bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of a magnetic field on the frequency of a laser stabilized to molecular iodine
Authors: Gillot Jonathan , Barbarat Joannès , Philippe Charles , Álvarez-Martínez Héctor , Letargat Rodolphe , Acef Ouali
Published: May 2024

We report on the effect of a weak magnetic field applied on an iodine cell used to frequency stabilize a laser. A 1.5 $$\upmu $$
μ
m laser is frequency tripled in order to excite the molecular transitions at 0.51 $$\upmu $$
μ
m and frequency locked on a hyperfine line. With this frequency reference, we report short-term stability about $$3 \times 10^{-14}~\tau ^{-1/2}$$

3
×

10

-
14

τ

-
1
/
2

, with a minimum value of $$4 \times 10^{-15}$$

4
×

10

-
15

at 200 s. The lower part of $$10^{-15}$$

10

-
15

frequency stability domain is reached, in our case, only by adding an efficient magnetic shield around the sealed quartz iodine cell. In order to quantify the Zeeman effect, we applied magnetic fields of several $$\times 10^{-4}$$

×

10

-
4

 T on the cell containing the iodine vapour. The Zeeman effect affects the lineshape transition in such a way that we observe a modification of the laser frequency. We have measured this linear Zeeman shift at $$(1062\pm 6) \times 10^{4}$$

(
1062
±
6
)

×

10
4

 Hz/T for the a1 hyperfine component of the R(34) 44-0 transition, near 514 nm by applying a magnetic field along the cell. Thus, in case of uncontrolled magnetic fields of an order of magnitude of 1$$ \times 10^{-4}$$

×

10

-
4

 T, the frequency stability is limited in the upper of the $$10^{-14}$$

10

-
14

domain.
Utility of the modified 5-item frailty index as a predictor of postoperative febrile urinary tract infection in patients who underwent ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy
Authors: Tasaka Shinsaku , Kohada Yuki , Ikeda Mikio , Kanaoka Ryuhei , Hayashi Mutsuo , Hinata Nobuyuki
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the effect of the modified 5-item frailty index on perioperative complications and surgical outcomes in patients who underwent ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy for upper urinary tract stones.

Methods

Patients who underwent ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy for upper urinary tract stones between 2019 and 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Assessment was performed using the modified 5-item frailty index based on medical history (hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and functional status. Patients were categorized into the high (≥ 2) and low (≤ 1) modified 5-item frailty index groups based on the frailty score. We compared the perioperative complications and surgical outcomes between the two groups.

Results

Seventy-one (15.8%) and 393 (84.1%) of the 467 patients were classified into the high and low modified 5-item frailty index groups, respectively. The high modified 5-item frailty index group exhibited a significant association with increased febrile urinary tract infections compared to the low modified 5-item frailty index group [≥ 37.8 °C: 15 (20.3%) vs 13 (3.3%), p < 0.001; ≥ 38 °C: 9 (12.2%) vs 7 (1.8%), p < 0.001]. Surgical outcomes, including operative time and stone-free rate, did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

The modified 5-item frailty index is valuable for predicting postoperative complications, particularly febrile urinary tract infections, after ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy for upper urinary tract stones. This index allows for practical preoperative risk assessment in patients who underwent ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy.
Gesundheitsökonomische Evaluation einer rehabilitativen Kurzzeitpflege
Authors: Diekmann S. , zur Nieden P. , Pahmeier K. , Frankenhauser-Mannuß J. , Keilhauer A. , Specht-Leible N. , Bauer J. , Hüer T. , Raszke P. , Walendzik A. , Wasem J. , Neumann A.
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Geriatrische Patient:innen mit Rehabilitationsbedarf, die im Anschluss an einen akutstationären Aufenthalt in Kurzzeitpflege (KZP) gehen, erhalten selten Rehabilitation. Die rehabilitative Kurzzeitpflege (REKUP) erweitert die KZP um rehabilitative Maßnahmen, u. a. um Dauerpflege (DP) zu vermeiden.

Ziel der Arbeit

Eine Kosten- und Kosten-Effektivität-Analyse sollen Informationen für eine flächendeckende Anwendung liefern.

Material und Methoden

Mittels einer nichtrandomisierten, kontrollierten prospektiven Studie wurde REKUP erprobt. Der Interventionsgruppe (IG) wurde eine Kontrollgruppe (KG) mittels 1:2-Matching zugewiesen, wobei 3 Kollektive (jeweils IG und KG) gebildet wurden, mit Nachbeobachtungszeiträumen von 30, 90 und 180 Tagen. Die durchschnittlichen Gesamtkosten aus Kostenträgerperspektive wurden anhand von Abrechnungsdaten der AOK Baden-Württemberg ermittelt. Ein möglicher Einfluss der Intervention auf die Kosten wurde unter Verwendung des Difference-in-difference-Ansatzes analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Die Analyse schließt 43 (IG) und 86 (KG) geriatrische Patient:innen ein. Im Postzeitraum nahmen Patient:innen der IG häufiger eine Reha in Anspruch und gingen weniger häufig in DP bzw. verstarben. Die Analyse der Kosten im Postzeitraum zeigte in allen Kollektiven keinen statistisch signifikanten Unterschied zwischen IG und KG. Für Pflege und Arzneimittel waren im Postzeitraum die Kosten der KG, im Bereich der Rehabilitation die Kosten der IG statistisch signifikant höher (p < 0,001).

Diskussion

Patient:innen der IG hatten bei gleichen Kosten Vorteile in Bezug auf die Inanspruchnahme von Rehabilitation, Vermeidung von DP und Versterben. Dies weist auf eine mögliche Vorteilhaftigkeit von REKUP in der Zielpopulation hin, die aufgrund methodischer Einschränkungen weiter erforscht werden sollte.
Periosteal wrapping of the hamstring tendon autograft improves graft healing and prevents tunnel widening after anterior cruciate ligament anatomic reconstruction
Authors: Helal Ahmed , El-Gebaly Osama , Hamed Hany , Omran Ali M. , ELForse ElSayed
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The periosteum is a readily available tissue at the hamstring harvest site that could be utilized to enhance graft healing and prevent tunnel widening without additional cost or morbidity. This study aimed to compare graft healing using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional clinical outcome scores in a matched cohort of patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with hamstring autografts with or without periosteal augmentation.

Material and methods

Forty-eight patients who underwent ACL reconstruction (ACLR) were prospectively enrolled: 25 with standard ACLR (ST-ACLR) and 23 with periosteal augmented grafts (PA-ACLR). The same surgical techniques, fixation methods, and postoperative protocol were used in both groups. Signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ), graft healing at the bone-graft interface, graft signal according to the Howell scale, and femoral tunnel widening were evaluated using MRI after 1 year of follow-up. International knee documentation score (IKDC), Lysholm, Tegner activity scale, and visual analog scale for pain were used for functional evaluation at a minimum of 2 years postoperative.

Results

The mean SNQ of the proximal part of the graft was 9.6 ± 9.2 and 2.9 ± 3.3 for the ST-ACLR and PA-ACLR groups, respectively (P = 0.005). The mean femoral tunnel widening was 30.3% ± 18.3 and 2.3% ± 9.9 for the ST-ACLR, PA-ACLR groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Complete graft tunnel healing was observed in 65% and 28% of cases in the PA-ACLR and ST-ACLR groups, respectively. Both groups showed marked improvements in functional scores, with no statistically significant differences.

Conclusion

Periosteal wrapping of hamstring tendon autografts is associated with better graft healing and maturation and lower incidence of femoral tunnel widening based on MRI analysis 1 year after ACL reconstruction. However, patient-reported outcomes and measured laxity were similar between the two groups at 2 years follow up.

Trial registration

Trail registration number: PACTR202308594339018, date of registration: 1/5/2023, retrospectively registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (pactr.samrc.ac.za) database.
Evaluation and management of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy: a national survey
Authors: Bialer Omer Y. , Stiebel-Kalish Hadas
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The evaluation and management of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) lacks standardized guidelines. This study aimed to investigate the real-world practices of neuro-ophthalmologists in the evaluation and management of typical NAION cases.

Methods

A national survey, conducted between 2019 and 2021, involved all practicing neuro-ophthalmologists. A structured questionnaire assessed their approach to risk factor evaluation and treatment of NAION, with 19 questions about risk factors and six questions concerning treatment and prevention of fellow-eye involvement.

Results

Thirty-six out of 37 neuro-ophthalmologists participated. Most physicians referred patients for evaluation of the following risk factors: obstructive sleep apnea (83.3%), diabetes mellitus (83.3%), hypertension (77.7%), dyslipidemia (72.2%), and optic disc drusen (38.8%). However, there was considerable variation in the choice of diagnostic tests recommended. Furthermore, nearly 47% recommended an embolism workup. Regarding treatment, the majority (91%) did not recommend routine treatment for NAION, although in 16.7%, high-dose corticosteroids were occasionally prescribed. Secondary prevention with aspirin (80.6%), smoking cessation advice (86.1%), and advising against erectile dysfunction medications for men (80.6%) were common recommendations.

Conclusion

While the risk factors associated with NAION are well-reported, there is a lack of uniformity on which tests should be ordered to evaluate these risk factors. Most neuro-ophthalmologists concur that routine treatment for NAION is not warranted, but not unanimously. Future studies to develop a consensus guideline for post-NAION work-up and management recommendations may assist in the detection and management of preventable risk factors.
Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas (SARIFA) predict poor survival in adenocarcinomas of the stomach and gastrooesophageal junction: a validation study
Authors: Ulase Dita , Behrens Hans-Michael , Röcken Christoph
Published: May 2024

Recently, the presence of “Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas” (SARIFA) has been described as a promising adverse prognostic factor in gastric cancer. However, the validity of this approach still needs to be tested. The aim of this study was to independently assess the utility of the proposed method in a well-characterised cohort of primary resected adenocarcinomas of stomach and gastrooesophageal junction (n = 392). SARIFA status was analysed on routine slides of resection specimens. Cases were divided into SARIFA-positive and negative groups and analysed in relation to clinicopathological and survival data. SARIFA positivity was found in 15.1% (n = 59) cases and was significantly associated with Lauren phenotype (p < 0.001), pT (p = 0.001), pN (p = 0.018), UICC stage (p = 0.031), tumour budding (p = 0.002), overall survival (p < 0.001) and cancer-specific survival (p < 0.001). SARIFA-positive tumours had a worse prognosis in the multivariate setting (HR = 1.847, 95% CI: 1.300–2.624, p = 0.001). SARIFA status is an independent prognostic factor in gastric cancer, in particular in locally advanced tumours.
Utilizing a structure-based virtual screening approach to discover potential LSD1 inhibitors
Authors: Fan Zhehao , Liu Xiaofeng , Wang Ning , Yu Shiyi , Bi Caili , Si Yue , Ling Xinyue , Liu Chenxu , Wang Jingcheng , Sun Haibo
Published: May 2024

Background

Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is highly expressed in a variety of malignant tumors, rendering it a crucial epigenetic target for anti-tumor therapy. Therefore, the inhibition of LSD1 activity has emerged as a promising innovative therapeutic approach for targeted cancer treatment.

Methods

In our study, we employed innovative structure-based drug design methods to meticulously select compounds from the ZINC15 database. Utilizing virtual docking, we evaluated docking scores and binding modes to identify potential inhibitors. To further validate our findings, we harnessed molecular dynamic simulations and conducted meticulous biochemical experiments to deeply analyze the binding interactions between the protein and compounds.

Results

Our results showcased that ZINC10039815 exhibits an exquisite binding mode with LSD1, fitting perfectly into the active pocket and forming robust interactions with multiple critical residues of the protein.

Conclusions

With its significant inhibitory effect on LSD1 activity, ZINC10039815 emerges as a highly promising candidate for the development of novel LSD1 inhibitors.
Zwischen fachlichen Standards und wilder Innovation: Zur Begutachtung von Big Data- und KI-Projekten in Forschungs-Ethikkommissionen
Authors: Brenneis Andreas , Gehring Petra , Lamadé Annegret
Published: May 2024

In der Medizin (wie auch in anderen Fächern) wächst generell die Bedeutung informatischer Expertise. Schon das erfordert eine Kultur interdisziplinärer Begutachtung, auf welche medizinische Ethikkommissionen nicht gut eingestellt sind. Mit dem Einsatz von Big Data- und KI-Verfahren (sei es eigens entwickelter, sei es in Form von „Tools“) sind weitere Herausforderungen für die forschungsethische Begutachtung verbunden. Die Autoren schildern die Problemlage und schlagen vor, sie durch Verfahrensänderungen zu lösen. Besser als die Befassung zweier Kommissionen scheint eine Begutachtung geeignet zu sein, die von vornherein interdisziplinär verfährt. Das zöge allerdings die Forderung nach sich, die Zusammensetzung medizinischer Ethikkommissionen zu ändern. Weil Fragen nach der Organisation forschungsethischer Begutachtungen auch solche nach Kriterien aufrufen, denen diese zu folgen hat, stellt der Beitrag zudem erste Schritte zu einer Konsolidierung der Kriterien für eine forschungsethische Begutachtung von Big Data- und KI-Projekten vor.
The development of posterior reduction forceps for atlantoaxial dislocation and its preliminary application in irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation
Authors: Ma Xiangyang , Zou Xiaobao , Chen Junlin , Yang Haozhi , Ma Rencai , Chen Zexin , Cai Mandi , Xia Hong
Published: May 2024

Objective

To develop posterior reduction forceps for atlantoaxial dislocation and evaluate the preliminary clinical application of this forceps in assisting simple posterior screw-rod system reduction and fixation in the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation.

Methods

Based on the posterior atlantoaxial screw-rod system, posterior reduction forceps was developed to assist simple posterior screw-rod system for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation. From January 2021 to October 2022, 10 cases with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation were treated with this technique. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was applied before and after surgery to evaluate the neurological status of the patient, and the Atlanto-dental interval (ADI) was measured before and after surgery to evaluate the atlantoaxial reduction. X-ray and CT were performed to evaluate internal fixation, atlantoaxial sequence and bone graft fusion during regular follow-up. MRI was performed to evaluate the status of atlantoaxial reduction and spinal cord compression after surgery.

Results

All 10 patients were successfully operated, and there were no complications such as spinal nerve and vascular injury. Postoperative clinical symptoms were significantly relieved in all patients, and postoperative JOA score and ADI were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The developed posterior reduction forceps for atlantoaxial dislocation can assist the simple posterior screw-rod system in the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation to avoid the release in anterior or posterior approach and reduce the difficulty of surgery. The preliminary results of this technique are satisfactory and it has a good application prospect.
Long-term trend and variability in surface temperatures over Emilia-Romagna from 1962 to 2022
Authors: Sabatani Davide , Pavan Valentina , Grazzini Federico , Antolini Gabriele
Published: May 2024

Scientific interest is increasingly drawn towards regional meteorological extremes, given their impacts on populations, infrastructure, and ecosystems. These extremes are shaped by complex interactions between internal climate variability and long-term trends. The aim of the present work is to evaluate changes in high-frequency variability and the influence of long-term trends on the frequency of occurrences of extremes, with a focus on surface temperatures over the period from 1962 to 2022 in Emilia-Romagna, a region of Northern Italy. Daily data of 2 m air temperatures averaged over the region are retrieved from ERACLITO, a high-resolution climate analysis. The distributions of daily temperature anomalies show a general broadening in 1992–2022 with respect to 1962–1991. This is true for maximum, minimum, and mean daily surface temperatures, especially during the summer and spring seasons. A significant warming trend of 0.37 °C/decade is detected in annual mean surface temperatures over the period considered. The study is completed with a comparison between the observed frequency of record-breaking annual temperature events, a hypothetical stationary climate distribution and a theoretical derivation that accounts for changes in trends and variability. During the last decade, the theoretical count of extreme events is 1.26, which yields a likelihood of 86% that this is owed to the trend rather than interannual variability. Idealized experiments demonstrate that the expected occurrences of record-breaking events in future decades depend on the warming rate rather than the warming level. Finally, an analysis performed at seasonal level shows that the majority (minority) of record events are occurring in the summer (spring) seasons.
Aging and real estate prices in Germany
Authors: Breidenbach Philipp , Jäger Philipp , Taruttis Lisa
Published: May 2024

Exploiting regional heterogeneity in population dynamics across more than 10,000 municipalities in Germany, we provide robust empirical evidence that population aging depresses real estate prices and rents. Using millions of individual real estate listings and detailed demographic data at the municipality level, we estimate that average sales prices in 2020 would have been up to 12% higher if the population age distribution had been the same as in 2008. We show that population aging not only reduces prices but also increases the availability of real estate. In addition, we document substantial heterogeneity in price responses across dwelling type, property characteristics, and urban-rural status, suggesting that lower housing demand and life-cycle dissaving are driving our results. We predict that population aging will continue to exert downward pressure on house prices and exacerbate regional disparities in Germany.
Short and sweet: multiple mini case studies as a form of rigorous case study research
Authors: Käss Sebastian , Brosig Christoph , Westner Markus , Strahringer Susanne
Published: May 2024

Case study research is one of the most widely used research methods in Information Systems (IS). In recent years, an increasing number of publications have used case studies with few sources of evidence, such as single interviews per case. While there is much methodological guidance on rigorously conducting multiple case studies, it remains unclear how researchers can achieve an acceptable level of rigour for this emerging type of multiple case study with few sources of evidence, i.e., multiple mini case studies. In this context, we synthesise methodological guidance for multiple case study research from a cross-disciplinary perspective to develop an analytical framework. Furthermore, we calibrate this analytical framework to multiple mini case studies by reviewing previous IS publications that use multiple mini case studies to provide guidelines to conduct multiple mini case studies rigorously. We also offer a conceptual definition of multiple mini case studies, distinguish them from other research approaches, and position multiple mini case studies as a pragmatic and rigorous approach to research emerging and innovative phenomena in IS.
Social Skills and Reciprocal Behavior with a Virtual Player Among Children With and Without SLD/ADHD
Authors: Eden Sigal , Ezra Michal , Rozenshtein Chen , Alkalay Sarit , Sarne David
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to compare reciprocal behavior during interaction with a virtual-player in a computer game between children with typical development (TD) and children with specific-learning-disabilities (SLD) and/or with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and to examine its correlation with social skills. A total of 120 children (43 SLD/ADHD, 77 TD) aged 9–11 years participated. Participants completed self-reported questionnaires focusing on social skills and reciprocity and played a computer game in which such social situations arose. Results indicated no difference between the groups in self-reported social skills or reciprocity. However, the children’s actual reciprocal behavior during gameplay revealed different results: the SLD/ADHD group exhibited higher levels of selfish (helping others for personal gain) and lower levels of altruistic reciprocity (helping others for their benefit) compared to the TD group. Furthermore, a correlation was found between self-reported social skills and reciprocity, as well as with the reciprocal-patterns observed in the gameplay.
Is it healthy urban agriculture? Human exposure to potentially toxic elements in urban gardens from Andalusia, Spain
Authors: Rossini-Oliva Sabina , Nuñez Rafael López
Published: May 2024

Different vegetable species and topsoils were collected from different urban gardens of Seville, Cordoba, and Huelva (South Spain) and from two small towns in a mining area (Riotinto), together with topsoil close to the plants. The concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) (As, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, and Zn) was evaluated in edible plant parts and in the soils. The same species were also purchased from Seville local markets and from a peri-urban area (domestic garden in a rural area) and also analyzed. Plant/soil pollution relation was studied and human health risk was assessed by different parameters. Soils of urban gardens from the mining area were more contaminated with As, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn in comparison with other locations, and generally, soils from cities showed higher values of As, Pb, and Zn than the peri-urban ones. The mean concentration of almost all potentially toxic elements was higher in leafy than in fruiting and bulbous species. Arsenic, Cd, and Pb concentrations were below health-based guidance values in all vegetables except Cd in one sample in the peri-urban area. In general, PTEs concentration in vegetables from city urban gardens did not exceed the one found in market vegetables for almost all studied elements, except in lettuce for almost elements. The hazard quotient (HQ) values were lower than the unit for all PTEs in plant species from the studied gardens, as well as the hazard index (HI), indicating that consumption of these vegetables can be considered safe and without risk to human health. Also, cancer risk values for As were below the established limits in all vegetables from the studied urban gardens, including those from the As-contaminated soils in the mining area.
Long-term effects of biochar application on biological nitrogen fixation of acacia species and soil carbon and nitrogen pools in an Australian subtropical native forest
Authors: Li Yinan , Sun Weiling , Xu Zhihong , Bai Yifan , Bai Shahla Hosseini
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Biological nitrogen (N) fixation (BNF) of understory acacia species presents a potential way for effectively restoring N in forest systems. This study aimed to quantify the impact of acacia species and biochar application rates on BNF and soil mineral N in a suburban native forest of subtropical Australia in the first 4–5 years after prescribed burning.

Method

Plant growth values and BNF were measured to assess the impact of biochar rates at 0, 5, and 10 t ha−1 on different acacia species. Soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N along with their N isotope composition (δ15N) were determined to investigate soil–plant interactions in response to acacia species and biochar application.

Results

The application of 10 t ha−1 biochar significantly enhanced the growth of acacia species, and concurrently reduced the loss of NO3−-N at soil depths of 0–5 and 5–10 cm. Compared with Acacia disparimma (percentage of N derived from the atmosphere or %Ndfa: 78.2%), A. leiocalyx demonstrated significant higher BNF ability (%Ndfa: 91.3%). Similarly, A. leiocalyx had better growth, in terms of height (269.1 cm versus 179.6 cm), diameter at ground level (2.62 cm versus 1.94 cm), basal area (6.49 cm2 versus 3.43 cm2) and volume (692.2 cm3 versus 258.0 cm3). This was associated with its ability to promote organic matter mineralization, resulting in the accumulation of 15N-depleted NH4+-N. NH4+-N, acting as a substrate, was transformed into NO3−-N through nitrification. From regression analysis, the efficient absorption of NH4+-N by A. leiocalyx significantly mitigated NH4+-N leaching with increasing soil moisture concentration (SMC), resulting in lower δ15N of NH4+-N, which was more negatively related to SMC (R2 = 0.401), compared to that of A. disparimma (R2 = 0.250) at soil depth of 0–5 cm. The production of NO3−-N was reduced, leading to lower NO3−-N concentrations of A. leiocalyx than A. disparimma at soil depth of 0–5 cm (8.06 µg N g−1 versus 9.61 µg N g−1) and that of 5–10 cm (8.24 µg N g−1 versus 9.21 µg N g−1) respectively.

Conclusions

As an effective soil amendment, biochar exhibited promise in reducing mineral N loss and stimulating plant growth in long-term applications of exceeding three years. Higher BNF capacity and greater plant growth were observed with A. leiocalyx, compared with those of A. disparimma. The retention and utilisation of mineral N by A. leiocalyx can be considered as strategy to restore forest soils.
Public perceptions on net zero energy houses in Japan
Authors: Yamaura Koichi , Xu Siyi , Sugiyama Masahiro , Ju Yiyi
Published: May 2024

For Japan, which has not operated nearly all of its nuclear power plants since 2011 and is dependent on thermal power generation, the introduction of renewable energy into homes is extremely important for the future formation of a sustainable society. However, the introduction of net zero energy house (ZEH) in detached houses, which account for 55% of all dwellings in Japan, has not progressed. To promote the introduction of ZEH, this study clarified the awareness of owners of detached houses regarding ZEH. We analyzed factors that influence such perception of solar photovoltaics (PV) technology using a 1000-sample online survey questionnaire. The survey was conducted in late January 2020 and included questions examining the public perception of solar installation and factors that were found to be important in previous research. We found that Japanese respondents who live in detached houses generally lack an understanding of renewables and that the level of interest in installing solar PV for the ZEH is low. We also found that awareness of renewables, such as knowing new energy policy and searching information on solar PV, is the critical factor of installing renewables. At the same time, most socio-demographic and neighborhood variables seem not to influence installing solar PV or other technologies for ZEH. This research will contribute to the Japanese government’s goal of strengthening education on renewable energy to promote ZEH.
Comparison of Tire Rolling Resistance Measuring Methods for Different Surfaces
Authors: Ejsmont Jerzy , Ronowski Grzegorz , Ydrefors Lisa , Owczarzak Wojciech , Sommer Sławomir , Świeczko-Żurek Beata
Published: May 2024

The rolling resistance of car tires is one of the most important parameters characterizing tires today. This resistance has a very significant contribution to the energy consumption of wheeled vehicles. The climate crisis has forced tire and car manufacturers to place great emphasis on the environmental impact of their products. Paradoxically, the development of electric vehicles has led to an even greater importance of rolling resistance, because in electric vehicles, a large part of the influence of grade resistance and inertial resistance has been eliminated due to re-generative braking, which resulted in rolling resistance and air resistance remain as the most important factors. What is more, electric and hybrid vehicles are usually heavier, so the rolling resistance is increased accordingly. To optimize tires for rolling resistance, representative test methods must exist. Unfortunately, the current standards for measuring rolling resistance assume that tests are carried out in conditions that are far from real road conditions. This article compares the results of rolling resistance tests conducted in road conditions with the results of laboratory tests conducted on roadwheel facilities. The overview of results shows that the results of tests conducted in accordance with ISO and SAE standards on steel drums are very poorly correlated with more objective results of road tests. Significant differences occur both in the Coefficients of Rolling Resistance (CRR) and in the tire ranking. Only covering the drums with replicas of road surfaces leads to a significant improvement in the results obtained. For investigations of rolling resistance in non-steady-state conditions, the flat track testing machine (TTF), equipped with asphalt cassettes, is shown to provide measurement data in agreement with the road test data.
Data-Driven Identification and Analysis of Waiting Times in Business Processes
Authors: Ali Muhammad Awais , Milani Fredrik , Dumas Marlon
Published: May 2024

Reducing waiting times in end-to-end business processes is a recurrent concern in the field of business process management. The uptake of data-driven approaches in this field in the past two decades, most notably process mining, has created new opportunities for fine-grained analysis of waiting times based on execution data. As a result, a wide range of approaches for waiting time identification and analysis on the basis of business process execution data have been reported in the literature. In many instances, different approaches have considered different notions of waiting time and different causes for waiting time. At present, there is a lack of a consolidated overview of these manifold approaches, and how they relate to or complement each other. The article presents a literature review that starts with the question of what approaches for identification and analysis of waiting time are available in the literature, and then refines this question by adding questions which shed light onto different causes and notions of waiting time. The survey leads to a multidimensional taxonomy of data-driven waiting time analysis techniques, in terms of purpose, causes, and measures. The survey identifies gaps in the field, chiefly a scarcity of integrated multi-causal approaches to analyze waiting times in business processes, and a lack of empirically validated approaches in the field.
Effectiveness and safety of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors monotherapy in patients with endometrial cancer
Authors: Wan Xiaoyan , Huang Jiezheng , Huang Liu , Wang Yibin , Fu Yiyuan , Jin Xiaolong , Huang Zheng , Xiong Jian
Published: May 2024

Background

Studies evaluating the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for endometrial cancer (EC) are limited. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors as monotherapy for EC by conducting a meta-analysis. The predictive significance of MMR status, a biomarker for ICI response, also required further investigation.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in English databases until September 2023. The analysis included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), adverse events (AEs), and odds ratios (OR), along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

There were twelve trials totaling 685 individuals. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor monotherapy resulted in an ORR for 34% (95% CI = 24–44%) of the pooled EC patients. Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly higher ORR in dMMR EC (45%) compared to pMMR EC (8%), with an OR of 6.36 (95% CI = 3.64–11.13). The overall DCR was 42%, with dMMR EC at 51% and pMMR EC at 30% (OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.69–4.05). Grade three or higher adverse events (AEs) occurred in 15% of cases (95% CI = 9–24%) of the pooled incidence of AEs, which was 68% (95% CI = 65–72%).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis provides significant evidence for the effectiveness of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors as monotherapy for EC. Notably, dMMR EC patients demonstrated superior treatment efficacy with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor immunotherapy. Further research is required to explore subclassifications of EC based on dMMR molecular subtypes, enabling improved treatment strategies and outcomes for EC patients.
Compassionate use of cefiderocol in a complex case of extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii fracture-related infection: a comprehensive approach and multidisciplinary management
Authors: Petrucci Flavia , Perciballi Beatrice , Rivano Capparuccia Marco , Iaiani Giancarlo , Lo Torto Federico , Ribuffo Diego , Gumina Stefano , De Meo Daniele
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Fracture-related infections (FRI) pose a difficult management problem, as they require numerous surgical interventions and extended antibiotic treatments, especially when a multidrug-resistant organism is involved, with a paucity of available literature that provides guidance.

Results

A 42 year-old male presents an open diaphyseal tibia and fibula fracture, complicated by soft tissue necrosis and infections caused by extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (XDR-Ab). Initially treated with a damage control external fixator, the patient underwent multiple surgical procedures, including radical debridement, negative pressure wound therapy, external fixator revisions and reconstructive surgery using a latissimus dorsi free flap. The emergence of colistin resistance in the Acinetobacter baumannii strain led to the compassionate use of cefiderocol, finally achieving clinical cure.

Conclusions

This case report is one of the firsts that highlights the potential efficacy of cefiderocol in treating challenging bone and joint infections sustained by XDR-Ab. The successful outcome also emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach in achieving favorable results in complex FRI.
Artificial Intelligence in Next-Generation Networking: Energy Efficiency Optimization in IoT Networks Using Hybrid LEACH Protocol
Authors: Khan Surbhi Bhatia , Kumar Ankit , Mashat Arwa , Pruthviraja Dayananda , Imam Rahmani Mohammad Khalid , Mathew Jimson
Published: May 2024

The convergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming the landscape of future networking. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technological paradigm that encompasses embedded systems, wireless sensors, and automation, facilitating the integration of various applications ranging from smart homes to wearable devices. In addition, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) amplifies this influence by providing data-driven analytics, optimising processes, and presenting novel opportunities for growth. Nevertheless, the widespread adoption of devices within Internet of Things (IoT) networks gives rise to apprehensions regarding increased energy consumption. In order to ensure the longevity of network operations, it is imperative to employ energy-efficient protocols for sensor nodes that possess limited power resources. One example of a protocol that demonstrates this concept is the Low Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) protocol. This protocol effectively divides networks into clusters and dynamically adjusts the cluster heads to optimise the transmission of data to the base stations. Our study enhances the LEACH protocol by incorporating digital twin simulation, thereby enhancing the efficiency of IoT systems. Virtual network models and AI analytics are employed to assess energy consumption and performance. Cache nodes play a crucial role within this framework as they collect data from cluster heads in order to transmit it to the base station. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and simulation techniques, we are able to improve the energy efficiency and reliability of the Internet of Things (IoT) systems. The findings indicate a significant reduction of 83% in non-functioning nodes and a notable increase of 1.66 times in energy levels of nodes compared to conventional approaches. This study highlights a potential direction for energy-efficient, AI-enhanced Internet of Things (IoT) networking through the utilisation of the Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) protocol.
Digital strategies in wildfire management: social media analytics and Web 3.0 integration
Authors: Gong Garros , Dimitrov Stanko , Bartolacci Michael R.
Published: May 2024

This study proposes the integration of specific social media analytics (SMA) metrics into existing U.S. wildfire management systems to enhance their ability to accurately predict, monitor, and respond to wildfires in a timely manner. In addition, the examination of SMA's influence on shaping wildfire-related policies is addressed in our analysis with respect to the mitigation of the extent and effects of such disasters. Furthermore, the potential of Web 3.0 technologies in achieving these objectives is analyzed as part of this work. The results highlight that advaa analytics (SMA) metrics to wildfire management and along with Web 3.0 integration.
Contact tracing in the hospital setting during the omicron wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: persons and periods of concern for nosocomial infection prevention and control
Authors: Sato Lubna , Tagashira Yasuaki , Shigeno Narumi , Gu Yoshiaki
Published: May 2024

This study evaluating the efficacy of coronavirus disease 2019 contact tracing in the hospital setting during the omicron variant era found a high incidence of nosocomial severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission in outbreaks, especially among individuals having close contact with infected persons. Identifying close contacts and outbreaks is essential to prevent nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
Adams’ cobar construction as a monoidal -coalgebra model of the based loop space
Authors: Medina-Mardones Anibal M. , Rivera Manuel
Published: May 2024

We prove that the classical map comparing Adams’ cobar construction on the singular chains of a pointed space and the singular cubical chains on its based loop space is a quasi-isomorphism preserving explicitly defined monoidal

$E_\infty $

-coalgebra structures. This contribution extends to its ultimate conclusion a result of Baues, stating that Adams’ map preserves monoidal coalgebra structures.
Thermospheric Exospheric Temperature and Composition Responses on 15 January 2022 Tonga Volcanic Eruption Based on the Ionosonde Observations
Authors: Yu Tingting , Ren Zhipeng , Li Shaoyang , Ding Feng , Zhai Changzhi
Published: May 2024

We report thermospheric exospheric temperature and composition responses on the 15 January 2022 Tonga volcanic eruption. The temperature and composition profiles are inversed from three ionosonde (MHJ45, EG931, FF051) observed electron density profiles (∼150–200 km) using our new method (Li, Ren, et al., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022ja030988). The retrieved exospheric temperatures all showed obvious eruption‐induced perturbations, with maximum disturbance magnitude of ∼200 K at MHJ45 and ∼100 K at EG931 and FF051. The temperature variations were related to eruption‐excited thermospheric waves and their propagation with different speeds. While column ∑O/N2 had no evident changes similar to temperatures, which were basically consistent with GOLD observations. In comparison, higher thermospheric O/N2 has larger eruption‐related changes, maybe due to the exponential increase of thermospheric wave amplitudes with height. The application of our inversion method, combined with continuous observations and global coverage of ionosonde data, provide a possibility to further investigate thermospheric responses to different geophysical conditions.
Exploring Mechanisms for Model‐Dependency of the Stratospheric Response to Arctic Warming
Authors: Mudhar Regan , Seviour William J. M. , Screen James A. , Geen Ruth , Lewis Neil T. , Thomson Stephen I.
Published: May 2024

The Arctic is estimated to have warmed up to four times faster than the rest of the globe since the 1980s. There is significant interest in understanding the mechanisms by which such warming may impact weather and climate at lower latitudes. One such mechanism is the “stratospheric pathway”; Arctic warming is proposed to induce a wave‐driven weakening of the stratospheric polar vortex, which may subsequently impact large‐scale tropospheric circulation. However, recent comprehensive model studies have found systematic differences in both the magnitude and sign of the stratospheric response to Arctic warming. Using a series of idealized model simulations, we show that this response is sensitive to characteristics of the warming and mean polar vortex strength. In all simulations, imposed polar warming amplifies upward wave propagation from the troposphere, consistent with comprehensive models. However, as polar warming strength and depth increases, the region through which waves can propagate is narrowed, inducing wave breaking and deceleration of the flow in the lower stratosphere. Thus, the mid‐stratosphere is less affected, with reduced sudden stratospheric warming frequency for stronger and deeper warming compared to weaker and shallower warming. We also find that the sign of the stratospheric response depends on the mean strength of the vortex, and that the stratospheric response in turn plays a role in the magnitude of the tropospheric jet response. Our results help explain the spread across multimodel ensembles of comprehensive climate models.
Day/Night Differences in Molecular Oxygen in the Martian Upper Atmosphere
Authors: Gupta S. , Yelle R. V. , Schneider N. M. , Jain S. K. , Braude A. S. , Verdier L. , Montmessin F. , Nakagawa H. , Mayyasi M. , Deighan J. , Curry S. M.
Published: May 2024

We use the extensive stellar occultation data set of the Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph aboard the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN spacecraft to determine the first quantification of vertical variation in O2 mole fraction separately for day and night in the ∼90–130 km altitude range. The upper atmospheric O2 variation is expected to be due to the interplay between diffusion and advection because of its long photochemical lifetime. It is therefore a useful tracer of the state of atmospheric mixing and circulation. The altitude‐averaged mixing ratio is measured to be 2.69(±0.03) × 10−3 for the nightside and 2.05(±0.03) × 10−3 for the dayside. The average O2 mole fraction for day and night are nearly identical below 105 km, consistent with the value of 1.61 × 10−3 derived from the Mars Curiosity Rover/Sample Analysis at Mars near‐surface measurements. At higher altitudes, dominated by molecular diffusive separation, the measured O2 mole fraction demonstrates a vertical gradient with a local time dependence. The nightside mole fraction is a factor of 1.37 ± 0.04 larger than the dayside value at ∼125 km. This nightside enhancement is explained in terms of the relative role of solar‐driven rapid horizontal winds at high altitudes and slower vertical diffusion, resulting in a nightside (dayside) downward (upward) diffusive flux. Using the 1‐D diffusion model, the measured profiles correspond to a vertical eddy diffusion coefficient K = 3.5(±1.5) × 106 cm2/s. The Mars Climate Database predicts comparable but lower day‐night differences in oxygen mole fraction due to an overestimated K = 7.0(±1.0) × 106 cm2/s, which affects atmospheric mixing as well as the rate of atmospheric escape to space.
Single-molecule fluorescence multiplexing by multi-parameter spectroscopic detection of nanostructured FRET labels
Authors: Chu Jiachong , Ejaz Ayesha , Lin Kyle M. , Joseph Madeline R. , Coraor Aria E. , Drummond D. Allan , Squires Allison H.
Published: May 2024

Multiplexed, real-time fluorescence detection at the single-molecule level can reveal the stoichiometry, dynamics and interactions of multiple molecular species in mixtures and other complex samples. However, fluorescence-based sensing is typically limited to the detection of just 3–4 colours at a time due to low signal-to-noise ratio, high spectral overlap and the need to maintain the chemical compatibility of dyes. Here we engineered a palette of several dozen composite fluorescent labels, called FRETfluors, for multiplexed spectroscopic measurements at the single-molecule level. FRETfluors are compact nanostructures constructed from three chemical components (DNA, Cy3 and Cy5) with tunable spectroscopic properties due to variations in geometry, fluorophore attachment chemistry and DNA sequence. We demonstrate FRETfluor labelling and detection for low-concentration (<100 fM) mixtures of mRNA, dsDNA and proteins using an anti-Brownian electrokinetic trap. In addition to identifying the unique spectroscopic signature of each FRETfluor, this trap differentiates FRETfluors attached to a target from unbound FRETfluors, enabling wash-free sensing. Although usually considered an undesirable complication of fluorescence, here the inherent sensitivity of fluorophores to the local physicochemical environment provides a new design axis complementary to changing the FRET efficiency. As a result, the number of distinguishable FRETfluor labels can be combinatorically increased while chemical compatibility is maintained, expanding prospects for spectroscopic multiplexing at the single-molecule level using a minimal set of chemical building blocks.
Vinpocetine alleviated alveolar epithelial cells injury in experimental pulmonary fibrosis by targeting PPAR-γ/NLRP3/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways
Authors: Hussein Zeena A. , Abu-Raghif Ahmed R. , Tahseen Nibras J. , Rashed Khalid A. , Shaker Nada S. , Fawzi Hayder Adnan
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-fibrotic activity of vinpocetine in an experimental model of pulmonary fibrosis by bleomycin and in the MRC-5 cell line. Pulmonary fibrosis was induced in BALB/c mice by oropharyngeal aspiration of a single dose of bleomycin (5 mg/kg). The remaining induced animals received a daily dose of pirfenidone (as a standard anti-fibrotic drug) (300 mg/kg/PO) and vinpocetine (20 mg/kg/PO) on day 7 of the induction till the end of the experiment (day 21). The results of the experiment revealed that vinpocetine managed to alleviate the fibrotic endpoints by statistically improving (P ≤ 0.05) the weight index, histopathological score, reduced expression of fibrotic-related proteins in immune-stained lung sections, as well as fibrotic markers measured in serum samples. It also alleviated tissue levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory and pro-fibrotic mediators significantly elevated in bleomycin-only induced animals (P ≤ 0.05). Vinpocetine managed to express a remarkable attenuating effect in pulmonary fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro either directly by interfering with the classical TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway or indirectly by upregulating the expression of Nrf2 enhancing the antioxidant system, activating PPAR-γ and downregulating the NLRP3/NF-κB pathway making it a candidate for further clinical investigation in cases of pulmonary fibrosis.