bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boosting the Performance of β‐Ga2O3 Solar‐Blind Deep UV Photodetectors by Balancing the Photocurrent and Dark Current via the IZO Interlayer
Authors: Zhang Zeyulin , Song Qingwen , Yuan Hao , Du Fengyu , Ma Runping , Liu Dinghe , Zhang Yuming , Yan Pengru , Chen Dazheng , Zhang Chunfu , Hao Yue
Published: July 2023

There is a tradeoff between the high photocurrent and the low dark current for the gallium oxide (Ga2O3) metal–semiconductor–metal photodetectors (PDs). Achieving a balance between the photocurrent and dark current is crucial to the final device's performance. Herein, indium zinc oxide (IZO) is introduced between the Ga2O3 and the metal contact for the first time. By adjusting the IZO interlayer thickness and the annealing temperature, the barrier height between Ga2O3 and the metal contact can be well controlled. In detail, the β‐Ga2O3 film is epitaxially grown by mist chemical vapor deposition, and the different thicknesses of IZO are deposited under Ti/Au electrode. The devices with 10 nm IZO interlayer and 300 °C annealing temperatures have an obvious device performance improvement, which has achieved responsivity (R) of 508 A W−1, a high peak detectivity (D*) of 2.65 × 1015 Jones, and a raised‐up relaxation time of 0.25 s (fast) and 1.22 s (slow). Compared with the device without IZO, the performances get obviously enhanced. Hence, the work hopes to promote the development of the β‐Ga2O3 solar‐blind deep UV PDs.
Taming Multiscale Structural Complexity in Porous Skeletons: From Open Framework Materials to Micro/Nanoscaffold Architectures
Authors: Liu Hao , Yao Yifan , Samorì Paolo
Published: July 2023

Recent developments in the design and synthesis of more and more sophisticated organic building blocks with controlled structures and physical properties, combined with the emergence of novel assembly modes and nanofabrication methods, make it possible to tailor unprecedented structurally complex porous systems with precise multiscale control over their architectures and functions. By tuning their porosity from the nanoscale to microscale, a wide range of functional materials can be assembled, including open frameworks and micro/nanoscaffold architectures. During the last two decades, significant progress is made on the generation and optimization of advanced porous systems, resulting in high‐performance multifunctional scaffold materials and novel device configurations. In this perspective, a critical analysis is provided of the most effective methods for imparting controlled physical and chemical properties to multifunctional porous skeletons. The future research directions that underscore the role of skeleton structures with varying physical dimensions, from molecular‐level open frameworks (<10 nm) to supramolecular scaffolds (10–100 nm) and micro/nano scaffolds (>100 nm), are discussed. The limitations, challenges, and opportunities for potential applications of these multifunctional and multidimensional material systems are also evaluated in particular by addressing the greatest challenges that the society has to face.
On monohedral tilings of a regular polygon
Authors: Basit Bushra , Lángi Zsolt
Published: July 2023

A tiling of a topological disc by topological discs is called monohedral if all tiles are congruent. Maltby (J Comb Theory Ser A 66:40–52, 1994) characterized the monohedral tilings of a square by three topological discs. Kurusa et al. (Mediterr J Math 17:156, 2020) characterized the monohedral tilings of a circular disc by three topological discs. The aim of this note is to connect these two results by characterizing the monohedral tilings of any regular n-gon with at most three tiles for any $$n \ge 5$$

n
≥
5

.
Estimating the time of human decomposition based on skeletal muscle biopsy samples utilizing an untargeted LC–MS/MS-based proteomics approach
Authors: Brockbals Lana , Garrett-Rickman Samara , Fu Shanlin , Ueland Maiken , McNevin Dennis , Padula Matthew P.
Published: July 2023

Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic medico-legal investigations to understand case circumstances (e.g. narrowing down list of missing persons or include/exclude suspects). Due to the complex decomposition chemistry, estimation of PMI remains challenging and currently often relies on the subjective visual assessment of gross morphological/taphonomic changes of a body during decomposition or entomological data. The aim of the current study was to investigate the human decomposition process up to 3 months after death and propose novel time-dependent biomarkers (peptide ratios) for the estimation of decomposition time. An untargeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry–based bottom-up proteomics workflow (ion mobility separated) was utilized to analyse skeletal muscle, collected repeatedly from nine body donors decomposing in an open eucalypt woodland environment in Australia. Additionally, general analytical considerations for large-scale proteomics studies for PMI determination are raised and discussed. Multiple peptide ratios (human origin) were successfully proposed (subgroups < 200 accumulated degree days (ADD), < 655 ADD and < 1535 ADD) as a first step towards generalised, objective biochemical estimation of decomposition time. Furthermore, peptide ratios for donor-specific intrinsic factors (sex and body mass) were found. Search of peptide data against a bacterial database did not yield any results most likely due to the low abundance of bacterial proteins within the collected human biopsy samples. For comprehensive time-dependent modelling, increased donor number would be necessary along with targeted confirmation of proposed peptides. Overall, the presented results provide valuable information that aid in the understanding and estimation of the human decomposition processes.

Graphical Abstract
Risk Factors and Management of Blunt Inferior Vena Cava Injury: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Choi Donghwan , Kang Byung Hee , Jung Kyoungwon , Lim Sang‐Hyun , Moon Jonghwan
Published: July 2023

Background

Traumatic inferior vena cava (IVC) injuries are uncommon, but the mortality rate remains high at 38–70%. To date, most studies on traumatic IVC injuries have evaluated blunt rather than penetrating injuries. We aimed to identify the clinical features and risk factors that affect the prognosis of patients with blunt IVC injuries to improve treatment strategies for these patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients diagnosed with blunt IVC injury over 8 years at a single trauma center. Clinical and biochemical parameters; transfusion, surgical, and resuscitation methods; associated injuries; intensive care unit stay; and complications data were compared between survival and death groups to identify clinical features and risk factors of blunt IVC injury‐related mortality.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients with blunt IVC injury were included during the study periods. Twenty‐five (89%) patients underwent surgical treatment, and the mortality was 54%. The mortality rate according to the IVC injury location was the lowest for supra‐hepatic IVC injury (25%, n = 2/8), whereas it was the highest for retrohepatic IVC injury (80%, n = 4/5). In the logistic regression analysis, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (odds ratio [OR] = 0.566, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.322–0.993], p = 0.047) and red blood cell (RBC) transfusion for 24 h (OR = 1.132, 95% CI [0.996–1.287], p = 0.058) were independent predictors for mortality.

Conclusions

Low GCS score and high‐volume packed RBC transfusion requirements for 24 h were significant predictors of mortality in patients with blunt IVC injuries. Unlike IVC injuries caused by penetrating trauma, supra‐hepatic IVC injuries caused by blunt trauma have a good prognosis.
High interindividual variability in LDL-cholesterol reductions after inclisiran administration in a real-world multicenter setting in Germany
Authors: Makhmudova U. , Schatz U. , Perakakis N. , Kassner U. , Schumann F. , Axthelm C. , Stürzebecher P. , Sinning D. L. , Doevelaar A. , Rohn B. , Westhoff T. , Vogt A. , Scholl M. , Kästner U. , Geiling J.-A. , Stach K. , Mensch J. , Lorenz E. , Paitazoglou C. , Eitel I. , Baessler A. , Steinhagen-Thiessen E. , Koenig W. , Schulze P. C. , Landmesser U. , Laufs U. , Weingärtner Oliver ,   for the German Inclisiran Network (GIN), Makhmudova U. , Schatz U. , Perakakis N. , Kassner U. , Schumann F. , Axthelm C. , Stürzebecher P. , Sinning D. L. , Doevelaar A. , Rohn B. , Westhoff T. , Vogt A. , Scholl M. , Kästner U. , Geiling J.-A. , Stach K. , Mensch J. , Lorenz E. , Paitazoglou C. , Eitel I. , Baessler A. , Steinhagen-Thiessen E. , Koenig W. , Schulze P. C. , Landmesser U. , Laufs U. , Weingärtner Oliver
Published: July 2023

Background and aims

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is the main therapeutic target in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) inclisiran is a new drug, which targets PCSK9 mRNA in the liver, reducing concentrations of circulating LDL-C. In randomized trials, inclisiran demonstrated a substantial reduction in LDL-C. The German Inclisiran Network (GIN) aims to evaluate LDL-C reductions in a real-world cohort of patients treated with inclisiran in Germany.

Methods

Patients who received inclisiran in 14 lipid clinics in Germany for elevated LDL-C levels between February 2021 and July 2022 were included in this analysis. We described baseline characteristics, individual LDL-C changes (%) and side effects in 153 patients 3 months (n = 153) and 9 months (n = 79) after inclisiran administration.

Results

Since all patients were referred to specialized lipid clinics, only one-third were on statin therapy due to statin intolerance. The median LDL-C reduction was 35.5% at 3 months and 26.5% at 9 months. In patients previously treated with PCSK9 antibody (PCSK9-mAb), LDL-C reductions were less effective than in PCSK9-mAb-naïve patients (23.6% vs. 41.1% at 3 months). Concomitant statin treatment was associated with more effective LDL-C lowering. There was a high interindividual variability in LDL-C changes from baseline. Altogether, inclisiran was well-tolerated, and side effects were rare (5.9%).

Conclusion

In this real-world patient population referred to German lipid clinics for elevated LDL-C levels, inclisiran demonstrated a high interindividual variability in LDL-C reductions. Further research is warranted to elucidate reasons for the interindividual variability in drug efficacy.

Graphical abstract
Heart rate variability: reference values and role for clinical profile and mortality in individuals with heart failure
Authors: Zeid Silav , Buch Gregor , Velmeden David , Söhne Jakob , Schulz Andreas , Schuch Alexander , Tröbs Sven-Oliver , Heidorn Marc William , Müller Felix , Strauch Konstantin , Coboeken Katrin , Lackner Karl J. , Gori Tommaso , Münzel Thomas , Prochaska Jürgen H. , Wild Philipp S.
Published: July 2023

Aims

To establish reference values and clinically relevant determinants for measures of heart rate variability (HRV) and to assess their relevance for clinical outcome prediction in individuals with heart failure.

Methods

Data from the MyoVasc study (NCT04064450; N = 3289), a prospective cohort on chronic heart failure with a highly standardized, 5 h examination, and Holter ECG recording were investigated. HRV markers were selected using a systematic literature screen and a data-driven approach. Reference values were determined from a healthy subsample. Clinical determinants of HRV were investigated via multivariable linear regression analyses, while their relationship with mortality was investigated by multivariable Cox regression analyses.

Results

Holter ECG recordings were available for analysis in 1001 study participants (mean age 64.5 ± 10.5 years; female sex 35.4%). While the most frequently reported HRV markers in literature were from time and frequency domains, the data-driven approach revealed predominantly non-linear HRV measures. Age, sex, dyslipidemia, family history of myocardial infarction or stroke, peripheral artery disease, and heart failure were strongly related to HRV in multivariable models. In a follow-up period of 6.5 years, acceleration capacity [HRperSD 1.53 (95% CI 1.21/1.93), p = 0.0004], deceleration capacity [HRperSD: 0.70 (95% CI 0.55/0.88), p = 0.002], and time lag [HRperSD 1.22 (95% CI 1.03/1.44), p = 0.018] were the strongest predictors of all-cause mortality in individuals with heart failure independently of cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, and medication.

Conclusion

HRV markers are associated with the cardiovascular clinical profile and are strong and independent predictors of survival in heart failure. This underscores clinical relevance and interventional potential for individuals with heart failure.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT04064450.
Reflectance spectroscopy as a promising tool for ‘sensing’ metals in hyperaccumulator plants
Authors: Purwadi Imam , Erskine Peter D. , van der Ent Antony
Published: July 2023

Main conclusion

The VNIR reflectance spectra of nickel hyperaccumulator plant leaves have spectral variations due to high nickel concentrations and this property could potentially be used for discovery of these plants. 

Hyperaccumulator plants accumulate high concentrations of certain metals, including manganese, cobalt, or nickel. Of these metals, the divalent ions of nickel have three absorption bands in the visible to near-infrared region which may cause variations in the spectral reflectance of nickel hyperaccumulator plant leaves, but this has not been investigated previously. In this shortproof-of-concept study, the spectral reflectance of eight different nickel hyperaccumulator plant species leaves were subjected to visible and near-infrared and shortwave infrared (VNIR-SWIR) reflectance spectrum measurements in dehydrated state, and for one species, it was also assessed in hydrated state. Nickel concentrations in the plant leaves were determined with other methods and then correlated to the spectral reflectance data. Spectral variations centred at 1000 ± 150 nm were observed and had R-values varying from 0.46 to 0.96 with nickel concentrations. The extremely high nickel concentrations in nickel hyperaccumulator leaves reshape their spectral reflectance features, and the electronic transition of nickel-ions directly contributes to absorption at ~ 1000 nm. Given that spectral variations are correlated with nickel concentrations it make VNIR-SWIR reflectance spectrometry a potential promising technique for discovery of hyperaccumulator plants, not only in the laboratory or herbarium, but also in the field using drone-based platforms. This is a preliminary study which we hope will instigate further detailed research on this topic to validate the findings and to explore possible applications.
Learning a covert sequence of effector movements: limits to its acquisition
Authors: Johannsen Leif , Koch Iring
Published: July 2023

Sequence learning in serial reaction time (SRT) tasks is an established, lab-based experimental paradigm to study acquisition and transfer of skills based on the detection of predictable regularities in stimulus and motor response sequences. Participants learn a sequence of targets and responses to these targets by associating the responses with subsequently presented targets. In the traditional paradigm, however, actions and response targets are directly related. In contrast, the present study asked whether participants would demonstrate acquisition of a sequence of effector movements of the left vs. right hand (e.g., hand sequence learning), whilst the actual targets and associated finger responses are unpredictable. Twenty-seven young adults performed a SRT task to visually presented characters with the index or middle fingers of both hands. While the specific fingers to respond with were randomly selected for each target presentation, both hands followed a covert sequence. We asked whether participants would learn the underlying hand sequence as demonstrated by shortened response latencies and increased accuracy compared to a fully randomized hand sequence. The results show sequence-specific learning effects. However, categorization of hand responses depending on the previous response suggested that learning occurred predominantly for subsequent finger responses of the same hand, which added to general hand-based priming. Nevertheless, a marginally significant effect was observed even for predictable shifts between hands when homologous fingers were involved. Our results thus suggest that humans are able to benefit from predictable within-hand finger shifts but less so for predicted shifts between hands.
Reducing Graph Parameters by Contractions and Deletions
Authors: Lucke Felicia , Mann Felix
Published: July 2023

We consider the following problem: for a given graph G and two integers k and d, can we apply a fixed graph operation at most k times in order to reduce a given graph parameter $$\pi $$
π
by at least d? We show that this problem is NP-hard when the parameter is the independence number and the graph operation is vertex deletion or edge contraction, even for fixed $$d=1$$

d
=
1

and when restricted to chordal graphs. We give a polynomial time algorithm for bipartite graphs when the operation is edge contraction, the parameter is the independence number and d is fixed. Further, we complete the complexity dichotomy for H-free graphs when the parameter is the clique number and the operation is edge contraction by showing that this problem is NP-hard in $$(C_3+P_1)$$

(

C
3

+

P
1

)

-free graphs even for fixed $$d=1$$

d
=
1

. When the operation is edge deletion and the parameter is the chromatic number, we determine the computational complexity of the associated problem for cographs and complete multipartite graphs. Our results answer several open questions stated in Diner et al. (Theor Comput Sci 746:49–72, 2012, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tcs.2018.06.023).
Non-structural carbohydrate concentrations in contrasting dry and wet years in early- and late-successional boreal forest trees
Authors: Dulamsuren Choimaa , Byamba-Yondon Gurbazar , Oyungerel Shagjjav , Nitschke Renate , Gebauer Tobias
Published: July 2023

Key message

Patterns of non-structural carbohydrate allocation in dry and wet differ between birch and larch in southern boreal forest.

An increasing area of boreal forests is currently switching from temperature to drought limitation. It is not sufficiently known how the trees’ non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) pools are affected by alternating dry and wet phases in drought-prone boreal forests and how NSC concentrations are related to growth responses. In the southern boreal forests of Mongolia, NSC concentrations (including soluble sugars and starch) were determined enzymatically in the stemwood of two tree species during a drought year (2017) that was preceded by another drought in 2015 and two subsequent wet years (2018/19).Betula platyphyllaas a broadleaved pioneer tree showed reduced radial stem increment in the drought year and rapidly increasing growth in the following wet years. It had low concentrations of NSC and of soluble sugars in particular, suggesting that most assimilate were invested into growth in this early successional tree.Larix sibiricaas a late-successional conifer also showed reduced growth in the drought year, but lagged reductions in NSC concentrations and less pronounced growth releases than birch in 2018/19, suggesting a longer aftereffect of the drought than in birch. Larch maintained much higher NSC concentrations throughout the three studied growing seasons, including the drought episode in 2017. The NSC pool in larch was primarily formed by soluble sugars in sapwood and heartwood. In contrast to birch, larch showed a high allocation priority for assimilates in soluble sugars before investment in biomass, which explains the aftereffect of the drought on both growth and NSC. We conclude that the high soluble sugar concentrations in larch are a key determinant of the extreme drought and cold tolerance ofL. sibiricaand, therefore, growth has lower allocation priority for carbon compared to birch.
Minimally invasive fusion surgery for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis and severe lumbar spinal stenosis: a comparative study between MIDLIF and TLIF
Authors: Silva Pedro Santos , Jardim Ana , Pereira Joana , Sousa Rita , Vaz Rui , Pereira Paulo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to compare midline lumbar interbody fusion (MIDLIF) and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) for treatment of patients with severe stenosis and lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS), focusing on dural tears rates, other complications, clinical and radiological outcomes.

Methods

This cohort study included patients with severe lumbar spinal stenosis (Shizas C or D) and lumbar DS who underwent MIDLIF or MIS-TLIF. Propensity score matching was done and the groups were compared regarding surgery time, length of stay, perioperative complications, clinical results and radiological outcomes, at 1 year of follow-up.

Results

The study included initially 80 patients, and 72 patients after matching, 36 in each group. Six patients had dural tears, four in the MIDLIF group and two in the MIS-TLIF group (p = 0.67). General complication rates and reoperations were not significantly different between the groups. Good or excellent clinical was achieved in 75% of the MIDLIF patients and 72% of the MIS-TLIF patients (p = 0.91). Radiological parameters showed small but statistically significant (p < 0.01) improvements after surgery, particularly in segmental lordosis and lumbar lordosis (2.0° and 1.7°), while pelvic tilt and global tilt decreased (1.6° and 2.6°). These findings were similar for both groups.

Conclusion

Our study confirms that MIDLIF is a safe and reliable minimally invasive alternative for lumbar interbody fusion in DS, even in patients with severe stenosis and previous spine surgery. It seems to offer similar results to MIS-TLIF regarding clinical results, radiological outcomes and complications.
The effect of GLP-1 receptor agonist lixisenatide on experimental diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Oezer Kuebra , Kolibabka Matthias , Gassenhuber Johann , Dietrich Nadine , Fleming Thomas , Schlotterer Andrea , Morcos Michael , Wohlfart Paulus , Hammes Hans-Peter
Published: July 2023

Aims

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are effective treatments for type 2 diabetes, effectively lowering glucose without weight gain and with low risk for hypoglycemia. However, their influence on the retinal neurovascular unit remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the effects of the GLP-1 RA lixisenatide on diabetic retinopathy.

Methods

Vasculo- and neuroprotective effects were assessed in experimental diabetic retinopathy and high glucose-cultivated C. elegans, respectively. In STZ-diabetic Wistar rats, acellular capillaries and pericytes (quantitative retinal morphometry), neuroretinal function (mfERG), macroglia (GFAP western blot) and microglia (immunohistochemistry) quantification, methylglyoxal (LC–MS/MS) and retinal gene expressions (RNA-sequencing) were determined. The antioxidant properties of lixisenatide were tested in C. elegans.

Results

Lixisenatide had no effect on glucose metabolism. Lixisenatide preserved the retinal vasculature and neuroretinal function. The macro- and microglial activation was mitigated. Lixisenatide normalized some gene expression changes in diabetic animals to control levels. Ets2 was identified as a regulator of inflammatory genes. In C. elegans, lixisenatide showed the antioxidative property.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that lixisenatide has a protective effect on the diabetic retina, most likely due to a combination of neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of lixisenatide on the neurovascular unit.
Highlighting the potential of multilevel statistical models for analysis of individual agroforestry systems
Authors: Golicz Karolina , Piepho Hans-Peter , Minarsch Eva-Maria L. , Niether Wiebke , Große-Stoltenberg André , Oldeland Jens , Breuer Lutz , Gattinger Andreas , Jacobs Suzanne
Published: July 2023

Agroforestry is a land-use system that combines arable and/or livestock management with tree cultivation, which has been shown to provide a wide range of socio-economic and ecological benefits. It is considered a promising strategy for enhancing resilience of agricultural systems that must remain productive despite increasing environmental and societal pressures. However, agroforestry systems pose a number of challenges for experimental research and scientific hypothesis testing because of their inherent spatiotemporal complexity. We reviewed current approaches to data analysis and sampling strategies of bio-physico-chemical indicators, including crop yield, in European temperate agroforestry systems to examine the existing statistical methods used in agroforestry experiments. We found multilevel models, which are commonly employed in ecology, to be underused and under-described in agroforestry system analysis. This Short Communication together with a companion R script are designed to act as an introduction to multilevel models and to promote their use in agroforestry research.
On the exact mid-band gain of the CMOS OTA with low-voltage-cascode-current-mirror
Authors: Singhal Naina , Hasan S. M. Rezaul
Published: July 2023

This article presents an exact mid-band gain-expression for the CMOS operational-transconductance-amplifier (OTA) with low-voltage-cascode-current-mirror (LVCCM) load. Its small-signal analysis is not available in any CMOS text-book or other published sources/articles. A simplified and innovative technique is employed in performing this analysis with an in depth tutorial flavor. It shows that the derived mid-band gain of the CMOS OTA with LVCCM load is significantly more accurate than that obtained using the highly approximate classical gain-expression of the OTA employing a standard cascode-current-mirror equivalence which may be used in textbooks and other articles. Circuit simulations employing the 180-nm and 65-nm TSMC CMOS process technologies has been performed to indicate the progressively higher accuracy of the derived exact gain-expression for the LVCCM loaded OTA with technology scaling. This new analysis indicates an additional degree of freedom in tuning the gain of the OTA with LVCCM load using an additional transconductance parameter, gm5,6 of (M5, M6). A simplified expression is also deduced which provides an improvement over the classical approximate expression, due to the additional design insight and accuracy provided by this additional parameter while still being amenable to first order gain evaluation in a simplified way. The presented analysis is new and has not been reported before in open literature in any form.
Fluid nature constrains Horndeski gravity
Authors: Miranda Marcello , Vernieri Daniele , Capozziello Salvatore , Faraoni Valerio
Published: July 2023

The elusive physical nature of Horndeski gravity is elucidated in a new approach depicting this class of theories as a dissipative effective fluid. Requiring the constitutive equations of the latter to be those of a Newtonian fluid restricts the theory to only two disconnected subclasses of “viable” Horndeski gravity. Therefore, a stress-energy tensor of the Horndeski effective fluid, linear in the first derivatives of the fluid’s 4-velocity, is a sufficient condition for gravitational waves to propagate at light speed. All other Horndeski theories correspond to exotic non-Newtonian effective fluids. The two linear Horndeski classes are studied in the framework of first-order thermodynamics of viscous fluids, which further constrains the functional form of the theory.
Electronic transport computation in thermoelectric materials: from ab initio scattering rates to nanostructures
Authors: Neophytou Neophytos , Priyadarshi Pankaj , Li Zhen , Graziosi Patrizio
Published: July 2023

Over the last two decades a plethora of new thermoelectric materials, their alloys, and their nanostructures were synfthesized. The ZT figure of merit, which quantifies the thermoelectric efficiency of these materials increased from values of unity to values consistently beyond two across material families. At the same time, the ability to identify and optimize such materials, has stressed the need for advanced numerical tools for computing electronic transport in materials with arbitrary bandstructure complexity, multiple scattering mechanisms, and a large degree of nanostructuring. Many computational methods have been developed, the majority of which utilize the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) formalism, spanning from fully ab initio to empirical treatment, with varying degree of computational expense and accuracy. In this paper we describe a suitable computational process that we have recently developed specifically for thermoelectric materials. The method consists of three independent software packages that we have developed and: (1) begins from ab initio calculation of the electron–phonon scattering rates, (2) to then be used within a Boltzmann transport simulator, and (3) calculated quantities from the BTE are then passed on to a Monte Carlo simulator to examine electronic transport in highly nanostructured material configurations. The method we describe is computationally significantly advantageous compared to current fully ab initio and existing Monte Carlo methods, but with a similar degree of accuracy, thus making it truly enabling in understanding and assessing thermoelectric transport in complex band, nanostructured materials.
A two-stages global sensitivity analysis by using the δ sensitivity index in presence of correlated inputs: application on a tumor growth inhibition model based on the dynamic energy budget theory
Authors: De Carlo Alessandro , Tosca Elena Maria , Melillo Nicola , Magni Paolo
Published: July 2023

Global sensitivity analysis (GSA) evaluates the impact of variability and/or uncertainty of the model parameters on given model outputs. GSA is useful for assessing the quality of Pharmacometric model inference. Indeed, model parameters can be affected by high (estimation) uncertainty due to the sparsity of data. Independence between model parameters is a common assumption of GSA methods. However, ignoring (known) correlations between parameters may alter model predictions and, then, GSA results. To address this issue, a novel two-stages GSA technique based on the δ index, which is well-defined also in presence of correlated parameters, is here proposed. In the first step, statistical dependencies are neglected to identify parameters exerting causal effects. Correlations are introduced in the second step to consider the real distribution of the model output and investigate also the ‘indirect’ effects due to the correlation structure. The proposed two-stages GSA strategy was applied, as case study, to a preclinical tumor-in-host-growth inhibition model based on the Dynamic Energy Budget theory. The aim is to evaluate the impact of the model parameter estimate uncertainty (including correlations) on key model-derived metrics: the drug threshold concentration for tumor eradication, the tumor volume doubling time and a new index evaluating the drug efficacy-toxicity trade-off. This approach allowed to rank parameters according to their impact on the output, discerning whether a parameter mainly exerts a causal or ‘indirect’ effect. Thus, it was possible to identify uncertainties that should be necessarily reduced to obtain robust predictions for the outputs of interest.
The Role of Religion, Spirituality and Social Media in the Journey of Eating Disorders: A Qualitative Exploration of Participants in the “TastelifeUK” Eating Disorder Recovery Programme
Authors: Mitra Barbara , Archer Diana , Hurst Joanne , Lycett Deborah
Published: July 2023

This study explores the religious and spiritual aspects of eating disorder recovery and the role of social media in the context of a third sector community-based recovery group in the UK. Four online focus groups explored participant perspectives (17 participants in total) using thematic analysis. The qualitative findings highlight that relational support from God is important in eating disorder recovery and coping, although this can be challenged by spiritual struggles and tensions. Relational support from people is also relevant where it offers a place to share different experiences together giving a sense of community belonging. Social media was also found to be important in relation to eating disorders, either providing a community of support or exacerbating existing issues. This study suggests that the role of religion and social media should be acknowledged where it is important for that individual in relation to eating disorder recovery.
Error Bounds for Discrete-Continuous Free Flight Trajectory Optimization
Authors: Borndörfer Ralf , Danecker Fabian , Weiser Martin
Published: July 2023

Two-stage methods addressing continuous shortest path problems start local minimization from discrete shortest paths in a spatial graph. The convergence of such hybrid methods to global minimizers hinges on the discretization error induced by restricting the discrete global optimization to the graph, with corresponding implications on choosing an appropriate graph density. A prime example is flight planning, i.e., the computation of optimal routes in view of flight time and fuel consumption under given weather conditions. Highly efficient discrete shortest path algorithms exist and can be used directly for computing starting points for locally convergent optimal control methods. We derive a priori and localized error bounds for the flight time of discrete paths relative to the optimal continuous trajectory, in terms of the graph density and the given wind field. These bounds allow designing graphs with an optimal local connectivity structure. The properties of the bounds are illustrated on a set of benchmark problems. It turns out that localization improves the error bound by four orders of magnitude, but still leaves ample opportunities for tighter error bounds by a posteriori estimators.
Evolutionary feature selection approaches for insolvency business prediction with genetic programming
Authors: Beade Ángel , Rodríguez Manuel , Santos José
Published: July 2023

This study uses different feature selection methods in the field of business failure prediction and tests the capability of Genetic Programming (GP) as an appropriate classifier in this field. The prediction models categorize the insolvency/non-insolvency of a firm one year in advance from a large set of financial ratios. Different selection strategies based on two evolutionary algorithms were used to reduce the dimensionality of the financial features considered. The first method considers the combination between the global search provided by an evolutionary algorithm (differential evolution) with a simple classifier, together with the possible use of classical filters in a first step of feature selection. Secondly, genetic programming is used as a feature selector. In addition, these selection approaches will be compared when GP is used exclusively as a classifier. The results show that, when using GP as a classifier method, the proposed selection method with GP stands out from the rest. Moreover, the use of GP as a classifier improves the results with respect to other classifier methods. This shows an added value to the use of GP in this field, in addition to the interpretability of GP prediction models.
Rational QZ steps with perfect shifts
Authors: Mastronardi Nicola , Van Barel Marc , Vandebril Raf , Van Dooren Paul
Published: July 2023

In this paper we analyze the stability of the problem of performing a rational QZ step with a shift that is an eigenvalue of a given regular pencil $$H-\lambda K$$

H
-
λ
K

in unreduced Hessenberg–Hessenberg form. In exact arithmetic, the backward rational QZ step moves the eigenvalue to the top of the pencil, while the rest of the pencil is maintained in Hessenberg–Hessenberg form, which then yields a deflation of the given shift. But in finite-precision the rational QZ step gets “blurred” and precludes the deflation of the given shift at the top of the pencil. In this paper we show that when we first compute the corresponding eigenvector to sufficient accuracy, then the rational QZ step can be constructed using this eigenvector, so that the exact deflation is also obtained in finite-precision.
Co-operative investment by downstream rivals: network sharing in telecom markets
Authors: Foros Øystein , Hansen Bjørn , Vergé Thibaud
Published: July 2023

Ever-increasing data consumption and evolving technologies make cooperation on investments and network sharing crucial issues in mobile telecommunications markets. In this paper, we analyze incentives for cooperation and investment in product quality. Generalizing quality investment in a Hotelling duopoly model, we allow investment to have heterogeneous effects on consumers’ changing demand responsiveness to prices. If the effect of investment on demand elasticity is weak, consumer surplus and total welfare are higher when firms are prevented from cooperating on quality investment. Otherwise, firms should be allowed to jointly decide on quality improvements and share these improvements as long as they compete in the downstream markets.
Knowledge landscapes and emerging trends of cardiorenal syndrome type 4: a bibliometrics and visual analysis from 2004 to 2022
Authors: Li Han , Liu Tongtong , Yang Liping , Ma Fang , Wang Yuyang , Zhan Yongli , Mao Huimin
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the key topics and emerging trends in the field of cardiorenal syndrome type 4 (CRS-4) by bibliometrics and visual analysis.

Methods

Citespace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix package were used to analyze the collected data from the Web of Science Core Collection, including publication trends, leading countries, active authors and institutions, co-cited references, journals, and keyword analysis.

Results

Finally, 2267 articles were obtained. From 2004 to 2022, the number of publications was increasing year by year. A total of 735 authors from 543 institutions in 94 countries/regions participated in the publication of CRS-4 field, which were mostly from North America and Europe. Most of the co-cited references were reviews or guidelines from kidney/heart specialist journals or top journals. The journals concerning nephrology had a higher academic influence in this field. Oxidative stress and inflammation remained hot topics in CRS-4 research, as well as uremic toxins. Fibroblast growth factor 23 and klotho were emerging trends in recent years. Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were the latest frontier hot spots. Future research advances may pay more attention to the prevention and prognosis assessment of CRS-4.

Conclusion

Our study provides some key information for scholars to determine the direction of future research.
Heterogeneity in family firm finance, accounting and tax policies: dimensions, effects and implications for future research
Authors: Bergmann Niklas
Published: July 2023

Family firms, as a unique organizational form, are associated with distinct finance, accounting, and tax behaviors. Prior research indicates that heterogeneity among family firms is linked to significant variation concerning these outcomes. However, the scope of dissimilarities, their empirical operationalization, and the corresponding effects of heterogeneity remain largely unexplored. Therefore, this study maps the dimensions of family firm heterogeneity addressed in extant research based on a systematic review of 91 articles published between 1999 and 2021. Focusing on heterogeneity in corporate governance and wider firm characteristics, the most relevant effects of heterogeneity for family firm finance, accounting, and tax policies are discussed in depth. The results across the 24 identified dimensions of heterogeneity show that heterogeneity is a key factor to be considered by family business scholars. Previous heterogeneity research has specifically focused on heterogeneity rooted in differences concerning the firms’ management, ownership structure, board composition, and transgenerational issues. However, this study also finds that additional conceptual and practical challenges emerge at the heterogeneity level of analysis. Several recommendations for advancing the understanding of family firm heterogeneity have been derived. In particular, the results indicate a need to distinguish more clearly between sources of heterogeneity that are strictly specific to family firms and those that extend beyond the family firm level, thereby proposing a refined, more restricted approach toward family business heterogeneity.
Changes in perception and the effects of personal attributes in decision-making as imaginary future generations: evidence from participatory environmental planning
Authors: Hara Keishiro , Naya Masahiro , Kitakaji Yoko , Kuroda Masashi , Nomaguchi Yutaka
Published: July 2023

We conducted a Future Design deliberation workshop on the theme of the “3rd Environmental Master Plan” of Suita City, Osaka Prefecture over four sessions in 2019, with the participation of both city residents and officials of the city government. To condition the deliberations of participants, we adopted the method of Imaginary Future Generations (IFGs) and analyzed its impact on their future vision of the city in 2050, policy options needed to shape that future, and changes in their perceptions. We also investigated how the adoption of IFGs affects the relationships between personal attributes and the changes in their perception. The results of variance analysis and multiple linear regression analysis based on data from the deliberations and questionnaire surveys of participants revealed the following: (1) the content and quality of the 2050 vision of society and policy options conceived from the perspective of the IFGs significantly differed from those conceived from the perspective of the current generations; (2) IFGs heightened certain perceptions, such as “a sense of crisis about the future” and “a shared recognition of goals that are desirable for society as a whole”; and (3) although the degree of “critical thinking”, as a disposition of individuals, influences the heightening of perceptions in decision-making from the perspective of the current generations, when IFGs is adopted, the degree of “critical thinking” seems to be no longer a factor in heightening these perceptions. These findings could be useful for designing mechanisms to facilitate sustainable decision-making that considers the interests of future generations.
Propensity-matched analysis of robotic versus sternotomy approaches for mitral valve replacement
Authors: Yan Wenlong , Wang Yangyang , Wang Wei , Wang Qingjiang , Zheng Xin , Yang Sumin
Published: July 2023

To compare early and medium-term outcomes between robotic and sternotomy approaches for mitral valve replacement (MVR). Clinical data of 1393 cases who underwent MVR between January 2014 and January 2023 were collected and stratified into robotic MVR (n = 186) and conventional sternotomy MVR (n = 1207) groups. The baseline data of the two groups of patients were corrected by the propensity score matching (PSM) method. After matching, the baseline characteristics were not significant different between the two groups (standardized mean difference < 10%). Moreover, the rates of operative mortality (P = 0.663), permanent stroke (P = 0.914), renal failure (P = 0.758), pneumonia (P = 0.722), and reoperation (P = 0.509) were not significantly different. Operation, CPB and cross-clamp time were shorter in the sternotomy group. On the other hand, ICU stay time, post-operative LOS, intraoperative transfusion, and intraoperative blood loss were shorter or less in the robot group. Operation, CPB, and cross-clamp time in robot group were all remarkably improved with experience. Finally, all-cause mortality (P = 0.633), redo mitral valve surgery (P = 0.739), and valve-related complications (P = 0.866) in 5 years of follow-up were not different between the two groups. Robotic MVR is safe, feasible, and reproducible for carefully selected patients with good operative outcomes and medium-term clinical outcomes.
Volume of Components of Lelong Upper-Level Sets
Authors: Do Duc Thai , Vu Duc-Viet
Published: July 2023

We prove an upper bound for the volume of maximal analytic sets on which the generic Lelong number of a closed positive current is positive. As a particular case, we give a uniform upper bound on the volume of the singular locus of an analytic set in terms of its volume on a compact Kähler manifold.
A Taxonomy of Factors Influencing Perceived Safety in Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Akalin Neziha , Kiselev Andrey , Kristoffersson Annica , Loutfi Amy
Published: July 2023

Safety is a fundamental prerequisite that must be addressed before any interaction of robots with humans. Safety has been generally understood and studied as the physical safety of robots in human–robot interaction, whereas how humans perceive these robots has received less attention. Physical safety is a necessary condition for safe human–robot interaction. However, it is not a sufficient condition. A robot that is safe by hardware and software design can still be perceived as unsafe. This article focuses on perceived safety in human–robot interaction. We identified six factors that are closely related to perceived safety based on the literature and the insights obtained from our user studies. The identified factors are the context of robot use, comfort, experience and familiarity with robots, trust, the sense of control over the interaction, and transparent and predictable robot actions. We then made a literature review to identify the robot-related factors that influence perceived safety. Based the literature, we propose a taxonomy which includes human-related and robot-related factors. These factors can help researchers to quantify perceived safety of humans during their interactions with robots. The quantification of perceived safety can yield computational models that would allow mitigating psychological harm.