bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment‐naïve people living with HIV aged 50 years or older in Beijing, China, 2010–2020: joinpoint regression model analysis of surveillance data
Authors: Wang Duoduo , Zhou Mengge , Wang Peicheng , Zhang Jinjuan , Mi Yuanqi , Cheng Feng , Liu Jufen
Published: December 2023

Introduction

As they age, people living with HIV (PLWH) must face new challenges, such as accelerated ageing and higher rates of comorbidities. This study described the characteristics of HIV acquisition among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years and <50 years in Beijing from 2010 to 2020, exploring associated risk factors for comorbidities.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, differences in HIV‐related and non‐HIV‐related characteristics were compared using the t‐test, Mann−Whitney U test and chi‐square test. Temporal trend data were analysed via joinpoint regression. A multivariate logistic regression model was conducted to analyse the associated factors with PLWH having one or more comorbidities.

Results

The proportion of PLWH aged ≥50 years has significantly increased since 2013, with a corresponding increase in homosexual transmission in this age group over the past decade. The proportion of individuals with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl significantly decreased from 2010 to 2013 among PLWH aged ≥50 years and from 2010 to 2014 among those aged <50 years. Delayed initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) improved for both age groups over the course of the decade, especially from 2014 to 2020. Compared to PLWH aged <50 years, those aged ≥50 years had a higher proportion of CD4 counts <200 cells/μl, higher levels of plasma HIV RNA load and a higher prevalence of non‐HIV‐related risk factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that PLWH aged ≥50, male, not single, transmission through heterosexual contact or drug injection, WHO Stage IV, coinfection with hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus and CD4 counts <200 cells/μl at the initiation of ART were associated with higher risk of the presence of an HIV comorbidity.

Conclusions

Due to the persistent burden of HIV‐related characteristics or symptoms and the increasing prevalence of coexisting comorbidities among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years, physicians should provide the highest‐quality screening, prevention, treatment and management of coexisting comorbidities, adopting a multidisciplinary approach.
Stability of mpox virus on different commonly contacted surfaces
Authors: Li Fu , Shen Xiaona , Zhang Huijuan , Jin Haoyuan , Zhang Lin , Lv Bing , Li Weihong , Liang Zhichao , Zhang Xin , Zhang Daitao , Hou Xuexin , Pan Yang , Kan Biao , Wang Quanyi
Published: December 2023

Mpox is still spreading globally and is mostly reported to be transmitted by skin and mucosal contact. However, transmission through contact with fomites, contaminated objects, or surfaces has been reported in general population. Evaluation of the stability of mpox virus (MPXV) on different surfaces is important to minimize mpox transmission. In the study, the stability of MPXV on different kinds of commonly contacted surfaces was determined. MPXV was observed to have a surface‐dependent stability pattern. Viable virus was detected on both glass and stainless steel for up to 5 days, and on plastic surfaces for up to 3 days. In contrast, no viable MPXV was detected on wooden board and cardboard, which are porous and water‐absorbent surfaces, after 1 and 2 days of incubation, respectively. In addition, MPXV nucleic acids were more stable and showed better correlation with viral titers on stainless steel, plastic, and glass. The results indicate that fomite transmission of MPXV is plausible. Moreover, the stability of MPXV was highly surface‐dependent and more stable on smooth surfaces, which could provide more information for minimizing the transmission of mpox and emphasize the significance of environmental disinfection in mpox prevention and control.
Lipid profiling of electrosurgical vapors for real‐time assistance of soft tissue sarcoma resection
Authors: Vaysse Pierre‐Maxence , van den Hout Mari F. C. M. , Engelen Sanne M. E. , Keymeulen Kristien B. M. I. , Bemelmans Marc H. A. , Heeren Ron M. A. , Olde Damink Steven W. M. , Porta Siegel Tiffany
Published: December 2023

Background

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) constitute a heterogeneous group of rare tumor entities. Treatment relies on challenging patient‐tailored surgical resection. Real‐time intraoperative lipid profiling of electrosurgical vapors by rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) may aid in achieving successful surgical R0 resection (i.e., microscopically negative‐tumor margin resection). Here, we evaluate the ex vivo accuracy of REIMS to discriminate and identify various STS from normal surrounding tissue.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients undergoing surgery for STS at Maastricht University Medical Center+ were included in the study. Samples of resected STS specimens were collected and analyzed ex vivo using REIMS. Electrosurgical cauterization of tumor and surrounding was generated successively in both cut and coagulation modes. Resected specimens were subsequently processed for gold standard histopathological review. Multivariate statistical analysis (principal component analysis‐linear discriminant analysis) and leave‐one patient‐out cross‐validation were employed to compare the classifications predicted by REIMS lipid profiles to the pathology classifications. Electrosurgical vapors produced during sarcoma resection were analyzed in vivo using REIMS.

Results

In total, 1200 histopathologically‐validated ex vivo REIMS lipid profiles were generated from 27 patients. Ex vivo REIMS lipid profiles classified STS and normal tissues with 95.5% accuracy. STS, adipose and muscle tissues were classified with 98.3% accuracy. Well‐differentiated liposarcomas and adipose tissues could not be discriminated based on their respective lipid profiles. Distinction of leiomyosarcomas from other STS could be achieved with 96.6% accuracy. In vivo REIMS analyses generated intense mass spectrometric signals.

Conclusion

Lipid profiling by REIMS is able to discriminate and identify STS with high accuracy and therefore constitutes a potential asset to improve surgical resection of STS in the future.
The distorted entrepreneurial decision‐making of zombie firms
Authors: Gabriel Amadeus , Giménez Roche Gabriel A.
Published: December 2023

Quantitative easing policies have resulted in a significant increase in credit, posing a threat to developed countries' economic stability. This research aims to analyze the impact of distorted interest rates and readily available capital on creating “zombie firms” in the context of Mises–Hayek's malinvestment theory. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent firm failure and recommends limited intervention in interest rates and capital availability before crises. Additionally, the study advocates for implementing flexible insolvency regimes for insolvent firms post‐crisis to mitigate the risk of corporate zombification.
Favorable Outcome Perception in Facial Selective Neurectomy
Authors: Kaufman Goldberg Tal , Flynn John P. , Xiao Roy , Trzcinski Lauren O. , Hadlock Tessa A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Facial selective neurectomy (SN) improves facial function by denervation of muscles antagonistic to the smile in nonflaccid facial paralysis (NFFP) patients. This study aims to assess whether and which objective facial function metrics affect favorable SN outcome in NFFP patients, as perceived by facial nerve (FN) practitioners.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

NFFP patients who underwent SN at the facial nerve center.

Methods

Standardized preoperative and postoperative facial photographs of patients undergoing SN were analyzed using clinician‐graded measures (eFACE) and automated facial measurement (Emotrics). Favorable outcome was ranked subjectively by 3 independent FN practitioners. Correlations between objective metrics and favorable subjective outcome were examined.

Results

Fifty‐eight SN cases were included. Oral commissure excursion with smile, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were all considered statistically significantly important for favorable outcome perception. Each +1 mm of smile excursion increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 75.4% (odds ratio [OR]: 1.754). Each +1 mm of interlabial distance asymmetry decreases the odds of a favorable outcome by 24.7% (OR: 0.753). Each +1‐point change in lower lip movement eFACE score increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 2.7% (OR: 1.027).

Conclusion

Several smile metrics contribute to favorable SN outcome perception among FN practitioners. Smile excursion, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were significant predictors of success. These observations may be extrapolated to other facial reanimation interventions and serve surgeons and patients during counseling and expectation management, and during surgery.
Production of a thermoplastic polyurethane/silver nanoparticles 3D filament with antiviral properties to combat SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Agnol Lucas Dall , Ornaghi Heitor Luiz , Ernzen Juliano Roberto , Faccio Maíra , Bianchi Otávio
Published: December 2023

Antiviral agents present a propitious alternative to prevent pathogen transmission on various surfaces. In the present study, we successfully synthesized nanocomposites of thermoplastic polyurethanes with silver nanoparticles (TPU/AgNPs) via extrusion. To comprehensively evaluate their potential in antiviral applications, we conducted a thorough analysis of the nanocomposites, encompassing investigations into their chemical structure, physicochemical and mechanical properties, cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and antiviral efficacy. Remarkably, the incorporation of AgNPs had no discernible impact on the chemical structure of the materials, ensuring the preservation of essential properties. Moreover, the nanoparticles exhibited remarkable stability within the TPU matrix, with no detectable leaching of AgNPs observed in any of the studied nanocomposites. The nanocomposites demonstrated exceptional antibacterial efficiency, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth while concurrently revealing no cytotoxic effects in vitro for BALB/3 T3 cells. The antiviral performance against SARS‐CoV‐2 proved highly potent, achieving inactivation yields surpassing 99.0%. Leveraging these advantageous attributes, we harnessed the potential of TPU/AgNPs nanocomposites to produce various versatile products, such as cell phone cases and 3D‐printing filaments. In conclusion, this study underscores the immense promise of antiviral TPU/AgNPs nanocomposites, offering new insights into the domains of materials science and infection control, contributing to a healthier and safer future.
Investigation on the mechanical and fracture properties of lightweight pumice epoxy composites
Authors: Shahapurkar Kiran , Zelalem Yordanos Mengistu , Chenrayan Venkatesh , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Fouad Yasser , Kalam M. A. , Kiran M. C.
Published: December 2023

Pumice, which is prevalent in Ethiopia, is formed naturally during the quick cooling and solidifying of molten lava. Pumice is a naturally occurring mineral that, due to its high thermal resistance and lightweightness, can be an excellent candidate for reinforcing material for polymers. The present study investigates epoxy‐based composites reinforced with pumice particles by varying the pumice content (0, 10, 20, and 30 vol%). The densities of all composites reduce in comparison with neat epoxy as the volume proportion of pumice increases credited to the low density pumice particles. Tensile stress–strain curves depict neat epoxy with higher deformation than other pumice particulate‐filled composites in the linear elastic area followed by rapid brittle failure. Tensile modulus of all the composites increases in the range of 13%–67% in comparison with neat epoxy. The compressive characteristics of composites are greatly improved by the addition of pumice. Compressive moduli and specific compressive moduli of all composites increase with increasing volume fraction of pumice by 54%–58% and 65%–93%, respectively, in comparison with neat epoxy. The fracture toughness of P‐10, P‐20, and P‐30 composites improved by 18%, 54%, and 59%, respectively, as compared with neat epoxy mainly attributed to the foam‐like structure of pumice particles. SEM micrographs are used to analyze the morphology of compression‐tested specimens. Property mapping highlights the advantages of utilizing composites from present work over numerous syntactic foams.
Editor's Note
Authors: Snyder Mick Connie
Published: December 2023

This note from the editor provides a brief summary of the articles contained in this issue and invites readers to respond and submit their own articles.
High Voltage Ga‐Doped P2‐Type Na2/3Ni0.2Mn0.8O2 Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Huanqing , Hong Ningyun , Bugday Nesrin , Yasar Sedat , Altin Serdar , Deng Weina , Deng Wentao , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Long Zhen , Ji Xiaobo
Published: December 2023

Ni/Mn‐based oxide cathode materials have drawn great attention due to their high discharge voltage and large capacity, but structural instability at high potential causes rapid capacity decay. How to moderate the capacity loss while maintaining the advantages of high discharge voltage remains challenging. Herein, the replacement of Mn ions by Ga ions is proposed in the P2‐Na2/3Ni0.2Mn0.8O2 cathode for improving their cycling performances without sacrificing the high discharge voltage. With the introduction of Ga ions, the relative movement between the transition metal ions is restricted and more Na ions are retained in the lattice at high voltage, leading to an enhanced redox activity of Ni ions, validated by ex situ synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectrum and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Additionally, the P2‐O2 phase transition is replaced by a P2‐OP4 phase transition with a smaller volume change, reducing the lattice strain in the c‐axis direction, as detected by operando/ex situ X‐ray diffraction. Consequently, the Na2/3Ni0.21Mn0.74Ga0.05O2 electrode exhibits a high discharge voltage close to that of the undoped materials, while increasing voltage retention from 79% to 93% after 50 cycles. This work offers a new avenue for designing high‐energy density Ni/Mn‐based oxide cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries.
Spin‐Selective Electron Transport Through Single Chiral Molecules
Authors: Safari Mohammad Reza , Matthes Frank , Schneider Claus M. , Ernst Karl‐Heinz , Bürgler Daniel E.
Published: December 2023

The interplay between chirality and magnetism is a source of fascination among scientists for over a century. In recent years, chirality‐induced spin selectivity (CISS) has attracted renewed interest. It is observed that electron transport through layers of homochiral molecules leads to a significant spin polarization of several tens of percent. Despite the abundant experimental evidence gathered through mesoscopic transport measurements, the exact mechanism behind CISS remains elusive. This study reports spin‐selective electron transport through single helical aromatic hydrocarbons that are sublimed in vacuo onto ferromagnetic cobalt surfaces and examined with spin‐polarized scanning tunneling microscopy (SP‐STM) at a temperature of 5 K. Direct comparison of two enantiomers under otherwise identical conditions revealed magnetochiral conductance asymmetries of up to 50% when either the molecular handedness is exchanged or the magnetization direction of the STM tip or Co substrate is reversed. Importantly, the results rule out electron–phonon coupling and ensemble effects as primary mechanisms responsible for CISS.
Sodium in Cu(In, Ga)Se2 Solar Cells: To Be or Not to Be Beneficial
Authors: Karami Ava , Morawski Marcin , Kempa Heiko , Scheer Roland , Cojocaru-Mirédin Oana
Published: December 2023

In this work, the dual effect of Na in the copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) absorber is studied. Na doping exhibits a drastic improvement of the cell efficiency mainly by an increase in the open‐circuit current and fill factor. However, when the Na content is too high, it can deteriorate the cell properties and performance. Nonetheless, it is still beneficial when compared with a cell without Na inside. Here, we therefore use electron backscatter diffraction, atom probe tomography, and admittance spectroscopy to understand why Na starts to deteriorate the properties when inserted excessively. More exactly, it is shown that a moderate addition of Na strongly decreases the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficit, whereas the opposite happens when the Na content is too high. Interestingly, this cell with deteriorated VOC value and characterized by a very high Na content exhibits a high density of not only grain boundaries and dislocations but also of Na‐rich clusters. These clusters may host a high concentration of deep defects and trap the electrons within the CIGS bulk. At this stage, Na still has its beneficial effects, but the cell properties start to deteriorate compared to the cell with a moderate content of Na, especially when found as clusters in the bulk. In conclusion, this work clearly demonstrates the dual effect of Na in the CIGS absorber.
Amorphous W‐S‐P Modified ZnxCd1−xS with Tunable Band Structure for Efficient Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Chang Cancan , Li Xiang , Guo Xin , Jin Zhiliang
Published: December 2023

The photocatalytic overall water splitting performance of the bandgap controllable ZnxCd1−xS solid solution is still restricted by its photo‐corrosion. In this study, amorphous tungsten phosphosulphide (W‐S‐P) modified ZnxCd1−xS solid solution is successfully prepared as a visible‐light‐driven photocatalyst and an efficient and stable ZnxCd1−xS/W‐S‐P heterojunction is constructed through intimate W‐S covalent bonds for efficient photocatalytic overall water splitting. The hydrogen evolution rate of the composite catalyst reached 18899.6 μmol g−1 h−1, which is 86 times and 5 times higher than that of W‐S‐P and Zn0.5Cd0.5S, respectively. At this time, the precipitation rates of H2 and O2 were 157.07 μmol g−1 h−1 and 78.05 μmol g−1 h−1 without any noble metal catalyst. In this work, the overall water splitting efficiency of the catalyst is greatly improved by constructing a ZnxCd1−xS/W‐S‐P Schottky heterojunction, which further inhibits the photo‐corrosion of the ZnxCd1−xS catalyst. At the same time, the strong internal electric field greatly improves the charge transfer efficiency. It provides a new idea for an in‐depth understanding of the chemical changes of elemental binding energy in ZnxCd1−xS solid solution and the design of new binary photocatalytic materials.
RETRACTED: DPM2 serve as novel oncogene and prognostic marker transactivated by ESR1 in breast cancer
Authors: Lu Jiahao , Feng Yuejiao , Zhou Yiting , Xiao Zengyou , Yang Zean , Li Jiaxian , Cai Han , Wang Jie
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer (BRCA) is the most common malignancies worldwide with increasing rate. Dolichol phosphate mannose synthase (DPMS) is a critical mannosyltransferase involved in the posttranslational modification of proteins. At present, there is limited knowledge regarding the function of DPMS in breast cancer. In this study, silica analysis in multiple datasets found that dolichyl‐phosphate mannosyltransferase subunit 2 (DPM2) is an unfavorable prognostic marker, suggesting its oncogenic role. Cell counting kit‐8 and apoptosis assays show that DPM2‐silenced cancer cells exhibit decreased growth potential and enhanced cell death rate. Further, transwell and wound healing assays show reduced invasion and migration capabilities in DPM2 knockdown groups, xenograft nude mice model demonstrated smaller tumor volume in DPM2 silenced BC cells. Then, the underlying downstream mechanism of DPM2 in BC was predicted and analyzed, highlighting classical tumorigenic pathways like JAK/STAT signaling pathway and oxidative phosphorylation activated in the cancer group. Finally, ChIP‐seq analysis, expression correlation analysis, inhibitor treatment, and dual luciferase assays show that DPM2 is transcriptionally activated by estrogen receptor1 (ESR1). The results show that high expression of DPM2 mRNA is significantly correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in breast cancer patients, and in vitro knockdown of DPM2 can significantly inhibit the malignant phenotypes of cells, including proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis. These results suggest that DPM2 may play an important role in breast cancer. Altogether, we first uncovered the tumorigenic and prognostic role of DPM2 in breast cancer, cellular assays, and bioinformatics analysis highlighted DPM2 as oncogene via inhibited cancer‐related signaling pathways in breast cancer. Besides, DPM2 is transcriptionally activated by ESR1, the signaling axis of ESR1/DPM2 provides a new strategy for BC‐targeted therapy.
Loss of MTA2‐mediated downregulation of PTK7 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis progression by modulating the FAK‐MMP7 axis
Authors: Hu Huang‐Ming , Lee Hsiang‐Lin , Liu Chung‐Jung , Hsieh Yi‐Hsien , Chen Yong‐Syuan , Hsueh Kuan‐Chun
Published: December 2023

The expression of metastasis tumor‐associated protein 2 (MTA2) and protein tyrosine kinase 7 (PTK7) is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. However, the functional effect and mechanism through which MTA2 regulates PTK7‐mediated HCC progression remains unclear. Here, we found that MTA2 knockdown significantly down‐regulated PTK7 expression in HCC cells (SK‐Hep‐1 and PLC/PRF/5). Data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases show that the PTK7 expression level was higher in HCC tissues than in normal liver tissues. In HCC patients, the PTK7 expression level clearly correlated with tumor stage and grade, lower overall survival (OS) correlated positively with MTA2 level, and PTK7 expression acted as a downstream factor for MTA2 expression. In addition, matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) expression was closely regulated by PTK7, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of MTA2 and PTK7 correlated positively with lower OS. MMP7 downregulation by PTK7 knockdown clearly decreased the migration and invasion abilities of HCC cells. In HCC cells, recombinant human MMP7 reversed the PTK7 knockdown‐induced suppression of migration and invasion. Furthermore, deactivation of FAK using siFAK or FAK inhibitor (PF‐573228, PF) synergistically contributed to PTK7 knockdown‐inhibited FAK activity, MMP7 expression, and the migration and invasion abilities of HCC cells. Collectively, our findings show that PTK7 mediates HCC progression by regulating the MTA2‐FAK‐MMP7 axis and may be a diagnostic value for HCC patients.
An Estimate of the Effect of 3D Heterogeneous Density Distribution on Coseismic Deformation Using a Spectral Finite-Element Approach
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiyuki , Klemann Volker , Martinec Zdeněk
Published: December 2023

The advancement of the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) has enabled monitoring of mass transport and solid-Earth deformation processes with unprecedented accuracy. Coseismic deformation is modelled as an elastic response of the solid Earth to an internal dislocation. Self-gravitating spherical Earth models can be employed in modelling regional to global scale deformations. Recent seismic tomography and high-pressure/high-temperature experiments have revealed finer-scale lateral heterogeneities in the elasticity and density structures within the Earth, which motivates us to quantify the effects of such finer structures on coseismic deformation. To achieve this, fully numerical approaches including the Finite Element Method (FEM) have often been used. In our previous study, we presented a spectral FEM, combined with an iterative perturbation method, to consider lateral heterogeneities in the bulk and shear moduli for surface loading. The distinct feature of this approach is that the deformation of the entire sphere is modelled in the spectral domain with finite elements dependent only on the radial coordinate. By this, self-gravitation can be treated without special treatments employed when using an ordinary FEM. In this study, we extend the formulation so that it can deal with lateral heterogeneities in density in the case of coseismic deformation. We apply this approach to a longer-wavelength vertical deformation due to a large earthquake. The result shows that the deformation for a laterally heterogeneous density distribution is suppressed mainly where the density is larger, which is consistent with the fact that self-gravitation reduces longer-wavelength deformations for 1-D models. The effect on the vertical displacement is relatively small, but the effect on the gravity change could amount to the same order of magnitude of a given heterogeneity if the horizontal scale of the heterogeneity is large enough.
A Dynamic-Based Methodology for Optimising Insulation Retrofit to Reduce Total Carbon
Authors: Rakshit D. M. , Robinson Anthony , Byrne Aimee
Published: December 2023

Optimisation is frequently mentioned in frameworks and assessments of design for a circular economy. Adopting circular economy principles in building retrofit can reduce the use of materials and minimise emissions embedded in building materials alongside reduced operational emissions. This paper presents the optimisation of retrofitted insulation thickness, using Ireland as a case study. Detailed and robust dynamic finite element models were developed based on in-situ boundary conditions and combined with economic and environmental considerations. It was determined that optimising insulation based on cost was considerably different to optimising based on carbon. Cost-optimised insulation can reduce overall cost which could expand the reach of retrofit, allowing for more existing homes to be used more efficiently. However, this approach can lead to significant increases in operational carbon and therefore a balanced decision must be made. The methodology presented can be adopted for different regions by inputting local data, which will facilitate the adoption of circular economy principals in European retrofit plans. The approach can benefit developing circular insulation materials of low embodied carbon by building a case for their use.
Stability constraints for geometrically nonlinear topology optimization
Authors: Dunning Peter D.
Published: December 2023

This paper compares four methods for formulating stability constraints in topology optimization with geometric nonlinearity. The methods are: a direct approach to compute the critical load factor, an approximation using an eigenvalue analysis at a load factor of 1, a new method based on an eigenvalue analysis at the constraint limit load factor, and an implicit method based on stiffness reduction, which has not previously been investigated for stability constraint formulation. These four methods are described in detail and then compared qualitatively and quantitatively (including optimization examples) in terms of accuracy, robustness, and computational efficiency. The results show that formulating the constraint using an eigenvalue analysis at a load factor of 1 is the most robust approach, as it is least likely to experience mode switching or mode skipping during optimization, which leads to poor convergence for the other three methods. It is also the most efficient, as it only requires a single eigenvalue solve, whereas other methods require additional linear solves to compute the constraint value. However, an eigenvalue analysis at a load factor of 1 only approximates the critical load factor, which may be over, or under-estimated. Therefore, none of the methods fully satisfy the criteria of accuracy, robustness, and efficiency, highlighting the need for further research, e.g., by improving the accuracy of the method based on an eigenvalue analysis at a load factor of 1, or by improving the robustness and efficiency of the direct approach.
Cosmic ray feedback in galaxies and galaxy clusters
Authors: Ruszkowski Mateusz , Pfrommer Christoph
Published: December 2023

Understanding the physical mechanisms that control galaxy formation is a fundamental challenge in contemporary astrophysics. Recent advances in the field of astrophysical feedback strongly suggest that cosmic rays (CRs) may be crucially important for our understanding of cosmological galaxy formation and evolution. The appealing features of CRs are their relatively long cooling times and relatively strong dynamical coupling to the gas. In galaxies, CRs can be close to equipartition with the thermal, magnetic, and turbulent energy density in the interstellar medium, and can be dynamically very important in driving large-scale galactic winds. Similarly, CRs may provide a significant contribution to the pressure in the circumgalactic medium. In galaxy clusters, CRs may play a key role in addressing the classic cooling flow problem by facilitating efficient heating of the intracluster medium and preventing excessive star formation. Overall, the underlying physics of CR interactions with plasmas exhibit broad parallels across the entire range of scales characteristic of the interstellar, circumgalactic, and intracluster media. Here we present a review of the state-of-the-art of this field and provide a pedagogical introduction to cosmic ray plasma physics, including the physics of wave–particle interactions, acceleration processes, CR spatial and spectral transport, and important cooling processes. The field is ripe for discovery and will remain the subject of intense theoretical, computational, and observational research over the next decade with profound implications for the interpretation of the observations of stellar and supermassive black hole feedback spanning the entire width of the electromagnetic spectrum and multi-messenger data.
Anthropometric measurements of the foot cannot predict the screw diameter for fifth metatarsal fractures intramedullary fixation
Authors: Symeonidis Panagiotis D. , Totlis Trifon , Dermitzakis Iasonas , Papachristodoulou Athanasia , Giatas Ioannis , Beris Alexandros
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of anthropometric foot measurements in predicting the diameter of the intramedullary screw for fifth metatarsal fracture fixation. Secondary aim was to identify whether the fifth metatarsal intramedullary canal diameter is correlated to the fifth metatarsal length and the foot dimensions.

Methods

In 29 cadaveric feet, the maximum length of the plantar surface of the foot (PL) and the perimeter of the foot at the level of the fifth metatarsal base (PBFM) were measured using a measuring tape. Subsequently, the fifth metatarsal was excised. Using Computed Tomography scan, the metatarsal length (FML), and the horizontal (HDI) and vertical diameter (VDI) at the isthmus level were measured. The HDI values were grouped in 5 mm increments to correspond to the recommended screw diameter (RSD) for intramedullary fixation. A univariate linear regression analysis considered RSD and HDI as the dependent variables and FML, PL, PBFM as the independent variables. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to examine the predictive value of the two anthropometric measurements. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

All six univariate analyses revealed that the dependent variable was significantly correlated with the independent variable. However, the multivariate regression models showed that the anthropometric measurements were not significantly correlated with the RSD and HDI.

Conclusion

The current study found an association between the fifth metatarsal intramedullary canal diameter and the fifth metatarsal length and foot anthropometric dimensions. However, the anthropometric measurements of the foot presented a low predictive value for the decision of an intramedullary screw diameter in the treatment of fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal.
The effects of flexible short protocol with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist on preventing premature ovulation in poor responders
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Hongyou , Zhang Xinyue , Hao Yingying , Yang Jihong , Li Yangbai , Feng Ting , Chen Yandong , Qian Yun
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The proportion of patients with poor ovarian response (POR) is increasing, but effective treatment remains a challenge. To control the hidden peaks of luteinizing hormone (LH) and premature ovulation for poor responders, this study investigated the efficacy of flexible short protocol (FSP) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH-ant) on trigger day.

Methods

The 662 cycles of POR patients were retrospectively analyzed. The cohort was divided into control and intervention groups. The intervention group (group A) with 169 cycles received a GnRH-ant given on trigger day. The control (group B) with 493 cycles received only FSP. The clinical outcomes of the two groups were compared.

Results

Compared with group B, with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH-ant) on trigger day in group A the incidences of spontaneous premature ovulation decreased significantly (2.37% vs. 8.72%, P < 0.05). The number of fresh embryo-transfer cycles was 45 in group A and 117 in group B. There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes, including implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate and the cumulative live birth rate (12.0% vs. 9.34%; 22.22% vs. 21.93%; 17.78% vs. 14.91%; 20.51% vs. 20%, respectively; P > 0.05) between the two group.

Conclusion

FSP with GnRH-ant addition on trigger day had no effect on clinical outcomes, but could effectively inhibit the hidden peaks of luteinizing hormone (LH) and spontaneous premature ovulation in POR. Therefore, it is an advantageous option for POR women.
The dominant findings of a recessive man: from Mendel’s kid pea to kidney
Authors: Tory Kálmán
Published: December 2023

The research of Mendel, born two centuries ago, still has many direct implications for our everyday clinical work. He introduced the terms “dominant” and “recessive” characters and determined their 3:1 ratio in the offspring of heterozygous “hybrid” plants. This distribution allowed calculation of the number of the phenotype-determining “elements,” i.e., the alleles, and has been used ever since to prove the monogenic origin of a disorder. The Mendelian inheritance of monogenic kidney disorders is still of great help in distinguishing them from those with multifactorial origin in clinical practice. Inheritance of most monogenic kidney disorders fits to Mendel’s observations: the equal contribution of the two parents and the complete penetrance or the direct correlation between the frequency of the recessive character and the degree of inbreeding. Nevertheless, beyond the truth of these basic concepts, several observations have expanded their genetic characteristics. The extreme genetic heterogeneity, the pleiotropy of the causal genes and the role of modifiers in ciliopathies, the digenic inheritance and parental imprinting in some tubulopathies, and the incomplete penetrance and eventual interallelic interactions in podocytopathies, reflect this expansion. For all these reasons, the transmission pattern in a natural setting may depend not only on the “character” but also on the causal gene and the variant. Mendel’s passion for research combined with his modest personality and meticulous approach can still serve as an example in the work required to understand the non-Mendelian universe of genetics.
Strontium isotope compositions of Late Permian evaporites from the northernmost Thuringian Basin (Germany) indicate continental influence on the marine Zechstein Sea
Authors: Käßner A. , Tichomirowa M. , Tandler R. , Ziebell J.
Published: December 2023

In the Late Permian Zechstein Sea of Central Europe, up to 2000 m of evaporitic rocks were deposited in at least four consecutive cycles. The age of these evaporitic rocks could not yet be precisely determined, because they are virtually fossil-free and do not contain radiometrically datable volcanic layers. A chemostratigraphic age of the succession can be determined by comparing 87Sr/86Sr ratios of marine gypsum and anhydrite to the worldwide marine strontium evolution curve. Unfortunately, published 87Sr/86Sr data of the Zechstein succession are characterized by frequent outliers towards higher ratios, making an age assignment challenging. The scatter in 87Sr/86Sr ratios might be induced by different processes like the contribution of meteoric water to the brine, in-situ Rb decay, or post-depositional hydrothermal or diagenetic overprint. Here, we present a dataset of 26 new gypsum and anhydrite 87Sr/86Sr ratios from drill cores situated at “Alter Stolberg” in the northernmost Thuringian Basin. Evaporites of the Werra-, Staßfurt-, and Leine cycles were sampled. The close proximity of the drillings allows a very accurate assignment of the stratigraphic position of each sample, so that trends and outliers in 87Sr/86Sr ratios can easily be recognized. While the entire Werra Formation obviously revealed non-marine 87Sr/86Sr ratios, the lowermost 87Sr/86Sr ratios in the Staßfurt and Leine Formations can be assumed to represent marine ratios and allow estimating a chemostratigraphic age of 257‒254 Ma. The combination of the 87Sr/86Sr data with the mineral composition of the samples suggests a contribution of meteoric water, probably river water, to the Zechstein Sea as the main reason for the observed increase in 87Sr/86Sr ratios. Additional in-situ Rb decay, related to the riverine input of clay minerals, cannot be excluded. Modelling the amounts of sea water and meteoric water in the brine indicates that 83‒99% of meteoric water would be necessary to explain the highest 87Sr/86Sr ratios observed in the Werra Formation.

Graphical abstract
Inter-software and inter-threshold reliability of quantitative paraspinal muscle segmentation
Authors: Liu Sihai , Schmidt Hendrik , Ziegeler Katharina , Zhang Tianwei , Yang Daishui , Taheri Nima , Pumberger Matthias , Becker Luis
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) and functional cross-sectional area (FCSA) of the lumbar multifidus (MF) and erector spinae muscles (ES) are factors that can contribute to low back pain. For the assessment of muscle CSA and composition there are various software and threshold methods used for tissue segmentation in quantitative analysis. However, there is currently no gold standard for software as well as muscle segmentation. This study aims to analyze the measurement error between different image processing software and different threshold methods for muscle segmentation.

Methods

Magnetic resonance images (MRI) of 60 patients were evaluated. Muscle CSA and FCSA measurements were acquired from axial T2-weighted MRI of the MF and ES at L4/L5 and L5/S1. CSA, FCSA, and FCSA/CSA ratio were measured independently by two observers. The MRI images were measured using two different software programs (ImageJ and Amira) and with two threshold methods (Circle/Overlap method) for each software to evaluate FCSA and FCSA/CSA ratio.

Results

Inter-software comparisons revealed high inter-rater reliability. However, poor inter-rater reliability were obtained with different threshold methods. CSA, FCSA, and FCSA/CSA showed excellent inter-software agreement of 0.75–0.99 regardless of the threshold segmentation method. The inter-rater reliability between the two observers ranged between 0.75 and 0.99. Comparison of the two segmentation methods revealed agreement between 0.19 and 0.84. FCSA and FCSA/CSA measured via the Overlap method were significantly higher than those measured via the Circle method (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The present study showed a high degree of reliability with very good agreement between the two software programs. However, study results based on different threshold methods should not be directly compared.
Multinomial Thompson sampling for rating scales and prior considerations for calibrating uncertainty
Authors: Deliu Nina
Published: December 2023

Bandit algorithms such as Thompson sampling (TS) have been put forth for decades as useful tools for conducting adaptively-randomised experiments. By skewing the allocation toward superior arms, they can substantially improve particular outcomes of interest for both participants and investigators. For example, they may use participants’ ratings for continuously optimising their experience with a program. However, most of the bandit and TS variants are based on either binary or continuous outcome models, leading to suboptimal performances in rating scale data. Guided by behavioural experiments we conducted online, we address this problem by introducing Multinomial-TS for rating scales. After assessing its improved empirical performance in unique optimal arm scenarios, we explore potential considerations (including prior’s role) for calibrating uncertainty and balancing arm allocation in scenarios with no unique optimal arms.
Are there hybrid zones in Fagus sylvatica L. sensu lato?
Authors: Hrivnák Matúš , Krajmerová Diana , Paule Ladislav , Zhelev Petar , Sevik Hakan , Ivanković Mladen , Goginashvili Nana , Paule Juraj , Gömöry Dušan
Published: December 2023

The complex of beech taxa in western Eurasia (Fagus sylvatica L. s.l.) represents one of the most widespread broad-leaved trees in the temperate forests of the northern hemisphere. Two subspecies are generally recognized, F. sylvatica ssp. sylvatica in Europe and F. sylvatica ssp. orientalis in southwestern Asia, but several strongly differentiated regional populations were identified within this complex. To reveal geographical and genomic patterns of hybridization and introgression, genetic variation at 6789 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) resulting from ddRAD sequencing was studied in 288 specimens representing 207 populations distributed across the whole range. Two clusters resulting from a Bayesian analysis of population Structure well coincided with the subspecies, while increasing the number of clusters allowed to distinguish divergent lineages within subspecies. Two zones of potential hybridization between such lineages were analyzed: western Balkans at the contact of both subspecies and the Alpine area at the contact of populations coming from different glacial refugia. Geographical distribution of hybrid indices in the Balkan hybrid zone indicates asymmetric gene flow preferentially directed from F. orientalis to F. sylvatica. Eight SNPs showed a significant shift of genomic cline centers, seven of them toward excess F. orientalis ancestry, suggesting that introgression irregularly affects different regions of the beech genome. On the other hand, no genomic cline outliers were found in the Alpine hybrid zone. Implications for assisted gene flow are shortly discussed.
Mind the gap: gender, micro-inequities and barriers in software development
Authors: Guzmán Emitzá , Fischer Ricarda Anna-Lena , Kok Janey
Published: December 2023

Gender diversity and equity are known problems in the software industry. However, relatively few studies has examined the everyday work experiences and barriers that software professionals in technical roles encounter through a gender perspective. In this work, we investigate micro-inequities (e.g., interruptions, lack of eye contact, being assigned menial tasks in a project) and barriers experienced by software professionals working in technical roles with a gender perspective. We also analyzed age as a confounding factor. In our study, we surveyed 359 software professionals (50:50, women:men ratio) from globally distributed locations. Our results show that women and respondents in certain age groups encounter micro-inequities significantly more than men and other age groups. Further, women experience and witness sexism and harassment in the workplace in significantly higher numbers. We also found that women report having significantly less support and authority to make necessary decisions in their work, are less satisfied with their pay, and feel less valued and recognized in their teams. Finally, we found that the main barriers reported by women are related to team dynamics and gender biases, while men report most on technical and project related issues. Our results can serve to create awareness in the community about the large disparity and help practitioners revise their training programs and internal policies.
Individual entrepreneurial behavior and financial literacy
Authors: Muñoz-Céspedes Ester , Ibar-Alonso Raquel , Cuerdo-Mir Miguel
Published: December 2023

The technological revolution we have been witnessing over the last 30 years is bringing about important changes in business management, specifically in the conception, development, and management of its financial aspects. How to face these challenges is a particularly critical question for individual entrepreneurs who have to assume a much greater responsibility for decisions than in other corporate environments. In this sense, it is very important to understand the financial capabilities and skills and their limitations of this type of entrepreneurship, which is so important for the renewal and extension of the business community in any developed economy. Based on an extensive official survey of this type of entrepreneurship, this research proposes a logistic regression modeling, in order to find out the level of financial knowledge of this business group. One of the findings of this research is that individual entrepreneurs have a higher level of financial knowledge than salaried workers, with a higher qualification in this respect in the case of individual entrepreneurs with employees. This study analyses the link between individual entrepreneurs or self-employed workers – with or without employees – and financial literacy. In addition, we investigated the relationship between this group with their socio-demographic characteristics, financial product holdings, financial planning, and financial fragility. Different binary logistic regression models with maximum likelihood were estimated using a sample of individual entrepreneurs and self-employed workers from the Survey of Financial Competences database conducted in Spain to achieve this. The results of the study show that individuals who choose to be individual entrepreneurs or self-employed, and in particular those with hired workers, had a higher level of financial literacy than salaried workers. Moreover, it was confirmed that financial literacy complements the explanatory power of the other variables analyzed with respect to sole proprietors without employees, although not to a significant degree. The limitations of this work are due to the use of data from the Financial Skills Survey, so some dichotomous variables offer very generic information. In addition, the database is cross-sectional and we cannot analyze variations between different periods. No research before had applied the relationships between the behavior of individual entrepreneurs, with and without employees, and financial competencies using logistic functions and on the basis of a rigorous and comprehensive formal questionnaire. The conclusions provide a valuable perspective for developing training programs for this type of human capital aimed at raising the financial skills of individual entrepreneurs to improve personal and business management.
A review of bifacial solar photovoltaic applications
Authors: Garrod Aydan , Ghosh Aritra
Published: December 2023

Bifacial photovoltaics (BPVs) are a promising alternative to conventional monofacial photovoltaics given their ability to exploit solar irradiance from both the front and rear sides of the panel, allowing for a higher amount of energy production per unit area. The BPV industry is still emerging, and there is much work to be done until it is a fully mature technology. There are a limited number of reviews of the BPV technology, and the reviews focus on different aspects of BPV. This review comprises an extensive in-depth look at BPV applications throughout all the current major applications, identifying studies conducted for each of the applications, and their outcomes, focusing on optimization for BPV systems under different applications, comparing levelized cost of electricity, integrating the use of BPV with existing systems such as green roofs, information on irradiance and electrical modeling, as well as providing future scope for research to improve the technology and help the industry.