bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic evaluation of the sustainability of the Spanish primary sector within the framework of the circular economy
Authors: Castillo‐Díaz Francisco José , Belmonte‐Ureña Luis J. , Batlles‐delaFuente Ana , Camacho‐Ferre Francisco
Published: November 2023

Food security depends on the implementation of sustainable development in agri‐food. It is essential to determine the sustainability of the main production systems in order to establish specific measures for each territory, by virtue of correcting their negative externalities and improving the commitment of stakeholders. Therefore, this article assessed the economic, social, environmental and global sustainability of the Spanish primary sector based on a synthetic indicator proposed in previous research. The results suggest the existence of a moderate degree of sustainability of the food production system in Spain (0.5019), with the regions of Aragón (0.5482), Castile and Leon (0.5473), Extremadura (0.5438) and Andalucía (0.5399) standing out. An inverse relationship between the economic and the environmental subcomponents of sustainability was obtained. The cluster analysis revealed the need to apply a customized territorial policy in order to meet sustainability goals due to the diversity of agricultural subsectors identified in them.
Dressing Paraffin Wax/Boron Nitride Phase Change Composite with a Polyethylene “Underwear” for the Reliable Battery Safety Management
Authors: Zhang Yongzheng , Xie Keqing , Shi Jiawei , Guo Cong , Lin Cheng‐Te , Che Jianfei , Wu Kai
Published: November 2023

Phase change material (PCM) can provide a battery system with a buffer platform to respond to thermal failure problems. However, current PCMs through compositing inorganics still suffer from insufficient thermal‐transport behavior and safety reliability against external force. Herein, a best‐of‐both‐worlds method is reported to allow the PCM out of this predicament. It is conducted by combining a traditional PCM (i.e., paraffin wax/boron nitride) with a spirally weaved polyethylene fiber fabric, just like the traditional PCM is wearing functional underwear. On the one hand, the spirally continuous thermal pathways of polyethylene fibers in the fabric collaborate with the boron nitride network in the PCM, enhancing the through‐plane and in‐plane thermal conductivity to 10.05 and 7.92 W m−1 K, respectively. On the other, strong polyethylene fibers allow the PCM to withstand a high puncture strength of 47.13 N and tensile strength of 18.45 MPa although above the phase transition temperature. After this typical PCM packs a triple Li‐ion battery system, the battery can be promised reliable safety management against both thermal and mechanical abuse. An obvious temperature drop of >10 °C is observed in the battery electrode during the cycling charging and discharging process.
Activating the MnS0.5Se0.5 Microspheres as High‐Performance Cathode Materials for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries: Insight into In Situ Electrooxidation Behavior and Energy Storage Mechanisms
Authors: Guo Chenchen , Zhou Ruyi , Liu Xinru , Tang Ruiying , Xi Wenxin , Zhu Yirong
Published: November 2023

Manganese‐based materials are regarded as the most prospective cathode materials because of their high natural abundance, low toxicity, and high specific capacity. Nevertheless, the low conductivity, poor cycling performance, and controversial energy storage mechanisms hinder their practical application. Here, the MnS0.5Se0.5 microspheres are synthesized by a two‐step hydrothermal approach and employed as cathode materials for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) for the first time. Interestingly, in‐depth ex situ tests and electrochemical kinetic analyses reveal that MnS0.5Se0.5 is first irreversibly converted into low‐crystallinity ZnMnO3 and MnOx by in situ electrooxidation (MnS0.5Se0.5‐EOP) during the first charging process, and then a reversible co‐insertion/extraction of H+/Zn2+ occurs in the as‐obtained MnS0.5Se0.5‐EOP electrode during the subsequent discharging and charging processes. Benefiting from the increased surface area, shortened ion transport path, and stable lamellar microsphere structure, the MnS0.5Se0.5‐EOP electrodes deliver high reversible capacity (272.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), excellent rate capability (91.8 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1), and satisfactory cyclic stability (82.1% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 1 A g−1). This study not only provides a powerful impetus for developing new types of manganese‐based chalcogenides, but also puts forward a novel perspective for exploring the intrinsic mechanisms of in situ electrooxidation behavior.
Mn‐Anti‐CTLA4‐CREKA‐Sericin Nanotheragnostics for Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Huang Zixuan , Wang Yejing , Su Can , Li Wanting , Wu Min , Li Wuling , Wu Jun , Xia Qingyou , He Huawei
Published: November 2023

The integration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cGAS‐STING, and anti‐CTLA‐4 (aCTLA‐4) based immunotherapy offers new opportunities for tumor precision therapy. However, the precise delivery of aCTLA‐4 and manganese (Mn), an activator of cGAS, to tumors remains a major challenge for enhanced MRI and active immunotherapy. Herein, a theragnostic nanosphere Mn‐CREKA‐aCTLA‐4‐SS (MCCS) is prepared by covalently assembling Mn2+, silk sericin (SS), pentapeptide CREKA, and aCTLA‐4. MCCS are stable with an average size of 160 nm and is almost negatively charged or neutral at pH 5.5/7.4. T1‐weighted images showed MCCS actively targeted tumors to improve the relaxation rate r1 and contrast time of MRI. This studies demonstrated MCCS raises reactive oxygen species levels, activates the cGAS‐STING pathway, stimulates effectors CD8+ and CD80+ T cells, reduces regulatory T cell numbers, and increases IFN‐γ and granzyme secretion, thereby inducing tumor cells autophagy and apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Also, MCCS are biocompatible and biosafe. These studies show the great potential of Mn‐/SS‐based integrative material MCCS for precision and personalized tumor nanotheragnostics.
Tumor Microenvironment‐Induced Drug Depository for Persistent Antitumor Chemotherapy and Immune Activation
Authors: Gao Fan , Xue Chun , Dong Jianhui , Lu Xinxin , Yang Nan , Ou Changjin , Mou Xiaozhou , Zhang Yi‐Zhou , Dong Xiaochen
Published: November 2023

Herein, a drug‐loading nanosystem that can in situ form drug depository for persistent antitumor chemotherapy and immune regulation is designed and built. The system (DOX@MIL‐LOX@AL) is fabricated by packaging alginate on the surface of Doxorubicin (DOX) and lactate oxidase (LOX) loaded MIL‐101(Fe)‐NH2 nanoparticle, which can easily aggregate in the tumor microenvironment through the cross‐linking with intratumoral Ca2+. Benefiting from the tumor retention ability, the fast‐formed drug depository will continuously release DOX and Fe ions through the ATP‐triggered slow degradation, thus realizing persistent antitumor chemotherapy and immune regulation. Meanwhile, LOX in the non‐aggregated nanoparticles is able to convert the lactic acid to H2O2, which will be subsequently decomposed into ·OH by Fe ions to further enhance the DOX‐induced immunogenic death effect of tumor cells. Together, with the effective consumption of immunosuppressive lactic acid, long‐term chemotherapy, and oxidation therapy, DOX@MIL‐LOX@AL can execute high‐performance antitumor chemotherapy and immune activation with only one subcutaneous administration.
Rational Design of High‐Loading Electrodes with Superior Performances Toward Practical Application for Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Tang Bin , Wei Yike , Jia Rui , Zhang Fan , Tang Yongbing
Published: November 2023

High‐loading electrodes play a crucial role in designing practical high‐energy batteries as they reduce the proportion of non‐active materials, such as current separators, collectors, and battery packaging components. This design approach not only enhances battery performance but also facilitates faster processing and assembly, ultimately leading to reduced production costs. Despite the existing strategies to improve rechargeable battery performance, which mainly focus on novel electrode materials and high‐performance electrolyte, most reported high electrochemical performances are achieved with low loading of active materials (<2 mg cm−2). Such low loading, however, fails to meet application requirements. Moreover, when attempting to scale up the loading of active materials, significant challenges are identified, including sluggish ion diffusion and electron conduction kinetics, volume expansion, high reaction barriers, and limitations associated with conventional electrode preparation processes. Unfortunately, these issues are often overlooked. In this review, the mechanisms responsible for the decay in the electrochemical performance of high‐loading electrodes are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, efficient solutions, such as doping and structural design, are summarized to address these challenges. Drawing from the current achievements, this review proposes future directions for development and identifies technological challenges that must be tackled to facilitate the commercialization of high‐energy‐density rechargeable batteries.
Zero‐Strain Na3V2(PO4)2F3@Rgo/CNT Composite as a Wide‐Temperature‐Tolerance Cathode for Na‐Ion Batteries with Ultrahigh‐Rate Performance
Authors: Shi Chenglong , Xu Junling , Tao Tao , Lu Xiaoyi , Liu Guoping , Xie Fuqiang , Wu Sheng , Wu Yanxue , Sun Zhipeng
Published: November 2023

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are widely considered a hopeful alternative to lithium‐ion battery technology. However, they still face challenges, such as low rate capability, unsatisfactory cycling stability, and inferior variable‐temperature performance. In this study, a hierarchical Na3V2(PO4)2F3 (NVPF) @reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/carbon nanotube (CNT) composite (NVPF@rGO/CNT) is successfully constructed. This composite features 0D Na3V2(PO4)2F3 nanoparticles are coated by a cross‐linked 3D conductive network composed of 2D rGO and 1D CNT. Furthermore, the intrinsic Na+ storage mechanism of NVPF@rGO/CNT through comprehensive characterizations is unveiled. The synthesized NVPF@rGO/CNT exhibits fast ionic/electronic transport and excellent structural stability within wide working temperatures (−40–50 °C), owing to the zero‐strain NVPF and the coated rGO/CNT conductive network that reduces diffusion distance for ions and electrons. Moreover, the stable integration between NVPF and rGO/CNT enables outstanding structural stability to alleviate strain and stress induced during the cycle. Additionally, a practice full cell is assembled employing a hard carbon anode paired with an NVPF@rGO/CNT cathode, which provides a decent capacity of 105.2 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C, thereby attaining an ideal energy density of 242.7 Wh kg−1. This work provides valuable insights into developing high‐energy and power‐density cathode materials for SIBs.
2D/2D Heterojunction of BiOBr/BiOI Nanosheets for In Situ H2O2 Production and Activation toward Efficient Photocatalytic Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Low Beverly Qian Ling , Jiang Wenbin , Yang Jing , Zhang Mingsheng , Wu Xiao , Zhu Hui , Zhu Houjuan , Heng Jerry Zhi Xiong , Tang Karen Yuanting , Wu Wen‐Ya , Cao Xun , Koh Xue Qi , Chai Casandra Hui Teng , Chan Chui Yu , Zhu Qiang , Bosman Michel , Zhang Yong‐Wei , Zhao Ming , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun , Xiong Yujie , Ye Enyi
Published: November 2023

The presence of toxic organic pollutants in aquatic environments poses significant threats to human health and global ecosystems. Photocatalysis that enables in situ production and activation of H2O2 presents a promising approach for pollutant removal; however, the processes of H2O2 production and activation potentially compete for active sites and charge carriers on the photocatalyst surface, leading to limited catalytic performance. Herein, a hierarchical 2D/2D heterojunction nanosphere composed of ultrathin BiOBr and BiOI nanosheets (BiOBr/BiOI) is developed by a one‐pot microwave‐assisted synthesis to achieve in situ H2O2 production and activation for efficient photocatalytic wastewater treatment. Various experimental and characterization results reveal that the BiOBr/BiOI heterojunction facilitates efficient electron transfer from BiOBr to BiOI, enabling the one‐step two‐electron O2 reduction for H2O2 production. Moreover, the ultrathin BiOI provides abundant active sites for H2O2 adsorption, promoting in situ H2O2 activation for •O2− generation. As a result, the BiOBr/BiOI hybrid exhibits excellent activity for pollutant degradation with an apparent rate constant of 0.141 min−1, which is 3.8 and 47.3 times that of pristine BiOBr and BiOI, respectively. This work expands the range of the materials suitable for in situ H2O2 production and activation, paving the way toward sustainable environmental remediation using solar energy.
Insight into the Dependence of Photovoltaic Performance on Interfacial Energy Alignment in Solar Cells with Mobile Ions
Authors: Córdoba Matías , Taretto Kurt
Published: November 2023

A key aspect in the optimization of perovskite (PVK) solar cells is the mitigation of interface losses, which are determined by energy band offsets and recombination. Counterintuitively, recent experimental evidence on inorganic PVK solar cells shows that increasing band offsets may improve open‐circuit voltage at efficiency levels over 20%. In order to improve the knowledge of the impact of interfaces, the authors model solar cells consisting of an intrinsic absorber material containing mobile ions, sandwiched between two wide‐gap charge transport layers. The results show that minimizing band offsets decreases interface losses in various scenarios, but cannot be adopted as a universal optimization rule. For instance, even in the absence of interface recombination, unequal majority carrier band offsets avoid high injection conditions. Moreover, assuming a fixed band offset at one interface, the band offset at the opposite interface should be reduced if it shows the highest interface recombination, or increased if it shows the lowest recombination. Remarkably, it is found that solar cells with mobile ions hold the potential to outperform of ion‐free counterparts, depending on the extent to which the interplay between band offsets and Debye layers result in the establishment of a majority carrier concentration in the intrinsic absorber.
Correlating Carrier Dynamics with Performance in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Luolei , Yang Zhenhai , Zhang Yuqi , Ai Zhenhai , Bao Yining , Ma Tianshu , Qin Linling , Cao Guoyang , Wang Changlei , Li Xiaofeng
Published: November 2023

Advancing the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) critically depends on suppressing non‐radiative recombination at perovskite‐related interfaces and within the perovskite layer. A comprehensive understanding of carrier dynamic within PSCs is pivotal for promoting their efficiencies and facilitating more flexible design options for both perovskite and transport layers. Herein, the intrinsic mechanisms and device physics of PSCs are delved into, with a specific focus on investigating the variation of electron and hole mobilities and their effects on device performance. Through a rigorous photoelectric simulation, it is confirmed that the impact of performance of PSCs on electron or hole mobility primarily depends on the direction of illumination. For n–i–p PSCs, high hole mobility is favorable for the device performance, whereas for p–i–n PSCs, elevated electron mobility proves advantageous. Notably, these findings remain applicable across a large range of transport layers and perovskite bandgaps, although exceptions may arise when the perovskite layer undergoes specific doping. Additionally, it is discovered that high carrier mobility contributes to the reduction of both carrier and ion accumulation, thereby effectively suppressing hysteresis behavior. In this work, valuable insights into the significance and mechanisms of carrier mobility in PSCs are provided, offering essential guidance for fabricating high‐efficiency PSCs.
2D Material‐Based Wearable Energy Harvesting Textiles: A Review
Authors: Ali Iftikhar , Dulal Marzia , Karim Nazmul , Afroj Shaila
Published: November 2023

Wearable electronic textiles (e‐textiles) have emerged as a transformative technology revolutionizing healthcare monitoring and communication by seamlessly integrating with the human body. However, their practical application has been limited by the lack of compatible and sustainable power sources. Various energy sources, including solar, thermal, mechanical, and wind, have been explored for harvesting, leading to diverse energy harvesting technologies, such as photovoltaic, thermoelectric, piezoelectric, and triboelectric systems. Notably, 2D materials have gained significant attention as attractive candidates for energy harvesting and storage in e‐textiles due to their unique properties, such as high surface‐to‐volume ratio, mechanical strength, and electrical conductivity. Textile‐based energy harvesters employing 2D materials offer promising solutions for powering next‐generation smart and wearable devices integrated into clothing. This comprehensive review explores the utilization of 2D materials in textile‐based energy harvesters, covering their preparation, fabrication, and characterization strategies. Recent advancements are highlighted, focusing on the integration of 2D materials and their practical implementations, shedding light on the performance and effectiveness of 2D‐material‐based energy harvesters in e‐textiles, and highlighting their potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional power supplies in wearable technologies.
Non‐degenerate U‐statistics for data missing completely at random with application to testing independence
Authors: Aleksić Danijel , Cuparić Marija , Milošević Bojana
Published: November 2023

Although the era of digitalization has enabled access to large quantities of data, due to their insufficient structuring, some data are often missing, and sometimes, the percentage of missing data is significant compared to the entire sample. On the other hand, most of the statistical methodology is designed for complete data. Here, we explore the asymptotic properties of non‐degenerate U‐statistics when the data are missing completely at random and a complete‐case approach is utilized. The obtained results are applied to the estimator of Kendall's
used for testing independence. In this context, the median‐based imputation approach is also considered, and asymptotic properties are explored. In addition, both complete‐case and median imputation approaches are compared in an extensive Monte Carlo study.
Flexible and elastic thermal regulator for multimode intelligent temperature control
Authors: Chen Can , Yu Huitao , Lai Tao , Guo Jun , Qin Mengmeng , Qu Zhiguo , Feng Yiyu , Feng Wei
Published: November 2023

As nonlinear thermal devices, thermal regulators can intelligently respond to temperature and control heat flow through changes in heat transfer capacities, which allows them to reduce energy consumption without external intervention. However, current thermal regulators generally based on high‐quality crystalline‐structure transitions are intrinsically rigid, which may cause structural damage and functional failure under mechanical strain; moreover, they are difficult to integrate into emerging soft electronic platforms. In this study, we develop a flexible, elastic thermal regulator based on the reversible thermally induced deformation of a liquid crystal elastomer/liquid metal (LCE/LM) composite foam. By adjusting the crosslinking densities, the LCE foam exhibits a high actuation strain of 121% with flexibility below the nematic–isotropic phase transition temperature (TNI) and hyperelasticity above TNI. The incorporation of LM results in a high thermal resistance switching ratio of 3.8 over a wide working temperature window of 60°C with good cycling stability. This feature originates from the synergistic effect of fragmentation and recombination of the internal LM network and lengthening and shortening of the bond line thickness. Furthermore, we fabricate a “grid window” utilizing photic‐thermal integrated thermal control, achieving a superior heat supply of 13.7°C at a light intensity of 180 mW/cm2 and a thermal protection of 43.4°C at 1200 mW/cm2. The proposed method meets the mechanical softness requirements of thermal regulator materials with multimode intelligent temperature control.
Special all‐round fillet weld for anchor rods of base‐plate T‐stub connections
Authors: Ali Mahmoud , Mirghaderi Seyed Rasoul , Ghiami Azad Amir Reza , Karami Iman
Published: November 2023

The eccentricity between connected steel parts and the anchor rods in base‐plate T‐stub connections makes base plates the weaker components in tension and compression. Additionally, the oversized holes in base plates lead to irregular placement of anchor rods, resulting in an unsymmetrical shear behavior. Thus, this paper aims to develop a special all‐round fillet weld to connect the anchor rods beneath the base plate concentrically to the steel part, removing the base plate from the load‐transferring chain. Accordingly, design criteria were first developed based on Eurocode's directional method considering all the potential failure modes. Next, results were validated by conducting experimental work. The digital image correlation technique (DIC) was also used to capture the strain distribution developed over the tested specimen till failure. Consequently, numerical analysis was carried out to investigate the fracture strength and the fracture angle and compare the special fillet weld with its equivalent standard one, which has the same weld volume. The results indicated that the proposed design criteria produced safe strength prediction for the developed special all‐round fillet weld. Furthermore, the results revealed that using a special all‐round fillet weld instead of the equivalent standard one can increase the strength by about 8% and improve the ductility of the weld. However, it decreases the stiffness of the weld by about 21%. The fracture surface occurred at from the face of the anchor rod, which produced a higher strength than the predicted tensile strength calculated according to the theoretical throat plane.
Copper and nanocopper toxicity using integrated biomarker response in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Gismondi Eric , Reddy Kotha Sammi
Published: November 2023

The current study focused on assessing the toxicological effects of copper (Cu) and copper nanoparticles (Cu‐NPs) in acute condition on Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. The median lethal concentration (LC50) for Cu and Cu‐NPs were determined as 8.04 and 3.85 mg L−1, respectively. For the subsequent definitive test, varying concentrations were selected: 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 mg L−1 for Cu, and 3.0, 3.3, 3.6, 3.9, and 4.2 mg L−1 for Cu‐NPs. To encompass these concentration levels and assess their toxic effects, biomarkers associated with toxicological studies like oxidative stress, neurotransmission, and cellular metabolism were measured in the liver, kidney, and gill tissues. Notably, during the acute test, the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione‐s‐transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and lipid peroxide in the liver, gill, and kidney tissues were significantly increased due to exposure to Cu and Cu‐NPs. Similarly, acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain was notably inhibited in the presence of Cu and Cu‐NPs when compared to the control group. Cellular metabolic stress was greatly influenced by the exposure to Cu and Cu‐NPs, evident from the considerable elevation of cortisol, HSP 70, and blood glucose levels in the treated groups. Furthermore, integrated biomarker response, genotoxicity, DNA damage in gill tissue, karyotyping in kidney tissue, and histopathology in gill and liver were investigated, revealing tissue damage attributed to exposure to Cu and Cu‐NPs. In conclusion, this study determined that elevated concentrations of essential trace elements, namely Cu and Cu‐NPs, induce toxicity and disrupt cellular metabolic activities in fish.
Genomic and immune landscape in hepatocellular carcinoma: Implications for personalized therapeutics
Authors: Zheng Jiaoyun , Chen Junyan , Wang Shuchao , Yang Dun , Zhou Peng
Published: November 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a globally prevalent malignancy, marked by genetic heterogeneity and intricate tumor microenvironment interactions. In this study, we undertook a detailed single‐cell analysis of six active HCC patients, highlighting strong correlations between gene expression levels and cellular characteristics. UMAP clustering revealed seven distinct cell categories with associated gene expressions. A divergence was observed in tumor cells into high and low cuproptosis groups, each associated with distinct pathways: oxidative stress for the high cuproptosis group and inflammatory and angiogenesis pathways for the low group. CellChat analysis on the TCGA‐LIHC cohort displayed unique intercellular interactions among hepatocytes, T cells, and other cells, with pathways like COLLAGEN and VEGF being pivotal. Functional enrichment analyses exposed pathways enriched between cuproptosis groups, with KEGG emphasizing diseases like Parkinson's. COX survival analysis identified key prognostic genes, revealing distinct survival rates between risk groups in TCGA and GSE14520 cohorts. Mutation data highlighted missense mutations, with TTN, TP53, and CTNNB1 being the most mutated in HCC. Immune infiltration analysis via CIBERSORTx indicated differences between risk groups in NK cells, neutrophils, and other cells. Our drug sensitivity investigation showed significant correlations between model genes and drug responsiveness, emphasizing the importance of patient risk stratification for therapeutic approaches. Further, ATP6V1G1 was recognized in its role in apoptosis and migration in HCC cells. In conclusion, our findings illuminate the complexities of HCC progression, potential predictive genetic markers for drug response, and the pivotal role of ATP6V1G1, suggesting avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies in HCC.
Delineation of groundwater potential zones in Kotagarh block of Kandhamal District, Odisha through geospatial techniques
Authors: Chatterjee Tanmoy , Behera Duryadhan , Goswami Shreerup , Patra Prasanta
Published: November 2023

The integrative approach of remote sensing and geographical information system (GIS) has been a very useful tool for the delineation of groundwater potential zones in any terrain. Various natural factors such as lithology, geomorphology, land use land cover, slope, drainage density, lineament density, etc. control the groundwater recharge and storage. Individual thematic layers have been developed through GIS assigning proper weightage based on storage capacity. The groundwater potential zones in the study region are divided into three classes such as poor, good, and exceptional. The aforesaid methodology has been applied in the selected part of Kotagarh Block of Kandhamal District, Odisha to delineate the possible groundwater potential zones. The present study revealed that the Kotagarh region being a rugged topography is good for groundwater occurrence and storage.
Long-Term Results Following Combined Repair of Atrioventricular Septal Defect with Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Schumacher Katja , Marin-Cuartas Mateo , Meier Sabine , Aydin Muhammad Ikbal , Borger Michael A. , Dähnert Ingo , Kostelka Martin , Vollroth Marcel
Published: November 2023

Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) in association with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a rare and complex congenital cardiac malformation. We report our institutional experience and outcomes following surgical correction over a 20-year period. Patients who underwent combined surgical AVSD and TOF correction between October 2001 and February 2020 were included for analysis. All patients underwent primary repair. The study data were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and long-term freedom from reoperation. During the study period, a total of 10 consecutive patients underwent combined surgical AVSD and TOF correction. Median age at operation was 307 days (IQR 228–457) and median weight was 7.7 kg (IQR 6.7–9.5). Down Syndrome was present in six of the patients. In-hospital mortality was 0%. One patient required re-exploration due to bleeding. Median follow-up was 11 years (IQR 11 months -16 years). There was one case of reoperation due to significant residual ventricular septal defect after 2 months. None of the patients died during follow-up. Combined primary AVSD and TOF repair can be performed with low early mortality and morbidity, as well as a high long-term freedom from reoperation.
Effect of previous administration of potassium iodine and different durations of low iodine diets for radioiodine therapy on the treatment of Graves' disease in iodine-rich areas
Authors: Tamura Mika , Nakada Kunihiro , Iwanaga Haruna , Fujita Naotoshi , Kato Katsuhiko
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To examine whether adherence to a low-iodine diet (LID) enhances the therapeutic efficacy of radioiodine therapy (RAI) in Graves’ hyperthyroidism (GH) in iodine-rich areas.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 185 patients with GH from Aichi (n = 114) and Hokkaido (n = 71) Prefectures. Patients aged ≥ 18 years with GH who underwent RAI between December 2012 and March 2022 were divided into subgroups based on pretreatment with anti-thyroid drug (ATD) or potassium iodide (KI). Patients were followed up with LID from 18 days (group A) or 7 days (group H) before RAI to 3 days after RAI. The dose of radioactive iodine 131 (131I) was adjusted to deliver > 100 Gy to the thyroid. The associations between urinary iodine concentration on UIC2 vs. 24hRU and UIC2 vs. the 1-year RAI success rate (SR) were investigated.

Results

Compared with UIC1, UIC2 was significantly decreased in all subgroups (P < 0.01). An inverse correlation between UIC2 and 24hRU was observed in the four groups; however, the difference was insignificant. The SR in groups A and H was 85% and 89%, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed no association between UIC2 and SR in each group. Additionally, stratification of the 185 patients into quartiles using UIC2 yielded no significant differences in SR (p = 0.79).

Conclusions

LID sufficiently reduced UIC in patients undergoing RAI. Although a lower UIC2 may increase 24hRU, it did not increase the success of RAI. The benefit of LID in enhancing the efficacy of RAI in GH treatment remains uncertain.
Internistische Abklärung bei retinalen Gefäßverschlüssen
Authors: Feltgen Nicolas , Ochmann Tabea , Hoerauf Hans
Published: November 2023

Retinale Gefäßverschlüsse erfordern eine enge Kooperation der medizinischen Fächer, um eine optimale Betreuung der Betroffenen sicherzustellen. Dabei unterscheidet sich die internistische Abklärung zwischen den arteriellen und venösen Verschlüssen kaum, bei den retinalen Arterienverschlüssen sollte sie aber unmittelbar erfolgen. Die wichtigsten assoziierten Diagnosen sind arterielle Hypertonie, Diabetes mellitus, Fettstoffwechselstörung und Vorhofflimmern. Bei jüngeren Patienten und bei fehlenden Risikofaktoren sollte nach selteneren Ursachen gesucht und insbesondere eine Riesenzellarteriitis ausgeschlossen werden. Bei beiden Verschlussarten muss auch an ein verursachendes Glaukom gedacht werden.
Trace element partitioning in basaltic systems as a function of oxygen fugacity
Authors: Leuthold J. , Blundy J. , Ulmer P.
Published: November 2023

Along with temperature, pressure and melt chemistry, magmatic oxygen fugacity (fO2) has an important influence on liquid and solid differentiation trends and melt structure. To explore the effect of redox conditions on mineral stability and mineral-melt partitioning in basaltic systems we performed equilibrium, one-atmosphere experiments on a picrite at 1200–1110 °C with fO2 ranging from NNO-4 log units to air. Clinopyroxene crystallizes from 1180 °C to near-solidus, along with plagioclase, olivine and spinel. Olivine Mg# increases with increasing fO2, eventually reacting to pigeonite. Spinel is absent under strongly reducing conditions. Mineral-melt partition coefficients (D) of redox-sensitive elements (Cr, Eu, V, Fe) vary systematically with fO2 and, in some cases, temperature (e.g. DCr in clinopyroxene). Clinopyroxene sector zoning is common; sectors along a- and b-axes have higher AlIV, AlVI, Cr and Ti and lower Mg than c-axis sectors. In terms of coupled substitutions, clinopyroxene CaTs (MgSi = AlVIAlIV) prevails under oxidized conditions (≥ NNO), where Fe3+ balances the charge, but is limited under reduced conditions. Overall, AlIV is maximised under high temperature, oxidizing conditions and in slowly grown (a–b) sectors. High AlIV facilitates incorporation of REE (REEAlIV = CaSi), but DREE (except DEu) show no systematic dependence on fO2 across the experimental suite. In sector zoned clinopyroxenes enrichment in REE3+ in Al-rich sectors is quantitatively consistent with the greater availability of suitably-charged M2 lattice sites and the electrostatic energy penalty required to insert REE3+ onto unsuitably-charged M2 sites. By combining our experimental results with published data, we explore the potential for trace element oxybarometry. We show that olivine-melt DV, clinopyroxene-melt DV/DSc and plagioclase-melt DEu/DSr all have potential as oxybarometers and we present expressions for these as a function of fO2 relative to NNO. The crystal chemical sensitivity of heterovalent cation incorporation into clinopyroxene and the melt compositional sensitivity of the Eu2+–Eu3+ redox potential limit the use of clinopyroxene-melt and plagioclase-melt, however, olivine-melt DV affords considerable precision and accuracy as an oxybarometer that is independent of temperature, and crystal and melt composition. Variation of DV and DV/DSc with fO2 for olivine and clinopyroxene contains information on redox speciation of V in coexisting melt. By comparing the redox speciation constraints from partitioning to data from Fe-free synthetic systems and XANES spectroscopy of quenched glasses, we show that homogenous equilibria involving Fe and V species modify V speciation on quench, leading to a net overall reduction in the average vanadium valence. Mineral-melt partitioning of polyvalent species can be a useful probe of redox speciation in Fe-bearing systems that is unaffected by quench effects.
Malpractice claims after antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair: a population-based analysis
Authors: Nurminen Nelli M. J. , Järvinen Tommi K. M. , Kytö Ville J. , Salo Silja A. S. , Egan Caitlin E. , Andersson Saana E. , Räsänen Jari V. , Ilonen Ilkka K. P.
Published: November 2023

Background

The complication rate of modern antireflux surgery or paraesophageal hernia repair is unknown, and previous estimates have been extrapolated from institutional cohorts.

Methods

A population-based retrospective cohort study of patient injury cases involving antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair from the Finnish National Patient Injury Centre (PIC) register between Jan 2010 and Dec 2020. Additionally, the baseline data of all the patients who underwent antireflux and paraesophageal hernia operations between Jan 2010 and Dec 2018 were collected from the Finnish national care register.

Results

During the study period, 5734 operations were performed, and the mean age of the patients was 54.9 ± 14.7 years, with 59.3% (n = 3402) being women. Out of all operations, 341 (5.9%) were revision antireflux or paraesophageal hernia repair procedures. Antireflux surgery was the primary operation for 79.9% (n = 4384) of patients, and paraesophageal hernia repair was the primary operation for 20.1% (n = 1101) of patients. A total of 92.5% (5302) of all the operations were laparoscopic. From 2010 to 2020, 60 patient injury claims were identified, with half (50.0%) of the claims being related to paraesophageal hernia repair. One of the claims was made due to an injury that resulted in a patient's death (1.7%). The mean Comprehensive Complication Index scores were 35.9 (± 20.7) and 47.6 (± 20.8) (p = 0.033) for antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair, respectively. Eleven (18.3%) of the claims pertained to redo surgery.

Conclusions

The rate of antireflux surgery has diminished and the rate of paraesophageal hernia repair has risen in Finland during the era of minimally invasive surgery. Claims to the PIC remain rare, but claims regarding paraesophageal hernia repairs and redo surgery are overrepresented. Additionally, paraesophageal hernia repair is associated with more serious complications.
Reliability of artificial intelligence in predicting total knee arthroplasty component sizes: a systematic review
Authors: Salman Loay A. , Khatkar Harman , Al-Ani Abdallah , Alzobi Osama Z. , Abudalou Abedallah , Hatnouly Ashraf T. , Ahmed Ghalib , Hameed Shamsi , AlAteeq Aldosari Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This systematic review aimed to investigate the reliability of AI predictive models of intraoperative implant sizing in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

Four databases were searched from inception till July 2023 for original studies that studied the reliability of AI prediction in TKA. The primary outcome was the accuracy ± 1 size. This review was conducted per PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed using the MINORS criteria.

Results

A total of four observational studies comprised of at least 34,547 patients were included in this review. A mean MINORS score of 11 out of 16 was assigned to the review. All included studies were published between 2021 and 2022, with a total of nine different AI algorithms reported. Among these AI models, the accuracy of TKA femoral component sizing prediction ranged from 88.3 to 99.7% within a deviation of one size, while tibial component sizing exhibited an accuracy ranging from 90 to 99.9% ± 1 size.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the potential of AI as a valuable complement for planning TKA, exhibiting a satisfactory level of reliability in predicting TKA implant sizes. This predictive accuracy is comparable to that of the manual and digital templating techniques currently documented in the literature. However, future research is imperative to assess the impact of AI on patient care and cost-effectiveness.

Level of evidence III

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023446868.
Design friction in autonomous drive—exploring transitions between autonomous and manual drive in non-urgent situations
Authors: Bley Jessica , Eriksson Alexander , Johansson Lisa , Wiberg Mikael
Published: November 2023

In the ongoing turn to automation, the growing trend towards the design of conditionally and highly automated vehicles (C/HAV) is evident. In a CAV, the driver no longer needs to partake in the driving. However, the vehicle might send a takeover request (TOR) when the CAV’s system reaches its operational boundaries, i.e. a call for a transition from autonomous to manual drive. Previous research on TORs has focused on the context of urgent situations, e.g. hazards and unpredictable events. Furthermore, it has been noted that drivers’ situation awareness (SA) deteriorates after being in autonomous drive. However, less is known about TORs in non-urgent situations. Motivated by this need, the study explores how design friction can serve as a guiding concept for transferring control between autonomous and manual drive in non-urgent situations to increase situation awareness. Design friction is defined as elements of interactions that steer attention and guides the driver to take informed decisions. The work resulted in prototypes that leveraged design friction as part of a takeover sequence. The proposed design was empirically evaluated in a fixed-base medium-fidelity driving simulator. The results indicated that the level of friction might have been too extensive, as some annoyance was expressed. However, participants claimed to feel calm and aware of their surroundings at the moment of regaining control of the vehicle. This suggests that design friction is a promising tool for guiding concept design to enhance transitions from autonomous to manual drive.
The Telephone Language Screener (TLS): standardization of a novel telephone-based screening test for language impairment
Authors: Aiello Edoardo Nicolò , Pucci Veronica , Diana Lorenzo , Corvaglia Alessia , Niang Aida , Mattiello Silvia , Preti Alice Naomi , Durante Giorgia , Ravelli Adele , Consonni Lucia , Guerra Carolina , Ponti Adriana Delli , Sangalli Gaia , Difonzo Teresa , Scarano Stefano , Perucca Laura , Zago Stefano , Appollonio Ildebrando , Mondini Sara , Bolognini Nadia
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed at developing and standardizing the Telephone Language Screener (TLS), a novel, disease-nonspecific, telephone-based screening test for language disorders.

Methods

The TLS was developed in strict pursuance to the current psycholinguistic standards. It comprises nine tasks assessing phonological, lexical-semantic and morpho-syntactic components, as well as an extra Backward Digit Span task. The TLS was administered to 480 healthy participants (HPs), along with the Telephone-based Semantic Verbal Fluency (t-SVF) test and a Telephone-based Composite Language Index (TBCLI), as well as to 37 cerebrovascular/neurodegenerative patients—who also underwent the language subscale of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-L). An HP subsample was also administered an in-person language battery. Construct validity, factorial structure, internal consistency, test–retest and inter-rater reliability were tested. Norms were derived via Equivalent Scores. The capability of the TLS to discriminate patients from HPs and to identify, among the patient cohort, those with a defective TICS-L, was also examined.

Results

The TLS was underpinned by a mono-component structure and converged with the t-SVF (p < .001), the TBCLI (p < .001) and the in-person language battery (p = .002). It was internally consistent (McDonald’s ω = 0.67) and reliable between raters (ICC = 0.99) and at retest (ICC = 0.83). Age and education, but not sex, were predictors of TLS scores. The TLS optimally discriminated patients from HPs (AUC = 0.80) and successfully identified patients with an impaired TICS-L (AUC = 0.92). In patients, the TLS converged with TICS-L scores (p = 0.016).

Discussion

The TLS is a valid, reliable, normed and clinically feasible telephone-based screener for language impairment.
Noise-Induced Hearing Threshold Shift Correlated with Body Weight and External-Ear Amplification in Chinchilla: a Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Grinn Sarah K. , Trevino Monica , Lobarinas Edward
Published: November 2023

Background

External-ear amplification (EEA) has been shown to vary from 5–19 dB-A in large datasets of pediatric, adolescent, and adult human participants. However, variable EEA is an overlooked characteristic that likely plays a role in individual noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) susceptibility. A noise exposure varying 5–19 dB-A translates to high-EEA individuals theoretically experiencing 3–4 times greater NIHL risk than low-EEA individuals.

Objective

The purpose of this preliminary analysis was to test the hypothesis that higher EEA is correlated with increased noise-induced threshold shift susceptibility.

Design

Nine chinchillas were exposed to 4-kHz octave-band noise at 89 dB-SPL for 24 h. Auditory brainstem response thresholds were obtained pre-exposure, 24-h post-exposure, and 4-week post-exposure. Relationships between EEA and threshold shift were analyzed.

Results

Open-ear EEA ranged 11–19 dB-SPL, and occluded-ear EEA ranged 10–21 dB-SPL. Higher occluded-ear EEA was correlated with increased NIHL susceptibility (p = 0.04), as was lower body weight (p = 0.01). Male animals exhibited more threshold shift than female animals (p = 0.02), lower body weight than female animals (p = 0.02), and higher occluded-ear EEA (male mean = 18 dB; female mean = 15 dB).

Conclusions

Taken together, increased threshold shift susceptibility was observed in the smallest animals, animals with the highest occluded-ear EEA, and in male animals (which tended to have higher occluded-ear EEA). Given the established relationship between smaller body size and higher occluded-ear EEA, these preliminary results suggest that body size (and occluded-ear EEA; a function of body size) could be a potential, underlying driver of NIHL susceptibility differences, rather than true sex differences.
Grade one single-digit addition strategies as predictors of grade four achievement in mathematics
Authors: Sunde Pernille Bødtker , De Smedt Bert , Verschaffel Lieven , Sunde Peter
Published: November 2023

Early detection of and relevant information on children’s mathematical difficulties is important to initiate targeted teaching and intervention. This study investigated the extent to which strategy use in single-digit addition provides additional predictive information about 61 grade one children’s (6-year-old) mathematical achievement 3 years later that is not available from a standardised mathematics achievement test. Four predictors available in year one (arithmetic strategy use, mathematical achievement, non-verbal reasoning skills and sex) explained 54% of the variation in grade four mathematics achievement. Arithmetic strategy use was the most important single predictor of year four mathematics achievement (R2 = 30%) and explained an additional 12% variation if added to a model comprised by the three other year one predictors. This result suggests that systematically obtained measures of how young children solve single-digit arithmetic problems might provide useful information about their foundational number knowledge, which in turn may reveal how well they achieve later in school.
Surface Measure to Depth (SMeTD): a new low-budget system for 3D water temperature measurements for combining with UAV-based thermal infrared imagery
Authors: Loerke Eva , Pohle Ina , Drummond David , Miller Pauline E. , Geris Josie
Published: November 2023

Characterising spatial patterns in water temperature is important for monitoring aquatic habitats and understanding physical and biogeochemical processes to support environmental management decisions. As freshwater bodies exhibit high spatial and temporal variability, high-resolution 3D temperature data are essential to understand local anomalies. The acquisition of simultaneously high spatial and temporal datasets in the field has so far been limited by costs and/or workload associated with commonly used monitoring systems.

We present a new, low-cost, spatially and temporally flexible 3D water temperature monitoring system, Surface Measures to Depth (SMeTD). SMeTD can be used to provide information on the relation of water surface temperature to changes with depth, characterise water temperature in 3D and ground truth remotely sensed thermal infrared data. The systems performance was tested under laboratory conditions and under controlled conditions in the field. This revealed an accuracy comparable to established but more expensive monitoring systems. Field testing of SMeTD involved 1-min data collection of 3D water temperature for a full diurnal cycle in a lake. The 3D temperature patterns were supported by a thermal infrared image of the lakes surface. The field dataset demonstrated higher water temperatures and higher water temperature variation at the surface compared to deeper layers. SMeTD can be used to observe a broad range of hydrological processes in natural and artificial aquatic environments and help to understand processes involved with energy budgets, infiltration, limnology, or groundwater surface water exchange.