bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transepicondylar distance is a reliable and easily measured parameter for estimating femoral cartilage surface area using MRI
Authors: Yilmaz Tayfun , Siegel Markus , Taghizadeh Elham , Fuchs Andreas , Niemeyer Philipp , Schmal Hagen , Izadpanah Kaywan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Different cartilage repair techniques are widely used to regenerate cartilage, such as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), osteochondral autograft transfer, microfracturing and minced cartilage. Defect size is a key parameter for selecting the best procedure to repair cartilage. However, the defect's size is not related to the patient's total cartilage surface. This is because assessing the femoral cartilage surface area is time‐consuming and therefore unsuitable in the daily clinical routine. It has been proposed that the femur's total cartilage area correlates positively with the transepicondylar distance (TEA).

Methods

The knees of 40 subjects were analysed. Their average age was 30.1 ± 8.6 years. Twenty‐four female and 16 male subjects were examined. Their mean body height was 176.2 ± 8.8 cm. MRI scans were performed via 3‐Tesla MRI. These data were postprocessed and quantified using the browser‐based, customizable SATORI platform (Fraunhofer MEVIS). This software computed the femoral cartilage surface area (FeCA), the patella cartilage surface area (PCA), the TEA and the patella length.

Results

Body height reveals a good correlation (r = 0.722, p < 0.001) with the distal femur's cartilage area surface. However, regression analysis shows only moderate dependence (R2: 0.514). A very good correlation (r = 0.830, p < 0.001) was observed between the TEA distance and the total cartilage surface area of the distal femur. The regression analysis yields a good value (R2: 0.684). The cranio‐caudal length of the patella was chosen as a suitably measurable two‐dimensional parameter for correlation analysis with the patella's total cartilage surface area. Those results yield a poor correlation (r = 0.577, p < 0.001) between the two parameters, and regression analysis reveals a low value (R2: 0.384).

Conclusion

The TEA is a reliable parameter for estimating the femur's cartilage area using MRI. A simple determination of this parameter allows the estimation of the femur's total cartilage area as well as the surface‐corrected defect size (SCDS) in daily routine.

Level of Evidence

Level II
Evaluation of Scuffing Load Capacity of Helical Gear Based on the Tribo‐Dynamic Model
Authors: Liu Mingyong , Chen Shuchang , Hu Jun , Zhang Guogeng , Zhu Lin , Xiang Xue , Yan Chunai
Published: September 2024

The scuffing load capacity of gear is closely related to the meshing temperature rise of tooth surface. The key to predict the temperature rise is to establish an accurate meshing temperature rise model. In the paper, a tribo‐dynamic model of helical gear is established through coupling of tooth surface lubrication parameters, and the influence of temperature rise on ambient temperature during meshing process is considered. Then, the effects of oil supply temperature, input speed and torque on tooth surface temperature rise, film thickness, friction excitation and gear dynamic characteristics are discussed. The results show that the temperature rise of the gear is higher during the engaging‐in and engaging‐out regions. Meanwhile, there is local high temperature at the end of the contact line due to the end effect. The vibration of gear along the off‐line‐of‐action direction is mainly determined by friction excitation. With the increase of oil supply temperature, input speed and torque, the risk of scuffing failure increases and the influence of oil supply temperature and input load is more significant. The conclusions of this paper may provide some valuable suggestions for the anti‐gluing failure design of gear in engineering.
Performance of MR learned pulse sequences for 3D bi‐exponential, stretched‐exponential, and mono‐exponential T2 and T1ρ mapping of knee cartilage
Authors: Zibetti Marcelo V. W. , De Moura Hector L. , Monga Anmol , Keerthivasan Mahesh B. , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To compare the performance of a learned magnetization‐prepared gradient echo (L‐MPGRE) sequence against a commonly used sequence for 3D T2 and T1ρ mapping of the knee joint, the magnetization‐prepared angle‐modulated partitioned k‐space spoiled gradient echo snapshots (MAPSS), on bi‐exponential (BE), stretched‐exponential (SE), and mono‐exponential (ME) relaxation models.

Methods

We used a combined differentiable and non‐differentiable optimization to learn pulse sequence structure and its parameters for 3D T2 and T1ρ mapping of the knee joint using ME, SE, and BE models. The learned pulse sequence framework was used to improve quantitative accuracy and SNR and to reduce filtering effects. We compare the measured multi‐compartment values between the two sequences (n = 8), and their repeatability (n = 4) in healthy volunteers (n = 12 total).

Results

The voxel‐wise median absolute percentage difference (MAPD) between the T2 and T1ρ maps obtained with each sequence was 18.6% and 19.9%, respectively. The T2 and T1ρ repeatability tests showed a MAPD of 18.5% and 19.1% for MAPSS, and 16.8% and 15.5% for L‐MPGRE. Bland–Altman region of interest (ROI)‐wise analysis shows that bias is small, close to −1.5%, and the coefficient of variation is around 5.5% when comparing ROIs from both sequences.

Conclusion

The L‐MPGRE sequences can be used as a replacement for MAPSS for T2 and T1ρ mapping in the knee cartilage with advantages, achieving similar accuracy and 15% better repeatability in only half of its scan time.
Poor muscle health and cardiometabolic risks associated with antidepressant treatment
Authors: Andersson Patrik , Linge Jennifer , Gurholt Tiril P. , Sønderby Ida E. , Hindley Guy , Andreassen Ole A. , Dahlqvist Leinhard Olof
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether antidepressant users display differences in fat distribution and muscle composition relative to non‐users and to explore risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The study used quantitative adipose and muscle tissue measures derived from magnetic resonance imaging data from UK Biobank (N = 40,174). Fat distribution and muscle composition of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) users were compared with sex‐, age‐, and BMI‐matched control individuals. Cox regression models were used to test for increased risk of developing CVD and type 2 diabetes.

Results

SSRI users had more visceral fat, smaller muscle volume, and higher muscle fat infiltration compared with matched control individuals. Female users showed a larger increase in BMI over time compared with male users. However, male users displayed an unhealthier body composition profile. Male SSRI users also had an increased risk of developing CVD. Both male and female TCA users showed lower muscle volume and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

Adverse changes in body composition of antidepressant users are not captured by tracking the body weight or the BMI of the patients. These changes may lead to a worsened cardiometabolic risk profile.
Functional redundancy between glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors in mature corticotropin‐releasing hormone neurons protects from obesity
Authors: Liu Yu , Lin Dongfa , Najam Syeda Sadia , Huang Shangyuan , Song Muyi , Sirakawin Chaweewan , Zhao Catherine , Jiang Haixia , Konopka Witold , Herzig Stephan , Vinnikov Ilya A.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Here, we aimed to investigate the role of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors (GRs and MRs, respectively) in the regulation of energy homeostasis.

Methods

We used three mouse models with simultaneous deletion of GRs and MRs in either forebrain neurons, the paraventricular nucleus, or corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) neurons and compared them with wild‐type controls or isolated knockout groups. In addition to body weight, food intake, energy expenditure, insulin sensitivity, fat/lean mass distribution, and plasma corticosterone levels, we also performed transcriptomic analysis of CRH neurons and assessed their response to melanocortinergic stimulation.

Results

Similar to global double‐knockout models, deletion of GRs and MRs specifically in mature CRH neurons resulted in obesity. Importantly, the latter was accompanied by insulin resistance, but not increased plasma corticosterone levels. Transcriptomic analysis of these neurons revealed upregulation of several genes involved in postsynaptic signal transduction, including the Ptk2b gene, which encodes proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2. Knockout of both nuclear receptors leads to upregulation of Ptk2b in CRH neurons, which results in their diminished responsiveness to melanocortinergic stimulation.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the functional redundancy of GRs and MRs in CRH neurons to maintain energy homeostasis and prevent obesity. Simultaneous targeting of both receptors might represent an unprecedented approach to counteract obesity.
Synergistic effect of magnetic particles and secondary carbon‐based filling materials on the properties of natural rubber/butadiene rubber magnetorheological elastomers
Authors: Liang Ce , Zhou Hongyu , Zhu Yanchao , Gao Shuang , Cheng Min
Published: September 2024

This article investigates the impact of magnetic particle content and various secondary carbon‐based filling materials on the mechanical properties, microstructure, magnetism, and viscoelasticity of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) derived from natural rubber (NR) and butadiene rubber (BR). MREs composites with different formulations were prepared by using NR/BR blend (abbreviated as NB) as matrix and introducing carbonyl iron powder (CIP), few‐layer graphene (FLG), and carbon nanotube (CNT) as reinforcing fillers. The compressive mechanical properties, magnetorheological effect (MR Effect) and stress relaxation behavior of MREs under magnetic field were analyzed through microstructure characterization and macroscopic properties testing. The experimental results show that compared with the samples added CIP, FLG, and CNT, NB‐60CIP‐FLG has the best performance, which significantly improves the tensile mechanical properties, the stress of 300% set elongation is increased by 336.3%, the compressive properties are significantly increased by 92.7%. The performance of the NB‐60CIP‐CNT is also excellent, its 300% set elongation stress increased by 323.4%, in addition, its compression performance significantly improved by 79.2%. After the addition of the magnetic field, MR effect and magnetic response performance of the NB‐60CIP‐CNT sample were improved by 75.2% and 6.3%, while the MR effect and magnetic response performance of the NB‐60CIP‐FLG sample were improved by 49.9% and 18.8% compared with NB‐60CIP. In addition, the damping performance of secondary carbon‐based filling materials on MREs is also improved. This article discusses the influence of CIP content, filler type, and magnetic field intensity on the performance of MREs, highlighting its considerable importance for practical applications in production.

Highlights

MREs composites were prepared by using NR/BR blend as matrix.

Carbonyl iron powder and graphene were used as reinforcing fillers.

The carbon‐based fillers has improved the mechanical properties of MREs.

The magnetic field has a significant effect on the performance of MREs.
pH‐responsive bionanocomposite pectin grafted with dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate and acrylic acid copolymer along with silver nanoparticles for breast cancer drug delivery
Authors: Hashem M. S. , Sobh Rokaya A. , Abd El‐Ghaffar M. A.
Published: September 2024

In this study, we developed a pH‐responsive hydrogel membrane composed of pectin, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), and acrylic acid (AA) through a free radical‐triggered graft copolymerization method. Freshly formed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced from the reduction reaction were embedded in the produced hydrogel. Pectin‐grafted dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate and acrylic acid copolymer [poly (DMAEMA‐co‐AA)‐g‐pectin] and its bionanocomposite with AgNPs were confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The swelling behavior of poly (DMAEMA‐co‐AA)‐g‐pectin in solutions with diverse pH values was assessed. For use as a controlled drug delivery agent, the hydrogel was loaded with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU). The incorporation of AgNPs had a great impact on the entrapment efficiency of 5‐FU. At pH 7.4, nearly 48% of the 5‐FU was released in vitro from the polymeric nanocomposite within 24 h. Moreover, poly (DMAEMA‐co‐AA)‐g‐pectin and poly (DMAEMA‐co‐AA)‐g‐pectin/AgNPs presented high cytocompatibility toward normal skin fibroblast cells (BJ1), and the drug delivery system strongly inhibited human Caucasian breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF‐7). These results demonstrated that these poly (DMAEMA‐co‐AA)‐g‐pectin/AgNPs are an excellent candidate for use in anticancer drug delivery systems.

Highlights

Free radical polymerization of nanocomposites incorporated with nanoparticles.

Nanoparticles improve the bionanocomposites' drug loading.

The developed bionanocomposites exhibit control drug release.

The novel bionanocomposites acts as an excellent anticancer drug carrier.
China's provincial optimum population sizes under SSP‐RCP scenarios
Authors: Huang Xinyan , He Xiangqi , Gu Gaoxiang
Published: September 2024

Climate change poses new challenges to achieving a balanced population distribution. Predicting the impact of development patterns using climate change scenarios can offer more precise insights into environmental and social risks. By adopting the possibility–satisfiability (P–S) model, this study investigates the optimum population sizes for the 31 provincial districts of China by 2035 and 2050 under seven shared socioeconomic pathway‐representative concentration pathway (SSP‐RCP) scenarios. Results indicate that under SSP2‐4.5 scenario, which maintains current development patterns, the optimum human population (OHP) ranges from 985 million to 717 million in 2035 and from 902 million to 623 million by 2050 at different P–S values, respectively. The SSP1‐1.9 and SSP1‐2.6 scenarios offer promising prospects by carrying the largest optimum population size. Therefore, China's future development depends on choosing a sustainable path that prioritizes the growth of the OHP. The optimum population sizes of provinces under unbalanced development routes SSP4‐3.4 and SSP4‐6.0 scenarios are mainly limited by economic development, while those of the regional competition route SSP3‐7.0 scenario are limited by both economic and climatic pressures. Under the fossil fuel route SSP5‐8.5 scenario, climate deterioration imposes severe constraints on optimum population size. The optimum population scales of the eastern coastal area with high urbanization levels and the northwest area with harsh environments are subject to natural conditions. In addition, the central and western regions encounter population size limitations due to insufficient economic development. Notably, China's population distribution remains concentrated in the east and sparse in the west, flanking the Hu Huanyong Line (Hu Line), with minimal expected changes in the future. By studying the spatial distribution of the optimum population under different SSP‐RCP scenarios, this study provides theoretical support for government decision‐making in the context of future climate change.
Computational Investigation of the Ru‐Mediated Preparation of Benzothiazoles From N‐Arylthioureas: Elucidation of the Reaction Mechanism and the Origin of Differing Substrate Reactivity
Authors: Krawmanee Pacharaporn , Gleeson M. Paul , Gleeson Duangkamol
Published: September 2024

Synthesis of novel benzothiazoles via intramolecular CS bond formation reactions is increasingly being explored since they have been found in a wide range of natural products and pharmaceutical agents. Sharma et al. reported the ruthenium‐catalyzed preparation of novel benzothiazole derivatives from N‐arylthiourea precursors, with a range of reaction yields and selectivity being observed. We have employed a density functional theory‐based computational model to investigate the reaction mechanism leading to the benzothiazole product and help uncover the origin of the differing experimental yields and substrate specificities. We proposed a modified mechanistic scheme where the rate‐determining step to be the synchronized breaking of the peroxide bond of the oxidizing agent with the concomitant proton‐coupled electron transfer from the haloarene urea and a Ru‐bound water molecule, not electrophilic RuC bond activation. Evidence for this being the rate‐determining step is (a) the barrier is consistent with a lack of kinetic isotope effects associated with the ortho‐H atom and (b) the computed rate‐determining barriers for 10 N‐arylthiourea substrates show good correlation with the observed yield.
The Utility of Adventitious Carbon for Charge Correction: A Perspective From a Second Multiuser Facility
Authors: Morgan David J.
Published: September 2024

In relation to debates in the recent literature on the utility and robustness of adventitious carbon for charge correction of X‐ray photoelectron spectra, the present work explores its application using 5 years' worth of data collected by the author. The data overwhelmingly show that regardless of spectrometer or charge compensation method, and but for a few exceptions where a secondary reference is preferrable, a C 1s value of 284.8 eV is suitable for electronically isolated samples.
Suicidality, perceived chronic stress, and stress‐induced cortisol changes of individuals with schizophrenia
Authors: Yin Yi , Tong Jinghui , Huang Junchao , Tian Baopeng , Chen Song , Tan Shuping , Wang Zhiren , Tong Yongsheng , Fan Fengmei , Kochunov Peter , Hong L. Elliot , Tan Yunlong
Published: September 2024

The associations of suicidality with stress are poorly studied in schizophrenia. The study aimed to determine whether suicidality was correlated with perceived chronic stress and the cortisol fluctuations under stress tasks in schizophrenia. High suicidality was defined as a lifetime history of suicide attempts or suicidal ideation in the past 2 weeks. Individuals with schizophrenia and high suicidality (SZ‐HS, n = 59), with low suicidality (SZ‐LS, n = 207), and healthy controls (HC, n = 196) finished the Perceived Stress Scale. Then, they participated in an experiment that induced stress using the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task and the Mirror Tracing Persistence Task. Negative affect was measured at baseline and after finishing each task. The salivary cortisol was collected before‐, after 20 min, and after 40 min of the tasks. SZ‐HS had elevated perceived stress than SZ‐LS and HC. Mixed effect models showed that stress tasks induced cortisol changes in all groups; cortisol of SZ‐LS was reduced more than HC, but SZ‐HS and SZ‐LS did not differ in cortisol fluctuations. SZ‐HS and SZ‐LS experienced similar negative affect changes during tasks and the difference in withdrawal rates was nonsignificant. SZ‐HS had an increased error rate than SZ‐LS. In conclusion, suicidality was correlated with high‐level perceived stress but did not result in differences in cortisol reactivities under stress tasks. It suggests the inconsistency between appraisal of stress and biological stress system disturbance among SZ‐HS compared to SZ‐LS.
Interfacial Dipole Engineering for Energy Level Alignment in NiOx‐Based Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Xu Shuai‐Hao , Xu Jin‐Zhe , Tang Ying‐Bo , Liu Wei‐Zhi , Meng Shu‐Guang , Zhou Dong‐Ying , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: September 2024

The solution‐derived non‐stoichiometric nickel oxide (NiOx) is a promising hole‐injecting material for stable quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs). However, the carrier imbalance due to the misalignment of energy levels between the NiOx and polymeric hole‐transporting layers (HTLs) curtails the device efficiency. In this study, the modification of the NiOx surface is investigated using either 3‐cyanobenzoic acid (3‐CN‐BA) or 4‐cyanobenzoic acid (4‐CN‐BA) in the QLED fabrication. Morphological and electrical analyses revealed that both 4‐CN‐BA and 3‐CN‐BA can enhance the work function of NiOx, reduce the oxygen vacancies on the NiOx surface, and facilitate a uniform morphology for subsequent HTL layers. Moreover, it is found that the binding configurations of dipole molecules as a function of the substitution position of the tail group significantly impact the work function of underlying layers. When integrated in QLEDs, the modification layers resulted in a significant improvement in the electroluminescent efficiency due to the enhancement of energy level alignment and charge balance within the devices. Specifically, QLEDs incorporating 4‐CN‐BA achieved a champion external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 20.34%, which is a 1.8X improvement in comparison with that of the devices utilizing unmodified NiOx (7.28%). Moreover, QLEDs with 4‐CN‐BA and 3‐CN‐BA modifications exhibited prolonged operational lifetimes, indicating potential for practical applications.
Optimizing Energy Solutions: Mott–Schottky Engineered 1D/3D CoWO4(OH)2·H2O/MoS2 Heterostructure for Advanced Energy Storage and Conversion Application
Authors: Kizhepat Shamsa , Rasal Akash S. , Chodankar Nilesh R. , Demissie Girum Getachew , Dwivedi Kavya Arun , Dirersa Worku Batu , Chiang Chia‐Ying , Chang Jia‐Yaw
Published: September 2024

Heterostructure engineering offers a powerful approach to creating innovative electrocatalysts. By combining different materials, it can achieve synergistic effects that enhance both charge storage and electrocatalytic activity. In this work, it is capitalized on this concept by designing a 1D/3D CoWO4(OH)2·H2O/molybdenum disulfide (CTH/MoS2) heterostructure. It is achieved this by in situ depositing 3D MoS2 nanoflowers on 1D CTH nanorods. To explore the impact of precursor choice, various sulfur (S) sources is investigated. Interestingly, the S precursor influenced the dimensionality of the MoS2 component. For example, L‐cysteine (L‐cys), and glutathione (GSH) resulted in 0D morphologies, thiourea (TU) led to a 2D structure, and thioacetamide (TAA) yielded a desirable 3D architecture. Notably, the 1D/3D CTH/MoS2‐TAA heterostructure exhibited exceptional performance in both supercapacitors (SCs) and quantum dot‐sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). This achievement can be attributed to several factors: the synergetic effect between 1D CTH and 3D MoS2, improved accessibility due to the multi‐dimensional structure, and a tailored electronic structure facilitated by the Mott–Schottky (M–S) interaction arising from the different material Fermi levels. This interaction further enhances conductivity, ultimately leading to the observed high specific capacity in SCs (154.44 mAh g−1 at 3 mA cm−2) and remarkable photovoltaic efficiency in QDSSCs (6.48%).
Abdominal hydropoint sign in pneumoperitoneum diagnosis
Authors: Cheong Issac , Tamagnone Francisco Marcelo
Published: September 2024

Early and accurate detection of pneumoperitoneum is crucial for effective patient management. We present the case of a 49‐year‐old patient with no pertinent medical history who fell from a height of 5 m, resulting in pelvic and abdominal trauma requiring surgical intervention. Due to fever, ultrasound assessment revealed an anechoic image consistent with free fluid, along with reverberating artifacts originating from the peritoneal line, suggesting pneumoperitoneum. In this case, we describe an ultrasonographic dynamic sign termed the “abdominal hydropoint sign,” observed during point‐of‐care ultrasound, which can aid in diagnosing pneumoperitoneum within the clinical context.
A novel vulnerability measure based on complex network communities
Authors: Jouyban Morteza , Hosseini Soodeh
Published: September 2024

This article introduces a novel vulnerability measure, based on the structure of complex network communities, to assess the significance and security of network communities, influencing complex network security, connectivity, and the prevention of cascading failures. Initially, the spectral clustering algorithm is applied to identify the communities of complex networks. Determining the appropriate number of communities is crucial in the proposed vulnerability measure and security approach. The number of communities is estimated based on the characteristics of the normalized Laplace matrix within the algorithm. Subsequently, leveraging the community structure, a vulnerability measure is proposed for community evaluation by considering three aspects of internal criteria, external criteria and node location criterion. Weight parameters are also incorporated to customize the measure according to the importance of each factor in varying security scenarios. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed vulnerability measure as a security strategy is evaluated on ten real‐world complex networks from different categories. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed measure in assessing community vulnerability and consequently using appropriate maps and policies for the complex network security.
Continual learning and its industrial applications: A selective review
Authors: Lian J. , Choi K. , Veeramani B. , Hu A. , Murli S. , Freeman L. , Bowen E. , Deng X.
Published: September 2024

In many industrial applications, datasets are often obtained in a sequence associated with a series of similar but different tasks. To model these datasets, a machine‐learning algorithm, which performed well on the previous task, may not have as strong a performance on the current task. When the architecture of the algorithm is trained to adapt to new tasks, often the whole architecture needs to be revised and the old knowledge of modeling can be forgotten. Efforts to make the algorithm work for all the relevant tasks can cost large computational resources and data storage. Continual learning, also called lifelong learning or continual lifelong learning, refers to the concept that these algorithms have the ability to continually learn without forgetting the information obtained from previous task. In this work, we provide a broad view of continual learning techniques and their industrial applications. Our focus will be on reviewing the current methodologies and existing applications, and identifying a gap between the current methodology and the modern industrial needs.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Artificial Intelligence

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Knowledge Representation

Application Areas > Business and Industry
Small Molecule Activation by 4‐N,N‐Dimethylaminopyridine‐Stabilized Bis(silyl)germylenes
Authors: Weng Tobias , Fujimori Shiori , Stigler Sebastian , Bock Balasai M.‐T. , Inoue Shigeyoshi
Published: September 2024

The synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of DMAP⋅Ge(SitBu3)Si(TMS)3 1 a and DMAP⋅Ge[Si(TMS)3]2 1 b are reported (DMAP = 4‐N,N‐Dimethylaminopyridine). These germylenes were isolated in moderate yields by the reaction of DMAP⋅GeCl2 with NaSitBu3⋅(THF)2 and KSi(TMS)3⋅(THF)1.2 or 2 equivalents of KSi(TMS)3⋅(THF)1.2, respectively, at low temperature (TMS = Trimethylsilyl). Exposure of 1 a to dihydrogen forms the tetravalent germanium hydride species GeH2(SitBu3)Si(TMS)3 2 a. Additionally, the reactivity of 1 a,b towards the substitution of 2,6‐dimethylphenyl isocyanide (CNXyl) 3 a,b, the alkyne cycloaddition of diphenylacetylene (PhCCPh) 4 a,b, and the substitution of DMAP for NHC using 1,3,4,5‐tetramethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene (IMe4) 5 a,b was investigated (NHC = N‐heterocyclic carbene). Reaction products were characterized by multinuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometric analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SC‐XRD) study.
Kompass – Zeit & Vertrauen
Authors: Hellert Ulrike , Mander Rebekka , Hampel Gaby , Krüger Lisa
Published: September 2024

In dem Beitrag wird der Kompass – Zeit & Vertrauen ein Handbuch zur Gestaltung virtueller Teamarbeit dargestellt. Der Begriff Kompass steht für Orientierung und Kontrolle und führt durch die verschiedenen Anwendungstools. Führungskräfte und Mitglieder agiler Teams sollten die verschiedenen Leitfäden, Checklisten und Empfehlungen gemeinsam nutzen, um ihre Teamarbeit weiterzuentwickeln. Der Kompass – Zeit & Vertrauen besteht aus insgesamt elf Instrumenten, die flexibel einsetzbar sind. Sie enthalten nicht „die eine Musterlösung“, sondern zeigen Möglichkeiten auf und sollen durch verschiedene Anregungen inspirieren. Damit bieten sie Ansatzpunkte für die Entwicklung von Zeitkompetenz und Vertrauen im Kontext virtueller Zusammenarbeit. In dem Beitrag werden zunächst wichtige theoretische Grundlagen zur Zeitkompetenz sowie zum Vertrauen vorgestellt. Insbesondere werden aktuelle Herausforderungen wie Zeitdruck, hohe Flexibilität und Informationsflut thematisiert und unter dem Aspekt des Vertrauens in die virtuelle Arbeitswelt eingeordnet. Anschließend werden relevante Instrumente erläutert, die je nach Bedürfnislage und Intention verschiedene Perspektiven und Anknüpfungspunkte aufzeigen. Hierfür wurde der „KompassGuide“ entwickelt, der eine ideale Orientierung ermöglicht und mit seinen einzelnen Bausteinen vorgestellt wird. Im Anschluss stellt ein Unternehmen praxisnah die Entstehung und Anwendung verschiedener Tools in einem konkreten Praxisbeispiel dar. Abschließend werden die vorliegenden Forschungsergebnisse zum Einsatz der Instrumente dargestellt.
Twist analysis of the spin-orbit correlation in QCD
Authors: Hatta Yoshitaka , Schoenleber Jakob
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We present a QCD analysis of the twist-three parton distribution functions associated with the spin-orbit correlation of quarks and gluons in spin-$$ \frac{1}{2} $$

1
2

and spin-0 hadrons. We derive exact non-perturbative identities decomposing the spin-orbit correlations into the Wandzura-Wilczek part and the genuine twist-three part. In the spin-$$ \frac{1}{2} $$

1
2

case, the result is partially related to the kinematical twist-three part of the gT (x) distribution familiar in the context of transverse spin physics. We use these identities to obtain a novel longitudinal momentum sum rule which may be regarded as the momentum version of the Jaffe-Manohar spin sum rule. We explore the physical interpretation of the sum rule and make a connection to the color Lorentz forces and their associated potential energies.
Medizinischer Kinderschutz zwischen Elternrecht, Selbstbestimmungsrecht und Schutzverantwortung. Teil 2 – praktische Handlungsoptionen
Authors: Kliemann Andrea , Winter Sibylle M. , Fegert Jörg M. , Berthold Oliver
Published: September 2024

Im zweiten Teil des Beitrages werden die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen aus dem 1. Teil auf Fallbeispiele angewandt und diskutiert.
Trenddroge Lachgas (Distickstoffmonoxid, N2O) und die Abhängigkeitskriterien nach ICD-10
Authors: Diesing Dominik , Neu Peter
Published: September 2024

Fragestellung

Die steigende Beliebtheit von Lachgas (Distickstoffmonoxid, N2O) als Freizeitdroge wirft Fragen nach seinem Abhängigkeitspotenzial auf. Dieses narrative Review untersucht das Abhängigkeitsrisiko von N2O anhand der ICD-10-Kriterien für Abhängigkeitserkrankungen und bewertet die aktuelle Literatur.

Material und Methoden

Eine umfassende Literatursuche bis April 2024 wurde durchgeführt, um Publikationen zu identifizieren, die den Konsum von N2O im Kontext von Abhängigkeitskriterien behandeln. Die Ergebnisse wurden anhand der ICD-10-Kriterien analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Studien zeigen gemischte Ergebnisse hinsichtlich des Cravings und Kontrollverlusts bei N2O‑Konsument:innen. Es gibt Hinweise auf Vernachlässigung anderer Interessen und mögliche Toleranzentwicklung, während die Daten zu Entzugssymptomen begrenzt sind. Ein anhaltender Konsum trotz schädlicher Folgen wurde beschrieben, jedoch fehlen objektive diagnostische Methoden zur Bestimmung der Konsumintensität.

Diskussion

Die Datenlage zum Abhängigkeitspotenzial von N2O ist uneinheitlich. Die Diskussion um seine Klassifizierung als abhängigkeitserzeugende Substanz bleibt kontrovers. Klinische Hinweise deuten jedoch auf ein mögliches Abhängigkeitsrisiko hin, insbesondere bei exzessivem Konsum.

Fazit

Lachgas wird gegenwärtig vor allem als Missbrauchssubstanz betrachtet und hat das Potenzial, bei exzessivem Konsum eine psychische Abhängigkeit zu fördern, die sich insbesondere durch Kontrollverlust und Vernachlässigung äußert. Die Kriterien für eine körperliche Abhängigkeit, wie das Auftreten eines Entzugssyndroms und die Entwicklung von Toleranz, sind bisher jedoch noch nicht ausreichend überzeugend dokumentiert worden. Weitere Forschung ist erforderlich, um das Abhängigkeitspotenzial von N2O besser zu verstehen und angemessene präventive und therapeutische Maßnahmen zu entwickeln.
Exploring the influence of terroir on douro white and red wines characteristics: a study of human perception and electronic analysis
Authors: Marques Catarina , Dinis Lia-Tânia , Modesti Margherita , Bellincontro Andrea , Correia Elisete , Vilela Alice
Published: September 2024

The main objective of the present study was to evaluate terroir's role in white and red wine characteristics through human perceptions and electronic assessment. Douro wines, originating from the Douro Demarcated Region (DDR) in the North of Portugal, are renowned for their distinct terroir and historical significance. This study investigates twenty-one Douro wine samples (ten white, eleven red) from Baixo Corgo and Douro Superior through Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Electronic Nose (E-nose) analysis, and Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA). The research has uncovered unique profiles for each sub-region, influenced by factors such as pH, alcohol content, and acidity. Through principal component analysis, the electronic nose analysis identifies separate clusters in red wines and highlights notable aromatic differences in white wines. The sensory analysis via quantitative descriptive analysis provides detailed wine profiles, emphasizing attributes such as persistence, sweetness, and acidity. Furthermore, emotional responses during wine tasting were assessed using FaceReader analysis, which revealed a range of emotions like happiness, sadness, surprise, fear, and disgust, with different intensities over time. These findings provide valuable insights for consumers, producers, and the enogastronomic industry.

Graphical abstract
Evaluating the hypoxic tolerance of two maturity stages of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) at its range edge
Authors: Tremblay Nelly , Cascella Kévin , Toullec Jean-Yves , Held Christoph , Fielding Sophie , Tarling Geraint A. , Abele Doris
Published: September 2024

The South Georgia region of the Southern Ocean represents the northernmost range edge for Antarctic krill. Of concern is the extent to which rapid warming of surface water temperatures and reduced oxygen contents around this region might challenge the physiological tolerance of krill, particularly the later maturity stages. Hypoxia is generally considered to be less than 30 to 20% of air saturation, hereafter as threshold hypoxia, while less than 10% of air saturation would qualify as severe hypoxia. These levels are unlikely to occur in the Southern Ocean but might happen in the middle of dense krill swarms. We investigated gene expression and biochemical markers related to aerobic metabolism, antioxidant defence, and heat-shock response under 6-h threshold (4 kPa; TH) and 1-h severe (0.6 kPa; SH) hypoxia exposure, to understand how hypoxia might alter respiratory and biochemical pathways in adult and subadult krill. After 6-h TH, subadults induced expression of citrate synthase (CS), and mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (also after 1-h SH) over normoxic expression levels. The maturity stages responded differently in glutathione peroxidase (1-h SH; lower in subadults and higher in adults), and CS (6-h TH; higher in subadults and lower in adults) activities as for the oxidative damage marker to lipids (6-h TH; lower in subadults and higher in adults). Subadults had a greater capacity than adults to deal with hypoxic conditions. This may be a strategy allowing them to exist in larger swarms to reduce predation pressure before reaching reproductive condition.
Dietary inflammatory index is not associated with bone mineral density in functionally able community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Linton Corey , Schaumberg Mia A. , Wright Hattie H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Osteoporosis poses a significant health and quality-of-life burden on older adults, particularly with associated fractures after a fall. A notable increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with aging contributes to a decline in bone mineral density (BMD). Certain food components have been shown to influence an individual’s inflammatory state and may contribute to optimal bone health as a modifiable risk factor, particularly later in life. This study aims to explore the relationship between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and dietary intake with BMD in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

Heathy community-dwelling older adults aged 65–85 years. DII scores were calculated using 24-h dietary recalls, and lumbar spine (L1–L4) and femoral neck (ward’s triangle) BMD was assessed via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.

Results

A total of 94 participants were recruited (72.9 ± 4.9 years, 76.6% female) with 61.7% identified having an anti-inflammatory diet (average DII = − 0.50 ± 1.6), 88.3% were physically active, 47.8% were osteopenic and 27.7% osteoporotic. There was no significant difference between DII scores, nutrient or food group intake in groups stratified by BMD T-Score except for lean meats and alternatives food group (p = 0.027). Multiple regression analysis found no associations between DII and lumbar spine (unadjusted model β = 0.020, p = 0.155) or femoral neck BMD (unadjusted model β = − 0.001, p = 0.866).

Conclusion

Most of this cohort of functionally able community-dwelling older adults followed an anti-inflammatory diet. DII and dietary intake were not associated with BMD. This research underlines the complex interplay between modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors on the BMD of older, physically active adults.
Be bold, start cold! cold formalin fixation of colorectal cancer specimens granted superior DNA and RNA quality for downstream molecular analysis
Authors: Nano Ennio , Gambella Alessandro , Paudice Michele , Garuti Anna , Pigozzi Simona , Valle Luca , Grillo Federica , Mastracci Luca
Published: September 2024

The use of cold formalin fixation (CFF; i.e., fixating tissue samples with 4 °C precooled formalin) recently attracted further attention owing to its putative improved ability to preserve nucleic acid compared with standard room temperature formalin (SFF). In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of four formalin-based fixation protocols (SFF, CFF, delayed formalin fixation-DFF, and cold formalin hyperfixation; CFH) on both DNA and RNA quality. We collected 97 colorectal cancer (CRC) and analyzed 23 metrics of nucleic acid quantity and quality yield using a multiplatform approach by combining spectrophotometric, fluorimetric, electrophoretic, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Following confirmation of fixation-protocol-related different effects via clustering analysis, CFF presented best metrics compared with all protocols, specifically positive coefficients of DV1000-60000, DV2/DV1, DNA λ ratio 260/230, and ABL gene expression absolute copies, and negative coefficient of DV150-1000. The SFF subgroup presented a positive coefficient of DV150-1000 and negative coefficients for DV1000-60000, DV2/DV1, RNA λ ratio 260/230, RNA QuBit concentration, DV100/200, RNA electrophoresis concentration and absolute quantity, and ABL copies. Overall, we confirmed the superior yield performances of CFF preservation for both DNA and RNA compared with the other protocols in our series of CRC samples. Pending further validations and clarification of the specific mechanisms behind these findings, our study supports the implementation of CFF in the pathology unit routine specimen management for tumor tissue molecular profiling.
Differences in the ventilatory thresholds in treadmill according to training status in 971 males and 301 females: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Benítez-Muñoz José Antonio , Benito Pedro J. , Guisado-Cuadrado Isabel , Cupeiro Rocío , Peinado Ana Belén
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To analyze the influence of training status on the percentage of maximum oxygen consumption, heart rate and velocity (%VO2max, %HRmax and %Vmax) at which ventilatory threshold 1 and ventilatory threshold 2 occur (VT1 and VT2, respectively), in males and females separately considering age, during a ramp incremental treadmill test.

Methods

791 males (36.8 ± 9.9 years) and 301 females (33.9 ± 11.0 years) performed a ramp incremental exercise test until fatigue where VT1 and VT2 were determined. Participants were classified as low, medium or high training status combining the oxygen consumption at VT1, VT2 and VO2max by clustering analysis.

Results

VO2max is poorly correlated with the %VO2max, %HRmax and %Vmax at which VT1 and VT2 occur (r < 0.3), in contrast, there is a positive correlation between oxygen consumption at VT1 and VT2 with the %VO2max, %HRmax and %Vmax at which VT1 and VT2, respectively, occur in males and females (r = 0.203–0.615). Furthermore, we observed the %VO2max, %HRmax and %Vmax at which thresholds occur were greater the higher the training status (all p < 0.003).

Conclusion

The physiological determinants of the percentage of maximum at which VT1 and VT2 occur are more related to oxygen consumption at VT1 and VT2, respectively, than to VO2max. Moreover, due to the higher percentage of maximum at which VT1 and VT2 occur in individuals with a higher training status, the common strategy consisting of establishing exercise intensity as a fixed percentage of maximum might not be effective to match intensity across individuals with different training status.

Clinical trial registration

NCT06246760.
Assessing wood grain and twist in a 2-year-old Eucalyptus bosistoana breeding population
Authors: Sharma Monika , Dijkstra Stephanie M. , Garrill Ashley , Collings David A. , Altaner Clemens M.
Published: September 2024

Key message

Radial grain patterns in young E. bosistoana trees are not random but are under genetic control and are correlated to other properties. Detailed high-resolution grain assessments match results from economical larger resolution techniques.

Interlocked grain affects stem properties and timber value. Eucalyptus bosistoana is an emerging plantation species that is supported by a breeding programme, and which shows prominent interlocked grain. Grain assessments are difficult, either restricted in their spatial resolution or resource demanding. Comparative analysis of flexible and high-resolution X-ray microtomography grain measurements were shown to match the economical splitting test. Splitting demonstrated that, on average, grain in the 2-year-old E. bosistoana trees was straight close to the pith becoming slightly left-handed over the first 4 mm, but then developing a strong right-handed twist reaching an average of almost 5° by 12 mm. There was, however, a large degree of variability. Further, grain measures obtained from splitting tests correlated to the observed twisting of the stems. Lastly, twisting of timber was under genetic control. The combination of a heritability (h2) value of 0.34 and a coefficient of genetic variation value (rg) of 44% means that our assessment techniques for young trees could be incorporated into a breeding programme.
Bayesian dynamic models to estimate the impact of halting vehicle fleets on the air quality: a case study from Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Cardona-Jiménez Johnatan , Aguirre Carlos Andrés Pérez , Gomez-Miranda I. N. , Ramírez Isabel
Published: September 2024

According to the World Health Organization (WHO, Ambient (outdoor) air pollution (who), 2020), outdoor air pollution is estimated to have caused 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide in 2019. Under this scenario, the development of statistical tools for assessing the impact of a possible reduction of fossil fuels-based transportation systems on air quality is more relevant than ever. This type of instruments can help policy makers to take the right path to tackle the problem of air pollution in urban environments. Thus, this work proposes a method to evaluate the impact of the reduction of vehicle fleets on air quality. The method is based on the construction of counterfactual time series, which represent observed air pollutants under a treatment of interest. In this case, the treatment of interest are the vehicle fleets on the streets. The construction of the counterfactual time series is based on Bayesian dynamic linear models. Several impact assessment measures are implemented, taking advantage of the counterfactual and observed time series (the observed pollutant without the treatment). The flexibility of the Bayesian approach allows easy inference of the impact quantities via high posterior density intervals. Some simulation analyses show that the method works well under different impact scenarios, and one application regarding Medellin’s case in Colombia is presented. For the application, it is shown that the drastic reduction in vehicle fleets during the COVID-19 mobility restrictions led to a significant reduction in the presence of different pollutants ($$\hbox {PM}_{{10}}$$

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10

, $$\hbox {PM}_{2.5}$$

PM

2.5

, $$\hbox {NO}_{{2}}$$

NO
2

, $$\hbox {NO}_{{x}}$$

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x

)
The change in lumbar lordosis from the standing to the lateral position: implications for lateral interbody fusion
Authors: Mills Emily S. , Wang Jennifer C. , Richardson Mary K. , Chung Brian C. , Mayer Lucas W. , Gallo Matthew C. , Alluri Ram K. , Hah Raymond J. , Heckmann Nathanael D.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this cross-sectional, observational study was to establish the relationship between standing lumbar lordosis (LL) and lateral decubitus LL.

Methods

Forty-nine subjects, 24 male and 25 female, were prospectively enrolled. Patients with pre-existing spinopelvic pathology were excluded. Standing, relaxed-seated, and lateral decubitus lateral radiographs were obtained. Radiographic variables measured included LL and lordosis change at each lumbar level (e.g. L1-L2). The change in LL when going from a standing to a lateral decubitus position (ΔLL), the correlation between standing and sitting LL compared to lateral decubitus LL, and the correlation between ΔLL and standing pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), PI-LL mismatch, pelvic femoral angle (PFA), and sacral slope (SS) were calculated.

Results

Subjects had an average age of 25.7 ± 2.3 years and body mass index of 24.1 ± 3.0 kg/m2. On average, 11.9°±8.2° (range − 7° to 29°) of LL was lost when transitioning from a standing to the lateral decubitus position. Lateral decubitus LL had a higher correlation with standing LL (R = 0.725, p < 0.001) than with relaxed-seated LL (R = 0.434, p < 0.001). Standing PT and PI-LL mismatch had moderately negative correlations with ΔLL (R=-0.58 and R=-0.59, respectively, both p < 0.05). Standing PI and standing PFA had a low negative correlation with ΔLL (R=-0.31 and R=-0.44, respectively, both p < 0.05) Standing SS and LL had no correlation with ΔLL.

Conclusions

Standing LL was strongly correlated to lateral decubitus LL, although subjects lost an average of 11.9° from the standing to the lateral decubitus position. This has important implications for fusion in the lateral position.