bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to handle glacier area change in geodetic mass balance
Authors: Florentine Caitlyn , Sass Louis , McNeil Christopher , Baker Emily , O'Neel Shad
Published: December 2023

Innovations in geodesy enable widespread analysis of glacier surface elevation change and geodetic mass balance. However, coincident glacier area data are less widely available, causing inconsistent handling of glacier area change. Here we quantify the bias introduced into meters water equivalent (m w.e.) specific geodetic mass balance results when using a fixed, maximum glacier area, and illustrate the bias for five North American glaciers. Sites span latitudes from the northern U.S. Rocky Mountains (48°N) to the Central Alaska Range (63°N) between 1948 and 2021. Results show that fixed (maximum) area treatment subdues the m w.e. mass change signal, underestimating mass balance by up to 19% in our test cases. This bias scales with relative glacier area change and the mass balance magnitude. Thus, the bias for specific geodetic mass balances will be most pronounced across rapidly deglaciating regions. Our analysis underscores the need for temporally resolved glacier area in geodetic mass balance studies.
The late Miocene Erinaceidae and Dimylidae (Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from the Pannonian region, Slovakia
Authors: Cailleux Florentin , van den Hoek Ostende Lars W. , Joniak Peter
Published: December 2023

The families Erinaceidae and Dimylidae are represented in the late Miocene localities of Slovakia (Borský Svätý Jur, Krásno, Pezinok, Šalgovce, Studienka, and Triblavina) by at least six hedgehog species—‘Schizogalerix’ voesendorfensis (Rabeder, 1973); Schizogalerix cf. S. moedlingensis (Rabeder, 1973); Lantanotherium sanmigueli Villalta and Crusafont, 1944; Atelerix cf. A. depereti Mein and Ginsburg, 2002; Atelerix aff. A. depereti, cf. Postpalerinaceus sp. indet., and Erinaceinae gen. indet. sp. indet.—and two dimylid species—Plesiodimylus chantrei Gaillard, 1897; and Metacordylodon aff. M. schlosseri (Andreae, 1904). Material of L. sanmigueli from the western Carpathians was investigated, revealing broad variability in all samples. Additionally, the deciduous premolars of Lantanotherium Filhol, 1888 are described here for the first time. Erinaceid species are frequent in the Vallesian but their abundance strongly declined afterward. As an exception, Schizogalerix Engesser, 1980 re-entered the Danube and Vienna basins during MN11, likely from eastern Europe. Members of Erinaceinae display low diversity during the late Miocene of central Europe, which tends to support a pan-European diversity phenomenon. The humidity-dependent Dimylidae spp. were abundant during the late Vallesian. Rare finds of Plesiodimylus Gaillard, 1897 confirm the survival of this family into the early MN11 in the Pannonian region.
Kabyle Literary History and Questions Related to its Periodization: The Case of Poetry
Authors: Bellal Hakima
Published: December 2023

Writing about Kabyle literary history today is a difficult task, considering the very nature of this literature. It is fundamentally oral and did not take its first steps toward a written form until the mid-1940s. There is a considerable lack of works dedicated to Kabyle literature, and those that do exist have primarily focused on poetry, due to the characteristics inherent to this genre. Indeed, unlike prose, poetry includes temporal markers since it accompanies or relays easily identifiable historical events, whereas the narrative genres (legends, fables, and tales) are difficult to date, at least in the case of these last two. For this reason, undertaking more work in this area seems to be a matter of urgency. It is therefore necessary, as required by any work on literary history, to start with periodization; this consists of dividing the historical continuum into linear segments. This work should be based on the establishment of literary facts (e.g., authors, publication dates, etc.) as relevant elements, as well as on the socio-historical events that have marked literary production. By examining the textuality of some poetic works produced at different times by different Kabyle poets (e.g., Youcef Oukaci, Si Mohand Ou Mohand, Ben Mohammed, Idir, Matoub, Ferhat, etc.), I will attempt to propose a historical periodization that will account for the development of the theme of identity in Kabyle poetry.
The effect of verb surprisal on the acquisition of second language syntactic structures in adults: An artificial language learning study
Authors: Bovolenta Giulia , Marsden Emma
Published: December 2023

Inverse probability adaptation effects (the finding that encountering a verb in an unexpected structure increases long-term priming for that structure) have been observed in both L1 and L2 speakers. However, participants in these studies all had established representations of the syntactic structures to be primed. It therefore remains an open question whether inverse probability adaptation effects could take place with newly encountered L2 structures. In a pre-registered experiment, we exposed participants (n = 84) to an artificial language with active and passive constructions. Training on Day 1 established expectations for specific co-occurrence patterns between verbs and structures. On Day 2, established patterns were violated for the surprisal group (n = 42), but not for the control group (n = 42). We observed no immediate priming effects from exposure to high-surprisal items. On Day 3, however, we observed an effect of input variation on comprehension of verb meaning in an auditory grammaticality judgment task. The surprisal group showed higher accuracy for passive structures in both tasks, suggesting that experiencing variation during learning had promoted the recognition of optionality in the target language.
Students’ attitudes to school music and perceived barriers to GCSE music uptake: a phenomenographic approach
Authors: Kokotsaki Dimitra , Whitford Helen
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to investigate how students in lower secondary schools in England perceive the subject of music in terms of its importance and enjoyment. Following findings from the first survey phase of the project, it specifically sought to shed light on the reasons why the majority of students decide not to choose music as one of their optional subjects at GCSE level. The paper presents interview findings with students in three schools at the north-east of England following the phenomenographic method of data analysis. Among factors found to impact on students’ decision to continue music at Key Stage 4 (ages 14–16 years) were the desire to spend more time learning music, having more choice and autonomy in the classroom, having more information about the content and requirements of GCSE music, feeling disadvantaged due to not being proficient at instrumental playing and having a limited perception of their own musicality or perceiving music as being elite or difficult. The findings are discussed in terms of their practical implications for the teaching and learning of music in secondary schools.
Measuring double awareness in patients with advanced cancer: A preliminary scale development study
Authors: McConnell Mairead H. , Miljanovski Melissa , Rodin Gary , O’Connor Mary-Frances
Published: December 2023

Background

Individuals with advanced cancer face the challenge of living meaningfully while also preparing for end of life. The ability to sustain this duality, called “double awareness,” may reflect optimal psychological adaptation, but no psychometric scale exists to measure this construct.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to develop a novel scale to measure double awareness in patients living with advanced cancer.

Methods

Guided by best practices for scale development, this study addresses the first three of nine steps in instrument development, including domain clarification and item generation, establishment of content validity of the items, and pre-testing of the items with patients.

Results

Instrument development resulted in a 41-item measure with two dimensions titled “life engagement” and “death contemplation.” Items retained in the measure displayed face validity and were found to be both acceptable by patients and relevant to their lived experience.

Significance of results

The results of this scale development study will allow for full validation of the measure and future use in clinical and research settings. This novel measure of double awareness will have clinical utility and relevance in a variety of settings where patients with advanced cancer are treated.
Kurzfassung und interdisziplinäre Kommentierung der internationalen INCOG-2.0-Leitlinie „Kognitive Kommunikationsstörungen nach Schädelhirntrauma“
Authors: Thoma Patrizia , Quinting Jana , Jonas Kristina , Regenbrecht Frank , Schumacher Rahel , Büttner-Kunert Julia
Published: December 2023

Zusammenfassung: Kognitive Kommunikationsstörungen (Cognitive Communication Disorders = CCDs) bezeichnen kommunikative Beeinträchtigungen, die v. a. die kommunikativ-pragmatischen Fähigkeiten betreffen und primär durch begleitende kognitive Störungen, z. B. der Gedächtnis-, Aufmerksamkeits-, und exekutiven Planungsfunktionen bedingt sind. Eine besondere Rolle spielen außerdem Beeinträchtigungen Sozialer Kognition (z. B. Empathie, Theory of Mind). Somit fällt die Diagnostik und Behandlung der CCDs interdisziplinär in den Zuständigkeitsbereich der Klinischen Neuropsychologie und der Sprachtherapie. Ein internationales, interdisziplinäres Netzwerk, die sog. INCOG-Arbeitsgruppe, hat im Jahre 2023 aktualisierte, evidenzbasierte Empfehlungen zur Diagnostik und Behandlung von CCDs und begleitender soziokognitiver Störungen spezifisch nach mittelschweren bis schweren Schädel-Hirn-Traumata veröffentlicht. Diese sollen im vorliegenden Artikel zusammenfassend vorgestellt und kommentiert werden. Es werden erste Vorschläge zur konkreten interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit von Klinischer Neuropsychologie und Sprachtherapie abgeleitet.
Perceived Challenges When Changing Employer
Authors: Birkle Stefanie , Seifried Jürgen
Published: December 2023

Abstract: Joining a new employer is an exciting but also challenging experience. To learn more about new employees’ transition into a new work environment, we interviewed newcomers in a medium-sized German IT service provider about the challenges they experienced during organizational entry and how onboarding helped them cope with these. Analyses revealed that participants predominantly experienced professional challenges. A combination of activities – especially social support and integration into everyday work – helped the new hires overcome the challenges they experienced. Findings also showed that opportunities to participate and contribute to the new work environment gain relevance as socialization progresses. These insights into newcomers’ experiences may enable organizations to design an employee-centered onboarding strategy that contributes to newcomers’ successful organizational socialization.
Evidence for Electron Precipitation Diffused by Rising‐Tone Quasiperiodic Whistler Waves in Extremely Low L−Shells Observed by CSES
Authors: Zhang Zhenxia , Yang Dehe , Wang Dedong , Wang Lu , Zhang Fang , Li Xinqiao , Zeren Zhima
Published: December 2023

Based on the observations by the sun‐synchronous circular orbit China Seismo‐Electromagnetic Satellite(CSES), a typical case of the rising‐tone quasiperiodic (QP) emissions with a large period of around 2 min was reported to appear on the dayside on 23 October 2021. The frequency of QP waves ranges from 2,000 ∼ 3,000 Hz and the wave spectral structure consists of four elements with right‐handed polarization. Three elements of them are located at extremely low L‐shells from 2 ∼ 3.5. The periodic precipitating fluxes of 100 ∼ 400 keV electrons were found in the conjugate region also observed by CSES, which appeared in the same magnetic field lines with the elements of QP waves, respectively. By numerical simulations of quasi‐linear diffusion theory, we confirm that QP emissions can effectively precipitate energetic electrons near the loss cone into the atmosphere in the inner radiation belt. To our best knowledge, this is the first evidence that the rising‐tone QP whistler waves scatter electrons in the inner radiation belt. This new finding will help to deepen our understanding of the electron precipitation dynamics in radiation belt physics.
Properties and Mechanisms of Seawater Exchange in Marian Cove, King George Island, West Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Kim Yeonggi , Kim Tae‐Wan , Park Sang‐Jong , Ha Sun‐Yong , Park Jisoo , Yoo Jaeill , Cho Yang‐Ki
Published: December 2023

The Antarctic Peninsula is one region that has recently experienced warming substantially more rapidly than the global mean over the past 50 years. Marian Cove is located in the South Shetland Islands connected to the Bransfield Strait via Maxwell Bay between King George Island and Nelson Island. In this study, we identified properties and mechanisms of seawater exchange in Marian Cove from multiple hydrographic surveys and a single bottom‐mounted mooring installed at the entrance to Marian Cove. Regardless of the season, the mean current velocity profiles at the entrance to Marian Cove were constant because of the influence of tidal forcing. Wind was the primary force that determined the variation in surface current; in response, a countercurrent occurred near the bottom area. We estimated salt transport to understand what effects Maxwell Bay′s saline water intrusion has on the Marian Cove environment. When the daily easterly wind was at its maximum of 18.5 m s−1, the salinity could increase to 7.20 × 10−4 g kg−1 in 1 day. In addition, the average freshwater residence time in Marian Cove for the quantitative evaluation of seawater exchange was approximately 9 days. However, the freshwater residence time was reduced to less than 2 days when there were extreme easterly winds.
Inactivation of hypocretin receptor-2 signaling in dopaminergic neurons induces hyperarousal and enhanced cognition but impaired inhibitory control
Authors: Bandarabadi Mojtaba , Li Sha , Aeschlimann Lea , Colombo Giulia , Tzanoulinou Stamatina , Tafti Mehdi , Becchetti Andrea , Boutrel Benjamin , Vassalli Anne
Published: December 2023

Hypocretin/Orexin (HCRT/OX) and dopamine (DA) are both key effectors of salience processing, reward and stress-related behaviors and motivational states, yet their respective roles and interactions are poorly delineated. We inactivated HCRT-to-DA connectivity by genetic disruption of Hypocretin receptor-1 (Hcrtr1), Hypocretin receptor-2 (Hcrtr2), or both receptors (Hcrtr1&2) in DA neurons and analyzed the consequences on vigilance states, brain oscillations and cognitive performance in freely behaving mice. Unexpectedly, loss of Hcrtr2, but not Hcrtr1 or Hcrtr1&2, induced a dramatic increase in theta (7–11 Hz) electroencephalographic (EEG) activity in both wakefulness and rapid-eye-movement sleep (REMS). DAHcrtr2-deficient mice spent more time in an active (or theta activity-enriched) substate of wakefulness, and exhibited prolonged REMS. Additionally, both wake and REMS displayed enhanced theta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling. The baseline waking EEG of DAHcrtr2-deficient mice exhibited diminished infra-theta, but increased theta power, two hallmarks of EEG hyperarousal, that were however uncoupled from locomotor activity. Upon exposure to novel, either rewarding or stress-inducing environments, DAHcrtr2-deficient mice featured more pronounced waking theta and fast-gamma (52–80 Hz) EEG activity surges compared to littermate controls, further suggesting increased alertness. Cognitive performance was evaluated in an operant conditioning paradigm, which revealed that DAHcrtr2-ablated mice manifest faster task acquisition and higher choice accuracy under increasingly demanding task contingencies. However, the mice concurrently displayed maladaptive patterns of reward-seeking, with behavioral indices of enhanced impulsivity and compulsivity. None of the EEG changes observed in DAHcrtr2-deficient mice were seen in DAHcrtr1-ablated mice, which tended to show opposite EEG phenotypes. Our findings establish a clear genetically-defined link between monosynaptic HCRT-to-DA neurotransmission and theta oscillations, with a differential and novel role of HCRTR2 in theta-gamma cross-frequency coupling, attentional processes, and executive functions, relevant to disorders including narcolepsy, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and Parkinson’s disease.
Effects of different types of functionalized polypropylenes on the tensile strength of short carbon fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayaka , Uematsu Hideyuki , Sakaguchi Toshikazu , Hashimoto Tamotsu
Published: December 2023

In this study, the effects of various functionalized polypropylenes (PPs) with different types and contents of functional groups and crystallinities on the tensile strength of short carbon fiber (SCF)-reinforced plastics (SCFRPs) prepared by injection molding were evaluated. The tensile strengths of SCFRPs were significantly influenced by interfacial adhesion. The types and contents of functional groups introduced into functionalized PP were the dominant factors impacting the development of interfacial adhesion. In particular, near the surface where SCF and PP were highly oriented in parallel, functionalized PP with more functional groups added to side chains exhibited higher interfacial adhesion than that with fewer functional groups. These results suggested that PP molecular chain orientations resulting from the shear flow of injection molding were among the key factors affecting the interfacial adhesion of the PP matrix.
Light-induced topological phase transition via nonlinear phononics in superconductor CsV3Sb5
Authors: Tang Rui , Boi Filippo , Cheng Yi-Han
Published: December 2023

The recent observations of exotic quantum phenomena in AV3Sb5 (A = K, Rb, Cs) kagome superconductors have attracted significant attention in materials physics. Here, we propose an innovative two-frequencies laser model for ultrafast control of transient structural distortions. Using first-principles density functional theory in conjunction with the perturbative regime of nonlinear phononics, we investigate the nonharmonic potential energy, the crystal lattice dynamics and the topological properties of CsV3Sb5. We find that driving two infrared-active phonons of different frequencies promotes the desired Raman phonon vibrations, in which the displacement of Sb atoms is closely related to superconductivity. We demonstrate that the dimensional crossover and the topological nontrivial to trivial state transition of superconductor CsV3Sb5 can be triggered by ultrafast optical control. This work can be applied to other layered quantum materials and provide guidance for experiments related to photoinduced topology and superconductivity.
Automatic irrigation system with a fiber-optic pressure sensor regulating intrapelvic pressure for flexible ureteroscopy
Authors: Yoshida Takashi , Tsuruoka Noriko , Haga Yoichi , Kinoshita Hidefumi , Lee Sang-Seok , Matsunaga Tadao
Published: December 2023

Increased intrapelvic pressure (IPP) due to irrigation during flexible ureteroscopy (f-URS) can pose a risk of postoperative severe urinary tract infection associated with pyelovenous backflow. An automatic regulation system for maintaining safe IPP levels could enable surgeons to perform f-URS safely without postoperative complications. This study aimed to assess the measurement accuracy of an ultra-miniature fiber-optic pressure sensor incorporated into a small-caliper ureteroscope for assessing IPP and to develop an automatic irrigation system linked to this sensor. A porcine kidney was used for the ex vivo experiment. The nephrostomy catheter, connected to the conventional pressure transducer, was placed on the renal pelvis to evaluate the actual IPP (a-IPP). For measuring IPP using the fiber-optic pressure sensor (fo-IPP) built into the f-URS, a diaphragm pressure sensor of Φ250 μm was used. To establish an irrigation system, the optimal proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller was explored to accurately adjust the irrigation pump flow rate. A high correlation between a-IPP and fo-IPP was confirmed across irrigation pressure values of 60–180 mbar (all, r ≥ 0.7, p < 0.001). When performing bolus irrigation, although fo-IPP showed relatively a higher peak value than a-IPP, the response time of fo-IPP was equivalent to that of a-IPP. After PID parameter optimization, our automatic irrigation system based on fo-IPP smoothly and accurately regulated the intended IPP set in the 5–20 mmHg range without overshooting. We successfully developed and demonstrated an automatic irrigation system regulating IPP based on the PID controller for f-URS, utilizing a fiber-optic pressure sensor. Further research, including in vivo studies, will be needed to assess clinical feasibility.
Bioinformatics analysis of hub genes as osteoarthritis prognostic biomarkers
Authors: Zeng Junfeng , Jiang Xinhao , Jiang Mo , Cao Yuexia , Jiang Yi
Published: December 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive cartilage degradation disease, concomitant with synovitis, osteophyte formation, and subchondral bone sclerosis. Over 37% of the elderly population is affected by OA, and the number of cases is increasing as the global population ages. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify and analyze the hub genes of OA combining with comprehensive bioinformatics analysis tools to provide theoretical basis in further OA effective therapies. Two sample sets of GSE46750 contained 12 pairs OA synovial membrane and normal samples harvested from patients as well as GSE98918 including 12 OA and non-OA patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using Gene Expression Omnibus 2R (GEO2R), followed by functional enrichment analysis, protein–protein interaction networks construction. The hub genes were identified and evaluated. An OA rat model was constructed, hematoxylin and eosin staining, safranin O/fast green staining, cytokines concentrations of serum were used to verify the model. The hub genes expression level in the knee OA samples were verified using RT-qPCR. The top 20 significantly up-regulated and down-regulated DEGs were screened out from the two datasets, respectively. The top 18 GO terms and 10 KEGG pathways were enriched. Eight hub genes were identified, namely MS4A6A, C1QB, C1QC, CD74, CSF1R, HLA-DPA1, HLA-DRA and ITGB2. Among them, the hub genes were all up-regulated in in vivo OA rat model, compared with healthy controls. The eight hub genes identified (MS4A6A, C1QB, C1QC, CD74, CSF1R, HLA-DPA1, HLA-DRA and ITGB2) were shown to be associated with OA. These genes can serve as disease markers to discriminate OA patients from healthy controls.
First basin scale spatial–temporal characterization of underwater sound in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Picciulin Marta , Petrizzo Antonio , Madricardo Fantina , Barbanti Andrea , Bastianini Mauro , Biagiotti Ilaria , Bosi Sofia , Centurelli Michele , Codarin Antonio , Costantini Ilaria , Dadić Vlado , Falkner Raffaela , Folegot Thomas , Galvez Daphnie , Leonori Iole , Menegon Stefano , Mihanović Hrvoje , Muslim Stipe , Pari Alice , Pari Sauro , Pleslić Grgur , Radulović Marko , Rako-Gospić Nikolina , Sabbatini Davide , Tegowski Jaroslaw , Vukadin Predrag , Ghezzo Michol
Published: December 2023

Anthropogenic underwater noise is an emergent pollutant. Despite several worldwide monitoring programs, only few data are available for the Mediterranean Sea, one of the global biodiversity hotspots. The results of the first continuous acoustic programme run at a transnational basin scale in the Mediterranean Sea are here presented. Recordings were done from March 2020 to June 2021, including the COVID-19 lockdown, at nine stations in the Northern Adriatic Sea. Spatial–temporal variations of the underwater sound are described, having one third octave band sound pressure levels (SPLs) from 10 Hz to 20 kHz as metrics. Higher and more variable SPLs, mainly related to vessel traffic, were found close to harbours, whereas Natura 2000 stations experienced lower SPLs. Lower values were recorded during the lockdown in five stations. Median yearly SPLs ranged between 64 and 95 as well as 70 and 100 dB re 1 µPa for 63 and 125 Hz bands, respectively. These values are comparable with those previously found in busy shallow EU basins but higher levels are expected during a business-as-usual period. This is a baseline assessment for a highly impacted and environmental valuable area, that needs to be managed in a new sustainable blue growth strategy.
Seasonal variation and its interaction with pre-pregnancy BMI for GDM: a large population-based study in Tianjin, China
Authors: Li Weiqin , Wang Leishen , Guo Jia , Dong Wei , Zhang Shuang , Li Wei , Leng Junhong
Published: December 2023

To evaluate the independent association of seasonal variation with GDM incidence in Tianjin, China, and to test whether there is an additive interaction between seasonal variation and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on GDM incidence. A population-based observational cohort study was conducted using the healthcare records data from Tianjin, China. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additive interaction between pre-pregnancy BMI groups and seasons was estimated by using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (S). Among the 112,639 pregnant women, 20.8% developed GDM at 24–28 weeks of gestation. The multivariable adjusted ORs and 95% CIs were 1.00, 1.00 (0.96–1.05), 1.15 (1.09–1.20) and 1.22 (1.16–1.29) respectively based on seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter). Compared with the spring/summer and pre-pregnant BMI < 24 kg/m2 group, co-presence of autumn/winter and pre-pregnancy BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2 increased the OR from 1.00 to 2.70 (95% CI 2.28–3.20), with a significant additive interaction: RERI (0.32, 95% CI 0.19–0.45), S (1.21, 95% CI 1.12–1.31) and AP (0.11, 95% CI 0.07–0.16). Autumn/winter is an independent risk factor for GDM incidence, and can significantly amplify the obesity-associated risk for GDM incidence. The underlying mechanism warrants further investigations. We suggest that seasonality is an additional factor when interpreting OGTT results for the diagnosis of GDM.
Perioperative mortality among trauma patients in Northwest Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Endeshaw Amanuel Sisay , Dejen Eshetu Tesfaye , Zewdie Bekalu Wubshet , Addisu Biniyam Teshome , Molla Misganew Terefe , Kumie Fantahun Tarekegn
Published: December 2023

Trauma is the leading cause of mortality in persons under 45 and a significant public health issue. Trauma is the most frequent cause of perioperative mortality among all surgical patients. Little is known about perioperative outcomes among trauma patients in low-income countries. This study aimed to assess the incidence and identify predictors of perioperative mortality among adult trauma victims at Tibebe Ghion Specialised Hospital. From June 1, 2019, to June 30, 2021, a prospective cohort study was conducted at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital. Demographic, pre-hospital and perioperative clinical data were collected using an electronic data collection tool, Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Cox proportional hazard model regression was used to assess the association between predictors and perioperative mortality among trauma victims. Crude and adjusted hazard ratio (HR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was computed; a p-value < 0.05 was a cutoff value to declare statistical significance. One thousand sixty-nine trauma patients were enrolled in this study. The overall incidence of perioperative mortality among trauma patients was 5.89%, with an incidence rate of 2.23 (95% CI 1.74 to 2.86) deaths per 1000 person-day observation. Age ≥ 65 years (AHR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.04, 6.08), patients sustained blunt trauma (AHR = 3.28, 95% CI: 1.30, 8.29) and MVA (AHR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.18, 7.43), trauma occurred at night time (AHR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.15, 4.56), ASA physical status ≥ III (AHR = 3.84, 95% CI: 1.88, 7.82), and blood transfusion (AHR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.08, 3.74) were identified as a significant predictor for perioperative mortality among trauma patients. In this trauma cohort, it was demonstrated that perioperative mortality is a healthcare burden. Risk factors for perioperative mortality among trauma patients were old age, patients sustaining blunt trauma and motor vehicle accidents, injuries at night, higher ASA physical status, and blood transfusion. Trauma care services need improvement in pre-hospital and perioperative care.
Limited high-throughput screening compatibility of the phenuivirus cap-binding domain
Authors: Scherf Janna , Vogel Dominik , Gul Sheraz , Reinshagen Jeanette , Gribbon Philip , Rosenthal Maria
Published: December 2023

Bunyaviruses constitute a large and diverse group of viruses encompassing many emerging pathogens, such as Rift Valley fever virus (family Phenuiviridae), with public and veterinary health relevance but with very limited medical countermeasures are available. For the development of antiviral strategies, the identification and validation of virus-specific targets would be of high value. The cap-snatching mechanism is an essential process in the life cycle of bunyaviruses to produce capped mRNAs, which are then recognized and translated into viral proteins by the host cell translation machinery. Cap-snatching involves cap-binding as well as endonuclease functions and both activities have been demonstrated to be druggable in related influenza viruses. Here, we explore the suitability of the phenuivirus cap-binding function as a target in medium- and high-throughput drug discovery approaches. We developed a range of in vitro assays aiming to detect the interaction between the cap-binding domain (CBD) and the analogue of its natural cap-ligand m7GTP. However, constricted by its shallow binding pocket and low affinity for m7GTP, we conclude that the CBD has limited small molecule targeting potential using classical in vitro drug discovery approaches.
Association between abnormal uterine artery pulsatility index and the risk of fetal congenital heart defects: a hospital-based cohort study
Authors: Zhu Chen , Xu Cheng-Jie , Wu Jiang-Nan , Zhao Wei , Hu Yan-Lai , Yao Ying , Ren Yun-Yun
Published: December 2023

To explore the associations between high uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) values and congenital heart disease (CHD) risk and whether they differed between singleton and multiple pregnancies. This hospital-based cohort study involving 52,047 pregnant women who underwent prenatal examinations from 2012 to 2016. Infants born to the included pregnant women were followed until 42 days after birth to identify those with CHDs. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate the associations of high right UtA-PI (> 95th percentile) values with maternal preeclampsia and fetal CHDs. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using path analysis models to quantify the effect of high right UtA-PI values on fetal CHD risk. A total of 42,552 women and 43,470 infants (147 with CHDs) were included. Preeclampsia risk was associated with a high right UtA-PI in singleton-pregnant women (adjusted PR, 3.01; 95% CI 2.57–3.52). CHD risk was marginally associated with a high right UtA-PI in singleton-pregnant women (adjusted PR, 2.26, 95% CI 1.03–4.95). Considering only two factors, 96.0% of the fetal CHD risk was mediated by preeclampsia in singleton-pregnant women, while 93.8% of the risk was related to a high right UtA-PI in multiple-pregnant women. A high right UtA-PI was marginally associated with an increased fetal CHD risk in singleton-pregnant women and might play an important role in multiple-pregnant women. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings given the high loss to follow-up rate.
Effect of wearing surgical mask during controlled aerobic training on functional capacity and perceived stress in inactive men: a randomized trial
Authors: Elbanna Rana Hesham Mohamed , Grase Mariam Omran , Elabd Sherif Osama Abdelsalam , Abd El-Monaem Hend Abd El-Monaem
Published: December 2023

The study aims to assess the impact of wearing a surgical mask during training on inactive men’s functional capacity and perceived stress. Seventy non-smoker males with body mass index of 25–30 kg/m2 and moderate-intensity activity of fewer than 150 min/week were allocated randomly into two equal groups. The surgical mask group performed a controlled endurance exercise while wearing a surgical mask of three protection layers. The mask-less group performed a controlled endurance exercise without wearing any mask. Functional capacity and Perceived Stress were evaluated before and after the intervention. A significant improvement was observed within groups post-intervention in favor of the mask group regarding the Time Up and Go test (P < 0.05), with a 15.1% percentage improvement. Post-intervention, there was a significant change in the perceived stress score for the mask and mask-less groups (P < 0.05). The improvement in PSS was in favor of mask-less group participants as they changed from being categorized as moderate to mild stress on the PSS, with a 27.1% percentage improvement. Exercising while wearing a surgical mask Positive impacts functional capacity and negatively impacts Perceived Stress in inactive adults. An additional study evaluating the physiological effects of masks on continuous exercise is necessary.
Biotagging method for animal identification using dissolvable microneedle arrays prepared by customisable moulds
Authors: Park Jongho , Kim Beomjoon
Published: December 2023

Properly handling animals and understanding their habits are crucial to establish a society where humans and animals coexist. Thus, identifying individual animals, including their possessions, and adequately managing each animal is necessary. Although several conventional identification methods exist, such as the use of ear punch, tattoos, and radio frequency (RF) chips, they require several processes and external apparatus. In this study, we proposed a new biotagging method using a microneedle array for animal identification. Our approach uses dissolvable microneedle arrays as a single patch to deliver dyes directly into the skin layer. Additionally, we developed a new fabrication method for customised female moulds to realise microneedle array patches (MAPs) with patterns of different characters and number. The characteristics and feasibility of the patterned MAPs were confirmed through basic evaluations and animal experiments. Moreover, we confirmed that patterns formed from biotagging using the developed patterned MAPs lasted over one month with clear readability. Finally, we confirmed that our patterned MAPs successfully realised biotagging on rat skin with the designated patterns including characters and number patterns. The proposed method is expected to enable minimally invasive tagging without external equipment or complex processes. In addition, the developed method could be used to embed various tags into the skin of animals and humans in the future.
Middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysms are associated with patient age, sex, bifurcation angle, and vascular diameters
Authors: Wang Shu , Li Li , Gao Huili , Zhang Kun , Shao Qiu-Ji , Li Tianxiao , Gao Bulang
Published: December 2023

To investigate the relationship of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation aneurysms with patients’ age and sex, vascular angles at the bifurcation, and diameters of the M1 and two M2 arteries, patients with and without MCA aneurysms were retrospectively enrolled. The lateral angles, MCA bifurcation angle and arterial diameter were measured and analyzed. Totally, 121 (19.0%) patients with and 517 (81.0%) without MCA aneurysms were enrolled. Most (n = 88 or 72.7%) aneurysms were present in the age range of 40–70 years, and significantly (P = 0.01) more women than men had the bifurcation aneurysms. The MCA bifurcation angle was significantly greater (149.2° ± 32.6° vs. 107.2° ± 26.3°; P < 0.0001) while both the smaller and larger lateral (M1/M2) angles were significantly smaller in patients with than without aneurysms (82.0° ± 23.7° vs. 109.1° ± 22.7° with P < 0.001 for the smaller and 123.2° ± 25.2° vs. 139.5° ± 16.9° with P < 0.001 for the larger lateral angle). 109 (90.1%) bifurcation aneurysms deviated towards the smaller lateral angle, and 103 (85.1%) aneurysms deviated towards the thinner M2 branch. The maximal aneurysm diameter ranged 1.6–13.8 (mean 5.4 ± 2.4) mm and was significantly (P < 0.05) positively correlated with the diameter of both M2 arterial branches (R = 0.57 and P = 0.01 for the smaller M2, and R = 0.69 and P = 0.002 for the larger M2) or the MCA bifurcation angle. A significant (P < 0.0001) negative correlation was detected between age and the smaller lateral angle but a significant (P < 0.0001) positive correlation between age and the MCA bifurcation angle in patients without MCA bifurcation aneurysms or in the total patients. MCA bifurcation angle was the only significant (P = 0.0001, odds ratio 2.7, 95% confidence interval 1.6–3.8) independent risk factor for MCA bifurcation aneurysm presence, with the bifurcation angle threshold of 124.1° and an area under the ROC curve of 0.86. In conclusion, significantly more MCA bifurcation aneurysms are present in older patients, females, and patients with a wider MCA bifurcation angle, and deviate towards the smaller lateral angle and the thinner M2 segment. MCA bifurcation angle is the only independent risk factor for presence of MCA bifurcation aneurysms with the threshold of 124.1°.
A study on the fabrication of metal microneedle array electrodes for ECG detection based on low melting point Bi–In–Sn alloys
Authors: Gwak Hyunjong , Cho Sungbo , Song Yoon-Jae , Park Jung-Hwan , Seo Soonmin
Published: December 2023

This study describes the fabrication and characteristics of microneedle array electrodes (MAEs) using Bismuth–Indium–Tin (Bi–In–Sn) alloys. The MAEs consist of 57 pyramid-shaped needles measuring 340 μm wide and 800 μm high. The fabrication process involved micromolding the alloys in a vacuum environment. Physical tests demonstrated that Bi–In–Sn MAEs have good mechanical strength, indicating their suitability for successful skin penetration. The electrode–skin interface impedance test confirmed that Bi–In–Sn MAEs successfully penetrated the skin. Impedance measurements revealed the importance of insulating the microneedle electrodes for optimal electrical performance, and a UV-curable Polyurethane Acrylate coating was applied to enhance insulation. Electrocardiogram measurements using the Bi–In–Sn MAEs demonstrated performance comparable to that of traditional Ag/AgCl electrodes, which shows promise for accurate data collection. Overall, the study demonstrates successful, minimally-invasive skin insertion, improved electrical insulation, and potential applications of Bi–In–Sn microneedle array. These findings contribute to advancements in microneedle technology for biomedical applications.
Poleward intensification of midlatitude extreme winds under warmer climate
Authors: Gentile Emanuele Silvio , Zhao Ming , Hodges Kevin
Published: December 2023

Our study investigates the global impact of midlatitude cyclones on extreme wind speed events in both hemispheres under a warmer climate. Using the latest version of the high-resolution ≈ 50 km grid-spacing atmospheric climate model AM4, developed by the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory, we conducted simulations covering the 71-years period 1949–2019 for both the present-day climate and an idealised future global warming climate scenario with a homogeneous Sea Surface Temperature (SST) increase by 2 K. Our findings reveal that extreme near-surface wind speeds increase by up to 3% K−1 towards the poles while decrease by a similar amount in the lower midlatitudes. When considering only extreme wind speed events objectively attributed to midlatitude cyclones, we observe a migration by the same amount towards higher latitudes both in percentage per degree SST warming and absolute value. The total number of midlatitude cyclones decreases by roughly 4%, but the proportion of cyclone-associated extreme wind speed events increases by 10% in a warmer climate. Finally, Northwestern Europe, the British Isles, and the West Coast of North America are identified as hot spots with the greatest socio-economic impacts from increased cyclone-associated extreme winds.
Rapid transformation of wildfire emissions to harmful background aerosol
Authors: Vasilakopoulou Christina N. , Matrali Angeliki , Skyllakou Ksakousti , Georgopoulou Maria , Aktypis Andreas , Florou Kalliopi , Kaltsonoudis Christos , Siouti Evangelia , Kostenidou Evangelia , Błaziak Agata , Nenes Athanasios , Papagiannis Stefanos , Eleftheriadis Konstantinos , Patoulias David , Kioutsioukis Ioannis , Pandis Spyros N.
Published: December 2023

Wildfires are a significant source of organic aerosol during summer, with major impacts on air quality and climate. However, studies in Europe suggest a surprisingly low (less than 10%) contribution of biomass burning organic aerosol to average summertime fine particulate matter levels. In this study we combine field measurements and atmospheric chemical transport modeling, to demonstrate that the contribution of wildfires to fine particle levels in Europe during summer is seriously underestimated. Our work suggests that the corresponding contribution has been underestimated by a factor of 4–7 and that wildfires were responsible for approximately half of the total OA in Europe during July 2022. This discrepancy with previous work is due to the rapid physicochemical transformation of these emissions to secondary oxidized organic aerosol with an accompanying loss of its organic chemical fingerprints. These atmospheric reactions lead to a regionally distributed background organic aerosol that is responsible for a significant fraction of the health-related impacts caused by fine particles in Europe and probably in other continents. These adverse health effects can occur hundreds or even thousands of kilometers away from the fires. We estimate that wildfire emissions are responsible for 15–22% of the deaths in Europe due to exposure to fine particulate matter during summer.
Classifying and clustering mood disorder patients using smartphone data from a feasibility study
Authors: Langholm Carsten , Breitinger Scott , Gray Lucy , Goes Fernando , Walker Alex , Xiong Ashley , Stopel Cindy , Zandi Peter , Frye Mark A. , Torous John
Published: December 2023

Differentiating between bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder can be challenging for clinicians. The diagnostic process might benefit from new ways of monitoring the phenotypes of these disorders. Smartphone data might offer insight in this regard. Today, smartphones collect dense, multimodal data from which behavioral metrics can be derived. Distinct patterns in these metrics have the potential to differentiate the two conditions. To examine the feasibility of smartphone-based phenotyping, two study sites (Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins University) recruited patients with bipolar I disorder (BPI), bipolar II disorder (BPII), major depressive disorder (MDD), and undiagnosed controls for a 12-week observational study. On their smartphones, study participants used a digital phenotyping app (mindLAMP) for data collection. While in use, mindLAMP gathered real-time geolocation, accelerometer, and screen-state (on/off) data. mindLAMP was also used for EMA delivery. MindLAMP data was then used as input variables in binary classification, three-group k-nearest neighbors (KNN) classification, and k-means clustering. The best-performing binary classification model was able to classify patients as control or non-control with an AUC of 0.91 (random forest). The model that performed best at classifying patients as having MDD or bipolar I/II had an AUC of 0.62 (logistic regression). The k-means clustering model had a silhouette score of 0.46 and an ARI of 0.27. Results support the potential for digital phenotyping methods to cluster depression, bipolar disorder, and healthy controls. However, due to inconsistencies in accuracy, more data streams are required before these methods can be applied to clinical practice.
Photonic integrated processor for structured light detection and distinction
Authors: Bütow Johannes , Sharma Varun , Brandmüller Dorian , Eismann Jörg S. , Banzer Peter
Published: December 2023

Integrated photonic devices are pivotal elements across research fields that involve light-based applications. Particularly versatile platforms are programmable photonic integrated processors, which are employed in applications like communication or photonic computing. Free-space distributions of light can be coupled to such processors, which subsequently control the coupled light on-chip within meshes of programmable optical gates. This enables access to the spatial properties of free-space light, particularly its relative phase, which is usually challenging to measure. Here, we discuss and show the detection of amplitude and phase distributions of structured higher-order light beams using a multipurpose photonic processor. This can be used to directly distinguish light’s orbital angular momentum without including additional elements interacting with the free-space light. We envision applications in a range of fields that rely on the spatial distributions of light’s properties, such as microscopy or communications.
A bis-quinoline ruthenium(ii) arene complex with submicromolar cytotoxicity in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Khan Tanveer A. , Bhar Kishalay , Samanta Rohit , Bhatt Surabhi , Singh Mamta , Rani Reshma , Kumar Vinit , Sharma Anuj K.
Published: December 2023

A new Ru(ii) arene chlorido organometallic complex [(η6-p-cymene)(L)RuCl]PF6 that exhibits potent anticancer activity (IC50 = 0.71 μM) and is ∼45 times more effective than the standard drug cisplatin in a castration-resistant human prostatic adenocarcinoma cell line (PC-3) is reported.
Oxygen vacancy modulated Fe-doped Co3O4 hollow nanosheet arrays for efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: He Qianyun , Han Lei , Tao Kai
Published: December 2023

A MOF-to-MOF strategy coupled with NaBH4 reduction is developed to synthesize oxygen vacancy modulated Fe-doped Co3O4 hollow nanosheet arrays (Vo-Fe–Co3O4), which are demonstrated to be efficient electrocatalysts for the OER.
Event-driven data management with cloud computing for extensible materials acceleration platforms
Authors: Statt Michael J. , Rohr Brian A. , Guevarra Dan , Suram Santosh K. , Gregoire John M.
Published: December 2023

Event-based data workflows powered by cloud computing can help accelerate the development of materials acceleration platforms while fostering the ideals of extensibility and interoperability in materials chemistry research.
Copper tetrathiovanadate (Cu3VS4): a newly emerging electrode for rechargeable aqueous aluminum-ion batteries
Authors: Nandi Sunny , Phukon Hirdoyjit , Kalita Dipul , Das Shyamal K.
Published: December 2023

The electrochemistry of Cu3VS4 in an Al3+ ion conducting aqueous electrolyte is demonstrated.
Synthesis and anticancer mechanisms of four novel platinum(ii) 4′-substituted-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine complexes
Authors: Liang Chun-Jie , Wu Run-Chun , Huang Xiao-Qiong , Qin Qi-Pin , Liang Hong , Tan Ming-Xiong
Published: December 2023

New platinum(ii) chemotherapeutics tpy1Pt–tpy4Pt with mitophagy-targeting properties and remarkable antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo are reported.
Highly efficient and stable Cs3Mn0.93Zn0.07Br5@SiO2 for wide color gamut backlight displays
Authors: Sun Chun , Deng Zhihui , Liu Xiaohui , Zhang Fuhao , Lian Kai , Zhao Yiwei , Zhang Hu , Han Jiachen , Luo Mingming
Published: December 2023

Cs3Mn0.93Zn0.07Br5@SiO2 with a high PLQY of 80% was synthesized, which showed excellent stability against thermal, air, light, and polar solvents (ethanol and isopropanol).