bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Key Genes in Fetal Gut Development at Single‐Cell Level by Exploiting Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Ma QingLan , Meng Mei , Zhou XianChao , Guo Wei , Feng KaiYan , Huang Tao , Cai Yu‐Dong
Published: September 2024

The study of fetal gut development is critical due to its substantial influence on immediate neonatal and long‐term adult health. Current research largely focuses on microbiome colonization, gut immunity, and barrier function, alongside the impact of external factors on these phenomena. Limited research has been dedicated to the categorization of developing fetal gut cells. Our study aimed to enhance our understanding of fetal gut development by employing advanced machine‐learning techniques on single‐cell sequencing data. This dataset consisted of 62,849 samples, each characterized by 33,694 distinct gene features. Four feature ranking algorithms were utilized to sort features according to their significance, resulting in four feature lists. Then, these lists were fed into an incremental feature selection method to extract essential genes, classification rules, and build efficient classifiers. Several important genes were recognized by multiple feature ranking algorithms, such as FGG, MDK, RBP1, RBP2, IGFBP7, and SPON2. These features were key in differentiating specific developing intestinal cells, including epithelial, immune, mesenchymal, and vasculature cells of the colon, duo jejunum, and ileum cells. The classification rules showed special gene expression patterns on some intestinal cell types and the efficient classifiers can be useful tools for identifying intestinal cells.
The epidemiology of critical respiratory diseases in ex‐premature infants in Vietnam: A prospective single‐center study
Authors: Phan Phuc Huu , Tran Hanh My Thi , Hoang Canh Ngoc , Nguyen Thang Van , Quek Bin Huey , Lee Jan Hau
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to describe the epidemiology and etiologies of critical respiratory diseases of ex‐premature infants (EPIs) admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care unit (PICU).

Methods

Infants ≤2 years old with acute respiratory illnesses admitted to PICU of Vietnam National Children's Hospital from November 2019 to April 2021 were enrolled and followed up to hospital discharge. We compared respiratory pathogens, outcomes, and PICU resources utilized between EPIs and term infants. Among EPIs, we described clinical characteristics and evaluated the association between associated factors and mortality.

Results

Among 1183 patients, aged ≤2 years were admitted for critical respiratory illnesses, 202 (17.1%) were EPIs. Respiratory viruses were detected in 53.5% and 38.2% among EPIs and term infants, respectively. Compared to term infants, a higher proportion of EPIs required mechanical ventilation (MV) (85.6 vs. 66.5%, p < .005) and vasopressor support (37.6 vs. 10.7%%, p < .005). EPIs had a higher median PICU length of stay (11.0 [IQR: 7; 22] vs. 6.0 days [IQR: 3; 11], p = .09), hospital length of stay (21.5 [IQR: 13; 40] vs. 10.0 days [IQR: 5; 18], p < .005) and case fatality rate (31.3% vs. 22.6%) compared to term infants. Among EPIs, PIM‐3 score (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30–1.75) and PELOD‐2 score at admission (aOR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.08–1.85) were associated with mortality.

Conclusions

EPIs with critical respiratory illnesses constituted a significant population in the PICU, required more PICU support, and had worse clinical outcomes compared to term infants.
The steering effect of the EU taxonomy: Evidence from German institutional and retail investors
Authors: Chrzan Sandra , Pott Christiane
Published: September 2024

The EU taxonomy, introduced in 2022, is a comprehensive classification system categorizing environmentally sustainable economic activities. This study examines the impact of incorporating EU taxonomy data into corporate environmental disclosure on investor judgments. Through five experimental cases involving standard environmental disclosure and additional moderate/positive/negative taxonomy‐aligned information, we assessed institutional and retail investor evaluations. Results reveal that taxonomy inclusion significantly influences investor judgments, particularly among institutional investors who are more adept at recognizing and penalizing negative information. Clear taxonomy‐aligned data in combination with standard environmental information shows no steering effect among retail investors. Despite underperforming taxonomy indicators, environmental information generally conveys positive signals to retail investors.
Ultra‐Fast Fabrication of Mechanical‐Water‐Responsive Color‐Changing Photonic Crystals Elastomers and 3D Complex Devices
Authors: Xing Yixiao , Fei Xiang , Ma Jinghong
Published: September 2024

The traditional fabrication of opal‐structured photonic crystals is constrained by the rate of solvent evaporation, a process that is not only time‐consuming but also labor‐intensive. This study introduces a paradigm shift by incorporating silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) with high zeta potentials and hydrogen bonding capabilities into an elastomeric matrix, resulting in a novel non‐close‐packed structure. This innovation circumvents the limitations of conventional methods by enabling the rapid formation of photonic inks (PI) into vibrant and luminous photonic elastomers (PEs) within seconds. These PEs demonstrate remarkable mechanochromic properties, exhibiting dynamic color changes across the visible spectrum in response to tensile and compressive deformations. Furthermore, the presence of hydroxyl groups endows the PEs with superior water‐responsiveness, which can be finely tuned through the ink formulation. The elimination of solvent evaporation dependency facilitates the fabrication of macroscopic photonic crystal devices with complex geometries using digital light processing (DLP)‐based 3D printing. This approach ensures exceptional optical performance and high customization potential. The resulting PEs hold significant promise for applications in smart wearables, soft robotics, and advanced human‐machine interface technologies.
Numerical Simulation of Flow Field, Distribution of Bubbles, and Inclusions in Slab Continuous Casting Mold under Electromagnetic Braking Assisted with High‐Temperature Quantitative Velocity Measurement
Authors: Li Yuntong , He Wenyuan , Zhao Changliang , Liu Yanqiang , Yang Zeyu , Guo Yi , Yang Jian
Published: September 2024

The numerical simulation is combined with high‐temperature measurement to study the effects of electromagnetic braking (EMBr) and casting speed on the flow field, the fluctuation of the interface of the steel and slag, the distribution of argon gas bubbles, and the removal ratios of inclusions in the mold with a size of 1050 × 230 mm. The numerical simulation results and the high‐temperature measurement results of the velocities of molten steel at the 1/4 width and center of the thickness near the mold surface are in good agreement. The EMBr can reduce the velocity near the mold surface, the fluctuation of the interface between steel and slag, and the number of argon gas bubbles near narrow walls and decrease the total removal ratio of inclusions from 27.29 to 23.24%. When the casting speed is increased from 1.6 to 2.0 m min−1 with EMBr, the velocity of molten steel near the mold surface is increased. Even under the condition of a high casting speed of 2.0 m s−1, the velocity of molten steel near the surface is still in a reasonable range with EMBr. The total removal ratio of inclusions increases from 20.76 to 23.90%.
Wettability of Mold Flux with Various Droplet Size on Stainless Steel Substrate
Authors: Si Xianzheng , Wang Wanlin , Zhou Lejun , Zeng Sibao , Zhang Liwu , Qi Jianghua , Liu Peng
Published: September 2024

Wettability of mold flux on stainless steel is a very important index to reflect the possibility of slag entrapment during the continuous casting process. In this study, the wetting behavior of mold flux droplet with different size on stainless steel is investigated using sessile drop method. Results show that the contact angle at 1573 K increases from 64.62 ± 0.25°, 62.56 ± 0.2° to 61.46 ± 0.2° and 60.56 ± 0.2°, with the size of the original flux sample increasing from 3, 4 to 5 and 6 mm. No chemical reaction occurs at the interface between mold flux and steel substrate via the thermodynamic calculation and microstructure analyses. Furthermore, the line tension of flux droplet/stainless steel/Ar‐5%H2 system ranges from 160.55 to 125.19 mN m−1 at the temperature range of 1473–1573 K. It is due to the positive line tension (line energy) which decreases the wettability of flux droplet on steel substrate and results in an increase of contact angle when the droplet size reduces.
Candidate selective sweeps in US wheat populations
Authors: Sthapit Sajal R. , Ruff Travis M. , Hooker Marcus A. , Zhang Bosen , Li Xianran , See Deven R.
Published: September 2024

Exploration of novel alleles from ex situ collection is still limited in modern plant breeding as these alleles exist in genetic backgrounds of landraces that are not adapted to modern production environments. The practice of backcross breeding results in preservation of the adapted background of elite parents but leaves little room for novel alleles from landraces to be incorporated. Selection of adaptation‐associated linkage blocks instead of the entire adapted background may allow breeders to incorporate more of the landrace's genetic background and to observe and evaluate novel alleles. Important adaptation‐associated linkage blocks would have been selected over multiple cycles of breeding and hence are likely to exhibit signatures of positive selection or selective sweeps. We conducted genome‐wide scan for candidate selective sweeps (CSS) using Fst, Rsb, and xpEHH in state, regional, spring, winter, and market‐class population pairs and reported 446 CSS in 19 population pairs over time and 1033 CSS in 44 population pairs across geography and class. Further validation of these CSS in specific breeding programs may lead to identification of sets of loci that can be selected to restore population‐specific adaptation in pre‐breeding germplasms.
Concluding Discussion: Paradata for Information and Knowledge Management
Authors: Huvila Isto , Andersson Lisa , Sköld Olle
Published: September 2024

This concluding chapter draws together insights from the discipline-specific chapters to contrast and synthesise the diverse approaches to how the concept of paradata is conceptualised and used in the different cases covered in the volume “Perspectives to paradata”. Paradata as a concept that refers to process information resides firmly at the fringe of codified knowledge and organisational learning. Many different forms of information can function as paradata. There is a comparable variety in how the concept of paradata is understood. Due to the variety, having a unified definition can be debated. Major opportunities with paradata range from achieving reproducibility in data analysis and use and delivering the desired outcomes of the Open movement to increasing algorithmic and administrative accountability and transparency of artificial intelligence. However, transparency brought by paradata is not automatically virtuous. Paradata ethics and its relation to general information and knowledge management ethics is central to responsible use of paradata. Besides further inquiry into paradata concept, actual instances of paradata in the wild and how they are linked to social action, it is a key area that requires further research.
Students’ Motivation in Learning English as a Foreign Language Through Discovery Learning
Authors: Putri Sabrina Asrianty , Halimi Sisilia Setiawati
Published: September 2024

In Indonesia, the Curriculum 2013 encourages teachers to use discovery learning for teaching English. The effects of discovery-based learning have also been analyzed from various perspectives. However, limited studies have been specifically conducted to represent both female and male students’ motivation toward their discovery-based English language learning experiences. Therefore, this study looked into the students’ motivational introspections and orientations toward their discovery-based English language learning. The subjects in this study were the students of Senior High School in Jakarta, Indonesia. The study collected both quantitative and qualitative data that were gathered through a survey and interviews. The results of the survey were analyzed using the Independent-Sample T-test and descriptive analysis. Meanwhile, the verbatim transcriptions of the interviews were analyzed using the grounded theory analysis. The quantitative data reveal that extrinsic goal orientation became the most motivating factor for the students to implement discovery learning in studying English. In addition, the qualitative data explains how the students perceived the six motivational factors differently. The findings also suggest some ways to enhance English language learning and teaching through discovery learning. Thus, this study is highly relevant to give teachers ideas on how to motivate students in learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
Akutbelegungen in der Notaufnahme – was hat die COVID-19-Pandemie verändert?
Authors: Zehnder Philipp , Bogner-Flatz Viktoria , Zyskowski Michael , Hartz Frederik , Pförringer Dominik , Hinzmann Dominik , Kanz Karl-Georg , Dommasch Michael
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

IVENA eHealth (IVENA, interdisziplinärer Versorgungsnachweis, mainis IT-Service GmbH, Offenbach am Main, Deutschland) unterstützt die Koordination von Notfallzuweisungen, indem es Echtzeitdaten über Behandlungsmöglichkeiten in Krankenhäusern liefert. Überlastung oder technische Probleme können dazu führen, dass Krankenhäuser Teile der Notaufnahme oder die gesamte Notaufnahme vorübergehend abmelden müssen, was zu Akutbelegungen führen kann. Die COVID-19-Pandemie könnte die Situation weiter verschärft haben, was Gegenstand dieser Untersuchung ist.

Methodik

Diese deskriptive Analyse untersuchte mithilfe des IT-Systems IVENA eHealth die Belegungs- und Akutbelegungszahlen im Rettungsdienstbereich München von 2016 bis 2022. Besonderes Augenmerk lag auf den stationären Patienten (SK II) und den Zuweisungen von Schockraumpatienten + in den Fachgebieten Innere Medizin, Neurologie, Unfallchirurgie und Urologie sowie auf der Entwicklung der Akutbelegungen, insbesondere nach der COVID-19-Pandemie.

Ergebnisse

Während der COVID-19-Pandemie im Jahr 2020 sank die Zahl der Patienten in den untersuchten Fachbereichen um 23,7 % (2021: −15 % und 2022: −11 % zu 2019). Der Anteil an Akutbelegungen sank 2020 im vgl. zu 2019 (5,9 % Akutbelegungen vs. 6,8 %) und stieg 2021 (7,7 % vs. 6,8 %) und 2022 (24,9 % vs. 6,8 %) überproportional an.

Schlussfolgerung

Gründe für die Zunahme an Akutbelegungen sind vielfältig und umfassen unter anderen die Zunahme von stationären Einweisungen, den Engpass bei der Verlegung der Patienten (Exit-Block) sowie den Personalmangel im Gesundheitswesen. Die COVID-19-Pandemie verstärkte einige dieser Probleme, was die Zunahme an Akutbelegungen erklären könnte. Es bedarf jetzt einer Kombination verschiedener Lösungsansätze, um eine adäquate Notfallversorgung zu gewährleisten.
TU-games with utilities: the prenucleolus and its characterization set
Authors: Dornai Zsófia , Pintér Miklós
Published: September 2024

TU-games with utility functions are considered. Generalizations of the prenucleolus, essential coalitions and the core: the $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-prenucleolus, $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-essential coalitions and the $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-core respectively are introduced. We show that $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-essential coalitions form a characterisation set for the $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-prenucleolus in case of games with nonempty $${\textbf{u}}$$
u
-core.
A Novel Approach for Tetralogy of Fallot-Absent Pulmonary Valve Using Bioresorbable Airway Splints
Authors: Vossler John D. , Green Glenn E. , Les Andrea S. , Ohye Richard G.
Published: September 2024

Tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve (ToF-APV) is associated with severe tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and significant airway compromise. These patients often require early repair with right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery conduit, pulmonary arterioplasty, tracheostomy, and long-term ventilator support. A bioresorbable, 3D-printed airway splint has shown early success in treating severe TBM and has the potential to obviate the need for early repair with conduit and tracheostomy. A retrospective case series analysis was conducted on consecutive patients with ToF-APV and severe TBM who underwent airway splinting between 2012 and 2021. Clinical data was extracted from the medical record. Patients were grouped and analyzed according to their sequence of procedures. Eight patients with ToF-APV and severe TBM underwent airway splinting with a median follow up of 3.6 years (range 1.0–6.4). All patients were alive at the most recent follow-up. Five patients underwent complete cardiac repair first, and one patient underwent concurrent complete cardiac repair and airway splinting. All six of these patients required tracheostomy and long-term ventilator support, even after airway splinting. Five of six remained on ventilator support at the most recent follow up. Two patients underwent airway splinting before complete cardiac repair. Neither required tracheostomy nor prolonged ventilatory support (p = 0.036). Both were discharged home in the neonatal period and returned as infants to undergo elective ToF-APV repair. Patients with TOF-APV and severe TBM may be able to avoid early repair with conduit placement and tracheostomy by undergoing airway splinting prior to complete cardiac repair.
The Critical Social Processes for Standardising the Ecological Monitoring of Australian Landscapes
Authors: Grypma Hitje-Aikaterini , Bardsley Douglas K. , Sparrow Ben
Published: September 2024

For a long time, ecological monitoring across Australia has utilised a wide variety of different methodologies resulting in data that is difficult to analyse across place or time. In response to these limitations, a new systematic approach to ecological monitoring has been developed in collaboration between the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water - the Ecological Monitoring System Australia (EMSA). A qualitative approach involving focus groups and semi-structured interviews was undertaken to review perceptions of the introduction of the EMSA protocols amongst Natural Resource Management practitioners and other key stakeholders. We found that environmental management stakeholders recognise there will be many advantages from the standardisation of ecological monitoring. However, key concerns emerged regarding the capacity needed to implement the standard protocols, the utility of the resultant data for regional projects, and the scope for adaptive co-management under the EMSA. Stakeholders emphasised the need for autonomy and flexibility, so their participation in protocol development can facilitate regional adoption of the standards. Respondents’ concerns about a perceived lack of genuine consultation and acknowledgement of feedback revealed the importance of clear communication at all stages of an environmental management project aiming to standardise practices. Our findings indicate that reflexivity will be vital to address the complexity involved in standardisation of ecological monitoring. Formal processes of social learning will need to be integrated into environmental management approaches to account for the increasing complexity of socio-ecological systems as they are challenged by global change.
Deep-sea benthic hydroids (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) from Antarctic submarine ridges off the Ross Sea (Antarctica)
Authors: Peña Cantero Álvaro L.
Published: September 2024

Knowledge of benthic hydroids inhabiting the Antarctic continental shelf waters, particularly of relatively well-studied areas, has increased in recent years. This has allowed us to recognise them as one of the main and most characteristic zoological groups of the Antarctic benthos. However, little is known about the hydroids dwelling on the continental slope or in deeper waters, let alone about those inhabiting the seafloor far away from the Antarctic continent, despite the Southern Ocean extending significantly northwards. This study contributes to reducing that knowledge gap by studying material collected from a series of deep-sea ridges north of the Ross Sea, from which hydrozoans have never been reported. Twelve species, including Halecium divergens sp. nov., have been found and studied. Except for Turritopsis sp., belonging to the Anthoathecata family Oceaniidae, all species belong to Leptothecata, in particular to the families Campanulariidae, Haleciidae, Lafoeidae, Phylactothecidae, Sertularellidae, and Symplectoscyphidae. Lafoeidae is the most represented family with four species. Sertularella pseudovervoorti and Filellum liberum are found for the second time. The discovery of Symplectoscyphus frondosus, a species previously considered endemic to the shelf and slope of the eastern Ross Sea, significantly extends its known northern distribution limit. Tulpa diverticulata and the genus Tulpa are reported in Antarctic waters for the first time. The lower limit of the bathymetric range for several species has been extended. Despite being well within Antarctic waters, the studied area hosts a very distinctive fauna, markedly different from the typical Antarctic benthic hydroid fauna. Its endemisms, the presence of species unknown in the Antarctic region and the absence of representatives of the most characteristic Antarctic genera account for its originality.
Immunosuppression regimen and latitude impact keratinocyte carcinoma risk in U.S. liver transplant recipients
Authors: Rosenthal Benjamin E. , Schaubel Douglas E. , Lewis James D. , Margolis David J. , Goldberg David S. , Bittermann Therese
Published: September 2024

Immunosuppression after solid organ transplantation is associated with an increased risk of keratinocyte carcinoma (KC). Despite its established morbidity, KC risk in liver transplant (LT) recipients is understudied, including the contribution of immunosuppression regimen and latitude. A retrospective cohort of 9,966 adult first LT alone recipients alive with their native allograft at 1-year post-LT without prior KC between 2007 and 2016 were identified using linked data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network and Medicare administrative claims. The primary exposures were immunosuppression regimen and latitude of residence. The primary outcome was incident, de novo KC occurring at least 1-year after LT. Adjusted Cox regression analysis stratified by transplant center was used in all analyses. The cohort was 63.4% male, 70.2% White and with median age 61 years (interquartile range, IQR, 54–66) at transplant. Calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) with anti-metabolite combination was independently associated with incident KC when measured as intention-to-treat (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.21 vs. CNI monotherapy, 95% CI 1.02–1.43, p = 0.026), in a time-updating as-treated analysis (aHR 1.61, 95% CI 1.34–1.93; p < 0.001) and when measured as cumulative exposure (aHR 1.13 per 6-month increase, 95% CI: 1.02–1.33; p = 0.027). More southern latitude of residence was also independently associated with incident KC with an aHR of 1.26 per 5°N decrease towards the Equator (95% CI: 1.08–1.47, p = 0.003). We demonstrate independent effects of CNI with antiM immunosuppression regimen and latitude of residence on the risk of post-LT KC, which will better inform screening practices and immunosuppression management.
High volume nasal irrigations with steroids for chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis
Authors: Bertazzoni Giacomo , Conti Carlo , Testa Gabriele , Pipolo Giorgia Carlotta , Mattavelli Davide , Piazza Cesare , Pianta Luca
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The primary aim of this systematic review is to assess the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of high-volume steroid nasal irrigation (SNI) for treating chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods

A systematic review of literature from 2012 to 2024 was conducted using PubMed to identify relevant studies. The search focused on terms related to AR, CRS, and steroid nasal irrigation. Studies were screened for relevance and duplicates removed, resulting in 20 studies being included in the final analysis. These studies were categorized based on their focus on efficacy, safety, or both, and underwent a risk of bias assessment using Cochrane and ROBINS-I tools.

Results

Of the 20 studies included, 13 examined the effectiveness of high-volume nasal steroid irrigations, 4 investigated safety, and 3 covered both. High-volume irrigations demonstrated superior efficacy in symptom improvement for CRS and AR compared to nasal sprays, particularly post-surgery. Budesonide was the most commonly used steroid. Safety evaluations indicated no significant hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis suppression or increases in intraocular pressure, although minor adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

High-volume steroid nasal irrigations are more effective than standard nasal sprays for CRS and AR, particularly post-surgery, without significant safety concerns. However, no studies on cost-effectiveness were found, suggesting a need for further research in this area.
Bikini line one-anastomosis gastric bypass (BLOGB): initial report
Authors: Abdelbaki Tamer N. , Dean Yomna E.
Published: September 2024

Background

This study introduces a new access method for one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) by placing ports at the bikini line.

Objective

To describe our initial experience and assess the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of this novel access.

Setting

University Hospital.

Methods

This prospective case–control study included 72 patients: 42 were allocated to the bikini line one-anastomosis gastric bypass (BLOGB) group, and 30 were assigned to the control group. Exclusion criteria included a history of major abdominal surgery, hiatal hernia, extensive lower abdominal adhesions, or a body mass index (BMI) exceeding 55 kg/m2.

Results

The mean preoperative BMI of the study sample was 40.01 ± 2.84. Weight loss was satisfactory, with the highest percent excess weight loss (%EWL) observed at 12 months: 90.88 ± 7.90 and 91 ± 7.11 (p = 0.474) in both groups, respectively. Both groups showed no significant differences in operative complications, hospital stay, weight loss, or resolution of obesity-associated diseases. However, the BLOGB patients had a longer mean operative time of 110.71 ± 17.72 min compared to 98 ± 18.27 min in the control group (p = 0.002). Moreover, they experienced less postoperative pain and reported greater satisfaction with the appearance of their scars.

Conclusion

BLOGB was found to be potentially feasible, safe, and effective, offering improved aesthetic outcomes and reduced postoperative pain. This approach may be suitable for a select group of patients concerned with scar appearance. However, large-scale studies are necessary to ensure that safety is not compromised in pursuit of aesthetic benefits.
First reported human use of wireless laparoscopic system: is it ready for prime time?
Authors: Kim Hee Kyung Jenny , Abraham Abel , DeCicco Jamie , Haas AJ , Pollard Robert , El-Hayek Kevin
Published: September 2024

Objective

During the advent of laparoscopy, surgeons directly explored the abdominal cavity with a telescope-like device through a small incision. Since then, numerous technological advances have transformed minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Yet, in our wireless world, various devices crowd the surgical field, with long wires and light sources posing fall and fire risks. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the first reported human use of a novel wireless laparoscopy system or WLS (ArthroFree™, Lazurite®, Cleveland, Ohio).

Methods

The utility and convenience of the WLS was assessed via two avenues: (1) by analyzing surgical outcomes from first human use and (2) by surveying healthcare professionals regarding its quality and utility.

Results

Eighteen patients (mean age 44.2, 83.3% female, mean BMI 33.4) underwent operations with the WLS. Operations included gynecologic and general surgical procedures. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications, and no conversions to traditional laparoscopy or laparotomy. Mean operating time was 71.94 ± 20.41 min, and estimated blood loss was minimal. Survey results revealed varied individual experiences. Strengths included adequate illumination, improved ergonomics, and simplicity of setup and ease of operation. One respondent criticized the image resolution. Feedback indicated an overall positive impact, and 67% of respondents supported inclusion of the device at their facility. Moreover, its deployment in resource-limited settings abroad has demonstrated its efficacy in global surgery, indicating its potential in various healthcare environments.

Conclusions

This is the first reported human use of a novel WLS. Clinical results supported efficiency and safety of the technology. The successful deployment of the WLS in diverse surgical environments, including resource-limited settings, highlights its potential as a universally adaptable tool in global surgery. This report represents a strong first step toward a wireless operating room with the promise of redefining surgical standards as well as bridging gaps in surgical care worldwide.

Graphical abstract
Assessing the performance of various infiltration models to improve water management practices
Authors: Vishwakarma Dinesh Kumar , Yadav Devideen , Kumar Rohitashw , Kumar Ram , Bhat Shakeel Ahmad , Mirzania Ehsan , Kuriqi Alban
Published: September 2024

Infiltration plays a key role in stormwater management and irrigation scheduling. A review of previous studies reveals that the effectiveness of infiltration models varies significantly depending on soil characteristics and field conditions. Accurate predictions depend on selecting appropriate models for specific sites because of soil spatial variability. This requires extensive testing and recording of infiltration rates at each location. This study assesses various infiltration rate measurement models to enhance water management efficiency. Infiltration rate measurements were conducted at three sites in Dehradun using a double-ring infiltrometer. Well-established models, such as Philips JR, Green, Ampt, Horton, Kostiakov, modified Kostiakov, and the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) model, were evaluated. Data from infiltration tests were used to calibrate these models, facilitating better irrigation system design and stormwater management. In assessing their effectiveness and efficiency, key evaluation criteria such as Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), R-squared (R
2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean bias error (MBE) were employed. Our findings highlight the superiority of the Philips JR model, offering the highest overall accuracy with the highest average value R
2 = 0.9557 and NSE = 0.9553, lowest MAE = 0.6717 cm/h, MBE = − 0.0160 cm/h and RMSE = 1.0077 cm/h. These results underscore the model’s ability to synthesize infiltration data effectively, even in the absence of direct measurements. This insight positions the Philips JR model as a valuable tool for estimating infiltration rates in similar conditions.
Solving Linear DSGE Models with Bernoulli Iterations
Authors: Meyer-Gohde Alexander
Published: September 2024

This paper presents and compares Bernoulli iterative approaches for solving linear DSGE models. The methods are compared using 99 different models from the macroeconomic model data base (MMB) and different parameterizations of the monetary policy rule in the medium-scale new Keynesian model of Smets and Wouters (Am Econ Rev 97(3):586–606, 2007. https://doi.org/10.1257/aer.97.3.586) iteratively. I find that Bernoulli methods providing similar accuracy as measured by the forward error of the solution at a somewhat higher computation burden to the standard method of Dynare when solving DSGE models. The method, however, has convergence properties useful when a specific solution, e.g., unique stable, is sought and can be combined with other iterative methods, such as the Newton method, lending themselves especially to refining solutions—either when standard methods fail or when one moves through a parameter space iteratively—as I show in applications of the methods.
Centralized vs. Decoupled Dual-arm Planning Taking into Account Path Quality
Authors: Wittmann Jonas , Ochsenfarth Franziska , Sonneville Valentin , Rixen Daniel
Published: September 2024

The aim of coordinated planning is to avoid robot-to-robot collisions in a multi-robot system, and there are two standard solution approaches: centralized planning and decoupled planning. Our first contribution is a decoupled planning approach that ensures $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}^2}$$

C

2

-continuous control commands with zero velocities and zero accelerations at the start and goal. We benchmark our decoupled approach with a centralized approach. Contrary to literature, we show that for a standard motion planning pipeline, such as the one used by MoveIt!, centralized planning is superior to decoupled planning in dual-arm manipulation: It has a lower computation time and a higher robustness. Our second contribution is an optimization that minimizes the rotational motion of an end-effector while considering obstacle avoidance. We derive the analytic gradients of this optimization problem, making the algorithm suitable for online motion planning. Our optimization extends an existing path quality improvement method. Integrating it into our decoupled approach overcomes its shortcomings and provides a motion planning pipeline that is robust at up to 99.9 % with a planning time of less than 1 s and that computes high-quality paths.
Usury enforcement as an alternative to capital taxation in pre-modern states
Authors: Hendrickson Joshua
Published: September 2024

All governments have an obligation to protect their territory and the wealth within that territory from external predation. In fact, since war has historically resulted in the plunder and destruction of wealth, it seems straightforward to suggest that the cost of providing adequate defense of one’s territory is a function of the accumulated wealth within the territory. Suppose that all wealth in society is capital. The accumulation of capital conveys a private benefit to its owner, but imposes an external cost on society. As with any externality, the optimal tax policy would be to tax capital. The revenue from capital taxation could then be used to finance defense. Such a taxation scheme, however, requires the state has an appropriate level of bureaucratic capacity. During the Middle Ages and the early Renaissance, this sort of state infrastructure did not exist. Yet the rulers of those states faced the same constraint. In this paper, I argue that the enforcement of usury laws during this period replicate the outcome of the optimal capital tax. Lending at interest was prohibited. However, rulers often allowed certain groups to lend in society in exchange for a license fee. This granted monopoly status to lenders. At the same time, rulers imposed binding price ceilings on interest rates. The combination of these three characteristics of enforcement replicate the long-run restriction on capital accumulation of the optimal capital tax and generate revenue that is possibly equivalent to the tax as well. I then model ruler behavior given these incentives. Finally, I use historical evidence from England, Italy, and France to support my argument.
The emergence and evolution of ambiguous ideas: an innovative application of social network analysis to support systematic literature reviews
Authors: Cowhitt Thomas , Brown Joshua Travis , Antonio Anthony Lising
Published: September 2024

Systematic literature reviews are attempts to understand conversations between researchers working to develop solutions to common problems. These conversations often stretch back decades and can involve the participation of dozens of authors. Traditional approaches to systematic reviews are ill-equipped to make sense of the sheer volume of relevant literature when exploring the emergence and evolution of ambiguous ideas across large knowledge communities. This article presents three innovative applications of Social Network Analysis (SNA) methods to explore the emergence and evolution of accountability in higher education across a collection of 450 peer-reviewed articles published from 1974-2017 and their corresponding 12,270 references. First, qualitative data from articles and references were integrated into new interactive joint displays called Narrated Network Diagrams, creating opportunities to more accurately assess themes and meanings in literature by connecting structures in co-citation networks with relevant relational stories. Second, time was elevated in the analysis procedure to capture the dynamism of knowledge formation. Third, underutilized descriptive network statistics were applied to the co-citation network analysis to generate new insights such as different mechanisms for authors gaining influence in a knowledge community. Ultimately, this article presents an innovative longitudinal Mixed Methods Social Network Analysis (MMSNA) approach to systematic literature reviews, significantly advancing previous SNA methods integration in this critical research practice.
Plant native: comparing biodiversity benefits, ecosystem services provisioning, and plant performance of native and non-native plants in urban horticulture
Authors: Tartaglia Elena S. , Aronson Myla F.J.
Published: September 2024

Plant species used in urban horticulture are frequently non-native despite evidence that urban areas are regular points of introduction, often leading to invasions and negative impacts on biodiversity. Many horticulturalists assert that non-native plants are more successful and provide equal or greater habitat and ecosystem services than native plants. However, little research has compared native and non-native plants in urban systems. We present here a systematic literature review, using the PRISMA methodology, to assess three questions: (1) Is there a difference between native and non-native plants in their ability to support faunal biodiversity in urban green spaces? (2) Is there a difference between native and non-native plants in their provisioning of urban ecosystem services? 3)Do non-native species outperform natives in urban environments in terms of survival, growth, and fitness? We extracted data from 165 total papers. One hundred and twenty studies found that native plants outperform non-native plants on the response metric evaluated in the study, 57 demonstrated mixed impacts, 56 demonstrated no differences among plant origin, and 26 found non-native plants outperformed native plants. We found overwhelming evidence that native plants support higher faunal abundance and diversity than non-native plants in urban landscapes. Relatively few studies examined ecosystem services and plant performance, but we found that native plants support higher levels and diversity of ecosystem services and that many native plants can be used for horticulture, that is, they will survive and thrive in urban conditions. Native plants provide multiple ecosystem functions in urban greenspaces, supporting urban biodiversity and provisioning ecosystem services than non-native plant species and should be prioritized in urban horticulture activities.
Consider or not consider: the unsolved question on the use of radioactive iodine for differentiated thyroid cancer with low to intermediate risk of recurrence
Authors: Malandrino Pasqualino , Tumino Dario , Russo Marco , Le Moli Rosario , Prinzi Antonio , Piticchio Tommaso , Frasca Francesco
Published: September 2024

Background

Surgery stands as the cornerstone treatment for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). After surgery, radioactive iodine (RAI) administration is primarily recommended for high-risk patients and commonly employed to address residual disease or mitigate the risk of recurrence. However, the optimal application of RAI in cases categorized as low to intermediate risk is still uncertain. This study aims to assess the indication of post-surgical RAI treatment specifically in patients diagnosed with DTC falling within the low to intermediate risk category for recurrent disease.

Methods

retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with DTC falling within the low to intermediate risk category for recurrence and diagnosed between 2009–2015. Patients were categorized into either treated or untreated with RAI. Treatment effect was assessed by the inverse-probability weighted regression adjustment (IPWRA), by balancing the distribution of factors influencing outcome and treatment assignment.

Results

after surgery, 328 patients (69.9%) were treated with RAI while 141 (30.1%) were left untreated. Across the entire cohort, 44 individuals (9.4%) displayed biochemical or structural disease after a median time of 17.5 months following diagnosis. Recurrent disease was more prevalent in patients who underwent RAI treatment compared to those untreated (12.5% vs 2.1%, respectively, p < 0.001). Factors independently associated with recurrent disease, identified through multivariate logistic regression analysis, included lymph node metastases (pN1) (OR = 4.07; 95% CI 1.84–8.97), male sex (OR = 2.71; 95% CI 1.31–5.59), tumor size (OR = 1.03; 95% CI 1.00–1.06), and microscopic extrathyroidal extension (OR = 2.36; 95% CI 1.15–4.81). IPWRA analysis revealed that the occurrence of recurrent disease was 9.6% (95% CI = 6.3–12.9) in RAI-treated patients and 15.9% (95% CI = 11.1–20.71) in untreated patients (p = 0.021). As a consequence, if all patients underwent RAI treatment, the estimated risk of recurrence would be reduced by 42% (RR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.35–0.91, p = 0.018). The greatest benefit was observed in patients with 2 intermediate risk factors.

Conclusions

These results suggest that treatment with RAI in low to intermediate DTC can reduce the risk of recurrence in selected patients. However, definitive answers regarding whether to consider RAI therapy for this category of patients can only be attained through prospective clinical trials. Up to date these results recommend a meticulous assessment of tumor characteristics at diagnosis to guide the decision regarding RAI administration.
Learning Decision Criteria from Play
Authors: Galeazzi Paolo , Madsen Mathias W.
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates population games under ambiguity in which players may adopt decision criteria different from one another. After defining equilibria for these situations by extending well-known decision-theoretic criteria to the game-theoretic context, we apply these concepts to examine the case of two-person games played within a population whose relative proportions of decision criteria are unknown to the players. We state necessary and sufficient conditions under which such games prompt the players to reveal their decision criterion through their actions, and we show when the relative proportions may be learned by observing the increasingly informed agents play.
Different-Mode Power Splitters for Optical Testing of Three-Channel and Dual-Mode Waveguide Crossing
Authors: Ma Hansi , Du Te , Jiang Xinpeng , Zhang Zhaojian , He Xin , Chen Huan , Yu Yang , Zhang Zhenfu , Han Yunxin , Yang Junbo , Peng Yuanxi
Published: September 2024

We study that the different-mode (waveguide-connected) power splitter [(W)PS] can provide different-mode testing points for the optical testing. With the PS or WPS providing two different-mode testing points, the measured insertion losses (ILs) of the three-channel and dual-mode waveguide crossing (WC) for both the fundamental transverse electric (TE0) and TE1 modes are less than 1.8 dB or 1.9 dB from 1540 nm to 1560 nm. At the same time, the crosstalks (CTs) are lower than −17.4 dB or −18.2 dB. The consistent test results indicate the accuracy of the (W)PS-based testing circuit. Additionally, combining the tunable tap couplers, the (W)PS can provide multiple testing points with different modes and different transmittances.
Constructing Donor–Acceptor-Linked COFs Electrolytes to Regulate Electron Density and Accelerate the Li+ Migration in Quasi-Solid-State Battery
Authors: Zhao Genfu , Ma Hang , Zhang Conghui , Yang Yongxin , Yu Shuyuan , Zhu Haiye , Sun Yongjiang , Guo Hong
Published: September 2024

Regulation the electronic density of solid-state electrolyte by donor–acceptor (D–A) system can achieve highly-selective Li+ transportation and conduction in solid-state Li metal batteries. This study reports a high-performance solid-state electrolyte thorough D–A-linked covalent organic frameworks (COFs) based on intramolecular charge transfer interactions. Unlike other reported COF-based solid-state electrolyte, the developed concept with D–A-linked COFs not only achieves electronic modulation to promote highly-selective Li+ migration and inhibit Li dendrite, but also offers a crucial opportunity to understand the role of electronic density in solid-state Li metal batteries. The introduced strong electronegativity F-based ligand in COF electrolyte results in highly-selective Li+ (transference number 0.83), high ionic conductivity (6.7 × 10–4 S cm−1), excellent cyclic ability (1000 h) in Li metal symmetric cell and high-capacity retention in Li/LiFePO4 cell (90.8% for 300 cycles at 5C) than substituted C- and N-based ligands. This is ascribed to outstanding D–A interaction between donor porphyrin and acceptor F atoms, which effectively expedites electron transferring from porphyrin to F-based ligand and enhances Li+ kinetics. Consequently, we anticipate that this work creates insight into the strategy for accelerating Li+ conduction in high-performance solid-state Li metal batteries through D–A system.
Prussian Blue Analogue-Templated Nanocomposites for Alkali-Ion Batteries: Progress and Perspective
Authors: Zhou Jian-En , Li Yilin , Lin Xiaoming , Ye Jiaye
Published: September 2024

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have dominated the portable electronic and electrochemical energy markets since their commercialisation, whose high cost and lithium scarcity have prompted the development of other alkali-ion batteries (AIBs) including sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Owing to larger ion sizes of Na+ and K+ compared with Li+, nanocomposites with excellent crystallinity orientation and well-developed porosity show unprecedented potential for advanced lithium/sodium/potassium storage. With enticing open rigid framework structures, Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) remain promising self-sacrificial templates for the preparation of various nanocomposites, whose appeal originates from the well-retained porous structures and exceptional electrochemical activities after thermal decomposition. This review focuses on the recent progress of PBA-derived nanocomposites from their fabrication, lithium/sodium/potassium storage mechanism, and applications in AIBs (LIBs, SIBs, and PIBs). To distinguish various PBA derivatives, the working mechanism and applications of PBA-templated metal oxides, metal chalcogenides, metal phosphides, and other nanocomposites are systematically evaluated, facilitating the establishment of a structure–activity correlation for these materials. Based on the fruitful achievements of PBA-derived nanocomposites, perspectives for their future development are envisioned, aiming to narrow down the gap between laboratory study and industrial reality.