bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary matrix‐associated autologous chondrocyte implantation after failed cartilage repair shows superior results when combined with autologous bone grafting: Findings from the German Cartilage Registry (KnorpelRegister DGOU)
Authors: Weishorn Johannes , Niemeyer Philipp , Angele Peter , Spahn Gunther , Tischer Thomas , Renkawitz Tobias , Bangert Yannic
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether additive autologous bone grafting (ABG) improves clinical outcome and survival in revision matrix‐associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (M‐ACI) after failed cartilage repair (CR).

Methods

A retrospective, registry‐based, matched‐pair analysis was performed to compare patient‐reported outcomes and survival in secondary M‐ACI with or without additional bone grafting for focal full‐thickness cartilage defects of the knee and to compare it with those in primary M‐ACI. Patients were matched for age, sex, body mass index, defect size and localization, and number of previous CRs. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was assessed over a follow‐up period of 36 months. The patient acceptable symptomatic state, the clinical response rate and the survival of the subgroups were determined.

Results

A total of 818 patients were matched. Revision M‐ACI (n = 238) with concomitant bone grafting was associated with significantly higher PRO as measured by KOOS (80.8 ± 16.8 vs. 72.0 ± 17.5, p = 0.032) and higher CRR (81.4% vs. 52.0%, p = 0.018) at 36 months compared to patients with revision M‐ACI alone. KOOS and KOOS improvement in these patients did not differ from those who underwent primary M‐ACI (p = n.s.). The combination of M‐ACI and ABG resulted in a significantly higher KOOS at 36 months than M‐ACI alone, regardless of whether bone marrow stimulation (89.6 ± 12.5 vs. 68.1 ± 17.9, p = 0.003) or ACI (82.6 ± 17.0 vs. 72.8 ± 16.0, p = 0.021) was performed before. Additional bone grafting results in equivalent survival rates at 7 years in secondary compared to primary M‐ACI (83% vs. 84%, p = n.s.).

Conclusions

Regardless of the type of previous CR, additional bone grafting in secondary M‐ACI improves the clinical outcome, response rate and survival at 36 months compared to M‐ACI alone. Secondary M‐ACI with ABG had comparable clinical response and survival rates to primary M‐ACI. Therefore, subchondral bone should be treated even in cases of mild bone involvement in revision M‐ACI.

Level of evidence

Level III.
American barrier swaption pricing problem of exponential Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model in uncertain financial market
Authors: Li Dongao , Jiang Jiarui , Jia Lifen
Published: September 2024

Barrier swaption is a financial derivative that integrates aspects of a traditional swaption with the distinctive features of a barrier option. In this study, based on the premise that floating interest rates obey the exponential Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model, we derive the pricing formulas for two types of American barrier swaptions for payer and receiver, respectively, and design corresponding algorithms. In the empirical part, we select the Hong Kong Interbank Offer Rate (HIBOR) data from the real financial market to estimate the parameters of the uncertain differential equation that governs floating interest rates and test the hypothesis. It is worth noting that through rigorous hypothesis testing, we verify the applicability of the equation. Finally, we use the actual estimated parameters combined with the uncertain differential equation to carry out a range of numerical experiments, which provides a strong support for the pricing of American barrier swaptions.
Cross‐cultural adaptation of the empowerment scale of pregnant women in China context: An integrative method of translation and linguistic validation
Authors: Liu Yanjia , Che Chong Chin , Hamdan Mukhri , Chong Mei Chan
Published: September 2024

Aim

To translate the Empowerment Scale for Pregnant Women (ESPW) into Chinese and to assess its linguistic validity.

Methods

The integrative method of the translation process, the Delphi technique, and cognitive interviews were used to implement cross‐cultural adaptation and enhance comprehensibility and linguistic validation. This study recruited 14 experts in the expert review and cognitively reviewed 15 pregnant women.

Results

The two‐round Delphi method created agreement on cultural applicability. The results of content validity achieved good levels: The item‐level content validity index (CVI) ranged from 0.78 to 1.00, and the scale‐level content validity index, calculated using two different formulas, were 0.97 and 0.81, respectively. Kappa values ranged from 0.74 to 1.00. Pregnant women could understand most of the items and response options in the cognitive interview. The revisions to the wording were made based on suggestions from experts and pregnant women.

Conclusion

The prefinal simplified Chinese ESPW was semantically and conceptually equivalent to the English version, which was well prepared for further psychometric tests in the next stage of cross‐cultural adaptation.

Patient or Public Contribution

This comprehensive method successfully developed a Chinese tool to measure the empowerment of pregnant women, indicating the international applicability of this tool and the methodological scientific nature. The simplified Chinese ESPW has the potential to support the identification of empowerment levels of pregnant women and the evaluation of the effectiveness of health education and promotion programmes.
The use of bibliometrics in nursing science: Topics, data sources and contributions to research and practice
Authors: Mezquita Belén , Alfonso‐Arias Cristina , Martínez‐Jaimez Patricia , Borrego Ángel
Published: September 2024

Aim

To describe the use of bibliometrics in nursing and assess their contribution to research and practice.

Design

A content analysis was conducted of topics, data sources and applications of bibliometrics in nursing research articles.

Methods

The study universe included 129 bibliometric articles on nursing retrieved from Scopus. A content analysis was performed to identify the purposes and topics of the articles, the sources employed to collect the data, the time frames covered, the amounts of records surveyed, and the features of the nursing literature analysed in bibliometric papers.

Results

Nursing bibliometric research revolves around six key areas: global descriptions of the nursing literature, literature on specific nursing research topics, nursing education, nursing profession, nursing research using a certain framework or method, and nursing literature published in a country or region. Studies rely on three types of sources to retrieve the surveyed literature: bibliographic databases, sets of disciplinary journals and samples of documents. Bibliometrics can be employed to advance nursing research (identification of research gaps, establishment of research agendas, assessment of methodological approaches, etc.) and practice (identification of professional competences, categorisation of professional tasks, recognition of educational improvements, etc.), suggesting new avenues for researchers who aim to conduct further bibliometric research in the field. Further research is needed to assess the coverage of the nursing literature by new bibliographic data sources and to explore unaddressed topics such as gender imbalance in authorship.
Screening thrombin inhibitors from Yangxinshi tablets by online capillary electrophoresis‐based immobilized enzyme microreactor and molecular docking
Authors: Liu Wenping , Zhou Rui , Wen Jiake , Li Jin , Du Kunze , He Jun , Yao Yaqi , Chang Yanxu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Yangxinshi tablet (YXST) is a effective traditional Chinese medicine in treating cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure and myocardial infarction.

Objectives

This study aims to develop a method for screening thrombin inhibitors from YXST using an online immobilized enzyme microreactor (IMER) based on capillary electrophoresis (CE).

Materials and methods

Thrombin (THR) was immobilized on the capillary's inner wall using polydopamine (PDA). The chromogenic substrate S‐2238 was employed to assess thrombin (THR) activity and kinetic parameters. The stability and repeatability of the constructed thrombin‐immobilized enzyme microreactor (THR‐IMER) were evaluated over 40 runs, maintaining 85% of initial activity. The Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) for THR was determined to be 11.98 mM. The half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and inhibition constant (Ki) for argatroban on THR were calculated. Ten compounds in YXST were screened for THR inhibitory potency using the THR‐IMER.

Results

Salvianolic acid B and caffeic acid were identified as potential THR inhibitors in YXST, with inhibition rates at 200 μg/mL of 55.06 ± 6.70% and 31.88 ± 4.79%, respectively, aligning with microplate reader assay results. Molecular docking analysis confirmed their interactions with key THR residues, verifying their inhibitory activity.

Conclusion

The CE‐based THR‐IMER method was successfully developed for screening thrombin inhibitors from YXST, offering a reliable approach for identifying potential therapeutic compounds.
The CT and pathological features of intestinal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor
Authors: Zhou Ming , Wang Zhongchao , Sun Jun
Published: September 2024

To explore computed tomography (CT) findings and pathological features of intestinal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT). A retrospective review was conducted on the CT features of five patients with pathologically confirmed IMT, which were then compared with the corresponding pathological findings. The study included four female and one male patients. The tumors were located in the rectum (n = 1), small intestine (n = 2), or cecum (n = 2). One patient exhibited a cystic solid mass with exophytic growth and the solid components showed moderate enhancement. Additionally, flaky low‐density, marginal line‐like calcified shadows were observed around the lesions. Two cases presented as solid masses within the lumen of the intestinal tract, showing obvious non‐uniform enhancement along with visible enhancement shadows of small blood vessels. One patient had a metastasis. In two other cases, solid masses grew outside the lumen of the intestinal tract, demonstrating progressive and delayed enhancement on enhanced scans, as well as local nodular enhancement and ring enhancement. These two cases also exhibited focal sarcomatoid lesions, along with their respective IMTs. Histologically, these tumors mainly consist of proliferating spindle myofibroblast cells accompanied by variable infiltration by interstitial inflammatory cells, such as fibroblasts. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive staining for smooth muscle actin (SMA) in ~80% of the cells tested, while vimentin staining was positive in ~60% of the cells. Intestinal IMT is an extremely rare tumor with imaging features that can reflect the underlying pathological characteristics to some extent, thus aiding diagnosis.
Scheme using a finite‐volume method for local horizontal derivatives in the spectral model: The non‐hydrostatic case
Authors: Yang Jinhui , Wu Jianping , Song Junqiang , Peng Jun , Yin Fukang , Leng Hongze , Ren Kaijun , Yang Xiangrong
Published: September 2024

In a typical non‐hydrostatic spectral dynamic numerical weather prediction (NWP) kernel, all forecast variables are transformed between grid point and spectral spaces to compute their gradients and solve the implicit problem. This kernel requires numerous spectral transformations, which depend heavily on extensive global communication and significantly hinder parallel computing efficiency. This paper introduces an innovative non‐hydrostatic spectral kernel that incorporates a finite‐volume method within the spectral framework. We have developed a horizontal divergence (D)‐based structure equation, allowing direct computation of most prognostic variables and their horizontal gradients at grid point space. By doing so, the need for spectral transformations is substantially decreased. Our experiments demonstrate that this new approach reduces the cost of spectral transformations by up to 40%, enhancing the overall model efficiency by 15%–22%. Additionally, a series of tests confirmed the accuracy and stability of this new solver.
Explaining compliance with voluntary sustainability standards: A case study from Colombia's coffee belt
Authors: Batistic Paulo Mortara , Dietz Thomas , Börner Jan , Damm Yannic Rudá
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to explain producer compliance with Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS), instruments of private governance regarded as key to solving sustainability issues in global value chains. We employ a dataset of 194 Colombian coffee producers who are certified by one or more VSS to break down the factors leading to farmer compliance with environmental criteria linked to VSS. In total, we analyse 19 environmental criteria, derived from 10 obligations from five different sustainability standards. We expect compliance to be explained by different theoretical approaches, being either rational choice, capacity, legitimacy, or opportunity, operationalised by grouping related variables. Rational choice and legitimacy‐related drivers, as well as opportunity, show mostly positive, mild to strong effects on compliance, while capacity variables show no significant effect. We propose that a hybrid approach among theories explains coffee farmers' compliance with environmental VSS requirements, empowering policy‐makers and standard setters to adjust practices and policies accordingly.
Titania‐Cored Janus Multipods as UV‐Protective Pickering Emulsifiers for Sunscreens
Authors: Kwon Jaeyeong , Kim Minji , Kim You‐Jin , Oh Heemuk , Lee Jun Bae , Yi Gi‐Ra , Lee Hyomin
Published: September 2024

Pickering emulsifiers have gained significant interest as alternatives for conventional surfactants in various applications that includes pharmaceutics, food, homecare products, and cosmetics. However, their function is primarily focused on enhancing emulsion stability of which still remains to be resolved. Herein, Janus multipods are presented that simultaneously shield UV while offering high emulsion stability. These particles are prepared by growing multiple silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanopods using sol–gel method on a spherical titanium dioxide (TiO2) core with a thin SiO2 shell. The incorporation of high refractive index TiO2 in the core is shown to effectively shield UV while the SiO2 shell suppresses the photocatalytic activity. Moreover, by utilizing wax colloidosomes as templates, these multipod nanoparticles are further modified to exhibit Janus characteristics. This leads to strong adsorption of the Janus multipods at the oil/water emulsion interface where the multipod feature additionally reinforces the interfacial stabilization by interdigitation and interlocking of the Janus multipods to suppress detachment of the highly dense particles from the interface. As these Janus multipods offer effective UV protection as well as excellent emulsion stability, it is envisioned that they have great potential in advanced cosmetic formulations which require both enhanced sunscreen performance and better feeling in skincare products.
Injectable PLGA Microscaffolds with Laser‐Induced Enhanced Microporosity for Nucleus Pulposus Cell Delivery
Authors: Nakielski Paweł , Kosik‐Kozioł Alicja , Rinoldi Chiara , Rybak Daniel , More Namdev , Wechsler Jacob , Lehmann Tomasz P. , Głowacki Maciej , Stępak Bogusz , Rzepna Magdalena , Marinelli Martina , Lanzi Massimiliano , Seliktar Dror , Mohyeddinipour Sarah , Sheyn Dmitriy , Pierini Filippo
Published: September 2024

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a leading cause of lower back pain (LBP). Current treatments primarily address symptoms without halting the degenerative process. Cell transplantation offers a promising approach for early‐stage IVD degeneration, but challenges such as cell viability, retention, and harsh host environments limit its efficacy. This study aimed to compare the injectability and biocompatibility of human nucleus pulposus cells (hNPC) attached to two types of microscaffolds designed for minimally invasive delivery to IVD. Microscaffolds are developed from poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) using electrospinning and femtosecond laser structuration. These microscaffolds are tested for their physical properties, injectability, and biocompatibility. This study evaluates cell adhesion, proliferation, and survival in vitro and ex vivo within a hydrogel‐based nucleus pulposus model. The microscaffolds demonstrate enhanced surface architecture, facilitating cell adhesion and proliferation. Laser structuration improved porosity, supporting cell attachment and extracellular matrix deposition. Injectability tests show that microscaffolds can be delivered through small‐gauge needles with minimal force, maintaining high cell viability. The findings suggest that laser‐structured PLGA microscaffolds are viable for minimally invasive cell delivery. These microscaffolds enhance cell viability and retention, offering potential improvements in the therapeutic efficiency of cell‐based treatments for discogenic LBP.
Tailoring Pseudo‐Graphitic Domain by Molybdenum Modification to Boost Sodium Storage Capacity and Durability for Hard Carbon
Authors: Zhou Yaqin , Wang Yuanlang , Fu Chunyan , Zhou Ji , Song Yijian , Lin Shangyong , Liang Shuquan , Zhou Shuang , Pan Anqiang
Published: September 2024

Hard carbon (HC) stands out as the most prospective anode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) with significant potential for commercial applications. However, some long‐standing and intractable obstacles, like low first coulombic efficiency (ICE), poor rate capability, storage capacity, and cycling stability, have severely hindered the conversion process from laboratory to commercialization. The above‐mentioned issues are closely related to Na+ transfer kinetics, surface chemistry, and internal pseudo‐graphitic carbon content. Herein, constructing molybdenum‐modified hard carbon solid spheres (Mo2C/HC‐5.0), both the ion transfer kinetics, surface chemistry, and internal pseudo‐graphitic carbon content are comprehensively improved. Specifically, Mo2C/HC‐5.0 with higher pseudo‐graphitic carbon content provides a large number of active sites and a more stable layer structure, resulting in improved sodium storage capacity, rate performance, and cycling stability. Moreover, the lower defect density and specific surface area of Mo2C/HC‐5.0 further enhance ICE and sodium storage capacity. Consequently, the Mo2C/HC‐5.0 anode achieves a high capacity of 410.7 mA h g−1 and an ICE of 83.9% at 50 mA g−1. Furthermore, the material exhibits exceptional rate capability and cycling stability, maintaining a capacity of 202.8 mA h g−1 at 2 A g−1 and 214.9 mA h g−1 after 800 cycles at 1 A g−1.
Rational Linker Design for Enhanced Performance of MOF‐Derived Catalysts in Electrochemical Urea Synthesis
Authors: Zhu Xiaorong , Ge Ming , Yuan Xiaolei , Wang Yijin , Tang Yanfeng
Published: September 2024

2D metal–organic frameworks (2D MOFs) offer promising electrocatalytic potential for urea synthesis, yet the underlying reaction mechanisms and structure‐activity relationships remain unclear. Using Cu‐BDC as a model, density functional theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate these aspects are conducted. The results reveal a novel coupling mechanism involving *NO─CO and *NO─*ONCO, emphasizing the impact of linker modifications on Cu spin states and charge distribution. Notably, Cu‐BDC‐NH2 and Cu─BDC─OH emerge as promising catalysts. Additionally, structure‐activity relationships through descriptors like d‐band center, IE ratio, and L(Cu─O), providing insights for rational catalyst design is established. These findings pave the way for optimized catalysts and sustainable urea production, opening avenues for future research and technological advancements.
An Enzyme‐Encapsulated MOF@MOF Nanocomposite for Detecting H2O2 Derived From Superoxide Anion Released by Mitochondria of HeLa Cells
Authors: Niu Jiaqi , Jin Xiaoxin , Wang Xingqi , Ren Zhenhua , Li Bingjie , Liu Xiaoqiang , Wong Danny K.Y.
Published: September 2024

In this work, a horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐encapsulated metal organic framework (MOF)@MOF nanocomposite is developed for detecting H2O2 converted by dismutation of superoxide anions released from live HeLa mitochondria. Initially, an HRP‐polyacrylic acid cluster is incorporated on a mesoporous, peroxidase‐like Cu/Co‐1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate (BDC) MOF platform to avoid structural change and deactivation of HRP through its interactions with MOF metal ions. Additionally, a Cu/Co‐BDC(HRP)@1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxyate (BTC) core‐shell MOF/MOF structure, also with peroxide‐like properties, serves as a protective matrix for HRP. Then, ultrathin porous carbon shells (UPCS) are adopted to improve the electrical conductivity of the MOF@MOF. The Cu/Co‐BDC(HRP)@BTC|UPCS sensing platform exhibits two linear ranges of 0.05–1 µM and 1–1000 µM with a sensitivity of 172 mA mM−1 cm−2 and 1.63 mA mM−1 cm−2, respectively. A limit of detection of 0.057 µM, good selectivity and stability over 35 days for H2O2 detection are also achieved. After treating the mitochondrial complex with specific inhibitors, amperometric results at the sensing platform confirmed complex I and III within mitochondria as the main electron leakage sites in the electron transfer chains. Therefore, this sensing platform provides a tool that may aid in predicting and even developing treatments for some oxidative stress diseases caused by mitochondrial abnormalities.
Disclosures 18: How to refuse an internal request
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: September 2024

Last month, I sort of left you hanging. I was discussing internal disclosures of education records. And, at the end of the column, I mentioned a situation where a security director asked the dean of students for access to the judicial hearings files under the control of that dean. When asked why he needed those records, he simply said his responsibility to the college required that he be given unlimited access to those records to secure the campus from any threats. That last part was not included in last month's column.
Fiscal Equalization in Australian Federalism: Managing Diversity of Size Among Subnational Jurisdictions
Authors: Sanders Will
Published: September 2024

The Federal Commonwealth of Australia was established in 1901 by six self-governing British colonies of very different sizes. With lucrative customs and excise duties transferred to the Commonwealth, a politics of fiscal equalization quickly emerged among the six Australian States. The less populous States feared economic and fiscal domination. Managed politically for three decades, these fears became the focus of an independent, expert, economic body from the 1930s: the Commonwealth Grants Commission. Principles and methods developed by this body focused on comparative fiscal needs and capacities. In the 1980s, two more subnational jurisdictions joined Australia’s fiscal equalization system, two territories of the Commonwealth granted self-government. This increased the diversity of size among constituent units and led to methodological developments in assessing comparative fiscal capacities, or “relativities.” Two case studies from this recent era show contrasting developments in Australian fiscal equalization. The Northern Territory has maintained a high relativity for over three decades based on its dispersed Indigenous population, reflecting low-revenue capacity and high expenditure needs. Western Australia has developed high revenue capacity, based on royalties from iron ore mining. This has led Western Australia to argue against full fiscal equalization, winning significant concessions in this direction since 2018. Australian fiscal equalization is well institutionalized, but not beyond political challenge and change.
(Dis)Empowerment and Self-Rule: Fiscal Federalism and Minority Nations in Canada
Authors: Wallner Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Federalism is often advanced as a means to enable the coexistence of diverse peoples beneath a common umbrella of a shared state apparatus. Scholars have long considered how the division of powers and the allocation of jurisdictional capacities among multiple orders of government may empower and foster the autonomy of internal national minority communities. Until recently, however, the ways in which the fiscal arrangements of a federation may affect the coexistence of diverse peoples have remained largely unexplored. Using the case of Canada, this chapter identifies the concrete features of fiscal federalism that may contribute to—or detract from—the empowerment of internal minority national communities. Drawing from the Canadian experience, three features of a fiscal architecture are directly related to the realization of minority national empowerment: (1) representation and participation in the management of fiscal arrangements; (2) the independence of the revenue base that is available to internal communities; and (3) the conditions and time horizons that are associated with the arrangements.
Fiscal Federalism, Intergovernmental Relations, and Conflict Resolution Mechanisms in Spain
Authors: Almendral Violeta Ruiz
Published: September 2024

This chapter focuses on the diversities within the Spanish State of Autonomies, shedding light on the asymmetrical nature of the devolution process, with an emphasis on the transformation of the constitutional framework concerning tax and finance power decentralization, juxtaposing Spanish Fiscal Federalism within the broader context of the European Union. An exploration of intergovernmental tax relations uncovers the limited efficacy of mixed commissions, leading to an assessment of the Spanish Constitutional Court's central role in mediating conflict. The analysis concludes by looking forward, speculating on the potential future trajectories of Spanish fiscal federalism.
Bone marrow edema-like signal after cartilage repair does not affect outcomes in a five-year follow-up
Authors: Koenig Felix R. M. , Raudner Marcus , Juras Vladimir , Szomolanyi Pavol , Vetchy Veronika , Kittinger Jakob , Zadeh Ehsan Safai , Watzenböck Martin L. , Trattnig Siegfried
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Bone marrow edema-like signal (BMELS) after cartilage repair is common, but its clinical significance remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and structural significance of BMELS following microfracturing (MFX) and matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI).

Methods

In this multicenter study, MRI examinations were performed over a period of 5 years after cartilage repair surgery (MFX n = 17; MACI n = 28) in 45 patients. Morphological assessments, including the MOCART 2.0 (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue), quantitative imaging biomarkers (QIB) with T2 mapping of the repair tissue, and, specifically, assessment of the presence and size of BMELS, were conducted along with patient-reported outcome measures, such as the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC). BMELS structural and clinical assessments were obtained after 3 months, 12 months, and 60 months. Statistical analysis included the Mann–Whitney U-test, Wilcoxon rank test, Shapiro–Wilk test, and simulation-based power analysis.

Results

BMELS were a common finding 60 months after cartilage repair. The size of BMELS differed significantly only between MACI and MFX patients after 3 months, with larger BMELS occurring in the MFX group. There were no significant differences in patients with or without BMELS regarding the T2 ratio of the treated area, the MOCART 2.0, or clinical scores.

Conclusion

BMELS frequently appeared after cartilage repair procedures. We could show that the postoperative size and change in the size of BMELS after MACI and MFX did not affect clinical scores, morphological MRI results, or biochemical properties of the treated area after 60 months.

Key Points

QuestionWhat is the clinical significance of bone marrow edema-like signal (BMELS) appearance after matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) or microfracture (MFX)?

FindingThere were no significant differences in patients with or without BMELS regarding the T2 ratio of the treated area, the MOCART 2.0, or clinical scores.

Clinical relevanceBMELS frequently appeared after cartilage repair, the appearance or the size dynamic after MACI and MFX did not affect clinical scores, morphological MRI results, or biochemical properties after 60 months.
Central venous access device adverse events in pediatric patients with cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nunn Jenna L. , Takashima Mari D. , Wray-Jones Erin M. , Soosay Raj Trisha A. , Hanna Diane M. T. , Ullman Amanda J.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To systematically review the proportion and incidence of CVAD-associated complications in pediatric patients with cancer.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature were searched from 2012 to 2022. Cohort studies and the control arm of randomized controlled trials, which reported CVAD-associated complications in pediatric patients aged 0–18 years, were included. CVAD complications were defined as CVAD failure, central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), local infection, occlusion, CVAD-associated venous thromboembolism, dislodgement/migration, breakage/rupture, and dehiscence. The pooled proportion and incidence rate (IR) for each CVAD-associated complication were reported.

Results

Of 40 included studies, there was mixed quality of methods and reporting. Approximately 31.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 22.5–41.1; 6920 devices) of devices experienced a CVAD-associated complication, and 14.8% (95% CI 10.2–20.1; 24 studies; 11,762 devices) of CVADs failed before treatment completion (incidence rate (IR) of 0.5 per 1000 catheter days (95% CI 0.3–0.8; 12 studies; 798,000 catheter days)). Overall, 21.2% (95% CI 14.3–28.9; 26 studies; 5054 devices) of CVADs developed a CLABSI, with an IR of 0.9 per 1000 catheter days (95% CI 0.6–1.3; 12 studies; 798,094 catheter days). Tunneled central venous catheters (TCVC) and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were associated with increased complications in comparison to totally implanted venous access devices (TIVADs).

Conclusion

CVAD complication rates in this population remain high. TCVCs and PICCs are associated with increased complications relative to TIVADs. Insufficient evidence exists to guide device selection in this cohort, necessitating further research to determine the role of PICCs in pediatric cancer care.

PROSPERO: CRD42022359467.

Date of registration: 22 September 2022.
On certain classes of first Baire functionals
Authors: Mirmina J. , Puglisi D.
Published: September 2024

We investigate first Baire functionals on the dual ball of a separable Banach space $$X$$
X
which are pointwise limit of a sequence of $$X$$
X
whose closed span does not contain any copy of $$\ell_1$$

ℓ
1

(or has separable dual). We propose an example of a $$C(K)$$

C
(
K
)

space where not all such first Baire functionals exhibit this behavior.
As an application, we study a quantitative version, in terms of descriptive set theory, of family a separable Banach spaces with this peculiarity.
Phosphorus removal and use in organic crop farming in the EU
Authors: Magaya S. , Magid J. , Hermann L. , Schulp C. J. E.
Published: September 2024

To promote sustainable food production, the European Union (EU) aims for a 25% organic agriculture area and a reduction of agricultural nutrient pollution by 50% by 2030. Organic farming is designed to rely on nutrient circularity,  it has limited phosphorus (P) sources permitted, influencing the spatial distribution for P demand. Using dataset form the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN), this study quantifies and map the amount of P removed through crop harvesting in organic farming across the EU as a proxy for P required to maintain a balanced P budget. Crop harvesting is a major P output variable  from agricultural soils and the positive correlation between soil P and P budget suggest that  understanding the required amount to maintain a balanced P budget is therefore  important for estimating fertiliser demands. On average, 5.6 kg P ha−1 is removed through crop harvesting per country in 26 countries, with fruits and vegetables contributing 36%, cereals 32%, fodder crops 20%, permanent crops 8% and oil crops 4% to the total. Although organic farming restricts off-farm nutrient inputs, on average, 2.1 kg P ha−1 of mineral fertiliser P is used in crop production in each NUTS2 region. Varying national regulations influence the total mineral fertiliser P used per country. Mineral fertiliser P use and P removed through crops provide a lower and upper boundary for P ferilisation in organic farming. Their spatial pattern suggest that increasing organic farming across the EU requires local-scale consideration of P sources, budgets, and spatial constraints to ensure a sustainable P supply.
Simultaneous Measurement of Fiber-Matrix Interface Debonding and Tunneling Using a Dual-Vision Experimental Setup
Authors: Uddin K. Z. , Girard H. , Mennie N. B. , Doitrand A. , Koohbor B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Fiber-matrix debonding is a precursor for transverse cracking and several other types of damage in fiber composites. However, to date, there are limited experiment-based reports that study the fundamental mechanisms of fiber-matrix debonding.

Objective

This work aims to uncover the governing mechanisms of fiber-matrix interface debonding by full-field measurements supplemented by numerical simulations. In particular, the application of a dual-vision image-based characterization approach on single glass macro fiber samples is discussed and proven useful in understanding the in-plane and out-of-plane debonding characteristics at the fiber-matrix interface.

Methods

Full-field strain and displacement measurements based on digital image correlation are performed on model single-fiber composites. The use of a dual-vision system allows strain measurements in the vicinity of the fiber-matrix interface, also allowing for the identification of critical strain and stress values corresponding to the initiation and propagation of debonding damage. The experimental data are used to calibrate an inverse identification approach that outputs the shape of the debonded interface along the fiber length.

Results

Full-field measurements allow for establishing correlations between local and global strain fields. Observation of debonding propagation along the fiber axis seems to be representative of the crack tunneling during the early stages of the failure process, i.e., when the crack tip is subjected to opening mode only.

Conclusions

Side view measurements are useful as a first-order approximation of the debonding propagation velocity along the fiber axis but fail to provide accurate measurements for the debonding shape, esp. in areas where the crack is under a dominantly shear stress state. This issue can be resolved by full-field measurements coupled with computational simulations.
Strategic maintenance planning in the digital era: a hybrid approach merging Reliability-Centered Maintenance with digitalization opportunities
Authors: Introna Vito , Santolamazza Annalisa
Published: September 2024

In the age of digital transformation, maintenance operations are crucial for leveraging the potential of Industry 4.0 and 5.0. Yet, this domain remains significantly under-optimized in terms of strategic maintenance planning and enhancing asset performance. The advent of smart technologies offers a myriad of innovative avenues; however, harnessing these effectively requires systematic planning that incorporates these new, various and quite diversified, smart practices. Thus, this paper proposes a new methodological approach to maintenance planning, based on the Reliability-Centered Maintenance method, aimed at providing an operative tool for organizations to foster the evolution of their maintenance plans towards the paradigm of digitalization. This novel method enables the identification of hidden opportunities of improvement not identifiable through the use of the traditional approach through the proposal of an Opportunity Index, to use together with the Criticality Index in asset selection, and a Digitalization Score to use during Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis. The proposed method is applied to transform the maintenance planning of a production line, thus identifying the opportunities of the approach and testing its feasibility.
A numerical study of transformed mixed-integer optimal control problems
Authors: Sager Sebastian , Tetschke Manuel , Zeile Clemens
Published: September 2024

Time transformation is a ubiquitous tool in theoretical sciences, especially in physics. It can also be used to transform switched optimal control problems into control problems with a fixed switching order and purely continuous decisions. This approach is known either as enhanced time transformation, time-scaling, or switching time optimization (STO) for mixed-integer optimal control. The approach is well understood and used widely due to its many favorable properties. Recently, several extensions and algorithmic improvements have been proposed. We use an alternative formulation, the partial outer convexification (POC), to study convergence properties of (STO). We introduce the open-source software package _ (Sager et al., czeile/ampl_mintoc: Math programming c release, 2024, https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12520490). It is based on AMPL, designed for the formulation of mixed-integer optimal control problems, and allows to use almost identical implementations for (STO) and (POC). We discuss and explain our main numerical result: (STO) is likely to result in more local minima for each discretization grid than (POC), but the number of local minima is asymptotically identical for both approaches.
Time autonomy in personnel planning: Requirements and solution approaches in the context of intelligent scheduling from a holistic organizational perspective
Authors: Latos Benedikt , Buckhorst Armin , Kalantar Peyman , Bentler Dominik , Gabriel Stefan , Dumitrescu Roman , Minge Michael , Steinmann Barbara , Guhr Nadine
Published: September 2024

Traditional work models often need more flexibility and time autonomy for employees, especially in manufacturing. Quantitative approaches and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications offer the potential to improve work design. However, current research does not entirely focus on human-centric criteria that enable time autonomy. This paper addresses this gap by developing a set of criteria to evaluate intelligent personnel planning approaches based on their ability to enhance time autonomy for employees. Existing quantitative approaches are not sufficient to fully integrate the developed criteria.

Consequently, a novel model approach is proposed in an attempt to bridge the gap between current practices and the newly developed criteria. This two-stage planning approach fosters democratization of time autonomy on the shopfloor, moving beyond traditional top-down scheduling. The paper concludes by outlining the implementation process and discusses future developments with respect to AI for this model approach.

Practical Relevance: In order to make working conditions on the shopfloor in high-wage countries more attractive, an alternative organization of shift work is needed. Intelligent planning approaches that combine traditional operations research methods with artificial intelligence approaches can democratize shift organization regarding time autonomy. Planning that takes both employee and employer preferences into account in a balanced way will strengthen the long-term competitiveness of manufacturing companies in high-wage countries and counteract the shortage of skilled labor.
Energy Absorption Through Radiation in Multilayer Windows for Spacecrafts
Authors: Galuppi Laura , Royer-Carfagni Gianni
Published: September 2024

The overall heating of satellites operating in low Earth orbit, essentially due to direct radiation from the Sun, terrestrial albedo, and planetary radiation, is well studied, but little is found specifically on transparent plates used for windowing spacecrafts. The most historic material of choice is fused silica; more recently, acrylic glass is being used, but its refractive properties are poorly documented. The effects of electromagnetic waves incident on multilayer windows composed of panes of fused silica or acrylic glass, or a combination of these, are analyzed. Using data of refractive index from the literature, which, however, have been found incomplete and sometimes contradictory, the problem is addressed by accounting for the dependence of transmissivity and absorptivity of each material on the energy spectrum, which is different for solar and planetary radiation. Worked examples show that fused silica allows most radiation to pass directly through, while acrylic glass is characterized by absorption depending on the thickness; this can potentially increase its temperature, posing a problem since the mechanical properties decay at temperatures near $$100 ^{\circ }\textrm{C}$$

100
∘

C

. This study contributes to the analysis of thermal problems for space windows, of considerable interest since glazing can fail due to thermal shocks, constrained thermal variations, or temperature concentrations.
Inpatient clinicians’ approach to diagnosis of urinary tract infections in older adults using the COM-B model: a qualitative assessment
Authors: Advani Sonali D. , Boucher Nathan , Smith Alison G.C. , Deri Connor , Hayes Jillian E. , Wrenn Rebekah , Schmader Kenneth
Published: September 2024

Our interviews of inpatient clinicians (physicians, physician assistants) modeled after the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Model of Behavior model revealed opportunity and motivation as important drivers for overdiagnosis and overprescribing for asymptomatic bacteriuria in older adults. Understanding these barriers is an important step toward implementing age-friendly stewardship interventions.
Can an animal welfare risk assessment tool identify livestock at risk of poor welfare outcomes?
Authors: Williams Natarsha , Chaplin Sarah , Hemsworth Lauren , Shephard Richard , Fisher Andrew
Published: September 2024

If livestock at risk of poor welfare could be identified using a risk assessment tool, more targeted response strategies could be developed by enforcement agencies to facilitate early intervention, prompt welfare improvement and a decrease in reoffending. This study aimed to test the ability of an Animal Welfare Risk Assessment Tool (AWRAT) to identify livestock at risk of poor welfare in extensive farming systems in Australia. Following farm visits for welfare- and non-welfare-related reasons, participants completed a single welfare rating (WR) and an assessment using the AWRAT for the farm just visited. A novel algorithm was developed to generate an AWRAT-Risk Rating (AWRAT-RR) based on the AWRAT assessment. Using linear regression, the relationship between the AWRAT-RR and the WR was tested. The AWRAT was good at identifying farms with poor livestock welfare based on this preliminary testing. As the AWRAT relies upon observation, the intra- and inter-observer agreement were compared in an observation study. This included rating a set of photographs of farm features, on two occasions. Intra-observer reliability was good, with 83% of Intra-class Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) for observers ≥ 0.8. Inter-observer reliability was moderate with an ICC of 0.67. The AWRAT provides a structured framework to improve consistency in livestock welfare assessments. Further research is necessary to determine the AWRAT’s ability to identify livestock at risk of poor welfare by studying animal welfare incidents and reoffending over time.
Further Reflections Based on the Black–Scholes (B-S) Model
Authors: Cifuentes Arturo , Charlin Ventura
Published: September 2024

The Black–Scholes (B-S) model is considered by the academic environment one of the greatest achievements of financial economics. Yet it brings with it some conundrums. The model is often used in a manner that contradicts one of its assumptions, and its predictions are not supported by market reality. Here we address, from the perspective of philosophy of science, an additional issue related to this model: the distinction between its explanatory and predictive capabilities.
On the measurement of preference falsification using nonresponse rates
Authors: Shamaileh Ammar
Published: September 2024

Among the greatest challenges facing scholars of public opinion are the potential biases associated with survey item nonresponse and preference falsification. This difficulty has led researchers to utilize nonresponse rates to gauge the degree of preference falsification across regimes. This article addresses the use of survey nonresponse rates to proxy for preference falsification. A simulation analysis exploring the expression of preferences under varying degrees of repression was conducted to examine the viability of using nonresponse rates to regime assessment questions. The simulation demonstrates that nonresponse rates to regime assessment questions and indices based on nonresponse rates are not viable proxies for preference falsification. An empirical examination of survey data supports the results of the simulation analysis.
Exploring UK older adults’ dietary fibre consumption habits and associated factors: a national diet and nutrition survey perspective
Authors: Norton Victoria , Kaimila Yankho , Lovegrove Julie A. , Lignou Stella
Published: September 2024

The UK population is living longer; therefore, promoting healthy ageing via positive nutrition could have widespread public health implications. Moreover, dietary fibre intake is associated with health benefits; however, intake is below UK recommendations (30 g/d). Utilising national dietary survey data can provide up-to-date information on a large representative cohort of UK older adults, so that tailored solutions can be developed in the future. This study used cross-sectional data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (years 2008–2009 to 2018–2019) for older adults’ (n 1863; 65–96 years) dietary fibre intake (three-to-four-day food diaries), top ten dietary fibre-rich foods, associated factors (demographics, dietary/lifestyle habits) and various health outcomes (anthropometric, blood and urine). Mean dietary fibre intake was 18·3 g/d (range: 2·9–55·1 g/d); therefore, below the UK dietary recommendations, with compliance at 5·7 %. In addition, there were five significant associations (P < 0·05) related to lower dietary fibre intake such as increasing age group, without own natural teeth, impaired chewing ability, lower education leaving age and poor general health. Older adults’ key foods containing dietary fibre were mainly based on convenience such as baked beans, bread and potatoes. Positively, higher dietary fibre consumption was significantly associated (P = 0·007) with reduced diastolic blood pressure. In summary, the benefits of dietary fibre consumption were identified in terms of health outcomes and oral health were key modulators of intake. Future work should focus on a life course approach and the role of food reformulation to help increase dietary fibre intake.