bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring osteotomy wedge angle is more important than measuring wedge height in open wedge osteotomies around the knee in preoperative planning
Authors: Watrinet Julius , Schlaich Johannes , Vieider Romed , Rupp Marco‐Christopher , Mehl Julian , Siebenlist Sebastian , Runer Armin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Preoperative planning for medial open wedge high tibial osteotomies (HTOs) and lateral open wedge distal femur osteotomies (DFOs) commonly uses wedge height to guide accurate correction. However, it is unclear if this parameter is influenced by intraoperative variations in osteotomy entry point or length. This study hypothesized that wedge angle remains constant during planning, while wedge height varies depending on hinge or entry points.

Methods

Whole leg radiographs of 40 patients who underwent HTO or DFO (2018–2024) were analysed using digital planning software. For each HTO and DFO case, 27 and 21 osteotomy variants were created, respectively, by altering entry and hinge points, resulting in 960 simulations. Wedge angle, wedge height and osteotomy depth were measured for each variant. Correlations and regression analyses assessed the relationships among these variables, and a mathematical formula was developed to predict wedge height from wedge angle and osteotomy depth.

Results

Wedge angle remained consistent across variants (mean deviation: 0.1 ± 0.1°), while wedge height showed variability (mean deviation: 0.7 ± 0.5 mm) influenced by entry and hinge points. Significant correlations were found between wedge height and opening angle (R = 0.83, p < 0.001) and osteotomy depth (R = 0.60, p < 0.001). Predicted wedge height closely matched actual values (R = 0.998, p < 0.001), with minimal error (−0.01 ± 0.1°).

Conclusion

This study highlights that relying solely on wedge height for osteotomy planning in HTO and DFO is insufficient due to variations in entry and hinge points. The hinge angle proved to be the most reliable parameter. Intraoperative osteotomy depth measurements can help adjust wedge height for accurate limb alignment when deviations occur.

Level of Evidence

Level V simulation study.
Redirection‐Manipulated Honeycomb Inclined Reflection System Enables Highly Efficient AlGaN‐Based Deep‐Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liao Zhefu , Lv Zhenxing , Tang Bin , Sun Ke , Jiang Jingjing , Qi Shengli , Liu Sheng , Zhou Shengjun
Published: February 2025

AlGaN‐based deep‐ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (DUV LEDs) are considered promising and efficient solid‐state DUV light sources. However, extracting photons directly from high‐Al‐content AlGaN multiple quantum wells active region where the ratio of transverse magnetic (TM)/transverse electric (TE) polarization emission increases has long been challenging due to the total internal reflection phenomenon and re‐absorption effect, leading to the low efficiency of DUV LEDs. Herein, a redirection‐manipulated honeycomb inclined reflection system (HIRS) is demonstrated aimed at efficiently extracting TM‐ and TE‐polarized light from DUV LEDs, and systematically analyze the influence of the HIRS configurations on the resulting redirection effect. Crucially, the investigation reveals the effective range of the HIRS redirection effect, prompting the proposal of a pixelation strategy applicable to generalized AlGaN‐based DUV LEDs. This strategy is validated through the experimental fabrication of pixelated DUV LEDs integrated with HIRS. Compared to their non‐pixelated, non‐HIRS counterparts, these pixelated DUV LEDs integrated with HIRS achieve a light output power enhancement factor of up to 1.95, surpassing all previously reported pixelated DUV LEDs. Furthermore, the double‐side‐coated sapphire is introduced as a package plate to improve reliability and optical performance and develop a miniaturized sterilization module for effective water purification. This work not only provides guidance for high‐power AlGaN‐based DUV LEDs design and manufacture but also advances the development of efficient solutions for water purification.
Lag‐Compensated Hyperfine Terahertz Dual‐Comb Interferometer beyond Intrinsic Resolution and Sensitivity
Authors: Ma Liang , Fan Fei , Feng Jixin , Shen Peng , Yin Hang , Ji Yunyun , Wang Xianghui , Chang Shengjiang
Published: February 2025

Optical coherence with high precision and sensitivity holds achievements in communication, metrology, and sensing. The optical vernier effect generated by the dual‐comb interference highlights coherence technology to heighten accuracy and sensitivity, particularly in the visible and infrared bands. However, the maturity in the frequency domain of the optical coherence may overshadow its attributes in the time domain, which are limited to enhancing comprehensive performance. This work provides a lag compensation technology in the time domain that enables hyperfine interference spectrum and vernier ultra‐resolution, verified by a cascading terahertz dual‐comb interferometer. This strategy proves a 71.4 times improvement in the vernier resolution beyond the intrinsic resolution, reaching the Nyquist sampling limit without necessitating unique optical materials or compromising device geometry. Furthermore, a universal Lag‐Interference‐Sensitivity correlation is established to guide an ultra‐sensitivity of 1.4 × 104 GHz·RIU−1 within the 0.2–1 THz range, defying two orders of magnitude compared to the existing reports. Finally, the application in biochemical sensing, reaching a sensitivity of 2.63 GHz·mm2·ng−1 and an accuracy of 0.59 ng·mm−2, outperforming current reports and stimulating further exploration of ultra‐sensitive terahertz biochemical on‐chip sensors, is demonstrated. This validation proves an appealing scheme for precision metrology and high‐resolution vernier sensing.
Sesquilinear forms as eigenvectors in quasi *‐algebras, with an application to ladder elements
Authors: Bagarello Fabio , Inoue Hiroshi , Triolo Salvatore
Published: February 2025

We consider a particular class of sesquilinear forms on a Banach quasi *‐algebra that we call eigenstates of an element , and we deduce some of their properties. We further apply our definition to a family of ladder elements, that is, elements of obeying certain commutation relations physically motivated, and we discuss several results, including orthogonality and biorthogonality of the forms, via Gelfand–Naimark–Segal (GNS) representation.
Unraveling the Clinical FSH Conundrum: Insights From the Small Ovarian Reserve Heifer Model
Authors: Ireland James J. , Karl Kaitlin R. , Latham Keith E.
Published: February 2025

High doses of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) are used during ovarian stimulation to maximize the number of oocytes recovered for in vitro fertilization (IVF) during assisted reproductive technology (ART) in women. Whether high FSH doses are detrimental to embryo viability remains controversial. Evidence from many clinical studies revealed that FSH dose is inversely correlated with live birth rate in women. The mechanistic basis for this effect has been elusive. This review summarizes over 20 years of work using a unique biomedical model, the small ovarian reserve heifer (SORH). Those studies revealed that excessive FSH doses can disrupt gene expression via multiple cell‐signaling pathways in ovarian cells, resulting in follicular hyperstimulation dysgenesis (FHD). This compromises the capacity of ovulatory‐size follicles to respond to gonadotropins, produce estradiol and ovulate, causes premature cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation, and impairs the fertilizability of oocytes. The SORH model has thus provided new insights into the nature and mechanisms of the deleterious effects of excessive FSH doses during ovarian stimulation. The SORH model has been and remains valuable for basic research and for the discovery of ways to optimize FSH dosing clinically to improve IVF success and ART outcomes.
Multifocal Motor Neuropathy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Claytor Benjamin , Polston David , Li Yuebing
Published: February 2025

Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is an acquired autoimmune polyneuropathy that affects almost exclusively the motor nerve fibers. Typically seen in middle‐aged adults, its predominant clinical feature is a chronically progressive asymmetric weakness that affects the distal upper extremities most significantly. Minor sensory symptoms, sensory examination findings or abnormal sensory nerve conduction studies can be seen in the lower extremities in a minority of patients. Electrodiagnostic studies reveal motor conduction blocks at noncompressible sites, and minor findings of other demyelinating features such as conduction slowing or temporal dispersion. Anti‐GM1 antibody titers are elevated in less than half of MMN patients, and more recent studies suggest mechanisms including antibody‐induced complement attack at the node of Ranvier with resulting ion channel dysfunction. Peripheral nerve magnetic resonance imaging and neuromuscular ultrasound often reveal non‐uniform enlargement of the nerve roots, plexuses, or peripheral nerve segments, thus being useful in assisting diagnosis. The differential diagnosis of MMN mainly includes motor neuron disease or demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathies. Immunoglobulin therapy is the first‐line and mainstay of treatment, being effective in maintaining or restoring muscle strength in the majority of patients. However, motor strength often slowly declines over the long term, even with maintenance immunoglobulin treatment. More effective immunotherapy is needed to halt the slow progression of MMN, and complement inhibition appears to be a promising option in the near future.
Surgical Strategies for Functional Upper Extremity Reconstruction After Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Crowe Christopher S. , Liu Yusha Katie , Curtin Catherine M. , Hentz Vincent R. , Kozin Scott H. , Fox Ida K. , Berger Michael J.
Published: February 2025

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can substantially affect independence and quality of life, particularly by limiting upper extremity function. Surgical reconstruction offers the potential to restore motion in the hand, wrist, and elbow for those with deficits following cervical spinal cord injury. Techniques such as tendon transfer, tenodesis, and arthrodesis—often used in combination—are well‐established strategies for enhancing upper extremity function. Nerve transfers have more recently been employed and differ from other procedures in that they are often time sensitive and should be performed before permanent muscle atrophy occurs. A comprehensive preoperative evaluation, including clinical examination and electrodiagnostic assessment, is essential to determine the availability and strength of donor tendons and nerves. The International Classification of Surgery for the Hand in Tetraplegia (ICSHT) system is the most utilized surgical classification for determining muscle that can be used for reconstruction. Based on this classification, prioritization is given to restoring elbow extension, wrist extension, pinch, and grasp. Postoperative rehabilitative therapy balances the need for immobilization while preventing joint stiffness and may also incorporate cortical retraining strategies to activate tendon and nerve transfers. Ultimately, a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach is essential for assessing the injury, determining operative candidacy, selecting the optimal treatment strategy, and providing tailored rehabilitation. This article explores the classification of SCI as it pertains to the upper limb, provides an overview of surgical options, describes the preoperative clinical and electrodiagnostic evaluation process, and discusses reconstructive strategies aimed at improving functional outcomes in individuals with SCI.
Inhibition of SARM1 Reduces Neuropathic Pain in a Spared Nerve Injury Rodent Model
Authors: Herbosa Christopher G. , Perez Ronald , Jaeger Alexandra , Dy Christopher J. , Brogan David M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Aims

The function of the sterile alpha and toll/interleukin receptor motif‐containing protein 1 (SARM1) in neuropathic pain development has not yet been established. This protein has a central role in regulating axon degeneration and its depletion delays this process. This study aims to demonstrate the effects of SARM1 deletion on the development of neuropathic pain.

Methods

Thirty‐two wild‐type (WT) or SARM1 knockout (KO) rats underwent spared nerve injury (SNI) or sham surgery. Mechanical allodynia was assessed by electronic Von Frey and cold hyperalgesia by the acetone test. Nociception was evaluated at the baseline, Day‐1, Day‐2, Week‐1, Week‐2, Week‐3, and Week‐4 time points. Nerve sections were examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

WT Injury rats were more sensitive to pain than WT Sham at all postoperative time points, validating the pain model. Injured SARM1 KO rats only demonstrated a difference in mechanical or cold nociception from KO Sham at Week 3. Injured KO rats demonstrated a clear trend of decreased sensitivity compared to WT Injury nociception, reaching significance at Week 4 (p = 0.044). Injured KO rats showed attenuated sensitivity to cold allodynia relative to WT at Week 2 (p = 0.019). IHC revealed decreased macrophages in spared sural nerves of injured KO animals at 2 and 4 weeks, and the proximal portion of tibial/peroneal nerves at Week 2.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that SARM1 KO rats are less sensitive to mechanical and cold nociception than WT rats in an SNI model with decreased inflammatory response. Given these results, inhibition of SARM1 should be further investigated in the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Associations Between End‐Stage ALS Care and Specialty Palliative Care: A Hypothesis‐Generating Study
Authors: Lero Christi M. , Yang Annabelle , Everett Elyse , Pitzer Kyle A. , McCoy Gross Kelly , Washington Karla T.
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Aims

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) care is typically delivered via a multidisciplinary approach that may include specialty palliative care (SPC). Opportunities for SPC to enhance ALS care have been identified; however, investigation of these proposed benefits is scant. In this exploratory study, investigators examined associations between receipt of SPC and variables particularly relevant to end‐stage ALS.

Methods

Researchers reviewed electronic health records for all patients with ALS who received standard ALS care from one Midwestern US academic medical center and died between January 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022 (N = 156). Receipt of SPC, duration of illness, hospice enrollment and length of service, report of a healthcare proxy, documentation of a healthcare proxy, participation in goals of care conversations, and location of death were examined.

Results

Patients who received SPC (59%), had lower mean forced vital capacity (FVC) (p < 0.05), and more often used respiratory support (p < 0.001), participated in goals of care conversations (p < 0.001), reported a healthcare proxy (p < 0.01), and enrolled in hospice (p < 0.001) than patients who received standard care alone. No differences between groups were found in duration of illness (mean = 51.7 months), use of assistive feeding, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale—Revised (ALSFRS‐R) scores (mean = 32.1), documentation of a healthcare proxy, length of hospice stay (mean = 47.3 days), or location of death.

Discussion

Clinical characteristics and end‐of‐life outcome differences between groups support further investigation of the proposed benefits of SPC regarding hospice enrollment, report of healthcare proxies, and documented goals of care conversations.
The Video Ocular Counter‐Roll Test: Validation for Vestibular Dysfunction Diagnosis in Clinical Practice
Authors: Tessler Idit , Wolfovitz Amit , Gecel Nir Abraham , Hazan Tomer , Livneh Nir , Alsleibi Shibli , Gimmon Yoav
Published: February 2025

Objective

The video ocular counter‐roll (vOCR) test is a novel method that uses video‐oculography (VOG) goggles to detect vestibular dysfunction, potentially offering a simpler alternative to current vestibular function tests. In this study, we aim to compare the vOCR test with the caloric test for diagnosing vestibular dysfunction and to assess its clinical applicability.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A tertiary academic referral center.

Methods

This retrospective study included all patients who underwent both vOCR and caloric tests during the same visit between 2021 and 2023. The patients were divided into 3 groups based upon caloric response: unilateral vestibular hypofunction (UVH), bilateral vestibular hypofunction (BVH), and normal. The vOCR test was performed with a 30° head tilt to both sides. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated for vOCR performance. The 2‐step approach employed for utilizing the vOCR test included the average vOCR measurement for diagnosing BVH followed by the vOCR asymmetry ratio (AR) to UVH.

Results

In total, 134 patients were included in the study, with 14 (10.5%) diagnosed with bilateral vestibular hypofunction (BVH), 44 (32.8%) with unilateral vestibular hypofunction (UVH), and 76 (56.7%) exhibiting normal vestibular function based on caloric testing. A vOCR cutoff value of 3.2° demonstrated sensitivity and specificity of 92.5% and 85.7%, respectively, for detecting BVH (AUC 95.1%, P < .001). An AR of 0.12 showed sensitivity and specificity of 97.7% and 63.2%, respectively, for detecting UVH (AUC 79.2%, P < .001). vOCR measurements differed significantly across all 3 groups (P < .001). In the UVH group, the vOCR angles were consistently smaller on the hypofunction side, suggesting laterality.

Conclusion

vOCR diagnoses vestibular dysfunction with high sensitivity and specificity compared to the caloric test. Incorporating vOCR into the vestibular testing battery could enhance diagnostic efficiency and patient comfort.
Formation of C1 oxygenates by Activation of Methane on B, N Co‐Doped Graphene Surface Decorated by Oxygen Pre‐Covered Ir13 Cluster: A First Principles Study
Authors: Damte Jemal Yimer , Houska Jiri
Published: February 2025

The environmentally friendly conversion of methane to value‐added chemicals is studied by ab‐initio calculations. We focus on the adsorption and dehydrogenation of methane were investigated on Ir13 cluster supported by boron nitrogen co‐doped graphene (BNG). We show that the BNG‐Ir13 cluster with low oxygen coverage exhibits more negative adsorption energy of methane (−0.44 eV) and lower activation energy barrier for its dissociation (1.24 eV for the second dehydrogenation step) compared to the cluster with high oxygen coverage. Next, assuming abundant CH3 and CH2 species due to a proper temperature control preventing further dehydrogenation, we study competitive C−O coupling reactions leading to the formation of value‐added chemicals. The activation energy barriers for the formation of methanol and formaldehyde are on BNG‐Ir13 are once again lower at a lower oxygen coverage. Furthermore, we study hydrogen recombination and confirm that H2 molecules can be formed on these surfaces. Based on these findings, the low‐oxygen‐coverage BNG‐Ir13 cluster emerges as a promising catalyst for the selective conversion of methane to methanol and formaldehyde, as well as for hydrogen production.
Centering Weight Management Clinical Decision Support in Primary Care on Patients With Obesity and Practitioners: A Proof‐Of‐Concept Study
Authors: Gudzune Kimberly A. , Schwartz Jessica L. , Olsson Kelly , Almazan Erik , Beck Thomas Grader , Ghosh Jyotsna , Bennett Wendy L. , Clark Jeanne M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) are electronic health record tools that support practitioners' decision‐making at the point‐of‐care. CDSS may aid clinical care but are not often centered on patients or practitioners.

Aims

To develop and preliminarily test a CDSS designed to support evidence‐based obesity treatment, promote a patient‐centered experience, and integrate with clinical workflows.

Materials & Methods

The CDSS allowed patients to complete a pre‐visit questionnaire via the patient portal, which activated multiple elements for the primary care practitioner (PCP). A 3‐month proof‐of‐concept study was conducted among 10 PCPs at 5 clinics to determine usefulness, usability, and acceptability through validated surveys (mean score ≥ 2.5 signified positive outcome; max 5). Using t‐tests, pre‐post differences in PCPs' frequency of self‐reported clinical practices (1‐never; 5‐always) were examined.

Results

Most PCPs were physicians with mean experience of 10.8 years (SD 7.5). Overall, mean scores for usefulness, usability, and acceptability were 3.2 (SD 0.8), 3.5 (SD 0.9), and 3.6 (SD 0.9), respectively. PCPs reported significant increases in three key clinical practices—counseling on behavioral interventions (3.1 vs. 3.9 [p < 0.01]), referring to weight‐loss programs (2.8 vs. 3.5 [p < 0.01]), and discussing anti‐obesity medications (3.3 vs. 3.8 [p = 0.02]).

Conclusion

This weight management CDSS was useful and usable for PCPs and improved obesity‐related practice habits. Future studies need to evaluate its impact on patient outcomes.
Development of antimicrobial textile using in‐situ AgNPs and evaluation of comfort performance for biomedical applications
Authors: Saha Sonjit Kumar , Alam Md. Rubel , Repon Md. Reazuddin , Siddique Abu Bakr , Ali Ayub , Chowdhury Tanvir Ahmed
Published: February 2025

The development of antimicrobial fabric with comfort ability for biomedical applications in a scalable, cost‐effective coating process is now extremely challenging. This study aims to develop an antimicrobial comfortable single jersey knit fabric with in‐situ generated AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) adhesion in a facile technique for biomedical applications (e.g., wound dressing). The weft knitted fabrics of cotton and blends with polyester in different proportion were independently treated with 5% AgNO3 solutions by mechanical thermo‐fixation technique using the pad‐dry‐cure procedure under optimal conditions on 60/40 CVC (Chief value to cotton), 100% cotton and 65/35 PC (polyester/cotton) fabrics. Then microbial assay, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), moisture management test (MMT), and fabric touch Test (FTT) were employed to assess the antimicrobial, bonding, moisture, and comfort aspects. The treated fabrics show consistent antimicrobial properties without any significant differences, the Zone of Inhibition (ZOI) against S. aureus measures 11 ± 1.4 mm for 60/40 CVC @T, while 65/35 PC @T and 100% Cotton @T exhibit ZOI of 10 ± 2.7 mm and 9 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. Furthermore, treating the fabrics with AgNO3 enhances their ability to manage moisture, facilitating faster absorption and quicker drying compared to untreated fabrics where 100% Cotton @T show maximum OMMC (overall moisture management characteristics) value of 0.371 ± 0.012. Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy analysis verifies the absence of bonding between metal silver ions and fiber molecules, potentially as a result of metal silver ions being adsorbed. Moreover, metal silver ions fabrics have greater overall moisture management capabilities than untreated counterparts, with 60/40 CVC fabric outperforming 100% cotton and 65/35 PC (polyester/cotton) fabrics. In conclusion, FTT analysis indicates that the presence of metal silver ions has negligible effects on fabric comfort. However, 100% Cotton @T fabric stands out for its superior comfort properties such as the smoothness, softness, and warmth indices show scores by 0.34, 0.87, and 0.72 respectively compared to other treated fabrics. Nevertheless, the treated fabrics receive high scores for attributes like smoothness, softness, and warmth. The use of AgNO3 treatment suggests that fabrics could be suitable for biomedical applications without hindering fabrics comfortability.

Highlights

An effective process has employed for the antimicrobial textiles using AgNPs.

Various ratios of natural and synthetic fibers have utilized.

Silver metal ions make the fabric fast absorbing and quick drying.

The presence of metal ions does not compromise the comfort of the fabric.
Antibiotic Resistance in Developing Countries: Emerging Threats and Policy Responses
Authors: Ehsan Hedayatullah
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This narrative review investigates the key drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and evaluates the effectiveness of policy responses. It highlights the unique challenges these regions face and provides actionable recommendations for mitigating AMR.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, supplemented by reports from global health organizations. Studies published between 2010 and 2023 focusing on AMR in LMICs were included. Thematic analysis synthesized data into key drivers, policy challenges, and intervention strategies.

Results

The major drivers of AMR in LMICs include unregulated antibiotic sales, overuse and misuse of antibiotics, weak healthcare infrastructure, poor infection control, and environmental contamination. Socio‐economic factors, such as self‐medication and limited healthcare access, exacerbate the problem. Although strategies like antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs, regulatory reforms, and public education campaigns have shown potential, their effectiveness is hindered by resource limitations and governance challenges.

Conclusions

Combatting AMR in LMICs requires tailored, multi‐sectoral interventions that strengthen healthcare systems, enforce strict regulations, enhance public awareness, and foster international collaboration. Policymakers must prioritize investments in diagnostic infrastructure, AMS, and culturally adapted public health campaigns to reduce resistance and safeguard global health.
Improving User Privacy in Practical Quantum Private Query with Group Honesty Checking
Authors: Wei Chun‐Yan , Wang Qing‐Le , Cai Xiao‐Qiu , Wang Tian‐Yin
Published: February 2025

Current cheat‐sensitive security level of user privacy in quantum private query (QPQ) is far from meeting its ideal requirement. Dishonest database trying to elicit user privacy can only be (delayedly) detected after the finish of the protocol with merely a nonzero probability. Worse yet, no estimation of (i.e., the success probability of dishonest database's cheating) has been given till now. Such estimation is quite necessary because a significant means frangible user privacy especially in the cheat‐sensitive security model. Here, of the first and best‐known quantum‐key‐distribution (QKD)‐based QPQ protocol proposed by Jakobi et al. is estimated, which shows that dishonest database can elicit user privacy with significant probability (e.g., as high as 42.8% for database size ) while such cheating can only be (delayedly) detected with probability 50 %. Common strategy to improve user privacy, i.e., adding honesty checking to detect malicious database may hurt the privacy of the other party, i.e. database security. To solve this problem, a new group honesty checking is proposed, which will not hurt database security and can reduce $  to a very small value (e.g. 0.26% for database size 10000), thus assuring high user privacy (note that = 0 means ideal user privacy).
Cultivating Confidence: The Potential of Science Museum Visits in Boosting Science Self‐Efficacy and Expanding Perceptions of Science in Emerging Adult Learners
Authors: Chien Hsin‐Yi , Gutwill Josh , Nee Julia , Shepard Jenn
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of a single science museum visit on the science self‐efficacy (SSE) of emerging adult learners. Building upon previous research, which showed a significant short‐term impact of a museum visit on SSE, our study aims to replicate these findings and gain deeper insights into the underlying mechanisms contributing to increased SSE. In the present study, we implemented a randomized control trial design and hired a recruitment firm to ensure a representative sample through quota sampling. Participants were randomly assigned to either visit a museum (Treatment) or see a movie (Control). In addition to visiting their assigned excursion, participants completed pre‐, post‐, and delayed‐post‐surveys and a virtual interview. Results demonstrate that visiting a science museum had a significant positive short‐term impact on SSE. Moreover, the museum visit led to an increase in SSE by broadening visitors’ perceptions of what counted as science. Although no significant longer‐term impact on SSE was observed, participants who visited the museum maintained a broadened view of science even 3 months later. Interviews further revealed that positive performance interpretations during the museum visit, which were often achieved by participants exploring conceptually‐accessible, hands‐on exhibits at their own pace, played a vital role in enhancing SSE. Participants also described how the museum visit broadened their view of science by connecting science and daily activities. Implications of these findings for informal science education practitioners and directions for future research are discussed.
Current Developments in Chitosan‐Based Hydrogels for Water and Wastewater Treatment: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Zhang Ziao , Lu Yujie , Zhao Yiman , Cui Lijuan , Xu Chao , Wu Shuping
Published: February 2025

The global shortage of fresh water is a critical issue, especially in regions with limited rainfall. Developing reliable water and wastewater treatment technologies is urgent. Among the available methods, adsorption stands out as a highly effective, straightforward, and cost‐efficient approach. It avoids the use of additional chemicals and reduces the risk of contaminating water source with undesirable by‐products. Chitosan (CS)‐based hydrogels have gained attention for their excellent adsorption capacities for pollutants and water. These materials are also known for their bioavailability, biocompatibility, biodegradability, cost‐effectiveness, and environmental friendliness, making them promising candidates for water and wastewater treatment. This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in the use of CS‐based hydrogels for various applications, including pollutant removal, oil‐water separation, seawater desalination, and atmospheric water condensation. It highlights the benefits of this material in wastewater treatment, providing a broader understanding of their potential for the research community. The review also focuses on the synthesis and modification techniques of these hydrogels, such as cross‐linking, grafting, and ion imprinting, which significantly enhance their adsorption performance and mechanical stability. Additionally, the challenges faced by CS‐based hydrogels in practical applications are discussed, along with potential solutions. The paper concludes by forecasting future directions in this field, offering valuable insights for researchers. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art of CS‐based hydrogels for water treatment applications, offering valuable insights into their effective utilization for water and wastewater treatment, and emphasizing their potential to address global water pollution challenges.
Preparation and Electrochemical Performance of Leaf‐Derived N/O‐Rich Doped Porous Carbons
Authors: Du Boao , Zheng Lihui
Published: February 2025

This research focuses on the field of supercapacitor electrode materials. Using Rhus typhina leaves as the starting material, it innovatively applies a mixed activator composed of K2CO3 and ZnCl2 and successfully prepares O/N self‐doped leaf‐derived porous carbon electrode materials (TLMPC‐x) through a precisely controlled two‐step carbonization‐activation method. The aim is to develop a new type of electrode material that combines excellent performance, environmental friendliness, and the advantage of low cost, and to deeply explore the mechanism of the effect of the activator ratio on the specific surface area and electrochemical performance of the materials. Among them, TLMPC‐1.0 remarkably exhibits a specific surface area as high as 2827.9 m2 g−1. Its abundant and multi‐level pore structure complements well with the diverse heteroatom doping. During the electrochemical performance test in the KOH electrolyte system, the specific capacitance of this material excellently reaches 335.3 F g−1, and the capacitance retention rate is stably maintained at 69%. When the power density is 250 W kg−1, an energy density of 9.45 Wh kg−1 can be achieved. Moreover, after 20 000 charge–discharge cycles, its capacitance retention rate is still as high as 96.4%, demonstrating extremely excellent electrochemical performance and ultra‐stable cycle stability.
Methanolysis of Fluoropyridine Aminals
Authors: Koidan Georgyi , Zahorulko Serhii , Filimonchuk Serhii , Shishkina Svitlana , Rusanov Eduard B. , Kostyuk Aleksandr
Published: February 2025

A series of fluoropyridines featuring a N,N,N’‐trimethyl, N’‐trimethylsilylaminal group were subjected to methanolysis. The methanolysis carried out at room temperature yielded a mixture of products. The aminal group was transformed into a methylimine group and ensuing dimethylamine substituted (or not) a fluorine atom. A relative content of pyridine methylimines with dimethylamino group and without it was determined for all fluoropyridines. Additionally, these compounds were hydrolyzed into aldehydes. This work presents a novel and efficient methodology for synthesizing important scaffolds found in various drug candidates and biologically relevant compounds.
Mechanistic Insights and Advances in Electrode/Electrolyte Interfaces for Efficient Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to C2 Products
Authors: Chen Jie , Xiao Yukun , Da Yumin , Chen Ganwen , Sun Yi‐Yang , Wang Lei , Zhang Jia , Chen Wei
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (ECR) is a promising approach to converting CO2 into chemicals and fuels. Among the ECR products, C2 products such as ethylene, ethanol, and acetate have been extensively studied due to their high industrial demands. However, the mechanistic understanding of C2 product formation remains unclear due to the lack of in situ or operando measurements that can observe the complex and instantaneous atomic evolutions of adsorbates at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Moreover, the sensitivity of ECR reactions to variations at the interface further widens the gap between mechanistic understanding and performance enhancement. To bridge this gap, first‐principle studies provide insights into how the interface influences ECR. In this study, we present a review of mechanistic studies investigating the effects of various factors at the interface, with an emphasis on the C2 product formation. We begin by introducing ECR and the essential metrics. Next, we discuss the factors classified by their components at the interface, namely, electrocatalyst, electrolyte, and adsorbates, respectively, and their effects on the C2 product formation. Due to the interplay among these factors, we aim to deconvolute the influence of each factor and clearly demonstrate their impacts. Finally, we outline the promising directions for mechanistic studies of C2 products.
Building management capability for clinical veterinary organisations—An Australian pilot study
Authors: Liang Zhanming , Hompas Taleta
Published: February 2025

Background

Veterinary care is facing critical levels of attrition that challenge its sustainability in the provision of standards of care. A competent and skilled management workforce, along with enhanced organisational structures and procedures, is essential to effectively address the challenges that veterinary organisations face today and in the future.

Methods

The pilot study adapted the Management Competency Assessment Partnership (MCAP) tool to collect data from 35 mid‐level and senior managers working in five veterinary organisations in Australia via an online survey to understand their competency development needs and the obstacles that they were facing in the management roles. Univariate analyses, Pearson correlations, Kaiser‒Meyer‒Olkin test and Bartlett's test of sphericity were performed.

Results

This study confirmed that the MCAP tool maintained good internal consistency and identified competency gaps that managers in the five veterinary organisations should consider addressing. The study confirmed the positive correlation between informal management‐related training and self‐study on management issues and self‐perceived management competency level. The results supported the need for veterinary organisations to provide management training to foster a culture of continuous improvement and life‐long learning among veterinary managers.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the core elements essential for the building management capacity of veterinary care services and organisations. It also validated the value of management competency self‐assessment in identifying the development needs of managers, demonstrating how the management development framework adapted from the human healthcare sector can guide the development of a competent management workforce for veterinary care.
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs)
Authors: De Poli Matteo
Published: February 2025

Der Beitrag befasst sich mit dem Phänomen der Erstangebote von Kryptowährungen, sprich sog. „Initial Coin Offerings“ oder „ICOs“, und, allgemein, mit den Erstangeboten von Kryptowerten – auch im Lichte der Bestimmungen der kürzlich erlassenen Verordnung (EU) 2023/1114. Nach einer kurzen Beschreibung des Phänomens konzentriert sich der Text auf die Verpflichtungen, die Personen auferlegt werden, die der Öffentlichkeit neue Kryptowerte anzubieten gedenken, und insbesondere auch auf die Funktionen und die Merkmale des sog. „Whitepapers“, eines Informationsdokuments, das in vielerlei Hinsicht an das Prospekt für öffentliche Wertpapierangebote der Verordnung (EU) 2017/1129 erinnert.
Heavy flavour jet substructure
Authors: Dhani Prasanna K. , Fedkevych Oleh , Ghira Andrea , Marzani Simone , Soyez Gregory
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We present a comprehensive study of energy correlation functions and jet angularities for heavy-flavour QCD jets. In particular, we discuss the possibility of using these observables to expose the dead cone effect, i.e. the suppression of collinear QCD radiation around massive quarks, and to investigate the sensitivity of different observable definitions to the presence of quark masses. Our calculations are presented as all-order resummed predictions at next-to-leading-logarithmic accuracy, matched to (partial) fixed-order results to obtain a better description of the transition around the dead cone threshold. We also compare our analytic results with Pythia, Herwig and Sherpa Monte Carlo predictions to estimate the impact of non-perturbative contributions such as hadronisation, underlying events and B-hadron decays.
Long-lived particle phenomenology in one-loop neutrino mass models with dark matter
Authors: Arbeláez Carolina , Cottin Giovanna , Helo Juan Carlos , Hirsch Martin , de Melo Téssio B.
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Neutrino masses and dark matter (DM) might have a common origin. The scotogenic model can be considered the proto-type model realizing this idea, but many other variants exist. In this paper we explore the phenomemology of a particular DM neutrino mass model, containing a triplet scalar. We calculate the relic density and check for constraints from direct detection experiments. The parameter space of the model, allowed by these constraints, contains typically a long-lived or quasi-stable doubly charged scalar, that can be searched for at the LHC. We reinterpret existing searches to derive limits on the masses of the scalars of the model and estimate future sensitivities in the high-luminosity phase of the LHC. The searches we discuss can serve to constrain also many other 1-loop neutrino mass models.
Quasinormal modes and echoes of a double braneworld
Authors: Tan Qin , Long Sheng , Deng Weike , Jing Jiliang
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In this work, we study the gravitational quasinormal modes and the gravitational echoes of a double braneworld. The double braneworld is a kind of split thick brane, which is crucial for addressing the hierarchy problem in the thick brane scenarios. Using the Bernstein spectral method, direct integration method, and asymptotic iteration method, we calculate the quasinormal mode frequencies of the double brane. We find that the quasinormal spectrum is very different from that of the single brane model, especially the high overtone mode. We also perform numerical evolution to study the time-domain properties of the characteristic modes of the double brane. The results show that when the degree of brane splitting is large, gravitational echoes of oscillation attenuation between sub-branes will appear in the thick brane. Furthermore, different long-lived Kaluza-Klein modes interfere with each other, resulting in a beating effect. Compared to a single brane model, the phenomenon of the split double brane is richer, and the lifetime of the massive Kaluza-Klein graviton of the double brane is longer. These phenomena may have potential phenomenological interest. We also explore the gravitational wave signature of the KK graviton of the thick brane and find that the violent splitting of the brane may cause the corresponding frequency to fall within the detection range of the high-frequency gravitational wave detector.
Nicolai maps for supersymmetric sigma models
Authors: Lechtenfeld Olaf
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Supersymmetric field theories can be characterized by their Nicolai map, which is a nonlinear and nonlocal field transformation to their free-field limit. The systematic construction of such maps has recently been outlined for actions with power more than two in the fermions, which produces a perturbative expansion in loop-decorated fermionic tree diagrams. We thoroughly investigate the nonlinear ℂP
1 sigma model in (3+1)-dimensional Minkowski space as a paradigmatical example. We construct and test a chiral form of the Nicolai map, to third order in the coupling, including all (regularized) quantum parts. In addition, all trees with one or two edges are summed up. The free-action condition determines only the one-edge part of the map. We resolve the fermion loop decoration of the Nicolai trees by injecting an auxiliary vector field and present the ensuing classical Nicolai map to second order in a dimensionful coupling.
Enhancing fire resistance in pine wood through DMDHEU resin and phosphate-nitrogen flame retardant synergies
Authors: Wu Muting , Emmerich Lukas , Militz Holger
Published: February 2025

Wood modification with 1,3-dimethylol-4,5-dihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU) has been widely demonstrated to enhance the biological durability and dimension stability of wood, thus it serves a predestined technology to equip wooden products for outdoor applications. However, such technology hardly affects the fire performance of wood, a parameter which gains increasing relevance in the construction sector. Recently, the combination of curing resins with flame retardants has been proposed as a potential approach to enhance the fire performance of wood in a permanent way, hence providing a durable fire protection system. Scots pine sapwood (Pinus sylvestris L.) was impregnated with aqueous compositions of DMDHEU, a commercially available phosphate-nitrogen based fire retardant (adapted for wooden applications) and combinations thereof. The fixation of the flame retardant was assessed on the basis of a cold water leaching process according to EN 84 (2020). The fire performance of the treated wood was assessed through thermal gravimetry analysis (TGA), a Bunsen burner ignition test and mass loss calorimeter. Both wood treated with pure flame retardant and combination of a flame retardant and DMDHEU, demonstrated improvements in thermal stability, reduced flammability and decreased heat release after treatment. Notably, the THR600s of wood treated with DMDHEU in combination with the flame retardant was reduced by 89.3% compared to wood treated solely with DMDHEU. However, after the leaching process, the flame retardant happened to leach out almost completely, which was assessed on the basis of a loss in its efficacy related to fire protection. On the contrary, DMDHEU seemed to partially fix the flame retardant inside the wood matrix, which was derived from a persistent enhancement in fire performance, even after wooden specimens passed a cold water leaching.
Simulation of the electrical resistance sintering process by means of finite difference in a spreadsheet
Authors: Montes Juan Manuel , Ternero Fátima
Published: February 2025

In this work, a theoretical model for the metal powder consolidation technique known as Electrical Resistance Sintering (ERS) is proposed and validated. This technique consists of the consolidation of a mass of metal powder by the simultaneous action of pressure and the passage of a high intensity electric current. This electric current heats the powder mass by the Joule effect, while softening it so that the imposed pressure causes its densification. The proposed model meets the set objective of seeking the greatest possible simplicity, without ignoring the key aspects of the technique. In line with this simplicity, the proposed model has a one-dimensional character and is solved numerically by means of Finite Difference through a simulator implemented in the Microsoft Excel™ spreadsheet environment, programming in VBA, with computation times not exceeding 5 min. The adopted strategy takes into account the strong electrical–mechanical-thermal coupling present in the process. The sensors incorporated in the ERS equipment allow the recording of the data necessary to construct the evolution curves of the global porosity and the thermal energy released. The theoretical predictions provided by the simulator have been compared with experimental curves obtained from the electrical consolidation experiments with commercially pure iron powder. Discrepancies between experimental and theoretical values for final global porosity are around 5% (although approaching 20% in the vicinity of critical conditions) and those for final specific thermal energy do not exceed 7%. The reasonable agreement between the experimental and theoretical curves gives confidence that the model, despite its simplifications, reproduces the main characteristics of the process.