bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human collagen decorating microneedle patches for transdermal therapy
Authors: Zheng Kaikai , Zhou Teng , Xiao E. , Wei Qiang , Zhao Changsheng
Published: November 2023

Collagen, the major structural protein in various tissues, is an ideal material for tissue regeneration. However, the collagen molecules cannot penetrate across the skin barrier due to their large molecular weight. It is necessary to develop new methods of delivery for promoting the collagen‐based therapy. Microneedle patches have been used in drug delivery applications as an alternative to traditional puncture delivery. In this study, the human collagen decorating microneedle patch was developed to deliver the collagen into the skin tissue, as the human‐source collagen can overcome the immunogenicity of animal‐source collagens in regenerative applications. The human collagen is usually limited by its source. Here, the collagen is derived from an allogeneic extracellular matrix expressed by human stem cells in vitro. The collagen was then loaded on the tip of the microneedle to achieve a high‐loading dose and efficient delivery. The experimental results proved that the microneedles were sharp and rigid enough to pierce the skin, which has the potential to be used for subcutaneous tissue regeneration. Moreover, the fabrication process was simple and effective to realize large‐scale production.
PROMISE Registry: A prostate cancer registry of outcomes and germline mutations for improved survival and treatment effectiveness
Authors: Paller Channing J. , Barata Pedro C. , Lorentz Justin , Appleman Leonard J. , Armstrong Andrew J. , DeMarco Tiffani A. , Dreicer Robert , Elrod Jo Ann B. , Fleming Mark , George Christopher , Heath Elisabeth I. , Hussain Maha H. A. , Mao Shifeng , McKay Rana R. , Morgans Alicia K. , Orton Matthew , Pili Roberto , Riedel Elyn , Saraiya Biren , Sigmond Joelle , Sokolova Alexandra , Stadler Walter M. , Tran Christina , Macario Natalie , Vinson Jacob , Green Rebecca , Cheng Heather H. ,   PROMISE Trial Investigators
Published: November 2023

Background

Recently approved treatments and updates to genetic testing recommendations for prostate cancer have created a need for correlated analyses of patient outcomes data via germline genetic mutation status. Genetic registries address these gaps by identifying candidates for recently approved targeted treatments, expanding clinical trial data examining specific gene mutations, and understanding effects of targeted treatments in the real‐world setting.

Methods

The PROMISE Registry is a 20‐year (5‐year recruitment, 15‐year follow‐up), US‐wide, prospective genetic registry for prostate cancer patients. Five thousand patients will be screened through an online at‐home germline testing to identify and enroll 500 patients with germline mutations, including: pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants and variants of uncertain significance in genes of interest. Patients will be followed for 15 years and clinical data with real time patient reported outcomes will be collected. Eligible patients will enter long‐term follow‐up (6‐month PRO surveys and medical record retrieval). As a virtual study with patient self‐enrollment, the PROMISE Registry may fill gaps in genetics services in underserved areas and for patients within sufficient insurance coverage.

Results

The PROMISE Registry opened in May 2021. 2114 patients have enrolled to date across 48 US states and 23 recruiting sites. 202 patients have met criteria for long‐term follow‐up. PROMISE is on target with the study's goal of 5000 patients screened and 500 patients eligible for long‐term follow‐up by 2026.

Conclusions

The PROMISE Registry is a novel, prospective, germline registry that will collect long‐term patient outcomes data to address current gaps in understanding resulting from recently FDA‐approved treatments and updates to genetic testing recommendations for prostate cancer. Through inclusion of a broad nationwide sample, including underserved patients and those unaffiliated with major academic centers, the PROMISE Registry aims to provide access to germline genetic testing and to collect data to understand disease characteristics and treatment responses across the disease spectrum for prostate cancer with rare germline genetic variants.
Front Cover Image
Authors: Wang Liying , He Limei , Zhu Xiaoming , Zhang Jinwen , Li Na , Fan Jingfang , Li Huafeng , Sun Xiaoji , Zhang Lijiao , Lin Yongling , Wu Kongming
Published: November 2023

The cover image is based on the Research Article Large‐area field application confirms the effectiveness of toxicant‐infused bait for managing Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in maize fields by Liying Wang et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.7756.

image
Exploring the hormetic effects of radiation on the life table parameters of Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Hao Zheng , Jin Tao , Yang Sheng‐Yuan , Lin Yu‐Ying , Zhong Hao , Peng Zheng‐Qiang , Ma Guang‐Chang
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Spodoptera frugiperda, a global agricultural pest, can be effectively controlled through the sterile insect technique. However, exposure to low‐dose radiation below the sterilization threshold may induce hormetic effects. Here, the biphasic aspects of the fertile progeny population of S. frugiperda were analyzed using an age‐stage, two‐sex life table after dosing male and female pupae with 10–350 Gy gamma radiation.

RESULTS

The parental sterilizing dose for 6‐day‐old female and male pupae was 200 and 350 Gy, respectively. The total longevity, pre‐adult survival rate, net reproduction rate, and intrinsic growth rate of the offspring population increased with decreasing radiation doses from 250 to 10 Gy. Offspring population of parents treated with low doses of 10–100 Gy showed better life table parameters compared to non‐irradiated controls. Females and males fecundity irradiated with 10, 50, and 100 Gy and 10 Gy, respectively, exceeded controls, producing 2339.4, 2726.4, 2311, and 2369 eggs, as opposed to 1802.9 eggs produced by the controls. Males irradiated with 10 Gy displayed the highest intrinsic rates of increase and net reproduction rate, at 0.1709 and 682.3, respectively. Projections from the survival rate and fecundity indicated that female and male S. frugiperda populations after 10 Gy irradiation may grow considerably faster than the controls.

CONCLUSION

This study explores the hormetic effects of low‐dose radiation on S. frugiperda through life table analysis, while providing enhancements for utilizing substerilizing gamma dose in a modified F1 sterility technique. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Older British migrants in Spain: Return patterns and intentions post‐Brexit
Authors: Giner‐Monfort Jordi , Hall Kelly
Published: November 2023

After the Brexit referendum results, there may have been fears that a significant part of the British population in Spain, one of the largest outside the Commonwealth, would return to the United Kingdom. This paper uses different sources to assess whether, on the one hand, such a return movement has existed and, on the other hand, whether it could exist in the future. To do so, we analyse data from the Spanish Population Register (Padrón) and the Residential Variation Statistics (EVR) from 2003 to 2021, and a survey carried out in 2020 of 643 British people over 55 years of age living in Spain. In relation to the registry data, it has been observed that the return movement after Brexit has not been as significant as might be expected at a time of great uncertainty. Only in 2021 it was detected an increase in return movements, especially above the age of 75, probably caused by the end of the application of the Withdrawal Agreement. On the other hand, the survey results show that the intention to return is lower than in other similar surveys that have been carried out in the past, even in another COVID‐19 outbreak scenario. Moreover, this intention to return is especially related to variables linked to insertion, such as not being properly registered or owning a property in the United Kingdom, among other variables.
Cellular neurobiology of hyperforin
Authors: Bouron Alexandre
Published: November 2023

Hyperforin is a phloroglucinol derivative isolated from the medicinal plant Hypericum perforatum (St John's wort, SJW). This lipophilic biomolecule displays antibacterial, pro‐apoptotic, antiproliferative, and anti‐inflammatory activities. In addition, in vitro and in vivo data showed that hyperforin is a promising molecule with potential applications in neurology and psychiatry. For instance, hyperforin possesses antidepressant properties, impairs the uptake of neurotransmitters, and stimulates the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/TrkB neurotrophic signaling pathway, the adult hippocampal neurogenesis, and the brain homeostasis of zinc. In fact, hyperforin is a multi‐target biomolecule with a complex neuropharmacological profile. However, one prominent pharmacological feature of hyperforin is its ability to influence the homeostasis of cations such as Ca2+, Na+, Zn2+, and H+. So far, the pathophysiological relevance of these actions is currently unknown. The main objective of the present work is to provide an overview of the cellular neurobiology of hyperforin, with a special focus on its effects on neuronal membranes and the movement of cations.
Mid‐level dry air intrusions over the southern Maritime Continent
Authors: Aslam Ashar A. , Schwendike Juliane , Peatman Simon C. , Birch Cathryn E. , Bollasina Massimo A. , Barrett Paul
Published: November 2023

Patterns in extreme precipitation across the Maritime Continent in southeast Asia are known to be modulated by many processes, from large‐scale modes of variability such as the Madden–Julian oscillation, to finer‐scale mechanisms such as the diurnal cycle. Transient mid‐level dry air intrusions are an example of a feature not extensively studied over the Maritime Continent, which has the potential to influence rainfall patterns. Here, we show that these dry air intrusions originate from upper level disturbances along the subtropical jet. Mid‐level cyclonic circulation anomalies northwest of Australia from December to February (DJF) intensify westerlies in the southern Maritime Continent, advecting dry air eastward. In contrast, mid‐level anticyclonic circulation anomalies northwest of Australia from June to August (JJA) intensify southern Maritime Continent easterlies, advecting dry air westward. The resultant transport direction of associated air parcels is also dependent on the seasonal low‐level monsoon circulation. Dry air intrusions are important in influencing low‐level wind and rainfall patterns, suppressing rainfall over seas near the southern Maritime Continent in both seasons, as well as over southern Maritime Continent islands in DJF and the Indian Ocean in JJA. In both seasons there is enhanced rainfall to the east of the intrusion, where there is moist return flow to the extratropics. This study highlights the importance of synoptic‐scale extratropical features in influencing meteorological patterns in the Tropics.
Heading control based on extended homogeneous polynomial Lyapunov function
Authors: Huang Yanwei , Lin Feng
Published: November 2023

For the nonlinear parameter‐varying (NPV) model of unmanned surface vehicle with the consideration of the velocities on yaw and surge as well as wave disturbances, a robust control method is proposed based on extended homogeneous polynomial Lyapunov function (EHPLF) to regulate heading for the superior performance on the rapidity, accuracy, and robustness. First, a NPV model of heading error is established to design a general form of a state feedback controller with a robust performance. Second, a Lyapunov matrix with full states and varying parameter is constructed to derive the robust global exponential stability conditions by Euler's homogeneity relation for the NPV system, known as the EHPLF stability conditions. Third, since the EHPLF stability conditions consist of a set of nonlinear coupled inequalities that cannot be directly solved by sum of squares (SOS) toolboxes, they are decoupled with matrix transformations to obtain the EHPLF‐SOS stability conditions, which is solved for the parameters of the state feedback controller. Finally, the simulation results indicate that EHPLF method exhibits a superior performance on dynamic, steady‐state, and robustness.
Why most definitions of modeling competence in science education fall short: Analyzing the relevance of volition for modeling
Authors: Ammoneit Rieke , Göhner Maximilian Felix , Bielik Tom , Krell Moritz
Published: November 2023

Definitions of modeling competence in science education do not yet include noncognitive factors. However, noncognitive factors are central to competence and might thus substantially improve our understanding of modeling competence. In this article, we analyze volition during preservice science teachers' engagement with a black‐box modeling task and its relation to established aspects of modeling competence: metamodeling knowledge, modeling process, and modeling product. A cluster analysis of the occurrence of volition categories resulted in three clusters of volitional behavior. The clusters describe three different volition types: one action‐oriented type applying a self‐regulative strategy and two state‐oriented types applying self‐controlling strategies. Correlation analyses between clusters, volition categories and modeling process variables indicate benefits of the self‐regulative strategy.
6‐(Hydroxymethyl)‐8‐oxo‐4,8‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐b]pyrans as New Tyrosinase Inhibitors and Antioxidant Agents
Authors: Ranjbar Sara , Razmara Sara , Khademian Sara , Malekzadeh Zeinab , Kabiri Maryam , Ghasemi Younes , Khoshneviszadeh Mehdi
Published: November 2023

A series of ethyl 2‐amino‐6‐(hydroxymethyl)‐8‐oxo‐4,8‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐b]pyran‐3‐carboxylates (P1‐P13) as annulated kojic acid derivatives were synthesized, and evaluated for their tyrosinase inhibitory activity as well as radical scavenging effect. It was found that derivatives P6 and P9, bearing 3‐chlorophenyl and 4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl at the C4 position, possessed good tyrosinase inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 52.1±2.3 and 80.7±2.5 μM, respectively. Compound P9 also exhibited remarkable free radical scavenging activity with an EC50 value of 15.3±3.1 μM compared to the standard ascorbic acid (EC50=21.6±1.9 μM). The results of molecular docking analysis exposed that P6 and P9 bind well with the active site of tyrosinase mainly by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. In silico studies showed that these molecules fulfilled drug‐likeness rules and possessed acceptable predictive absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion features. This study could provide new ideas for developing effective tyrosinase inhibitors and antioxidant agents.
Antimicrobial Properties of Azole Functional Silica Nanocomposites
Authors: Usul Sedef Kaptan , Lüleci Hatice Büşra , Ergüden Bengü , Aslan Ayşe
Published: November 2023

Silica nanoparticles have become more attractive due to their surface characteristics, versatility, biocompatibility, and morphological and physicochemical properties. For this reason, their use in biological applications has been expanding in recent years. In this study, after functionalizing silica nanoparticles with glycidyl methacrylate monomer, nanocomposites were formed by attaching 1,2,4‐Triazole, 3‐Amino‐1,2,4‐Triazole, and 5‐Aminotetrazole particles to the surface. Notably, the thermal degradation temperature of all nanocomposites was determined to surpass 200 °C. However, it is worth mentioning that despite the favorable water uptake rates observed for MT(7.64 %) and M3(5.98 %) nanocomposites, MT did not exhibit resistance against Fenton chemicals and experienced degradation. It is important to note that the material loss in M3 nanocomposites is minimal, measuring less than 1 %. In order to reveal the antifungal and antibacterial activity of the synthesized nanoparticles, Minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC), as well as Minimum Fungicidal Concentration(MFC) against the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration(MBC) values against bacteria strains, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli were determined. The findings of the study indicated that MP, M3, and M5 nanocomposites displayed a moderate level of antibacterial activity. It is noteworthy, however, that the antibacterial activity diminished when triazole was combined with MP at concentrations exceeding 100 mg/mL.
Kinetically Controlled Nucleation Enabled by Tunable Microfluidic Mixing for the Synthesis of Dendritic Au@Pt Core/Shell Nanomaterials
Authors: Wang Wubin , Wang Yacheng , Zhang Dongtang , Guo Guangsheng , Wang Leyu , Wang Xiayan
Published: November 2023

The nucleation stage plays a decisive role in determining nanocrystal morphology and properties; hence, the ability to regulate nucleation is critical for achieving high‐level control. Herein, glass microfluidic chips with S‐shaped mixing units are designed for the synthesis of Au@Pt core/shell materials. The use of hydrodynamics to tune the nucleation kinetics is explored by varying the number of mixing units. Dendritic Au@Pt core/shell nanomaterials are controllably synthesized and a formation mechanism is proposed. As‐synthesized Au@Pt exhibited excellent ethanol oxidation activity under alkaline conditions (8.4 times that of commercial Pt/C). This approach is also successfully applied to the synthesize of Au@Pd core/shell nanomaterials, thus demonstrating its generality.
Tailed‐Hoogsteen Triplex DNA Silver Nanoclusters Emit Red Fluorescence upon Target miRNA Sensing
Authors: Yadavalli Hari Chandana , Park Sooyeon , Kim Yeolhoe , Nagda Riddhi , Kim Tae‐Hwan , Han Min Kyun , Jung Il Lae , Bhang Yong Joo , Yang Won Ho , Dalgaard Louise Torp , Yang Seong Wook , Shah Pratik
Published: November 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules, typically 21‒22 nucleotides in size, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression in most eukaryotes. Their significance in various biological processes and disease pathogenesis has led to considerable interest in their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and therapeutic applications. In this study, a novel method for sensing target miRNAs using Tailed‐Hoogsteen triplex DNA‐encapsulated Silver Nanoclusters (DNA/AgNCs) is introduced. Upon hybridization of a miRNA with the tail, the Tailed‐Hoogsteen triplex DNA/AgNCs exhibit a pronounced red fluorescence, effectively turning on the signal. It is successfully demonstrated that this miRNA sensor not only recognized target miRNAs in total RNA extracted from cells but also visualized target miRNAs when introduced into live cells, highlighting the advantages of the turn‐on mechanism. Furthermore, through gel‐fluorescence assays and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) analysis, the turn‐on mechanism is elucidated, revealing that the Tailed‐Hoogsteen triplex DNA/AgNCs undergo a structural transition from a monomer to a dimer upon sensing the target miRNA. Overall, the findings suggest that Tailed‐Hoogsteen triplex DNA/AgNCs hold great promise as practical sensors for small RNAs in both in vitro and cell imaging applications.
Design Strategy for Improving Detection Sensitivity in a Bromoplumbate Photochromic Semiconductor
Authors: Qin Qiu‐Pei , Lu Jian , Sun Cai , Wang Ming‐Sheng , Guo Guo‐Cong
Published: November 2023

Reducing the dark current of photodetectors is an important strategy for enhancing the detection sensitivity, but hampered by the manufacturing cost due to the need for controlling the complex material composition and processing intricate interface. This study reports a new single‐component photochromic semiconductor, [(HDMA)4(Pb3Br10)(PhSQ)2]n (1, HDMA = dimethylamine cation, PhSQ = 1‐(4‐sulfophenyl)−4,4’‐bipyridinium), by introducing a redox‐active monosubstituted viologen zwitterion into inorganic semiconducting skeleton. It features yellow to green coloration after UV irradiation with the sharply dropping intrinsic conductivity of 14.6‐fold, and the photodetection detection sensitivity gain successfully doubles. The reason of decreasing conductivity originates from the increasing the band gap of the inorganic semiconducting component and formation of Frenkel excitons with strong Coulomb interactions, thereby decreasing the concentration of thermally excited intrinsic carriers.
Radiation Photovoltaics in a 2D Multilayered Chiral‐Polar Halide Perovskite toward Efficient Self‐Driven X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Guan Qianwen , Ye Huang , You Shihai , Zhu Zeng‐Kui , Li Hang , Liu Xitao , Luo Junhua
Published: November 2023

2D multilayered organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) have exhibited bright prospects for high‐performance self‐driven X‐ray detection due to their strong radiation absorption and long carrier transport. However, as an effective tool for self‐driven X‐ray detection, radiation photovoltaics remain rare, and underdeveloped in multilayered OIHPs. Herein, chirality to induce radiation photovoltaics in 2D multilayered chiral OIHPs is first utilized for efficient self‐driven X‐ray detection. Specifically, under X‐ray irradiation, a multilayered chiral‐polar (S‐BPEA)2FAPb2I7 (1‐S, S‐BPEA = (S)‐1‐4‐Bromophenylethylammonium, FA = formamidinium) shows remarkable radiation photovoltaics of 0.85 V, which endows 1‐S excellent self‐driven X‐ray detection performance with a considerable sensitivity of 87.8 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 and a detection limit low to 161 nGyair s−1. Moreover, the sensitivity is high up to 1985.9 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 under 80 V bias, higher than most those of 2D OIHPs. These results demonstrate that chirality‐induced radiation photovoltaics is an efficient strategy for self‐driven X‐ray detection.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of Battery Technologies for High–Energy Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Wang Luoya , Ma Changlong , Yuan Zijie , Wu Chao , Ye Jilei , Wu Yuping
Published: November 2023

Aqueous batteries have garnered significant attention in recent years as a viable alternative to lithium‐ion batteries for energy storage, owing to their inherent safety, cost‐effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. This study offers a comprehensive review of recent advancements, persistent challenges, and the prospects of aqueous batteries, with a primary focus on energy density compensation of various battery engineering technologies. Additionally, cutting‐edge high‐energy aqueous battery designs are emphasized as a reference for future endeavors in the pursuit of high‐energy storage solutions. Finally, a dual‐compatibility battery configuration perspective aimed at concurrently optimizing cycle stability, redox potential, capacity utilization for both anode and cathode materials, as well as the selection of potential electrode candidates, is proposed with the ultimate goal of achieving cell‐level energy densities exceeding 400 Wh kg–1.
A robust optimization model for software development costs considering time value of money
Authors: Namdar Mohammadreza , Noorossana Rassoul
Published: November 2023

Determining “software release time” and “testing stop time” is a significant challenge in software projects, as both greatly affect the software cost and reliability. To overcome the drawbacks of past research, this study presents a novel robust optimization approach considering the interval estimation of input parameters for a software reliability growth model. It aims to detect the optimal “software release time” and “testing stop time” to minimize software development costs in an uncertain environment. Additionally, it considers the time value of money for calculating model costs by considering the interest rate and inflation. Generally, this research is the first attempt to use a robust approach for optimizing the software development cost considering the time value of money. The paper investigates the model efficiency in practical situations through a case study and analyzes the effect of the discounted rate and parameters uncertainty on the development cost using a software reliability growth model. The results confirm the prominent role of uncertain parameters and the discounted rate value on software development cost. They also indicate that the proposed mathematical model is more consistent with the actual situation and flexible than the past models with deterministic parameters.
Block‐Copolymer‐Architected Materials in Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Werner Jörg G. , Li Yuanzhi , Wiesner Ulrich
Published: November 2023

The multiscale architecture of electrochemical energy storage (EES) materials critically impacts device performance, including energy, power, and durability. The pore space of nano‐ to macrostructured electrodes determines mass transport within the electrolyte and defines the effective energy density. The dimensions of the active charge‐storing materials can increase stability during cycling by accommodating strains from electrochemical–mechanical coupling while also defining surface area that increases capacitive charge storage, decreases charge‐transfer resistance, but also leads to low efficiency and degradation from interfacial reactions. Thus, elucidating and developing a fundamental understanding of these correlations requires materials with precisely tunable nanoscale architectures. Herein, approaches that take advantage of the nanoscale control offered by block copolymer (BCP) self‐assembly are reviewed and insights gained from associated nanoscale phenomena observed in EES are highlighted. Systematic studies that use custom‐tailored BCPs to reveal fundamental nanostructure–property–performance relationships are emphasized. Importantly, most reports of nanostructured materials utilize low loadings and thin electrodes and results represent mass transfer limitations at the particle scale. However, as cell‐level performance involves mass transport over 10–100s of micrometers, recently emerging BCP‐based processes are further highlighted, leading to hierarchical meso/macroporous materials needed for creating multiscale structure–performance relationships and next‐generation energy storage material architectures.
Challenges and opportunities in 2D high‐entropy alloy electrocatalysts for sustainable energy conversion
Authors: Lu Die , Fu Xinyao , Guo Dong , Ma Wei , Sun Shaohui , Shao Gonglei , Zhou Zhen
Published: November 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) have emerged as promising electrocatalysts due to the benefits of polymetallic coordination and robust electrical conductivity. However, the multiple elements in 2D HEAs pose challenges in achieving a uniform composition and maintaining a 2D limit morphology, complicating their structural characterization. Furthermore, even minor adjustments to the composition can significantly alter the properties of 2D HEAs, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of their structure–property relationships to advance synthesis and application. Therefore, this review critically examines the intrinsic factors influencing synthesis methods and the practical applications of 2D HEAs in electrocatalysis for sustainable energy conversion. The urgency is emphasized for developing new synthesis techniques, enhancing advanced characterization methods, and gaining profound insights into the functional mechanisms of 2D HEAs.
On Re-Dressing Remote Places: Imaginaries at the Margins
Authors: Ren Carina
Published: November 2023

This chapter explores how place-related imaginaries are conjured at the naval base of Grønnedal located in the Arsuk fjord in Southn Greenland. Introducing the concept of re-dressing, we see how Grønnedal becomes the subject of contestation among local, national and foreign actors. As geopolitical circumstances led Denmark to reopen Grønnedal in 2017 only a year after it had been abandoned, the Danish Ministry of Defence invited partners to explore how the relatively large, but dilapidated building mass could be put to use for tourism purposes. Located in lush South Greenland, once Greenland’s prime tourism spot but today challenged by depopulation, degrowth and poor physical infrastructure, this seemed the evident choice. Tracing discussions and activities around the re-dressing of Grønnedal, the chapter shows how things, feelings and politics interfered with this ‘obvious’ idea. The story shows how Grønnedal is imagined through tensions of liminality and centrality, abandonment and potentiality and feeds into ongoing, larger discussions of the possible future(s) of Greenland as actors deliberate on how Grønnedal could become a place for tourism, but also—as seen in the emerging discussions, an engine to rebuild regional infrastructure or a camp for refugees. It is suggested that marginal imaginaries of the place as too remote, too emotional or too boring has left the idea unrealised.
Revealing Place Mobility by Walking and Map Analysing
Authors: Einarsdóttir Elva Björg
Published: November 2023

The chapter addresses how places are temporal and multilayered. They are obvious and hidden at the same time and always becoming through relational encounters of more-than-humans. In the chapter, the author makes use of two different methods, walking and map analysis, to explore how Western Barðastrandarsýsla county, a marginal place in southern part of the Westfjord peninsula, Iceland, can be and has been defined. Walking is an embodied experience, it relates to all the senses through the lived experience of the body as it moves with the environment. As a research method, walking reveals or produces a sense of understanding of the environment and emergent landscapes. Maps and place name archives produce another kind of knowledge about the landscape, gained and recorded through the ages. By analysing maps and crossing them with embodied experience of walking the old routes of Western Barðastrandarsýsla county, new knowledge can be created that provides understanding of the past and becoming of a place.
Cosmic string gravitational waves from global U(1)B−L symmetry breaking as a probe of the type I seesaw scale
Authors: Fu Bowen , Ghoshal Anish , King Stephen F.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

In type I seesaw models, the right-handed neutrinos are typically super-heavy, consistent with the generation of baryon asymmetry via standard leptogenesis. Primordial gravitational waves of cosmological origin provides a new window to probe such high scale physics, which would otherwise be inaccessible. By considering a global U(1)B−L extension of the type I seesaw model, we explore the connection between the heaviest right-handed neutrino mass and primordial gravitational waves arising from the dynamics of global cosmic string network. As a concrete example, we study a global U(1)B−L extension of the Littlest Seesaw model, and show that the inevitable GW signals, if detectable, probe the parameter space that can accommodate neutrino oscillation data and successful leptogenesis, while respecting theoretical constraints like perturbativity of the theory. Including CMB constraints from polarization and dark radiation leaves a large region of parameter space of the model, including the best fit regions, which can be probed by GW detectors like LISA and ET in the near future. In general, the GW detectors can test high scale type I seesaw models with the heaviest right-handed neutrino mass above 2.5 × 1014 GeV, assuming the perturbativity, and 7 × 1013 GeV assuming that the coupling between the heaviest right-handed neutrino and the U(1)B−L breaking scalar is less than unity.
Exploring accelerating hairy black holes in 2+1 dimensions: the asymptotically locally anti-de Sitter class and its holography
Authors: Cisterna Adolfo , Diaz Felipe , Mann Robert B. , Oliva Julio
Published: November 2023

Abstract

In the realm of lower-dimensional accelerating spacetimes, it is well-established that the presence of domain walls, which are co-dimension one topological defects, is a necessary condition for their construction. We expand upon the geometric framework employed in the generation of such spacetime solutions by incorporating a conformally coupled scalar field within the matter sector. This endeavor leads to the identification of several new families of three-dimensional accelerating spacetimes with asymptotically locally anti-de Sitter (AdS) behavior. Notably, one of these solutions showcases a hairy generalization of the accelerating BTZ black hole. This solution is constructed at both slow and rapid phases of acceleration, and its connection with established vacuum spacetime models is explicitly elucidated. The inclusion of the scalar field imparts a non-constant Ricci curvature to the domain wall, thereby rendering these configurations particularly suitable for the construction of two-dimensional quantum black holes. To establish a well-posed variational principle in the presence of the domain wall, two essential steps are undertaken. First, we extend the conventional renormalized AdS3 action to accommodate the presence of the scalar field. Second, we explicitly incorporate the Gibbons-Hawking-York term associated with the internal boundaries of our geometries and account for the tension of the domain wall in the action. This dual step process enables us to derive the domain wall field equations via the variational principle. Consequently, the action furnishes the appropriate quantum statistical relation. We engage in holographic computations, thereby determining the explicit form of the holographic stress tensor. In this context, the stress tensor can be expressed as that of a perfect fluid situated on a curved background. Additionally, it paves the road to ascertain the spacetime mass. Finally, we close by demonstrating the existence of three-dimensional accelerating spacetimes with asymptotically locally flat and asymptotically locally de Sitter geometries, particularly those embodying black holes.
New determination of |Vub/Vcb| from $$ {B}_s^0 $$ → {K−, $$ {D}_s^{-} $$}μ+ν
Authors: Bolognani Carolina , van Dyk Danny , Vos K. Keri
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We update the full set of $$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

s → K form factors using light-cone sum rules with an on-shell kaon. Our approach determines the relevant sum rule parameters — the duality thresholds — from a Bayesian fit for the first time. Using a modified version of the Boyd-Grinstein-Lebed parametrisation, we combine our sum rule results at low momentum transfer q2 with more precise lattice QCD results at large q2. We obtain a consistent description of the form factors in the full q2 range. Applying these results to a recent LHCb measurement of branching ratios for the decays $$ {B}_s^0 $$

B
s
0

→ {K−, $$ {D}_s^{-} $$

D
s
−

}μ+νμ, we determine the ratio of Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa elements$$ {\left|\frac{V_{ub}}{V_{cb}}\right|}_{q^2<7\;{\textrm{GeV}}^2}=0.0681\pm 0.0040\kern0.5em \textrm{and}\kern0.5em {\left|\frac{V_{ub}}{V_{cb}}\right|}_{q^2>7\;{\textrm{GeV}}^2}=0.0801\pm 0.0047, $$

V
ub

V
cb

q
2

<
7

GeV
2

=
0.0681
±
0.0040

and

V
ub

V
cb

q
2

>
7

GeV
2

=
0.0801
±
0.0047
,

which are mutually compatible at the 1.9σ level. We further comment on the sensitivity to Beyond the Standard Model effects through measurements of the shape of $$ {B}_s^0 $$

B
s
0

→ K−μ+νμ decays, in light of recent limits on such effects from other exclusive b → uℓν processes.
Adjunctive treatment in COVID-19 and sepsis—What did we learn?
Authors: Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J.
Published: November 2023

The introduction of anakinra, baricitinib and tocilizumab into the treatment armamentarium of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) reinforced the concept of immunotherapy for bacterial sepsis. The current review investigates how the example of COVID-19 may be extrapolated to sepsis using a three-step approach. In the first step, the clinical evidence on how the immunotherapy of COVID-19 assisted viral clearance is presented. In a second step, the indications acquired from human and animal studies on the need to employ strategies with primary effective phagocytosis in sepsis are presented. In a final step, lessons learnt from COVID-19 immunotherapy are applied for sepsis. The end result is that sepsis immunotherapy should rely on the use of biomarkers which provide information on the activation of a specific prevailing mechanism in order to enable the selection of the appropriate drug.
Could the destruction of a beloved robot be considered a hate crime? An exploration of the legal and social significance of robot love
Authors: Sweeney Paula
Published: November 2023

In the future, it is likely that we will form strong bonds of attachment and even develop love for social robots. Some of these loving relations will be, from the human’s perspective, as significant as a loving relationship that they might have had with another human. This means that, from the perspective of the loving human, the mindless destruction of their robot partner could be as devastating as the murder of another’s human partner. Yet, the loving partner of a robot has no recourse to legal action beyond the destruction of property and can see no way to prevent future people suffering the same devastating loss. On this basis, some have argued that such a scenario must surely motivate legal protection for social robots. In this paper, I argue that despite the devastating loss that would come from the destruction of one’s robot partner, love cannot itself be a reason for granting robot rights. However, although I argue against beloved robots having protective rights, I argue that the loss of a robot partner must be socially recognised as a form of bereavement if further secondary harms are to be avoided, and that, if certain conditions obtain, the destruction of a beloved robot could be criminalised as a hate crime.
National UK Survey of Radiation Doses During Endovascular Aortic Interventions
Authors: Tsitsiou Yvonne , Velan Bar , Ross Rebecca , Lakshminarayan Raghu , Rogers Andy , Hamady Mohamad ,   RADEVAIR, Khan Lamran , Krishnan Ananth , Hennessy Martin , Kasthuri Ram , Al-Rekabi Zenaib , Abisi Said , Hampshire Mark , Goutzios Panos , Hanif Muhammad , Olivier Emma , Wood Andrew , Macey Andrew , Modi Sachin , Allison Robert , Bent Clare , Bungay Peter , Whiteman Robert , Williams Robin , Aldin Zaid , Weaver Josephine , Kaikini Robert , Wells David , Hancock John , Madhavan Anil , Puppala Sapna , Matson Matthew , Lewis Katharine , Uberoi Raman , Winterbottom Andrew , Huasen Bella , Jenkins Michael , Cleveland Trevor , Butcher Rachel
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Endovascular aortic repair (EAR) interventions, endovascular abdominal aortic repair (EVAR) and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), are associated with significant radiation exposures. We aimed to investigate the radiation doses from real-world practice and propose diagnostic reference level (DRL) for the UK.

Materials and Methods

Radiation data and essential demographics were retrospectively collected from 24 vascular and interventional radiology centres in the UK for all patients undergoing EAR—standard EVAR or complex, branched/fenestrated (BEVAR/FEVAR), and TEVAR—between 2018 and 2021. The data set was further categorised according to X-ray unit type, either fixed or mobile. The proposed national DRL is the 75th percentile of the collective medians for procedure KAP (kerma area product), cumulative air kerma (CAK), fluoroscopy KAP and CAK.

Results

Data from 3712 endovascular aortic procedures were collected, including 2062 cases were standard EVAR, 906 cases of BEVAR/FEVAR and 509 cases of TEVAR. The majority of endovascular procedures (3477/3712) were performed on fixed X-ray units. The proposed DRL for KAP was 162 Gy cm2, 175 Gy cm2 and 266 Gy cm2 for standard EVAR, TEVAR and BEVAR/FEVAR, respectively.

Conclusion

The development of DRLs is pertinent to EAR procedures as the first step to optimise the radiation risks to patients and staff while maintaining the highest patient care and paving the way for steps to reduce radiation exposures.
Normal age- and sex-based values of right ventricular free wall and four-chamber longitudinal strain by speckle-tracking echocardiography: from the Copenhagen City heart study
Authors: Espersen Caroline , Skaarup Kristoffer Grundtvig , Lassen Mats Christian Højbjerg , Johansen Niklas Dyrby , Hauser Raphael , Olsen Flemming Javier , Jensen Gorm Boje , Schnohr Peter , Møgelvang Rasmus , Biering-Sørensen Tor
Published: November 2023

Aim

To promote the implementation of right ventricular (RV) longitudinal strain in clinical practice, we sought to propose normal values for RV free wall (RVFWLS) and four-chamber longitudinal strain (RV4CLS) and investigate the association with clinical and echocardiographic parameters in participants from the general population.

Methods and Results

Participants from the 5th Copenhagen City Heart Study (2011–2015)—a prospective cohort study—with available RV longitudinal strain measurements were included. RVFWLS and RV4CLS were assessed using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. In total, 2951 participants were included. Amongst 1297 participants without cardiovascular disease or risk factors (median age 44, 63% female), mean values of RVFWLS and RV4CLS were − 26.7% ± 5.2 (95% prediction interval (PI) − 36.9, − 16.5) and − 21.7% ± 3.4 (95%PI − 28.4, − 15.0), respectively. Women had significantly higher absolute values of RVFWLS and RV4CLS than men (mean − 27.5 ± 5.5 vs. − 25.4 ± 4.5, p < 0.001 and − 22.3 ± 3.5 vs. − 20.6 ± 3.0, p < 0.001, respectively). Absolute values of RVFWLS but not RV4CLS decreased significantly with increasing age in unadjusted linear regression. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, RV s’ and left ventricular global longitudinal strain were the most influential parameters associated with both RVFWLS and RV4CLS in multiple linear regression. Participants with cardiovascular disease (n = 1531) had a higher proportion of abnormal values of RVFWLS and RV4CLS compared to the healthy population (8% vs. 4%, p < 0.001 and 8% vs. 3%, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

This study proposed normal age- and sex-based values of RVFWLS and RV4CLS in a healthy population sample and showed significant sex differences in both measurements across ages.

Graphical abstract
Demixing behavior of Pickering emulsions stabilized by Janus particles and uniform Pickering particles at different pH values
Authors: Rehosek Marco , Laupheimer Michaela , Marlow Frank
Published: November 2023

This work investigates the demixing behavior of Pickering emulsions consisting of water, n-hexadecane, and two different types of Pickering particles. The first type is uniform, and the second consists of one-side modified Janus particles influencing the emulsion behavior significantly. Both particle types are able to stabilize the emulsions, but lead to clear differences in the emulsion drop size and size distribution. This results in different creaming times varying between minutes and hours and different clearance processes of the water excess phase. Large pH effects were found in addition. At some conditions, non-adsorbed particles were observed that sediment over time in addition to the creaming of the emulsion.
Transcending time: the forensic anthropological case study of three unidentified transgender women in Italy in the early 1990s
Authors: Palamenghi Andrea , Franceschetti Lorenzo , Tambuzzi Stefano , D’Apuzzo Annalisa , Mazzarelli Debora , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: November 2023

In forensic anthropology, the estimation of skeletal sex results in a dichotomous outcome: male or female. This poses challenges when dealing with transgender individuals. Italy has the highest rate per capita of transgender murders, making their identification a compelling issue. This study presents three cases of unidentified skeletal remains of transgender women (MtF) that underwent autopsies in the 1990s at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Milan. The transgender status of the individuals was determined from the autopsy records which indicated the co-existence of breast implants and male genitalia. The biological profile was created by estimating sex, age, ancestry, and stature, and the bones were investigated looking for evidence of Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS). Anthropological estimations revealed that the skeletons belong to male, adults, European individuals, between 164 and 184 cm. Fragmented gelatinous masses were found in association with two skeletons, which were interpreted as remnants of breast implants. In two cases, signs of remodeling of the cortical surface were observed on the zygomatic bones, although the bone marks observed here were not specific enough to link them to FFS. Despite some limitations, this study highlights the need for greater awareness among practitioners about this limitedly addressed issue, advocating for a more inclusive forensic anthropology that strives to improve methods and interpretation of evidence for the identification of transgender individuals.
Dental caries in children and vitamin D deficiency: a narrative review
Authors: Durá-Travé Teodoro , Gallinas-Victoriano Fidel
Published: November 2023

Dental caries represents one of the most prevalent health problems in childhood. Numerous studies have assessed that vitamin D deficiency is highly related to dental caries in primary and permanent teeth in children. The aim of this study is to elaborate a narrative review about proposed mechanisms by which vitamin D deficiency interacts with dental caries process in children. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may cause intrauterine enamel defects, and through childhood is accompanied by insufficient activity of antibacterial peptides, decreased saliva secretion, and a low level of calcium in saliva.

  Conclusion: In conclusion, vitamin D deficiency would increase the risk of caries in the primary and/or permanent dentition. Relationship between vitamin D deficiency and dental caries is evident enough for vitamin D deficiency to be considered as a risk factor for dental caries in children. Optimal levels of vitamin D throughout pregnancy and childhood may be considered an additional preventive measure for dental caries in the primary and permanent dentition.
Hughes-Stovin syndrome—An important differential diagnosis in patients with suspected chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Pochepnia Svitlana , Lang Irene M. , Milos Ruxandra Iulia , Röhrich Sebastian , Ba-Ssalamah Ahmed , Beer Lucian , Prosch Helmut
Published: November 2023

Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a rare vasculitis of unknown etiology. The disease is characterized by pronounced inflammation and damage to the vessel walls, with subsequent widespread vascular thrombosis and the formation of pulmonary artery aneurysms that can lead to fatal hemoptysis. This disorder can be mistaken for other conditions, such as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) without or with pulmonary hypertension at rest (CTEPH).

We report the case of a 20-year-old female with HSS, which was misdiagnosed as CTEPH and subsequently treated with anticoagulants, which led to severe hemoptysis and eventually death of the patient. This case highlights the challenges of diagnosing HSS at early stages of the disease.

HSS should be considered in young patients with signs of large vessel vasculitis in combination with thrombotic occlusions of pulmonary arteries, with or without aneurysms of the pulmonary arteries, and particularly, if there are no risk factors for thromboembolic disease.