bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Are Researchers Evaluating the Effectiveness of Educational VR Applications and What Outcomes Are They Obtaining? A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Vásquez‐Carbonell Mauricio , Torres Juan C.
Published: February 2025

Virtual environments in education offer numerous benefits, as shown by the growing volume of scientific research. However, understanding the effectiveness of VR applications, and evaluating study outcomes is imperative. To explore this further, a Systematic Literature Review was conducted, revealing various methods for evaluating the effectiveness of VR applications; however, questionnaires emerged as the most used approach. Outcome analysis suggests that traditional teaching methods can be as effective as VR, though this technology shows potential in stimulating cognitive and motor skills, with positive results in motivation and engagement. Cognitive load generated by information in Virtual Environment and Cybersickness are common issues, and long‐term impact and information on VR software development remain almost underexplored. These findings highlight the need for rigorous validation of VR in education, particularly to establish its long‐term benefits and usability.
A Silicon Rhodamine‐fused Glibenclamide to Label and Detect Malaria‐infected Red Blood Cells
Authors: Bastl Claudia , Close Cindy M. , Holtz Ingo , Gatin-Fraudet Blaise , Eis Mareike , Werum Michelle , Konrad Smilla , Kneller Laura , Roßmann Kilian , Huhn Christiane , Ghosh Souvik , Ast Julia , Roosen Dorien A. , Lehmann Martin , Haucke Volker , Reymond Luc , Hodson David J. , Tinnefeld Philip , Johnsson Kai , Glembockyte Viktorija , Kilian Nicole , Broichhagen Johannes
Published: February 2025

The malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum affects the lives of millions of people worldwide every year. The detection of replicating parasites within human red blood cells is of paramount importance, requiring appropriate diagnostic tools. Herein, we design and apply a silicon rhodamine‐fused glibenclamide (SiR‐glib). We first test this far‐red fluorescent, fluorogenic and endoplasmic reticulum‐targeting sulfonylurea in mammalian cells and pancreatic tissues, before characterizing its labeling performance in red blood cells infected with the asexual developmental stages of Plasmodium falciparum. We further combine SiR‐glib with a portable smartphone‐based microscope to easily and rapidly identify parasitized red blood cells, providing proof of principle for diagnostic use in rural endemic areas without major healthcare facilities.
Enantioselective Preparation of Chiral Succinimide Derivatives by Mechanochemical Catalytic Michael Addition
Authors: Szöllösi György , Kőszegi Kristóf András , Kukovecz Ákos , Szabados Márton
Published: February 2025

Mechanochemical activation of organic reactions is a simple and efficient way of preparing complex molecules by an environmentally benign method. Although, various asymmetric catalytic reactions were found to proceed smoothly by milling, enantioselective Michael additions of nucleophiles to maleimide derivatives, providing valuable chiral succinimides, have not yet been attempted. Here we report the mechanochemical addition of isobutyraldehyde to various N‐substituted maleimides using a recently developed recyclable heterogeneous chiral hybrid catalyst prepared by adsorption of l‐phenylalanine on the surface of layered cation‐exchanger inorganic oxides, such as laponite or bentonite. Good conversions and isolated yields were achieved after short millings under solvent free conditions accompanied by high enantioselectivities. The mechanochemical activation was also extended to the asymmetric addition of aldehydes to nitrostyrene catalysed by l‐proline adsorbed on laponite. The chiral catalyst was easily recovered and could be efficiently recycled, as long as small amount of amino acid is supplied upon reuse, which could complement the chirality source leached from the surface, as shown by characterization of the solids using thermal analysis, infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy.
Construction of in‐plane ZnIn2S4/In(OH)3 heterojunction with boosted CO2 photoreduction performance by a three‐phase etching‐hydrolysis strategy
Authors: Du Jun , Wu Jiaming , Li Keyan , Yan Siyang , Liu Jiaxu , Liu Ziwei , Song Chunshan , Guo Xinwen
Published: February 2025

ZnIn2S4 with nanosheet structure shows great potential as photocatalyst for CO2 reduction, however, its photocatalytic performance is still restricted by the low charge separation efficiency and insufficient active sites. In this work, an in‐plane ZnIn2S4/In(OH)3 heterojunction was fabricated with a gas‐solid‐liquid three‐phase etching‐hydrolysis strategy utilizing single‐unit‐cell ZnIn2S4 nanosheets as the precursor. A portion of ZnIn2S4, which was dispersed in water, was in‐situ converted to crystalline and amorphous In(OH)3 under hydrothermal condition, while the sulfur escaped in the gas phase was captured by Cu foam placed on a free‐standing porous rack above water. This unique approach enabled all In elements to retain in the lattice and prevented the incorporation of Cu impurity into the heterojunction.  The CO generation rate and selectivity reached 1807 μmol g−1 h−1 and 82%, respectively, significantly surpassing those of pure ZnIn2S4 (842 μmol g−1 h−1 and 65%). Moreover, In(OH)3 functions as both electron‐accepting platform and reactant adsorption sites, greatly enhancing charge separation efficiency as well as the reaction between CO2 and H2O. The synergy of improved charge separation and increased active sites lead to the remarkably boosted photocatalytic CO2 reduction performance. This work provides a new strategy for the fabrication of 2D in‐plane heterojunctions for photocatalytic applications.
Effect of Alkali Metals on CoMo2C/Al2O3 Catalysts for Syngas to Higher Alcohols
Authors: Yang Zhi , Luo Mingsheng , LIU Qinglong , Rahman Roshni
Published: February 2025

The development of catalysts for the direct one‐step conversion of syngas to higher alcohols is still a challenge. Herein, different alkali metal‐modified MCoMo/Al2O3 (M=Li, Na, K, Cs) catalysts were prepared by impregnation and temperature‐programmed carbonization process. Characterization by XRD, H2‐TPR, and XPS revealed that the introduction of alkali metals increases the crystallinity of Mo2C, decreases the reducibility of the catalyst, as well as increases the surface high‐valent Mo content. The catalysts were evaluated for activity at 300°C, 3.0 MPa, 18000 mL·gMo‐1·h‐1, H2/CO=2. The evaluation results found that with the increase in the electron‐giving capacity of alkali metals, the CO conversion rate gradually decreased from 98.8% to 46.3%. While the alcohol selectivity showed the opposite trend, increasing from 14.4% to 54.9%. Notably, the addition of K and Cs significantly increased the alcohol selectivity in the catalyst product, from 8.3% to 50.5% and 54.9%, respectively. Moreover, the ratio of higher alcohols in the alcohol product increased significantly from 10.5% to nearly 80%. Finally, in‐situ DRIFT characterization of the catalysts with different alkali metal modifications was carried out to investigate the changes in the reaction process intermediates and to summarize the possible reaction routes.
Light‐activated Superhydrophobicity of Sustainable Micro‐structured Spent Coffee Grounds‐Based Interfaces via Fatty Acids Modulation
Authors: Zargarian Seyed Shahrooz , Suárez-García Salvio , Saiz-Poseu Javier , Zuppiroli Luca , Lanzi Massimiliano , Ruiz-Molina Daniel , Pierini Filippo
Published: February 2025

The global consumption of coffee results in the disposal of vast amounts of spent coffee grounds (SCG), posing significant environmental challenges. Herein, we address this issue by developing an innovative, eco‐friendly method to achieve superhydrophobicity using SCG. Repurposing this abundant biowaste, we developed a sustainable approach that avoids the use of harsh chemicals and energy‐intensive processes typically associated with conventional methods. Our procedure involves wet ball milling of SCG in ethanol to produce microparticles, followed by electrospraying to create a micro‐structured interface. A mild annealing treatment at 90°C successfully transformed the SCG interface from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic, reaching a contact angle of approximately 151° and a rolling‐off angle of 8°. The resultant interface exhibited remarkable self‐cleaning properties, effectively repelling various liquids. XPS analysis revealed that the migration of fatty acids to the surface during annealing played a crucial role in lowering surface energy, thereby driving the hydrophilic‐to‐superhydrophobic transition. Furthermore, we demonstrated that solar‐induced heating can effectively activate the same superhydrophobic properties, providing a practical and energy‐efficient alternative to traditional thermal treatments. This method illustrates the role of light‐activated fatty acid modulation in achieving superhydrophobicity and highlights the potential of SCG biowaste as a valuable resource for sustainable material applications.
Utility of Proliferation Markers Ki‐67 and PHH3 in Predicting Malignancy in Basaloid Salivary Gland Neoplasms: A Study Using Digital Image Analysis of Cytology Cell Blocks
Authors: Yarman Yanki , Post Robert , Breslin Zachary , Solomides Charalambos C. , Gargano Stacey M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Basaloid salivary gland neoplasms (BSNs) are notoriously difficult to classify in fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens due to the morphologic overlap of benign and malignant entities. Adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) represents a particular diagnostic challenge, as it typically shows low‐grade cytologic features despite its aggressive clinical behavior. We examined whether the proliferation markers Ki‐67 and PHH3 could help predict malignancy in BSNs.

Methods

A retrospective search was conducted to identify FNA cases of BSNs that had adequate tumor cellularity in the cell block and a subsequent excision specimen. Ki‐67 and PHH3 immunohistochemical stains were performed. Aperio (Leica Biosystems) was used to calculate the percentage of tumor cell nuclear expression. Proliferation scores and final histopathologic diagnoses were correlated using a two‐sided p‐value test.

Results

Ten benign and 14 malignant basaloid neoplasms were analyzed. Benign cases showed low mean percentages of tumor cell staining for Ki‐67 (1.14%) and PHH3 (0.84%), while malignant cases showed significantly higher mean percentages, especially with Ki‐67 (19% for low‐grade malignancies and 25.5% for high‐grade malignancies). The difference in proliferation marker scores between the benign and low‐grade malignant cases showed statistical significance for both Ki‐67 (p = 0.0041) and PHH3 (p = 0.00397). The difference between benign entities and AdCC was also statistically significant for Ki‐67 (p = 0.0013) and PHH3 (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Ki‐67 and PHH3 analysis in cell block material may help predict malignancy in a cytologic specimen from a BSN, offering a valuable ancillary tool for cases with cytomorphologic ambiguity. In particular, the ability to suggest a sample is more likely to be AdCC rather than another morphologically similar low‐grade BSN would be helpful for surgical planning.
Mesohabitat Spawning Preference of the Anadromous Twaite Shad (Alosa fallax, Lacépède 1803) in the Tagliamento River (Italy)
Authors: Negro Giovanni , Lesa Davide , Bertoli Marco , Guglielmetto Alessandro , Pinna Beatrice , Forte Simone , Spadavecchia Claudio , Maschio Paolo , Pizzul Elisabetta , Vezza Paolo
Published: February 2025

Alosa fallax (Lacépède, 1803) is an anadromous fish which utilizes European rivers for spawning. As many anadromous species, Twaite shad populations are declining due to river damming and hydromorphological alterations, which impact their spawning sites. In this study, we developed mesohabitat suitability criteria for the spawning period of A. fallax by analysing the geomorphic units (GUs), with their local habitat attribute, in which the fish prefers to spawn. The study was conducted in the Tagliamento River (NE Italy). Habitat depiction was performed following the MesoHABitat SImulation Model (MesoHABSIM) approach. High‐resolution spatial information from Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), a two‐dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic model and field data collected during the spawning period were utilized for habitat attribute evaluation. The association between spawning sites and GUs characteristics was explored by training a classification random forest (RF) model. The final parsimonious RF model demonstrated high accuracy (98.8%) and true skill statistic (97.6%), indicating that A. fallax prefers glides and riffles with shallow depths (0.15–0.45 m), moderate current velocities (0.30–0.75 m/s) and small‐sized sediment (diameter 0.2–6 cm) for spawning. Using an infrared camera, 72 surface mating events were distinctly recorded between 11.30 PM and 02.15 AM over two nights, demonstrating the technique's suitability for observing shad mating activity. The video analysis revealed that the monitored A. fallax population exhibited similar mating behaviour to other European shads (e.g., Alosa alosa). This study provides useful insights to develop novel management approaches for preserving or restoring the spawning habitat of the A. fallax, supporting its conservation.
Alpine birds in a sky island: Resource subsidies from foothill areas
Authors: Iijima Daichi , Murakami Masashi
Published: February 2025

Material fluxes between ecosystems subsidize consumers in recipient ecosystems. While alpine zones are generally regarded as isolated, arthropods from lower elevations may be deposited on the snow surface in alpine zones by flight or wind. This arthropod fallout should be essential food resources for alpine consumers that are forced to deal with scarce food in environments. In this study, the source location of arthropods that fell onto the alpine snowpack was examined using data of their host plants. Furthermore, seasonal changes in the arthropod diets of two insectivorous and one primarily herbivorous alpine bird species were evaluated by fecal DNA metabarcoding with correction of PCR amplification bias among arthropod taxa using DNA mock assemblages of arthropods. We present quantitative evidence that winged aphids originating from the subalpine and montane zones are abundant on the snowpack. These subsidized aphids accounted for approximately 40% of the arthropod portion of the diet, and 6%–40% of the overall diet, of these birds during their early breeding seasons. Our findings indicate that material fluxes from foothill areas contribute to the maintenance of biotic communities in alpine ecosystems during less productive seasons.
Secondary sclerosing cholangitis in patients suffering cardiogenic shock
Authors: Lanz Hugo , Scherer Clemens , Kasper Philipp , Adler Christoph , Binzenhöfer Leonhard , Hoffmann Sabine , Höpler Julia , Kraft Marie , Gade Nils , Jamin Raúl Nicolás , Evertz Ruben , Hoyer Daniel , Tongers Jörn , Schulze Christian , Jung Christian , Claus Julia , Pöss Janine , Crusius Lisa , Mangner Norman , Hagl Christian , Nickenig Georg , Zimmer Sebastian , Massberg Steffen , Thiele Holger , Haertel Franz , Lüsebrink Enzo
Published: February 2025

Aims

Cardiogenic shock (CS) patients suffer from severe organ hypoperfusion, yet the incidence of secondary sclerosing cholangitis in critically ill patients (SSC‐CIP) in CS is poorly described. Given the limited evidence and severity of this syndrome, we aimed to further investigate SSC‐CIP in the context of CS.

Methods and results

24 251 total CS patients admitted between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2023 were retrospectively screened for the diagnosis of SSC‐CIP across nine German tertiary care centers. Following identification of confirmed SSC‐CIP diagnosis, baseline characteristics, laboratory values, SSC‐CIP‐specific imaging, diagnostics, and outcomes were obtained for analysis. 35 CS patients with a diagnosis of SSC‐CIP were identified, representing a prevalence of 0.14% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10, 0.19]. Patients were predominantly male (77.1%) with a median age of 58 years (interquartile range [IQR] 52.5, 68.0). Acute myocardial infarction (42.9%) was the most common aetiology of CS, followed by cardiac arrhythmias (20.0%). Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed in 77.1% of cases after a median of 33 days following CS onset [IQR 24, 65], showing typical biliary casts (60.0%), intraductal filling defects (28.6%), and bile duct obliteration (20.0%). Cast removal and stent placement was performed in nearly half of ERCP procedures (45.7%). Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) was performed in 22.9% of cases and showed intraductal dilation (11.4%), lumen narrowing (17.1%), or strictures (14.3%). Median intensive care unit and hospital length of stay was 43 days [IQR 33, 66] and 58 days [IQR 33, 88], respectively. In‐hospital mortality was 57.1%. One‐year (65.7%) and 3‐year (71.4%) mortality remained high. Two patients underwent liver transplantation after a median of 113 days [IQR 105, 122] and were alive at 3‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

In this multicentre retrospective analysis in a high‐risk CS cohort, SSC‐CIP was a rare yet serious complication of intensive care unit stay with high in‐hospital mortality. Treatment options are limited, and liver transplantation remains the only viable long‐term treatment option.
VSTM1/SIRL‐1: An Inhibitory Pattern Recognition Receptor Regulating Myeloid Cells
Authors: Koops Maaike , Meyaard Linde
Published: February 2025

Innate immune cells express a plethora of inhibitory receptors, many of which recognize molecular patterns. An appropriate balance between signaling via activating and inhibitory pattern recognition receptors is important for a proper immune response while preventing immunopathology. V‐set and transmembrane domain containing 1 (VSTM1), also known as signal inhibitory receptor on leukocytes‐1 (SIRL‐1), is an inhibitory receptor expressed on myeloid cells. VSTM1 can modulate the function of myeloid cells, by inhibiting reactive oxygen species and neutrophil extracellular trap formation. VSTM1 recognizes shared molecular patterns both from endogenous and microbial origin, defining it as an inhibitory pattern recognition receptor. VSTM1 is involved in various pathological conditions, including autoimmune disorders and cancer, and its restricted expression on myeloid cells highlights its potential as a specific therapeutic target. This review summarizes the characteristics and function of VSTM1 in health and disease.
Three‐Component α‐Thienylation/Oxylation Cascade of I III /S VI‐Ylides via Photoinduced EDA Complex Activation
Authors: Du Zelong , Li Li , Wang Zhaofeng
Published: February 2025

Herein, a visible‐light‐induced three‐component cascade of a‐thienylation/oxylation of IIII/SVI‐ylides, substituted thiophenes and alcohols is reported. The core of the strategy involves electron‐donor‐acceptor (EDA) complex formation between IIII/SVI‐ylides and electron‐rich thiophenes. Upon photo‐activation, IIII/SVI‐ylides in‐situ generates sulfoxonium ylide radical, which is trapped by thiophenes to generate α‐thienyl‐α'‐ketyl sulfoxonium ylides and initiated subsequent carbenic O‐H insertion from alcohol component. All reactions are operationally simple and proceed smoothly under mild reaction conditions, affording a broad range of unsymmetrical a,a‐disubstituted ketones in moderate to good yields.
Tackle Characteristics Resulting in Potential Head Injuries in Elite Men's Rugby League: A Video Analysis Study of 746 Tackles
Authors: Woodward James , Jones Ben , Phillips Gemma , Till Kevin , Hendricks Sharief , Tucker Ross , Bleakley Chris , Tierney Gregory
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Contact with the head should be avoided during a rugby league tackle, given the inherent risks of head injuries. This study aimed to characterise a sample of tackles, retrospectively identified as resulting in a potential head injury by the Rugby Football League (RFL) match review panel.

Design

Retrospective video analysis study.

Methods

746 tackles, identified by the RFL match review panel from the men's 2018 and 2019 Super League seasons, were analysed. Video clips were coded using an adapted analysis framework, characterising tackle stage, head contact, affected player, offending player/surface, offending body part/surface and tackle sanctioning. Data were reported as frequencies and percentages.

Results

The majority of tackles resulting in a potential head injury occurred in the initial tackle contact stage (n = 590, 79.2%). The ball‐carrier was most frequently affected (n = 372, 49.9%) compared to initial tacklers (n = 213, 28.6%). The initial tackler was the most frequently impacting player (n = 268, 36.0%), with the majority of potential head injuries occurring from direct head contact by the arm (n = 230, 34.1%), shoulder (n = 170, 25.2%) and head/neck (n = 145, 21.5%) of the impacting player. Head contact was present in 90.6% (n = 675) of the tackles resulting in a potential head injury. Of the sample of tackles, 16.1% (n = 109) of direct head contact events received a sanction from on‐field match officials.

Conclusion

The initial tackle contact between the ball‐carrier and initial tackler remains the area of focus for research into potential head injuries in elite‐level men's rugby league, to improve awareness and understanding of the mechanisms of injury.
Fault Classification and Detection in Transmission Lines by Hybrid Algorithm Associated Support Vector Machine
Authors: Kumar V. Rajesh , Jeyanthy P. Aruna
Published: February 2025

This work proposes a unique machine‐learning method based on optimization for the categorization and identification of defects in transmission lines. The novel hybrid optimization algorithm termed as the Chimpanzee inherited Squirrel search strategy (CI‐SSS) optimization technique is used in the proposed approach. The proposed CI‐SSS algorithm inherits the concept of chimps and squirrels in attaining their food with remarkable intelligence. The proposed approach involves optimizing the SVM's parameters to improve the proposed model's accuracy in identifying and classifying transmission line faults. The accuracy and error metrics of the suggested method is studied. The accuracy CI‐SSS is 98.82%, which is 11.35%, 5.41%, 0.84%, and 9.55% higher than methods, like GWO, DA, SSA, and CH, correspondingly. Similarly, the measure of MAE using the proposed CI‐SSS‐based SVM model is 0.0104, which is 84.5%, 87.7%, 85.73%, and 62.85% finer than the traditional methods, namely GWO, DA, SSA, and CH, respectively. Hence, the suggested strategy offers improved performance in classifying and detecting transmission line faults.
Analyzing 3D Steady Variable Coefficients Convection–Diffusion‐Reaction Equations via a Hybrid Element‐Free Galerkin Method
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Yang Yi‐Chen , Liu Feng‐Bin , Cheng Heng
Published: February 2025

This study introduces a hybrid element‐free Galerkin (HEFG) method to analyze the 3D steady convection–diffusion‐reaction equation. By introducing the dimension‐splitting method, the governing equation can be split into 2D form in each layer. The 2D form can be solved using the improved element‐free Galerkin (IEFG) method with improved moving least‐squares (IMLS) approximation as shape function, and discretized equations of 2D form are derived. The finite difference method (FDM) is selected to handle first‐ and second‐order derivatives in the splitting direction. Thus, new 2D discretized equations in each plane are derived, and the final solved equation of the original 3D problem is obtained by coupling these 2D discretized equations. In numerical examples, we study the astringency of the HEFG method by examining the impact of layer and node on relative errors, and the computing time and accuracy of numerical solutions are compared with the dimension‐coupling method (DCM), IEFG method, and exact one. The HEFG method can significantly reduce the calculation times of the IEFG method. Compared with the DCM, the advantage of the proposed method is its shorter computing time when dealing with essential boundaries in a splitting direction.
A Soil Monitoring Law for Europe
Authors: Panagos Panos , Jones Arwyn , Lugato Emanuele , Ballabio Cristiano
Published: February 2025

Over 60% of European soils are unhealthy according to the Soil Mission board estimates and the indicators presented in the European Union (EU) Soil degradation dashboard. The situation may worsen if no policy interventions are taken. The unsustainable use of natural resources, in particular the degradation of soils, precipitates biodiversity loss, exacerbated by the climate crisis. In particular, in the EU alone, soil degradation costs over €50 billion per year due to the loss of essential services they provide and to the impact on human health. Here a more precise estimation of the soil degradation cost related to a set of soil degradation processes, ranging between €40.9 and 72.7 billion per year is presented. This newly updated estimate compared to the Impact assessment of the Soil Monitoring Law takes into account the costs of soil erosion, contamination, phosphorus losses, soil carbon losses, nitrogen losses, soil compaction, and soil sealing. However, this estimation might double if it is added to the costs of soil biodiversity loss, floods, droughts, off‐site effects of soil erosion, and health consequences of soil contamination. Therefore, further research is needed to address this knowledge gap and estimate the missing costs. Soil degradation is a critical issue with transboundary implications that requires urgent attention and action at the EU level. The costs of soil degradation are substantial, both in terms of environmental impacts and economic consequences, highlighting the importance of investing in sustainable soil management practices and a harmonized EU soil monitoring system. By addressing soil degradation through the proposed Soil Monitoring Law, investing significant amounts for research and innovation in the Soil Mission, and promoting international cooperation, the EU can take solid steps toward protecting its soil resources and achieving a sustainable future for all.
Auffüllung geotechnisch gefährdeter Kippentieflagen mit dem Leichtbaustoff Perlite
Authors: Soltau Philipp , Göthel Petra , Sommer Kathy
Published: February 2025

Als Projektträger der ostdeutschen Bergbausanierung entwickelt die Lausitzer und Mitteldeutsche Bergbau‐Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH (LMBV) neuartige Ansätze für effektive und nachhaltige Lösungen zur Wiedernutzbarmachung bergbaulich beanspruchter Flächen. In den Lausitzer Braunkohlentagebauen wurde der zur Kohlefreilegung abgetragene Abraum großflächig verkippt. Die locker gelagerten Kippenböden sind bei Wasseraufsättigung infolge des Grundwasserwiederanstieges äußerst verflüssigungsempfindlich. Insbesondere in Kippentieflagen mit geringen Grundwasserflurabständen besteht beim Befahren mit schwerem Gerät eine erhebliche Gefährdung durch großräumige Geländeeinbrüche und Rutschungen, da der Boden im Verflüssigungsfall seine Tragfähigkeit verliert. Die vom Bergbau beanspruchten Flächen sind für eine forst‐ und landwirtschaftliche Folgenutzung wiederherzustellen, jedoch ist der Einsatz schwerer Geräte für die Sanierung angesichts der geotechnischen Gefährdungen nicht möglich. Es war daher erforderlich, für grundwasserflurnahe Kippenbereiche alternative Sanierungstechnologien zu entwickeln und zu testen. Als innovatives Verfahren wurde die Verfüllung von Tieflagen mit einem Leichtbaustoff ausgearbeitet, wobei dieser aus sicherer Entfernung über Schlauchleitungen herantransportiert und eingebaut werden kann. Ziel des Verfüllens ist die Herstellung ausreichender Grundwasserflurabstände, um damit die Tragfähigkeit für den anschließenden Einsatz von Erdbautechnik zur weiteren Überdeckung mit kulturfähigem Boden zu gewährleisten. Nach Vorauswahl und umfangreichen Laboruntersuchungen wurde der Leichtbaustoff Perlite ausgewählt und dessen Anwendbarkeit in einem Pilotvorhaben überprüft. Es wurde eine Einbautechnologie hinsichtlich Staubentwicklung, erforderlicher Wasserzugabe, Förderreichweite und Auffüllleistung getestet. Ebenso wurden die Perliteoberfläche bezüglich der Begeh‐ und Befahrbarkeit sowie das Setzungsverhalten bei Überdeckung mit Boden untersucht. Die Eignung des Leichtbaustoffes Perlite zur Verfüllung grundwassernaher Kippentieflagen kann bestätigt werden. Aufgrund der hohen Gestellungskosten der Perlite ist der zukünftige Einsatz als Sondertechnologie in besonders sensiblen Kippenbereichen vorgesehen.
Evaluation of Complete Blood Count Parameters in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aghaei Mojtaba , Bahreiny Seyed Sobhan , Zayeri Zeynab Deris , Davari Nader , Abolhasani Mohammad Mehdi , Saki Najmaldin
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Several studies were performed to evaluate the relationship between CBC and patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). In this review, we discussed the prognostic value of CBC parameters in DM patients.

Methods

English literature was searched and retrieved from the Google Scholar search engine and PubMed database (1980–2024). “Diabetes mellitus,” “Blood cell count,” “Mean platelet volume,” “Leukocytes,” and “Inflammation” were used as keywords.

Results

DM increases vascular inflammation and oxidative stress, while vascular inflammation affects erythropoiesis and red blood cell deformation, thus increasing red cell distribution width (RDW). Mean platelet volume (MPV) is another useful prognostic biomarker for DM patients. Additionally, elevated neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) levels are associated with poor glycemic control in T2DM patients, so it can be used as a screening tool in diabetic follow‐up.

Conclusion

RDW can be used as a valuable independent biomarker to assess the prognosis of patients with DM. MPV can also be used as a noninvasive, widely available, and low‐cost marker as a key factor as well as a Prognostic/diagnostic biomarker that could be used for DM patients. Total white blood cell count, NLR, Mean platelet volume lymphocyte ratio (MPVLR), and monocyte to high‐density lipoprotein ratio (MHR) are valuable biomarkers in predicting DM.
Machine learning for discrimination of phase‐change chalcogenide glasses
Authors: Xu Qundao , Xu Meng , Tang Siqi , Yuan Shaojie , Xu Ming , Zhang Wei , Li Xian‐Bin , Wang Zhongrui , Miao Xiangshui , Wang Chengliang , Wuttig Matthias
Published: February 2025

Chalcogenides, despite their versatile functionality, share a notably similar local structure in their amorphous states. Particularly in electronic phase‐change memory applications, distinguishing these glasses from neighboring compositions that do not possess memory capabilities is inherently difficult when employing traditional analytical methods. This has led to a dilemma in materials design since an atomistic view of the arrangement in the amorphous state is the key to understanding and optimizing the functionality of these glasses. To tackle this challenge, we present a machine learning (ML) approach to separate electronic phase‐change materials (ePCMs) from other chalcogenides, based upon subtle differences in the short‐range order inside the glassy phase. Leveraging the established structure–property relations in chalcogenide glasses, we select suitable features to train accurate machine learning models, even with a modestly sized dataset. The trained model accurately discerns the critical transition point between glass compositions suitable for use as ePCMs and those that are not, particularly for both GeTe–GeSe and Sb2Te3–Sb2Se3 materials, in line with experiments. Furthermore, by extracting the physical knowledge that the ML model has offered, we pinpoint three pivotal structural features of amorphous chalcogenides, that is, the bond angle, packing efficiency, and the length of the fourth bond, which provide a map for materials design with the ability to “predict” and “explain”. All three of the above features point to the smaller Peierls‐like distortion and more well‐defined octahedral clusters in amorphous ePCMs than non‐ePCMs. Our study delves into the mechanisms shaping these structural attributes in amorphous ePCMs, yielding valuable insights for the AI‐powered discovery of novel materials.

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Characterization of Particles From Collagen Bio‐Stimulating Materials Used in Facial Filling Procedures
Authors: de Moraes Nobre Marina , Fraga May Anny Alves , Dal Coll Valéria , Brito Cássia Almeida , de Menezes Livia Rodrigues , Thebit Marcela Marçal , Correr Américo Bortolazzo
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to characterize the calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) particles present in collagen bio‐stimulating materials used in facial rejuvenation procedures. Five collagen bio‐stimulating materials were evaluated: Radiesse, Rennova Diamond, HarmonyCa, Victalab Bio‐stimulator, and Optimus Bio‐stimulator. One gram of each material was successively immersed in water to remove the organic part (carboxymethyl cellulose) until the supernatant was clear. Particle morphology and composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x‐ray microanalysis (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Radiesse showed particles with homogeneous distribution, spherical shape, and size between 24 and 38 μm. Rennova Diamond and HarmonyCa had a spherical shape and varied sizes, between 12–62 μm and 22–51 μm, respectively. Victalab and Optimus showed irregular particles, sharp angles, and sizes between 3–93 μm and 4–57 μm, respectively. FTIR analyzes showed that all materials presented CaHA with similar composition. It can be concluded that the collagen bio‐stimulator materials presented different inorganic contents in terms of size and morphology.
The 50 most cited studies on trochleoplasty
Authors: Pfarrmaier Alexander , Vieider Romed P. , Sanchez Rodrigo , Muench Lukas N. , Willinger Lukas , Siebenlist Sebastian , Runer Armin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to analyse the 50 most cited publications on trochleoplasty (TP), examine their bibliographic parameters and evaluate the correlations between citation count, methodological quality and other factors.

Methods

In a comprehensive literature search on the Web of Science, the 50 most cited studies on TP were identified. These studies were then evaluated according to their bibliographic parameters, level of evidence (LOE), citation counts, the Modified Coleman Methodological Score (MCMS), the Methodological Index for Non‑Randomised Studies (MINORS) and the Radiologic Methodology and Quality Scale (MQCSRE).

Results

Of the top 50 list, 15 articles (30%) were published in the journal ‘Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy’ (KSSTA). A total of 39 studies were published by institutes from Europe (78%), with France and Switzerland being represented 10 times each. Of eight different study types, case series (n = 25, 50%) and systematic reviews (n = 16, 32%) were the most prevalent. LOE included Level III (n = 1, 2%), Level IV (n = 41, 82%) and Level V studies (n = 8, 16%) studies. The total citation count amounted to 2481 citations, ranging from 10 to 187 (mean 49.6 ± 41.5) and showed a mean citation density of 5.1 ± 2.6. Quality scores were 60.8 ± 9.8 for MCMS (n = 26), 11.1 ± 2.9 for MINORS (n = 26) and 22.5 ± 2.1 for MQCSRE (n = 25), respectively. High citation counts did not statistically correlate with higher study quality scores (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Overall, there is growing scientific interest in TP as a treatment option for patients suffering from patellofemoral instability despite the lack of articles with a high LOE and methodological quality. This review of the top 50 most cited studies provides orthopaedic surgeons with a resource to assess the most impactful academic contributions to TP.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
12.5% of all women's and 7.7% of all men's players from the 2022 and 2023 FIFA World Cups underwent a previous anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Astur Diego Costa , De Melo Salgado Gabriel , Dal Piva Marina , Radamessi David Ken Nagata , Sinibaldi Edward Patrick , De Albuquerque Filho Antonio Bezerra , Neto Hassan Ahmad Hauache , Ramos Leonardo Adeo , Cohen Moisés
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions in athletes who participated in the men's 2022 and women's 2023 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA®) World Cups, comparing the incidence between genders, positions and the stages reached by the teams during the competition.

Methods

This is a media analysis study, and data were collected from official club and FIFA® websites: a list of athletes who played during the men's 2022 and women's 2023 FIFA® World Cup, a list of athletes who already did an ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and rehabilitation before the competition, and stages from each team during the competition.

Results

12.5% of the athletes in the women's competition (92 athletes) and 7.7% in the men's competition (64 athletes) underwent ACLR surgery before. When comparing positions (goalkeeper, defence, midfield and forwards), there were no statistical differences between men (p = 0.97) and women (p = 0.26). According to the competition stage, the prevalence increased from 12.5% in the group stage to 17.4% in the finals (p = 0.05) for women and ranged from 6.8% to 7.9% (p = 0.87) among men. The number of ACL revision surgeries was 18 in women players (2.4% of total, 19.4% of those operated) and 5 in men players (0.6% of total, 7.5% of those operated). No statistical difference in revision rates between men and women (p = 0.16).

Conclusion

In the highest football level competition in the world (FIFA® World Cup), there was no statistical difference between the number of men and women called up and who participated after ACLR, rehabilitation and return to sport (12.5% vs. 7.7%; p > 0.05). Furthermore, the incidence of ACL‐operated players belonging to each team that played in the World Cup increased from the stage of groups to the final in the female category (p = 0.05), but remained stable in the male category (p = 0.87).

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
Safety and efficacy of living donor liver transplantation for unresectable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma: A single center prospective study
Authors: Ito Takashi , Taura Kojiro , Fukumitsu Ken , Okumura Shinya , Ogiso Satoshi , Anazawa Takayuki , Nagai Kazuyuki , Uchida Yoichiro , Ishii Takamichi , Hatano Etsuro
Published: February 2025

Background

The prognosis for unresectable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (phCCA) is extremely poor. Liver transplantation in combination with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy has become the treatment of choice for unresectable phCCA in the USA. In 2018, we launched a prospective study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) for unresectable phCCA.

Methods

A total of 10 patients were enrolled in this study between 2018 and 2024. Finally, five patients with unresectable phCCA underwent LDLT after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiation, and staging laparotomy, while the other five patients dropped out of the protocol.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 23.7 months. The overall survival rate for the five patients who underwent LDLT was 100% after one year. Hepatic artery thrombosis and delayed gastric emptying occurred in two and three cases, respectively. The histological efficacy of preoperative treatment was grade IIb and III, according to the Evans classification, in all five patients. All surgical margins and dissected lymph nodes were negative. Four patients were alive with no evidence of disease recurrence while one patient had recurrence 10 months after LDLT.

Conclusions

LDLT is feasible and may be a last‐resort treatment option for unresectable phCCA, although the long‐term outcomes need to be carefully monitored.

Clinical trial register and clinical registration number

The UMIN registration number for this study is 000033348.
Differential Serotype Specificity in the IgG Subclass Profile of the Anti‐Domain III Response Elicited by Dengue Virus Infection
Authors: González‐Lodeiro Luis Gabriel , Barrios Roque Patricia , Gómez Hernández Nivaldo , Medina‐Carrasco Danya , García de Castro Lisandra E. , Huerta Galindo Vivian
Published: February 2025

Dengue is a potentially fatal disease caused by any of the four serotypes of dengue virus complex (DENV1‐4). Domain III (DIII) of the envelope protein mediates early virus:cell interactions and is target of potent neutralizing antibodies. Little data is available on the dynamic of IgG subclasses in anti‐DIII response elicited during viral infection. Fifty‐eight human sera were used to characterize the IgG subclass profile of the anti‐DIII antibody response in terms of abundance and serotype‐specificity. Immunodominant epitopes were also determined using 70 Ala‐mutants of a recombinant DIII protein that spans residues with more than 15% of the exposed area in the virion. IgG1 and IgG3 were found as the subclasses that react to control primary infections while a significant response was detected for all IgG subclasses in response to secondary infections. Anti‐DIII IgG1 exhibits a distinctive pattern of serotype‐specificity with respect to the other IgG subclasses in the recognition of recombinant DIII proteins corresponding to the four DENV serotypes. The dominant epitope of IgG1 is located in the FG‐loop, which is characterized by high variability in its amino acid sequence. In contrast, the dominant epitopes of IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 were defined as regions enriched in complex‐ and subcomplex conserved residues such as the A‐strand and the AB‐loop of DIII. IgG1 plays a prominent role in neutralizing circulating DENV during infection. A balanced and timely response of the different IgG subclasses is critical in the evolution of dengue disease.
Soil Salinity Reduces Soil Carbon Storage Mainly by Decreasing Inorganic Carbon in the Ring Tarim Basin of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhou Junjie , Zhang Heyu , Liu Liyan , Wu Tianzhong , Feng Yiming , Guan Wenke , Liu Yongping , Xu Bingcheng
Published: February 2025

Saline soil is an important inorganic carbon pool and is highly susceptible to environmental change. The Tarim Basin is the largest inland basin around the world, with saline land making up approximately 20% of its total area, while few research has been conducted on salt‐affected soil carbon density and its distribution in the region. To identify the effect of soil salinity on soil carbon density, we collected 135 soil profiles (0–100 cm), and calculated the soil organic carbon density (SOCD), soil inorganic carbon density (SICD), soil total carbon density (STCD) and their distribution, and discussed their relationships with climate and soil physicochemical properties. Results showed that average STCD, SOCD, and SICD at 0–100 cm soil profile were 25.0, 3.7, and 21.3 kg C m−2, respectively. SICD was approximately 6.30–9.04 times higher than SOCD. The vertical distribution of SOCD decreased with increasing soil depth, whereas STCD and SICD increased. Soil salinity had negative effects on STCD by reducing both SOCD and SICD, with the negative impact increasing with salinity degrees. Compared to non‐salinity, STCD at 0–100 cm soil profile decreased by 10.5%, 7.0% and 10.5% under light, moderate, and severe salinity, respectively. Random forest analysis indicated that soil total nitrogen content (STN) and soil bulk density (BD) were the most important predictor variables for estimating SOCD and SICD. Soil salinity had significant negative correlation with STN and BD, resulting in a negative effect on SOCD and SICD. Our findings emphasized that soil salinity reduced STCD mainly by reducing SICD, and the reduction in carbon stocks increased with increasing soil salinity degree. In addition, mitigation of the adverse effects of soil salinity on STC stocks could be considered by increasing STN content and soil bulk density.
Mapping the Mentorship Landscape in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Training Programs: A Cross‐Canadian Survey
Authors: Chen Tanya , Silver Jennifer A. , Seikaly Hadi , Nguyen Lily H. P. , Chan Yvonne
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to explore the current landscape of mentorship within Canadian Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) programs by investigating the experiences and perspectives of OHNS trainees and program directors (PDs).

Study Design

A cross‐sectional survey study.

Methods

Anonymized online questionnaires were sent to all residents and PDs of the 13 accredited OHNS residency programs across Canada. The questionnaires collected qualitative and quantitative information about the type of mentorship (formal vs informal) programs implemented, as well as individuals' experiences and opinions on mentorship.

Results

Of residents, 57.1% (92/161) completed the survey, whereas 84.6% (11/13) of PDs completed the survey. Of residents, 45.7% (42/92) participated in formal mentorship programs and 72.8% (67/92) participated in informal mentorship programs. The PDs perceived the importance of formal mentorship at 3.0/5. Residents reported greater satisfaction with informal mentorship relationships compared to formal mentorship (4.4/5 vs 3.7/5, P < .01) due to a more organic initiation of relationship and a better personality match. The main areas for improvement of current mentorship programs included the availability of mentors, networking opportunities, and protected time for encounters.

Conclusion

Surgical residents found informal mentorship to be more beneficial than formal mentorship. However, residency programs should provide more guidance and structure to optimize hybrid mentorship opportunities and mentor selection/availability. Mentorship training or development resources for attending physicians and feedback opportunities are essential for efficient relationships.
Tribological Behavior of Self‐Lubricating PEEK/Graphite/Ti3SiC2 Composites Under Dry Sliding Friction
Authors: Zhang Yang , Li Qingsong , Xie Xi , Sui Guoxin
Published: February 2025

Most polymers and composites suffer from high friction and wear due to their inherent lack of self‐lubrication under dry sliding friction. Herein, the lamellar Ti3SiC2 MAX material is prepared via vacuum sintering of a powder mixture containing Ti, Si, and TiC in the molar ratio of 1:1.1:1.8 at 1500°C under a pressure of 30 MPa for 2 h. Combined with a soft graphite phase (5 wt%), self‐lubricating PEEK/Graphite/Ti3SiC2 (PG‐T) composites are successfully prepared, dependent on Ti3SiC2 (5 and 15 wt%) as a hard reinforced phase and lubrication additive. PG‐T composites are fabricated via a multistep compounding approach using a twin‐screw extruder. The incorporation of Ti3SiC2 and graphite within the PEEK matrix manifests a highly pronounced synergistic effect, which not only facilitates effective lubrication but also significantly enhances the load‐bearing capability, thereby effectively circumventing direct contact between the counterface and the polymeric matrix. The sliding tests are conducted on the pins (diameter: 6.0 mm, height: 17.0 mm) and friction pair (45#steel, roughness Ra: 148 nm) under dry friction. In terms of PV‐condition (up to 6 MPa and 3 m/s) (PV is a parameter that reflects the load‐bearing capacity of polymer materials, which is defined by multi‐plying the pressure P by the sliding speed V), PG5‐T15 exhibits self‐lubricating properties, featured by an average coefficient of friction (ACOF) as low as 0.119 for the pin‐plate test and a specific wear rate (SWR) of only 0.58 × 10−6 mm3/Nm. Meanwhile, PG‐T composites present excellent thermal properties based on the thermal expansion coefficients (CTEs) and storage moduli (G′) during friction and wear. Considering the practical applications of tribo‐composites, these findings highlight the potential of PG‐T composite as a candidate for demanding tribological applications.