET before and 1 year after surgical aortic valve replacement (sAVR) in patients with severe AS.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal study, 30 adult patients (age 66±10 years) with severe AS referred for sAVR underwent maximal CPET (respiratory exchange ratio ≥1.05) on a bicycle ergometer before (PRE) and 1 year after (POST) sAVR. Normally distributed data are presented as mean (±SD) and non-normally distributed data are presented as median (IQR).

Results

Median peak workload increased by 8% from 133 (55) watts at PRE to 144 (67) watts at POST (p<0.001). Median ventilatory threshold (VO2@VT) increased from 1216 (391) to 1328 (309) mL/min (p=0.001, n=28). Mean peak oxygen uptake (peakVO2) was not significantly different between PRE and POST; 1871±441 vs 1937±404 mL/min (p=0.08). The oxygen uptake efficacy slope (OUES) was significantly correlated to PeakVO2 at both PRE (r=0.889, p<0.05) and POST (r=0.888, p<0.05)

Conclusion

Physical work capacity was improved 1 year following sAVR, in terms of higher median peak workload and VO2@VT. The strong correlation between the submaximal variable OUES and peakVO2suggests that OUES might be a useful surrogate of peakVO2in this group of patients where maximal exercise testing is not always recommended.
Study of symmetries through the action on torsors of the Janus symplectic group
Authors: Petit Jean-Pierre , Zejli Hicham
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we focus on the Janus symplectic group. We explore its various symmetries and its action on the elements of the dual of its Lie algebra, called torsors. Special attention is given to the charge symmetry, which highlights the matter–antimatter duality within both sets of components.
Perspective on Majorana bound-states in hybrid superconductor-semiconductor nanowires
Authors: Kouwenhoven Leo
Published: November 2024

A personal perspective is given on a decade of research on Majorana bound states (MBS) in hybrid devices of semiconducting nanowires covered with a superconductor. Predicted experimental signatures like zero-bias anomalies turned out to be false positive evidence for topological MBS. Zero-bias conductance peaks have found alternative explanations in terms of material disorder and smooth boundary potentials. A recount is given on various predictions, observations and re-interpretations, as well as the lessons learned in retrospect and an outlook on the future.
EXPLORING THE VARIABLE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY FOR BIOCONVECTION FLOW ON MAXWELL TWO-PHASE NANOMATERIAL PAST A ROTATING DISK: ANALYTICAL APPROACH FOR IRREVERSIBILITY ANALYSIS
Authors: ALI FARHAN , AHMED M. FAIZAN , SIDI MAAWIYA OULD , ZAFAR SYED SOHAIB , SAEED ABDULKAFI MOHAMMED
Published: November 2024

The impact of nanoliquid in the evolution of various industries and electronic devices is very remarkable. Motivated by these uses, this exploration describes the second law analysis in the Maxwell two-phase nanoliquid subject to the Lorentz force due to axisymmetric heated convective rotating flow with microorganisms and slip conditions. Thermal radiation, thermal variable conductivity, and chemical reaction are examined in the heat and concentration equation. The mass equation has been accounted for through the chemical reaction. Additionally, the physical properties of the entropy rate are considered. The constitution equations have been transformed into dimensionless form through the suitable transformation. The reduced system of equations has been solved analytically by the homotopy analysis method (HAM). The physical variables on Bejan number, entropy minimization, microorganism, concentration, velocity, and temperature distributions have been presented in graphical form. Computational results of moment coefficient, heat, mass, and motile density versus other factors are examined. The Maxwell fluid and slip variable display a reduction in radial velocity. An increase in the stretching parameter. The thermal layer is enlarged against the larger values of variable thermal conductivity, thermal radiation, and Biot number. Entropy generation and Bejan number are escalated due to the augment in the temperature difference variable, Brikamann number, and magnetic field.
An Overview of the Green Synthesis of Coinage Metallic Nanoparticles: Protocols, Challenges, and Cancer Treatments
Authors: Azooz Ebaa Adnan , Abduladheem Nargis Amer , El Abbadi Nidhal K.
Published: November 2024

Green nanomaterial synthesis is the process of producing various metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) utilizing bioactive reagents. It attempts to reduce waste and promote environmental sustainability by employing mild reaction conditions and safe materials. Researchers have demonstrated a strong interest in using natural biomolecules extracted from plants to synthesize MNPs. The individual biomolecules in this plant extract function as reducing, capping, and stabilizing substances in the green production of stable MNPs using their related metal ion precursor solution. The advantages of this method are that it is environmentally friendly, does not require energy, and is cheap and quick. Recently, MNPs have been developed in the field of cancer due to various qualities, including their increased reactive surfaces and small specified volume, which make them suited for traditional small pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical compounds. MNPs, such as gold (AuNPs), silver (AgNPs) and copper (CuNPs), are increasingly being used as anticancer agents. This review describes the synthesis of three MNPs: AuNPs, AgNPs and CuNPs nanoparticles from plant extracts. AgNPs are the most often used synthetic NPs, accounting for more than 25% of all consumer items. AgNPs are generally employed for antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral purposes. Also, the anti-cancer activities of the MNPs were explained. The challenges and predicted developments for future studies are addressed, which are critical for real-world applications. In the future, new types of NPs will be generated employing modern technology, with a wide range of uses in numerous industries.
Exploring Dataset Bias and Scaling Techniques in Multi-Source Gait Biomechanics: An Explainable Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Fleischmann Sophie , Dietz Simon , Shanbhag Julian , Wuensch Annika , Nitschke Marlies , Miehling Jörg , Wartzack Sandro , Leyendecker Sigrid , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Koelewijn Anne D.
Published: November 2024

Machine learning has become increasingly important in biomechanics. It allows to unveil hidden patterns from large and complex data, which leads to a more comprehensive understanding of biomechanical processes and deeper insights into human movement. However, machine learning models are often trained on a single dataset with a limited number of participants, which negatively affects their robustness and generalizability. Combining data from multiple existing sources provides an opportunity to overcome these limitations without spending more time on recruiting participants and recording new data. It is furthermore an opportunity for researchers who lack the financial requirements or laboratory equipment to conduct expensive motion capture studies themselves. At the same time, subtle interlaboratory differences can be problematic in an analysis due to the bias that they introduce. In our study, we investigated differences in motion capture datasets in the context of machine learning, for which we combined overground walking trials from four existing studies. Specifically, our goal was to examine whether a machine learning model was able to predict the original data source based on marker and GRF trajectories of single strides and how different scaling methods and pooling procedures affected the outcome. Layer-wise relevance propagation was applied to understand which factors were influential to distinguish the original data sources. We found that the model could predict the original data source with a very high accuracy (up to

\({\gt}\)

99%), which decreased by about 15 percentage points when we scaled every dataset individually prior to pooling. However, none of the proposed scaling methods could fully remove the dataset bias. Layer-wise relevance propagation revealed that there was not only one single factor that differed between all datasets. Instead, every dataset had its unique characteristics that were picked up by the model. These variables differed between the scaling and pooling approaches but were mostly consistent between trials belonging to the same dataset. Our results show that motion capture data is sensitive even to small deviations in marker placement and experimental setup and that small inter-group differences should not be overinterpreted during data analysis, especially when the data was collected in different labs. Furthermore, we recommend scaling datasets individually prior to pooling them which led to the lowest accuracy. We want to raise awareness that differences in datasets always exist and are recognizable by machine learning models. Researchers should thus think about how these differences might affect their results when combining data from different studies.
Parasites in a Changing World: Troublesome or in Trouble?
Authors: Wood Chelsea L.
Published: November 2024

There are plenty of reasons to believe that parasite populations will respond to biodiversity loss, warming, pollution, and other forms of global change. But will global change enhance transmission, increasing the incidence of troublesome parasites that put people, livestock, and wildlife at risk? Or will parasite species decline in abundance—or even become extinct—suggesting trouble on the horizon for parasite biodiversity? Here, I explain why answers have thus far eluded us and suggest new lines of research that would advance the field. Data collected to date suggest that parasites can respond to global change with increases or decreases in abundance, depending on the driver and the parasite. The future will certainly bring outbreaks of some parasites, and these should be addressed to protect human and ecosystem health. But troublesome parasites should not consume all of our research effort, because this changing world contains many parasite species that are in trouble.
Structural, Electronic, and Magnetic Properties of Gd-Substituted Bi2Fe4O9 Multiferroic: A Combined Experimental and DFT Approach
Authors: Mohapatra S. R. , Patra Lokanath , Pati Abhipsa , Singh A. K. , Panda Jnanranjan , Mohanty Hari S.
Published: November 2024

We present the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of Gd3+ substituted Bi2Fe4O9 (BFO) via experimental analysis as well as density functional theory (DFT). Rietveld refined X-ray diffraction data shows phase purity of the samples having orthorhombic phase with space group: “Pbam.” Gd3+ ions substitution at Bi3+-site is confirmed by the shift in peaks ((002) and (220)) at higher 2θ angles as well as the reduction in lattice parameters. The PBE+U calculations predict a band gap of 1.76 eV (BFO) and 1.6 eV (Gd substituted BFO) which is in close agreement with the experimental values. This reduction in band gap due to Gd3+ substitution enhances conduction in substituted samples. The calculated density of states illustrates considerable hybridization between Fe-3d and O-2p states with substantial overlap among the Bi-6p and O-2p states. Incorporating Gd3+ ions further introduces additional exchange interactions between Gd-Fet and Gd-Feo, thus leading to enhanced magnetization as well as an increase in antiferromagnetic transition temperature (T

N
). This characteristic feature is supported by temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility (χ) and dχ/dT plots. Hence, our experimental and theoretical findings suggest that BFO and its substituted samples are potential multiferroic materials for various device applications.
Impact of Slice Thickness and Baking Temperature on the Physicochemical Quality and Nutritional Properties of Newly Developed Baked Coconut Chips
Authors: Pandiselvam R. , Krishnan Rupa , Manikantan M. R. , Jacob Anjitha , Ramesh S. V. , Beegum Shameena
Published: November 2024

Due to rising health concerns, consumers are increasingly inclined toward reduced‐fat products, which have driven the need for nutritious alternatives through modifications in recipes and production processes. Despite the growing popularity of coconut‐based products, there is limited research on baked coconut chips, particularly regarding the effects of baking temperatures and product thicknesses. This study addresses this gap by developing baked coconut chips samples (BCSs) as a healthier alternative to traditional fried chips. Baking experiments were conducted at temperatures of 140°C, 160°C, and 180°C, with 160°C identified as optimal for balancing processing time and product quality. The study also compared baked coconut chips with those that were dried and then baked (dried baked coconut chips samples [DBCS]). Among the trials, the 0.5‐mm‐thick coconut chips baked at 160°C exhibited favorable sensory attributes and notable biochemical properties, including 3.13% moisture content, 1.13% ash, 40.49% fat, and significant antioxidant activity.
Examining Cesarean Section Rates in Ghana’s 10 Regions Over a Decade a Comprehensive National Investigation
Authors: Bosson-Amedenu Senyefia , Anafo Abdulzeid , Ouerfelli Ahmed , Ouerfelli Nabil , Ouerfelli Noureddine
Published: November 2024

This study examines cesarean section (C‐section) deliveries in Ghana from 2008 to 2017 in 10 regions, distinguishing between scheduled and emergency procedures. Scheduled C‐sections target specific maternal conditions, such as advanced age, multiparity, and medical history, while emergency C‐sections address acute fetal distress, preeclampsia, bleeding, and other urgent situations. The analysis reveals various regional patterns, with the Brong‐Ahafo Region showing a potential deceleration after 2017 and the Upper West Region indicating a possible acceleration. The high number of C‐sections in Greater Accra and Ashanti may be related to population density and health facilities. The study proposes empirical models, including linear, quadratic, and exponential components, emphasizing quasilinearity. The exponential model suggests transient and permanent phases of cesarean frequency, with the latter dominated by quasilinearity. Optimal parameter values are determined, which highlights the stability of the model. However, caution is advised when projecting too far into the future due to the inevitable slowing of observed trends. The findings offer insights for healthcare planning, resource allocation, and policymaking, emphasizing the need for region‐specific approaches and ongoing monitoring of cesarean dynamics to inform nuanced interventions.
Faecal Immunochemical Testing in Symptomatic Primary Care Patients: A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Ball Alex J. , Ray Meghna , Manji Arif , Aziz Imran , Sargur Ravishankar B. , Kurien Matthew
Published: November 2024

Aim: The faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is now widely used in English primary care to triage people who exhibit signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer (CRC). National guidelines for FIT implementation were based on data that acknowledged limitations. This study examines FIT accuracy in primary care patients with low‐ and high‐risk symptoms of CRC.

Methods: This study describes a retrospective cohort study in South Yorkshire, UK (n = 2029). Consecutive symptomatic adult patients in primary care undergoing a FIT between 01/04/2021 and 30/04/2021 were assessed. A threshold > 10 μg Hb/g was defined as a positive FIT result. Lower gastrointestinal tract (LGI) investigations were the reference standard. Follow‐up over 24 months was used to identify serious colorectal diseases (CRC, high‐risk polyps and inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]).

Results: Five hundred and fifteen (25.4%) patients had a positive FIT. The CRC prevalence was 1.2% (24/2029). Nineteen (79.1%) of the 24 CRC cases had NG12 symptoms, with two (8.3%) having a negative FIT. For CRC detection, FIT showed 91.7% sensitivity (95% CI: 71.5%–98.5%), 75.4% specificity (95% CI: 73.4%–77.2%), 4.3% positive predictive value (PPV) (95% CI: 2.8%–6.5%) and 99.9% negative predictive value (NPV) (95% CI: 99.5%–99.97%). Combining CRC, high‐risk polyps and IBD increased PPV and specificity but decreased sensitivity and NPV.

Conclusions: In primary care, FIT safely triages patients having at‐risk CRC risk symptoms. Negative FIT results indicate a low likelihood of CRC and supports safety‐netting interventions.
A Virtual Vehicle–Based Car‐Following Model to Reproduce Hazmat Truck Drivers’ Differential Behaviors
Authors: Shao Yichang , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yuhan , Shi Xiaomeng , Shiwakoti Nirajan , Ye Zhirui
Published: November 2024

Enhancing hazmat truck safety through advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) relies on both system efficacy and driver reactions. This study investigates the driving behaviors of hazmat truck drivers in response to forward collision warnings (FCWs). Traditional warning triggering methods struggle to capture diverse and immediate driver responses; therefore, our research employs a vision‐based framework for driving data extraction and utilizes the K‐means++ clustering method for response‐based classification. Moreover, we propose an enhanced version of the intelligent driver model (IDM) based on the concept of a virtual vehicle to reproduce hazmat truck drivers’ differential behaviors during risky car‐following periods, achieving results that depict improved driving simulations. This model is compared with classic benchmarks, including the IDM, optimal velocity model (OVM), and full velocity difference (FVD) model, demonstrating superior performance in terms of traffic stability and safety in extreme scenarios. Our findings highlight that preaction drivers tend to accelerate before receiving warnings, opting to overtake rather than maintain safe distances. In contrast, calm drivers decelerate in anticipation of the warning, showcasing their awareness of maintaining safety. The analysis reveals that aggressive drivers are predominantly in the 41–45 age group, indicating a higher skill level, while calm drivers are more commonly older, reflecting a trend in cautious driving behaviors. Overall, our research contributes to the development of effective ADAS by considering real‐time driver responses and emphasizes the potential of our model to revolutionize commercial ADAS adoption and enhance road safety for hazmat operations.