bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The neutrino force in neutrino backgrounds: Spin dependence and parity-violating effects
Authors: Ghosh Mitrajyoti , Grossman Yuval , Tangarife Walter , Xu Xun-Jie , Yu Bingrong
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The neutrino force results from the exchange of a pair of neutrinos. A neutrino background can significantly influence this force. In this work, we present a comprehensive calculation of the neutrino force in various neutrino backgrounds with spin dependence taken into account. In particular, we calculate the spin-independent and spin-dependent parity-conserving neutrino forces, in addition to the spin-dependent parity-violating neutrino forces with and without the presence of a neutrino background for both isotropic and anisotropic backgrounds. Compared with the vacuum case, the neutrino background can effectively violate Lorentz invariance and lead to additional parity-violating terms that are not suppressed by the velocity of external particles. We estimate the magnitude of the effect of atomic parity-violation experiments, and it turns out to be well below the current experimental sensitivity.
The undeclared use of third-party service providers in academic publishing is unethical: an epistemic reflection and scoping review
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Daly Timothy , Türp Jens C. , Sabel Bernhard A. , Kendall Graham
Published: July 2024

There is a substantial body of scientific literature on the use of third-party services (TPS) by academics to assist as “publication consultants” in scholarly publishing. TPS provide a wide range of scholarly services to research teams that lack the equipment, skills, motivation, or time to produce a paper without external assistance. While services such as language editing, statistical support, or graphic design are common and often legitimate, some TPS also provide illegitimate services and send unsolicited e-mails (spam) to academics offering these services. Such illegitimate types of TPS have the potential to threaten the integrity of the peer-reviewed scientific literature. In extreme cases, for-profit agencies known as “paper mills” even offer fake scientific publications or authorship slots for sale. The use of such illegitimate services as well as the failure to acknowledge their use is an ethical violation in academic publishing, while the failure to declare support for a TPS can be considered a form of contract fraud. We discuss some literature on TPS, highlight services currently offered by ten of the largest commercial publishers and expect authors to be transparent about the use of these services in their publications. From an ethical/moral (i.e., non-commercial) point of view, it is the responsibility of editors, journals, and publishers, and it should be in their best interest to ensure that illegitimate TPS are identified and prohibited, while publisher-employed TPS should be properly disclosed in their publications.
Celecoxib inhibits NLRP1 inflammasome pathway in MDA-MB-231 Cells
Authors: Arzuk Ege , Birim Derviş , Armağan Güliz
Published: July 2024

NLRP1 is predominantly overexpressed in breast cancer tissue, and the evaluated activation of NLRP1 inflammasome is associated with tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Therefore, targeting NLRP1 activation could be a crucial strategy in anticancer therapy. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that NLRP1 pathway may contribute to the cytotoxic effects of celecoxib and nimesulide in MDA-MB-231 cells. First of all, IC50 values and inhibitory effects on the colony-forming ability of drugs were evaluated in cells. Then, the alterations in the expression levels of NLRP1 inflammasome components induced by drugs were investigated. Subsequently, the release of inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and the activity of caspase-1 in drug-treated cells were measured. According to our results, celecoxib and nimesulide selectively inhibited the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells. These drugs remarkably inhibited the colony-forming ability of cells. The expression levels of NLRP1 inflammasome components decreased in celecoxib-treated cells, accompanied by decreased caspase-1 activity and IL-1β release. In contrast, nimesulide treatment led to the upregulation of the related protein expressions with unchanged caspase-1 activity and increased IL-1β secretion. Our results indicated that the NLRP1 inflammasome pathway might contribute to the antiproliferative effects of celecoxib in MDA-MB-231 cells but is not a crucial mechanism for nimesulide.
The effect of underlying diseases on pneumonia risk in patients with neurogenic or tumor-related dysphagia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Niessen Almut C. , Zang Jana , Tinat Ferkhunda , Nienstedt Julie C. , Müller Frank , Flügel Till , Glinzer Julia , Pflug Christina
Published: July 2024

Objective

To analyze the association of neurological disorders (ND) and head and neck cancer (HNC) with dysphagia severity and aspiration pneumonia occurrence.

Method

Retrospective cohort study conducted at a university dysphagia center) for two consecutive years. Patients with ND or HNC were included if they had undergone a flexible endoscopic swallowing evaluation (FEES) at the dysphagia center, and at least one food consistency had been sampled and recorded. Outcomes of interest were swallowing safety, highest penetration-aspiration-score (PASmax), way of food intake, presence of a tracheal tube, and occurrence of pneumonia within the past two years.

Results

Of 257 consecutive patients, 199 were enrolled in the study and classified according to their underlying diagnosis into ND (120 patients) or HNC (79 patients). Forty-three HNC patients (54.4%) and 54 ND patients (45%) showed critical dysphagia in FEES (PAS ≥ 6). Binary logistic regression comparing both groups showed patients with ND to be 2.31 times more likely to develop pneumonia. However, if the 32 stroke patients were excluded from the calculation, PASmax remains the only significant variable affecting pneumonia risk in both groups. Liquids were the main challenge for ND patients, while aspirating HNC patients struggled with all consistencies.

Conclusions

The study shows that patients with HNC and ND differ in pneumonia risk only if stroke patients are included in the ND group. If they are excluded, the PAS score is the only remaining risk factor for pneumonia. Thickening liquids may not be suitable for all dysphagic patients; individually tailored measures might be more helpful, especially for HNC patients.
HLA-DR3 ~ DQ2 associates with sensory neuropathy in paraneoplastic neurological syndromes with Hu antibodies
Authors: Muñiz-Castrillo Sergio , Villagrán-García Macarena , Peris Sempere Vicente , Farina Antonio , Pinto Anne-Laurie , Picard Géraldine , Rogemond Véronique , Honnorat Jérôme , Mignot Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To investigate the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNS) with Hu antibodies, and potential specificities according to clinical presentation and cancer status.

Methods

HLA genotypes at four-digit resolution were imputed from available genome-wide association data. Allele carrier frequencies were compared between patients (whole cohort, n = 100, and according to clinical presentation and cancer status) and matched healthy controls (n = 508) using logistic regression controlled by the three main principal components.

Results

The clinical presentation of 100 anti-Hu patients involved the central nervous system (28, 28%), the peripheral nervous system (36, 36%) or both combined (36, 36%). Cancer diagnosis was certain in 75 (75%). HLA association analyses revealed that anti-Hu PNS patients were more frequently carriers of DQA1*05:01 (39% vs. 19%, OR = 2.8 [1.74–4.49]), DQB1*02:01 (39% vs. 18%, OR = 2.88 [1.79–4.64]) and DRB1*03:01 (41% vs. 19%, OR = 2.92 [1.80–4.73]) than healthy controls. Remarkably, such DR3 ~ DQ2 association was absent in patients with pure central involvement, but more specific to those manifesting with peripheral involvement: DQA1*05:01 (OR = 3.12 [1.48–6.60]), DQB1*02:01 (OR = 3.35 [1.57–7.15]) and DRB1*03:01 (OR = 3.62 [1.64–7.97]); being even stronger in cases with sensory neuropathy, DQA1*05:01 (OR = 4.41 [1.89–10.33]), DQB1*02:01 (OR = 4.85 [2.04–11.53]) and DRB1*03:01 (OR = 5.79 [2.28–14.74]). Similarly, DR3 ~ DQ2 association was only observed in patients with cancer.

Discussion

Patients with anti-Hu PNS show different HLA profiles according to clinical presentation and, probably, cancer status, suggesting pathophysiological differences.
Pars interarticularis screws for posterior cervical fusion – investigating a new trajectory using a CT-based multiplanar reconstruction: Part I
Authors: Lener Sara , Wipplinger Christoph , Abramovic Anto , Koller Heiko , Thomé Claudius , Verius Michael , Hartmann Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Background

Lateral mass screw fixation is the standard for posterior cervical fusion between C3 and C6. Traditional trajectories stabilize but carry risks, including nerve root and vertebral artery injuries. Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is gaining popularity, but trajectories present anatomical challenges.

Research Question.

This study proposes a novel pars interarticularis screw trajectory to address these issues and enhance in-line instrumentation with cervical pedicle screws.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of reformatted cervical CT scans included 10 patients. Measurements of the pars interarticularis morphology were performed on 80 segments (C3-C6). Two pars interarticularis screw trajectories were evaluated: Trajectory A (upper outer quadrant entry, horizontal trajectory) and Trajectory B (lower outer quadrant entry, cranially pointed trajectory). These were compared to standard lateral mass and cervical pedicle screw trajectories, assessing screw lengths, angles, and potential risks to the spinal canal and transverse foramen.

Results

Trajectory B showed significantly longer pars lengths (15.69 ± 0.65 mm) compared to Trajectory A (12.51 ± 0.24 mm; p < 0.01). Lateral mass screw lengths were comparable to pars interarticularis screw lengths using Trajectory B. Both trajectories provided safe angular ranges, minimizing the risk to delicate structures.

Discussion

and Conclusion.

Pars interarticularis screws offer a viable alternative to lateral mass screws for posterior cervical fusion, especially in MISS contexts. Trajectory B, in particular, presents a feasible and safe alternative, reducing the risk of vertebral artery and spinal cord injury. Preoperative assessment and intraoperative technologies are essential for successful implementation. Biomechanical validation is needed before clinical application.
The role of Bifidobacterium in longevity and the future of probiotics
Authors: Ku Seockmo , Haque Md Ariful , Jang Min Ji , Ahn Jaehyun , Choe Deokyeong , Jeon Jong Ik , Park Myeong Soo
Published: July 2024

This review explores the role and health impacts of probiotics, focusing specifically on Bifidobacterium spp. It highlights the functionalities that Bifidobacteria can provide, underscored by the historical evolution of definitions and technological advancements related to probiotics. By examining the association between Bifidobacteria and longevity, this review suggests new avenues for health enhancement. Highlighting case studies of centenarians, it presents examples related to human aging, illuminating the potential links to longevity through research on Bifidobacterium strains found in centenarians. This review not only emphasizes the importance of current research but also advocates for further investigation into the health benefits of Bifidobacteria, underlining the necessity for continuous study in the nutraceutical field.
Exploring the potential of Easy Language for enhancing website sustainability
Authors: González-Sordé Mariona
Published: July 2024

Sustainable design principles have become increasingly important in website development, mainly focusing on reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. Easy language (EL) is a simplified language variety that makes websites more accessible to a wider range of users; but there has been no attention given to its usefulness in sustainability efforts. As such, this study is intended to become a starting point for future research in the area. By examining the intersection between EL and website sustainability guidelines and practices, the study highlights the potential for EL to contribute to sustainable website design. Along the paper, the following theory is defended: when adapted to Easy Language, text and interactions in websites are simplified, which makes them require less data transfer, become more efficient and, ultimately, more sustainable. The paper also presents a small comparative analysis of the sustainability of websites in EL and standard language that indicated that EL generally enhanced the sustainability of websites. The nine websites in EL analysed showed a mean reduction of CO2 production of 42% in comparison to their equivalents in standard language (p = 0.049, F = 2.42). The discussion and results presented open potential solutions for an urgent problem that deserve to be considered and researched further.
Alkali induced changes in spatial distribution of functional groups in carboxymethylated cellulose – comparison of cotton and viscose fibers
Authors: Bogner Paul , Mahmud-Ali Amalid , Bechtold Thomas , Pham Tung , Manian Avinash P.
Published: July 2024

The aim of the work was to compare the levels of carboxymethylation on cotton with what was obtained previously on viscose fibers under the same treatment conditions. In addition to carboxymethylation levels, their performance was also compared in terms of their propensity for sorption of methylene blue, a cationic dye that is a putative wastewater contaminant. Under comparable conditions of treatment, the degree of carboxymethylation in cotton was 30–90% of that in viscose but the molar ratio of dye sorption to carboxyl groups was 100–230% of that in viscose. In other words, as compared to cotton, viscose fibers showed higher degrees of carboxymethylation but lower accessibility of the carboxyl groups to dye molecules. The divergence between the fiber types is attributed to differences in the spatial distribution of substituted carboxymethyl groups within their structures, as well as the inherently greater swelling propensity of the viscose as compared to cotton. Further work is under way to determine if the order of performance as measured through dye sorption (cotton better than viscose) will also hold true if the performance metric is changed to water and moisture sorption.
Determination and risk assessment of UV filters and benzotriazole UV stabilizers in wastewater from a wastewater treatment plant in Lüneburg, Germany
Authors: Ajibola Akinranti S. , Reich Marco , Kümmerer Klaus
Published: July 2024

UV filters and benzotriazole UV stabilizers are considered emerging contaminants in the environment. LC–MS/MS and GC–MS methods, involving a single solid phase extraction protocol, were developed and validated to determine eight UV filters and seven UV stabilizers, respectively in wastewater from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Lüneburg, Germany. The LC–MS/MS method exhibited extraction recoveries of ≥ 71% at six different fortification levels with limits of detection (LODs) range of 0.02 ng mL−1 – 0.09 ng mL−1. Extraction recoveries of 47 to 119% at six different fortification levels were obtained for the GC–MS method with LODs range of 0.01 – 0.09 ng mL−1. Among the UV filters, the highest mean concentration was determined for octocrylene (OCR) in influent (3.49 ng mL−1) while the highest mean concentration was measured for 2-hydroxy-4-octyloxybenzophenone (UV 531) in influent (0.44 ng mL−1) among the UV stabilizers. Potential risk to aquatic organisms was assessed by the risk quotient approach. Only OCR presented a high risk to aquatic invertebrates whereas 2-ethylhexyl 4-methoxycinnamate (EHMC) and 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS) posed high risks to algae. Benzotriazole UV stabilizers presented negligible risks to aquatic invertebrates and fish. This work reports the detection of rarely studied 4-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and UV 531 in WWTP influent and effluent. The occurrence and risk assessment of target benzotriazole UV stabilizers in wastewater from a German WWTP was demonstrated for the first time.
Life cycle assessment of aerogels: a critical review
Authors: Turhan Kara Ilkay , Kiyak Baris , Colak Gunes Neslihan , Yucel Sevil
Published: July 2024

Over the past decade, the increasing emphasis on sustainable material production has brought aerogel technology to the forefront of scientific and industrial research. Aerogels are known for their extraordinary properties, such as high porosity and low density, which make them suitable for a wide range of applications from thermal insulation in buildings to drug delivery systems. This review systematically investigates the sustainability of aerogel production by analyzing the environmental impacts identified in recent life cycle assessments (LCAs). It examines studies on aerogel production using different precursors, solvents, and energy-intensive production methods, especially drying techniques, providing a comprehensive analysis of the environmental footprints and highlighting several hotspots. The review particularly focuses on identifying the disparities in LCA methodologies and the results obtained, which are crucial for crafting a roadmap toward more sustainable aerogel production. The findings emphasize the need for standardized functional units and lifecycle phases that reflect the specific applications of aerogels, thus enabling more accurate comparisons and assessments. The review concludes with a discussion of the critical gaps in current LCA studies of aerogels. It also offers sustainability recommendations based on identified hotspots, advocating for improvements in aerogel production techniques that minimize environmental impacts, enhance material efficiency, and reduce waste. By addressing these gaps, this paper aims to foster a deeper understanding of aerogel sustainability and encourage the development of more environmentally friendly practices in aerogel production and application.

Graphical Abstract
Green synthesis of Agaricus avensis-mediated silver nanoparticles for improved catalytic efficiency of tyrosine hydroxylase towards potential biomedical implications
Authors: Ali Sikander , Fatima Laraib , Ahmad Muhammad Usman , Khan Qaiser Farid , Hayyat Muhammad Umar , Siddiq Zafar , Patel Sanjaykumar , Shah Tawaf Ali , Jardan Yousef A. Bin , Younous Youssouf Ali , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: July 2024

The present study deals with the bio-fabrication of AgA-AgNPs utilizing edible mushroom Agaricus arvensis as a reductant for improved stability and catalytic efficiency towards L-dopa production. The parameters optimized for achieving maximum tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity were the mushroom biomass (2.5%, w/v), media for extraction (peptone-saline), and temperature (90 ℃). The activity of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was enhanced by its immobilization on AgNPs. The change in color from light yellow to dark brown confirmed the formation of AgA-AgNPs. In addition, the UV–Vis spectrum showed a surface plasmon resonance band at 260 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) indicated presence of functional groups, which play an important role in production of NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the crystalline nature of mycosynthesized AgNPs and showed peaks corresponding to 38.8° (111), 46.5° (200), 64.1° (220), and 77.5o (311). AgA-AgNPs exhibited −9.16 mv zeta potential. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images of AgA-AgNPs confirmed particle size between 88.49 ± 3.83 nm. Immobilized TH extracted from A. arvensis showed reusability at optimized temperature (20 ℃) for 3 cycles. A 2.54-fold higher production of L-dopa was examined with AgA-AgNPs. Furthermore, immobilized TH consumed more L-tyrosine i.e. 0.554 ± 0.022 mg/ml as compared to the free enzyme at 90 min of biotransformation. Hence, the immobilization of A. arvensis extracted TH on AgNPs increased its activity as well as its stability and catalytic efficiency. AgA-AgNPs has a potential of dopamine synthesis and can play a significant role in drug delivery or biomedical applications.
Characterisation of urban aerosol size distribution by radiocarbon and PIXE analyses in a middle-European urban environment for source identification: a pilot study
Authors: Angyal Anikó , Szoboszlai Zoltán , Major István , Molnár Mihály , Varga Tamás , Török Zsófia , Papp Enikő , Enikő Furu , Gini Maria , Manousakas Manousos Ioannis , Szikszai Zita , Kertész Zsófia
Published: July 2024

This study, conducted in Debrecen, Hungary, aimed to analyse atmospheric particulate matter (APM or PM) through radiocarbon and PIXE analyses during the winter smog (23–25 January) and spring (15–18 May) seasons. The information presented in this pilot study aims to provide insight into the importance of utilising detailed characteristics of the mass size distributions of fossil carbon (ff) and contemporary carbon (fC) content. Additionally, it seeks to compare these characteristics with the size distributions of various elements to enable even more accurate PM source identification. In winter, APM concentrations were 86.27 μg/m3 (total), 17.07 μg/m3 (fC) and 10.4 μg/m3 (ff). In spring, these values changed to 29.5 μg/m3, 2.64 μg/m3 and 7.01 μg/m3, respectively. Notably, differences in mass size distribution patterns were observed between the two seasons, suggesting varied sources for contemporary carbon. Biomass burning emerged as a crucial source during the smog period, supported by similar MMAD (Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter) values and a strong correlation (r = 0.95, p < 0.01) between potassium and fC. In spring, a significant change in the concentration and distribution of fC occurred, with a broad, coarse mode and a less prominent accumulation mode. Ff was found to have similar distributions as PM, with nearly the same MMADs, during both periods. Finally, a comprehensive comparison of modal characteristics identified specific sources for the various components, including biomass burning, vehicle exhaust, coal and oil combustion, vehicle non-exhaust, road dust, tyre abrasion, mineral dust and biogenic emission. This study showcases how using radiocarbon and PIXE analysis in size distribution data can enhance our understanding of the sources of PM and their effects on different size fractions of PM.
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors During Cancer Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and Ongoing Clinical Trials
Authors: Osataphan Nichanan , Abdel-Qadir Husam , Zebrowska Agnieszka Maria , Borowiec Anna
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

The goal of this paper is to summarize the data pertaining to the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) for the prevention of cardiotoxicity in patients receiving anthracyclines for cancer treatment. We discuss the potential efficacy of this class of medications, incorporating insights from existing literature and ongoing studies.

Recent findings

SGLT2i are a class of medications which were initially developed for treatment of Type 2 diabetes and later extended to treat heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction regardless of diabetes status. There remains a need for effective and safe treatments to preventing cardiotoxicity in anthracycline-treated patients. It has been proposed that SGLT2i may provide protection against the cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines. Some of the proposed mechanisms include beneficial metabolic, neurohormonal, and hemodynamic effects, renal protection, as well as a decrease in inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction and ion homeostasis.

There is emerging evidence from basic science and observational studies that SGLT2i may play a role in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Randomized controlled trials are needed to conclusively determine the role of SGLT2 inhibitors as a cardioprotective therapy in patients receiving anthracyclines for the treatment of cancer.
Anti-cancer potential of casein and its derivatives: novel strategies for cancer treatment
Authors: Romero-Trejo Daniel , Aguiñiga-Sanchez Itzen , Ledesma-Martínez Edgar , Weiss-Steider Benny , Sierra-Mondragón Edith , Santiago-Osorio Edelmiro
Published: July 2024

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with over 10 million fatalities annually. While tumors can be surgically removed and treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or combined therapies, current treatments often result in toxic side effects in normal tissue. Therefore, researchers are actively seeking ways to selectively eliminate cancerous cells, minimizing the toxic side effects in normal tissue. Caseins and its derivatives have shown promising anti-cancer potential, demonstrating antitumor and cytotoxic effects on cells from various tumor types without causing harm to normal cells. Collectively, these data reveals advancements in the study of caseins and their derivative peptides, particularly providing a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism of action in cancer therapy. These mechanisms occur through various signaling pathways, including (i) the increase of interferon-associated STAT1 signaling, (ii) the suppression of stemness-related markers such as CD44, (iii) the attenuation of the STAT3/HIF1-α signaling, (iv) the down-expression of uPAR and PAI-1, (v) the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced intracellular ATP production, (vi) the increase of caspase-3 activity, and (vii) the suppression of TLR4/NF-кB signaling. Therefore, we conclude that casein could be an effective adjuvant for cancer treatment.
The effect of psychotherapeutic interventions on posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, depression and self-esteem in women exposed to violence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Emirza Elif Güzide , Uzun Sevda
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to reveal the level of effect of psychotherapeutic interventions on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, depression, and self-esteem in women who had been exposed to violence. For this systematic review and meta-analysis study, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, and YÖK Thesis Center databases were searched without any year limitation in August-December 2022, and 28 studies were included. The data were synthesized using meta-analysis and narrative methods. This systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychotherapeutic interventions for women exposed to violence were effective on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in individuals (SMD: -0,590, %95 CI: -0,893- 0.196; Z= -2,937, p = 0.003, I2= %93,59). Psychotherapeutic interventions had a significant effect on women’s depression levels in favor of the intervention group, and there was high heterogeneity between the studies (SMD: -0,475, %95 CI: -0,838- 0.113; Z= -2,569, p = 0.010, I2= %90,68). Subgroup analyses showed that cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in the treatment of intimate partner violence. It was also found that psychotherapeutic interventions did not affect women’s self-esteem levels. Psychotherapeutic therapies for women who have experienced violence have a favorable impact on them and improve their mental health.
A qualitative study on midwives’ ethics of self forgiveness ın traumatic obstetric events: perfect guilt
Authors: Aker Sema , Aydın Kartal Yasemin , Bulut Aleyna
Published: July 2024

This qualitative study was conducted to examine the self-blame and self-forgiveness attitudes of midwives who experienced traumatic obstetric events. The sample for this study consisted of 16 midwives who were actively working in obstetrics clinics. Data was collected using an Introductory Information Form and a Semi-structured Interview Form. The data was analysed using MAXQDA 2022 for content analysis. Colaizzi’s phenomenological interpretation method was used during data analysis. As a result of the analysis of qualitative data, 4 themes and 12 sub-codes were created. The mean age of the midwives participating in the study was 27.56 + 3.38 years and the mean monthly working hours were 176.00 + 19.43. It was determined that midwives questioned themselves in terms of effective communication (43.8%), adequacy in care (37.5%), meeting expectations (25%), empathy (18.8%) and ethics/professional ethics (18.8%) during care practices. It was determined that religious beliefs (43.8%), the permanence of the damage in the patient (18.8%) and the time elapsed after the event (18.8%) affected the midwives’ self-forgiveness after the obstetric traumatic events. In line with our study findings, it was determined that midwives blamed themselves because they felt ethically and morally responsible even in the absence of malpractice.
Momelotinib versus Continued Ruxolitinib or Best Available Therapy in JAK Inhibitor-Experienced Patients with Myelofibrosis and Anemia: Subgroup Analysis of SIMPLIFY-2
Authors: Harrison Claire N. , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Recher Christian , Passamonti Francesco , Gerds Aaron T. , Hernandez-Boluda Juan Carlos , Yacoub Abdulraheem , Sirhan Shireen , Ellis Catherine , Patel Bharat , Strouse Bryan , Platzbecker Uwe
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Some Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors such as ruxolitinib and fedratinib do not address and may worsen anemia in patients with myelofibrosis. In these cases, the JAK inhibitor may be continued at a reduced dose in an effort to maintain splenic and symptom control, with supportive therapy and/or red blood cell (RBC) transfusions added to manage anemia. This post hoc descriptive analysis of the phase 3 SIMPLIFY-2 trial evaluated the relative benefits of this approach versus switching to the JAK1/JAK2/activin A receptor type 1 inhibitor momelotinib in patients for whom anemia management is a key consideration.

Methods

SIMPLIFY-2 was a randomized (2:1), open-label, phase 3 trial of momelotinib versus best available therapy (BAT; 88.5% continued ruxolitinib) in JAK inhibitor-experienced patients with myelofibrosis (n = 156). Patient subgroups (n = 105 each) were defined by either baseline (1) hemoglobin (Hb) of < 100 g/L or (2) non-transfusion independence (not meeting the criteria of no transfusions and no Hb of < 80 g/L for the previous 12 weeks); outcomes have been summarized descriptively.

Results

In both subgroups of interest, week 24 transfusion independence rates were higher with momelotinib versus BAT/ruxolitinib: baseline Hb of < 100 g/L, 22 (33.3%) versus 5 (12.8%); baseline non-transfusion independent, 25 (34.7%) versus 1 (3.0%). Mean Hb levels over time were also generally higher in both subgroups with momelotinib, despite median transfusion rates through week 24 with momelotinib being comparable to or lower than with BAT/ruxolitinib. Spleen and symptom response rates with momelotinib in these subgroups were comparable to the intent-to-treat population, while rates with BAT/ruxolitinib were lower.

Conclusion

In patients with moderate-to-severe anemia and/or in need of RBC transfusions, outcomes were improved by switching to momelotinib rather than continuing ruxolitinib and using anemia supportive therapies.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02101268.
Role of Grain Boundary Strength on Yielding Behavior and Uniaxial Tensile Properties in Ferritic Steels
Authors: Jeong Byeong-Seok , Lee Siwhan , Yeh Jeongwon , Park Eun Soo , Han Heung Nam
Published: July 2024

The yield-point phenomenon in recrystallized ferritic steels is often associated with the dislocation multiplication mechanism, wherein the yield drop can be attributed to the lack of mobile dislocations in materials. However, the yield-point phenomenon is not consistently observed in all recrystallized ferritic steels, implying that the dislocation multiplication mechanism has constraints in delineating the yielding behavior of these materials. Therefore, in this study, we introduced grain boundary strength as a critical parameter for elucidating the yielding behavior of recrystallized ferritic steels. Three types of steels—interstitial-free (IF) steel, precipitation-hardened (PH) steel, and Mn-added interstitial-free (IF-2Mn) steel—were analyzed for grain boundary strength using nanoindentation, and the reliability of this methodology was verified by Hall–Petch analysis. The IF steel, which lacked the yield-point phenomenon, demonstrated a much lower grain boundary strength than the PH and IF-2Mn steels, where the phenomenon occurred. Microstructural analysis confirmed that the enhanced grain boundary strengths of the PH and IF-2Mn steels were due to carbon and manganese segregation at the grain boundaries, respectively. Further, the grain boundary strength significantly influenced the tensile properties and yielding behavior. In PH steels, the enhanced grain boundary strength increased the yield strength owing to Hall–Petch hardening; however, it also increased the resistance to plastic deformation propagation, resulting in reduced ductility. In the IF-2Mn steels, the two specimens with different grain sizes exhibited similar yield strengths, which could be attributed to differences in the grain boundary strength. Our findings have significant implications for the design and optimization of ferritic steels.

Graphical Abstract
Characteristics and controlling factors of Lucaogou formation shale reservoir in the northern edge of Bogda Mountain, the Junggar Basin, China
Authors: Jia Fanjian , Guo Ruichao , Wang Jianwei , Zhao Leqiang , Wu Zhiping
Published: July 2024

The practice of oil and gas exploration has confirmed the existence of recoverable shale oil resources in the Permian Lucaogou Formation on the northern edge of the Bogda Mountains. However, previous research on the development characteristics and main controlling factors of shale oil resources in this area is relatively limited. In order to elucidate the development characteristics and principal controlling factors of the shale deposit in the Lucaogou Formation, the characteristics, physical properties, diagenesis, and influencing factors of the shale ore were investigated utilising data derived from outcrop, drilling, seismic, and geochemical analysis. The findings indicate that the shale of the Lucaogou Formation is prevalent and extensive. The deposit’s lithology is predominantly composed of dark grey and grey-black mud shale, interspersed with thin layers of dark grey and grey-black sandy mud shale and dolomite mud shale. The most prevalent minerals are carbonate minerals, followed by feldspar and quartz, with a notable proportion of brittle minerals. The deposit is primarily composed of dissolution pores, bedding fractures, and structural fractures, with a porosity of 1.23–3.26% and permeability of 0.012–0.076 mD, which are characteristic of ultra-low porosity and ultra-low permeability deposits. Among the three deposit types, the sandstone type exhibits the most favourable physical properties, followed by the dolomite type and the shale type, which displays the least favourable properties. The shale of the Lucaogou Formation is currently in the middle diagenetic phase, which is characterised by compaction, cementation (carbonate cementation, mudstone cementation, pebble cementation), and dissolution. The destructive effect of compaction and cementation on the physical properties is counterbalanced by the constructive effect of dissolution. The diagenetic environment has gradually changed from an alkaline environment to a slightly alkaline, slightly acidic stage.
Papillary necrosis, fluid intake, and sickle cell nephropathy: lessons for the clinical nephrologist
Authors: Cozzo Domenico , Pianca Silvio , Ogna Valentina Forni , D’Arpa Stefania , Cippà Pietro Ernesto , Bellasi Antonio
Published: July 2024

Graphical abstract
Cognitive profile of kidney transplant patients and impact of deceased vs. living donor transplantation
Authors: Doerr Johanna Marie , Juenemann Martin , Becker Anna , Nahrgang Christian , Rainer Lucy , Liese Juliane , Hecker Andreas , Wolter Martin , Weimer Rolf , Karakizlis Hristos
Published: July 2024

Background

It is important to learn more about the prevalence, severity and characteristics (i.e., which cognitive abilities are especially affected) of cognitive impairment in kidney transplant patients. Furthermore, the impact of living vs. deceased donor renal transplantation on cognitive outcome in this patient group needs further studies.

Methods

Fifty-nine patients (43 men, age 55 ± 13 years) who received a deceased donor or living donor kidney transplant, completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test assessment. Neuropsychological tests explored the cognitive domains of verbal and visual memory, attention, and executive functions.

Results

Fifteen percent  of the patients had mild, 25% moderate, and 15% severe cognitive impairment. The level of domain-specific cognitive deficit differed between verbal memory, attention, and executive functions (χ2(2) = 7.11, p = 0.029). On average, patients showed the highest deficit in executive functions, and the lowest deficit in verbal memory. Patients who received a kidney graft from a deceased donor were more likely to have a cognitive impairment than those who received a kidney graft from a living donor (OR = 3.03, 95% CI [0.99,9.32], Wald χ2(1) = 3.74, p = 0.053). This effect was independent of time on dialysis as well as of creatinine levels, or creatinine clearance.

Conclusions

Our results show that in kidney transplant patients with cognitive impairment, the cognitive domain of executive functions is the most affected one. This might be detrimental for quality of life. The fact that patients who received living donor kidneys seem to do better in terms of cognition than patients with deceased donor kidneys deserves more attention in future research.

Graphical abstract
Facile construction of porous carbon fibers from coal pitch for Li-S batteries
Authors: Guo Junzhuo , Lei Zhiping , Yan Honglei , Zhang Weidong , Li Zhan-Ku , Du Zhiming , Yan Jingchong , Shui Hengfu , Ren Shibiao , Wang Zhicai , Kang Shigang
Published: July 2024

Coal pitch, an important by-product in the coal coking industry with a high output, is a low-cost and high-carbon yield precursor for the manufacturing of high-value carbon materials. Herein, N/O co-doped carbon fiber (CFCP), fabricated by electrospinning using pre-oxidized coal pitch as the precursor, was employed as the sulfur host for Li-S batteries. The presence of more pyrrolic N and graphic N in CFCP than carbon fiber made from polyacrylonitrile benefits the adsorption of lithium polysulfide and the battery’s life. Sulphur-CFCP cathode (S@CFCP) exhibited excellent specific capacity and cyclability, with a specific capacity of 701.1 mAh/g and a low capacity decay rate of 0.088% per cycle over 200 cycles at 2.0 C, respectively. The high ion diffusion rate, low charge transfer resistance, and effective conversion of lithium polysulfides enable the high electrochemical performance of S@CFCP.
From pixels to plant health: accurate detection of banana Xanthomonas wilt in complex African landscapes using high-resolution UAV images and deep learning
Authors: Mora Juan Jose , Selvaraj Michael Gomez , Alvarez Cesar Ivan , Safari Nancy , Blomme Guy
Published: July 2024

Bananas and plantains are vital for food security and smallholder livelihoods in Africa, but diseases pose a significant threat. Traditional disease surveillance methods, like field visits, lack accuracy, especially for specific diseases like Xanthomonas wilt of banana (BXW). To address this, the present study develops a Deep-Learning system to detect BXW-affected stems in mixed-complex landscapes within the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. RGB (Red, Green, Blue) and multispectral (MS) images from unmanned aerial vehicles UAVs were utilized using pansharpening algorithms for improved data fusion. Using transfer learning, two deep-learning model architectures were used and compared in our study to determine which offers better detection capabilities. A single-stage model, Yolo-V8, and the second, a two-stage model, Faster R-CNN, were both employed. The developed system achieves remarkable precision, recall, and F1 scores ranging between 75 and 99% for detecting healthy and BXW-infected stems. Notably, the RGB and PAN UAV images perform exceptionally well, while MS images suffer due to the lower spatial resolution. Nevertheless, specific vegetation indexes showed promising performance detecting healthy banana stems across larger areas. This research underscores the potential of UAV images and Deep Learning models for crop health assessment, specifically for BXW in complex African systems. This cutting-edge deep-learning approach can revolutionize agricultural practices, bolster African food security, and help farmers with early disease management. The study’s novelty lies in its Deep-Learning algorithm development, approach with recent architectures (Yolo-V8, 2023), and assessment using real-world data, further advancing crop-health assessment through UAV imagery and deep-learning techniques.
Mulching practices alter soil moisture, physico-chemical properties and pineapple (Smooth cayenne) yield
Authors: Kelbore Zemede Amado , Gebreyes Ephrem Assefa , Damtew Atnafua Bekele , Bura Daniel Markos , Wote TesfatsionTadele
Published: July 2024

This field experiment was conducted in Chichu Kebele in the Dilla Zuria area from 2020 to 2023. The objective of the experiment was to determine the optimal mulching strategy for enhancing soil fertility and pineapple production by comparing three treatments (grass mulch, plastic mulch, and farmers’ practices without any mulch) using a RCB (Randomized Complete Block) design. The study’s findings showed that the treatments with plastic mulch had the greatest soil moisture content values (18.41%), while the treatments with no mulch had the lowest values (11.39%). Compared to mulched treatments, pineapple planted without mulch had the greatest bulk density values (1.43 g/cm3). Total nitrogen and organic carbon has increase by 34 and 25%, respectively due to plastic mulching. However, total nitrogen and organic carbon has increase by 43 and 37.5%, respectively due to grass mulching. Fruit length was larger by 42.7 and 33.2%, respectively due to plastic and grass mulch compared to the control. However, fruit girth was wider by 54.1 and 43.8%, respectively due to plastic and grass mulches compared to the control. The pineapple with the most fruit yield (71.39 t/ha), fruit length (17.4 cm), fruit girth (46.67 cm), and sucker number (15 pieces) was obtained using plastic mulching. However, pineapple grown without mulch had the lowest yield ever noted. Plastic mulch outperformed farmers’ practices and grass mulching in terms of conserving soil moisture, which increased yield and yield characteristics. For the baseline, the marginal rate of return generated by the plastic and grass mulch treatments was 118.5 and 93.65%, respectively. Thus, the study’s best recommendation for improving soils and achieving a high pineapple fruit yield is to grow pineapples using plastic mulch.
Full Vector Inversion of Magnetic Microscopy Images Using Euler Deconvolution as Prior Information
Authors: Souza‐Junior Gelson F. , Uieda Leonardo , Trindade Ricardo I. F. , Carmo Janine , Fu Roger
Published: July 2024

Paleomagnetic data is collected from bulk samples, containing a mixture of stable and unstable magnetic particles. Recently, magnetic microscopy techniques have allowed the examination of individual magnetic grains. However, accurately determining the magnetic moments of these grains is difficult and time‐consuming due to the inherent ambiguity of the data and the large number of grains in each image. Here we introduce a fast and semi‐automated algorithm that estimates the position and magnetization of dipolar sources solely based on the magnetic microscopy data. The algorithm follows a three‐step process: (a) employ image processing techniques to identify and isolate data windows for each magnetic source; (b) use Euler Deconvolution to estimate the position of each source; (c) solve a linear inverse problem to estimate the dipole moment of each source. To validate the algorithm, we conducted synthetic data tests, including varying particle concentrations and non‐dipolarity. The tests show that our method is able to accurately recover the position and dipole moment of particles that are at least 15 μm apart for a source‐sensor separation of 5 μm. For grain concentrations of 6,250 grains/mm3, our method is able to detect over 60% of the particles present in the data. We applied the method to real data of a speleothem sample, where it accurately retrieved the expected directions induced in the sample. The semi‐automated nature of our algorithm, combined with its low processing cost and ability to determine the magnetic moments of numerous particles, represents a significant advancement in facilitating paleomagnetic applications of magnetic microscopy.
Occurrence of Mesospheric Frontal Structures Over the High Latitude Station, Tromsø, Norway
Authors: Chauhan Nilesh , Shiokawa Kazuo , Gurubaran S. , Nozawa Satonori , Oyama Shin‐ichiro , Nakamura Takuji
Published: July 2024

Observational data sets for the high latitude middle atmosphere are key to understand the dynamics over those latitudes and the coupling between the lower and middle atmosphere. Utilizing long‐term data sets from an all‐sky imager at Tromsø, Norway (69.6°N, 19.2°E), the characteristics of 18 mesospheric frontal events in the Arctic winter mesosphere from 2011 to 2015 were studied. These frontal events exhibit horizontal extensions exceeding 500 km and were characterized by a sharp leading front, sometimes followed by a quasi‐monochromatic wave train or a turbulent region. A subset of these frontal gravity wave events has been identified in the past as “bores.” While there have been numerous previous reports from low‐ and mid‐latitude sites, and also from southern high latitudes, there have been a few from northern high latitudes. This study focuses on the frontal events in the northern high latitudes and provides new insights into the characteristics of these events. Their horizontal wavelengths primarily ranged from 20 to 40 km, and they exhibited phase speeds in the range 30–80 m/s. Most events were observed before local midnight. No clear link between these events and auroral activity was found. The majority of fronts were found propagating in the north‐west direction, which might be due to the wind filtering effects.
A Laboratory Study of the Effects of Size, Density, and Shape on the Wave‐Induced Transport of Floating Marine Litter
Authors: Calvert R. , Peytavin A. , Pham Y. , Duhamel A. , van der Zanden J. , van Essen S. M. , Sainte‐Rose B. , van den Bremer T. S.
Published: July 2024

Floating marine litter is transported by several mechanisms, including surface waves. In studies of marine litter transport, the wave‐induced drift is set to be equal to the Stokes drift, corresponding to the Lagrangian‐mean wave‐induced drift of an infinitesimally small tracer. Large‐scale experiments are used to show how the wave‐induced drift of objects of finite size depends on their size, density, and shape. We observe increases in drift of 95% compared to Stokes drift for discs with diameters of 13% of the wavelength, up to 23% for spheres with diameters of 3% of the wavelength, whereas drift is reduced for objects that become submerged such as nets. We investigate what these findings may imply for the transport of plastic pollution in realistic wave conditions and we predict an increase in wave‐induced drift for (very) large plastic pollution objects. The different extrapolation techniques we explore to make this prediction exhibit a large range of uncertainty.