bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Saharan dust outbreaks on short‐range weather forecast errors in Europe
Authors: Hermes Kilian , Quinting Julian , Grams Christian M. , Hoose Corinna , Hoshyaripour Gholam Ali
Published: March 2024

Mineral dust, the most abundant atmospheric aerosol by mass, interacts with radiation directly and alters cloud properties indirectly. Many operational numerical weather prediction models account for aerosol direct effects by using climatological mean concentrations and neglect indirect effects. This simplification may lead to shortcomings in model forecasts during outbreaks of Saharan dust towards Europe, when climatological mean dust concentrations deviate strongly from actual concentrations. This study investigates errors in model analyses and short‐range forecasts during such events. We investigate a pronounced dust event in March 2021 using the pre‐operational ICOsahedral Nonhydrostatic weather and climate model with Aerosols and Reactive Trace gases (ICON‐ART) with prognostic calculation of dust and the operational European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) model, which deploys a dust climatology. We compare model analysis and forecast with measurements from satellite and in situ instruments. We find that inclusion of prognostic aerosol and direct radiative effects from dust improves forecasts of surface radiation during clear‐sky conditions. However, dust‐induced cirrus clouds are strongly underestimated, highlighting the importance of representing indirect effects adequately. These findings are corroborated by systematic quantification of forecast errors against satellite measurements. For this we construct an event catalogue with 49 dust days over Central Europe between January 2018 and March 2022. We classify model cells by simulated and observed cloudiness and simulated dustiness in the total atmospheric column. We find significant overestimations of brightness temperature for cases with dust compared with cases without dust. For surface shortwave radiation, we find median overestimations of 6.2% during cloudy conditions with dust optical depth greater than 0.1, however these are not significant compared with cloudy conditions without dust. Our findings show that the pre‐operational ICON‐ART and the operational IFS model still do not reproduce cloudiness adequately during events with Saharan dust over Central Europe. Missing implementations of prognostic dust, particularly of indirect effects on cloud formation, lead to significant underestimations of cloudiness and potentially overestimations of surface radiation.
Precipitable water vapor from Sentinel‐1 improves the forecast of extratropical storm Barbara
Authors: Mateus Pedro , Nico Giovanni , Catalão João , Miranda Pedro M. A.
Published: March 2024

High‐resolution water vapor fields retrieved over Iberia during the passage of storm Barbara (October 19–20, 2020) by Sentinel‐1 and assimilated by the Weanther Research & Forecasting Model (WRF) reveal a substantial positive impact on water vapor forecasting. Due to the path followed by the storm across Iberia, from its southwestern to the northeastern corners, and the geometry of Sentinel‐1 data acquisition, it is possible to show, for the first time, the potential added value of precipitable water vapor (PWV) obtained by the Interferometric Synthetic‐Aperture Radar (InSAR) technique, as a data source for both the forecast and validation of meteorological forecasts of synoptic‐scale storms. Results indicate that data assimilated in the InSAR footprint positively impact the downstream forecasts up to the northeastern boundary, about 850 km and 12 hours away, with improved skill scores of the water vapor distribution and improved forecasts of rain.
Regulatory role of miRNAs in the human immune and inflammatory response during the infection of SARS‐CoV‐2 and other respiratory viruses: A comprehensive review
Authors: Chakraborty Chiranjib , Bhattacharya Manojit , Lee Sang‐Soo
Published: March 2024

miRNAs are single‐stranded ncRNAs that act as regulators of different human body processes. Several miRNAs have been noted to control the human immune and inflammatory response during severe acute respiratory infection syndrome (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Similarly, many miRNAs were upregulated and downregulated during different respiratory virus infections. Here, an attempt has been made to capture the regulatory role of miRNAs in the human immune and inflammatory response during the infection of SARS‐CoV‐2 and other respiratory viruses. Firstly, the role of miRNAs has been depicted in the human immune and inflammatory response during the infection of SARS‐CoV‐2. In this direction, several significant points have been discussed about SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, such as the role of miRNAs in human innate immune response; miRNAs and its regulation of granulocytes; the role of miRNAs in macrophage activation and polarisation; miRNAs and neutrophil extracellular trap formation; miRNA‐related inflammatory response; and miRNAs association in adaptive immunity. Secondly, the miRNAs landscape has been depicted during human respiratory virus infections such as human coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, rhinovirus, and human metapneumovirus. The article will provide more understanding of the miRNA‐controlled mechanism of the immune and inflammatory response during COVID‐19, which will help more therapeutics discoveries to fight against the future pandemic.
Adaptive event‐triggered output‐feedback control for p‐normal stochastic nonlinear systems with uncertain output function and time‐varying delays
Authors: Liu Ce , Zhai Junyong
Published: March 2024

This paper designs an adaptive event‐triggered output‐feedback controller for a class of ‐normal switched SNS with uncertain output function and time‐varying delays. Firstly, a Lyapunov function and reduced‐order observer using the output signal are constructed for nominal system by virtue of sign function and API technique. Then a dynamic gain and time‐decaying parameter are introduced into the event‐triggered mechanism to reduce the number of control updates. Next, by virtue of LKF and stochastic Barbalat's Lemma, it is proved that all the signals are bounded and system states asymptotically converge to zero in probability, and Zeno behavior is excluded. Finally, a numerical example and practical one are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Non‐fragile observer‐based security control for networked systems via event‐triggered WTOD protocol
Authors: Liu Jian , Wang Shuailong , Hu Bing , Liu Jinliang , Xie Xiangpeng , Tian Engang
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the security control issue for fuzzy networked systems with uncertainty under false data injection (FDI) and aperiodic denial‐of‐service (ADoS) attacks via sliding mode approach. To mitigate the communication burden, a novel mechanism compromising the advantages of the adaptive event‐triggered (AET) scheme and weighted try‐once‐discard (WTOD) protocol is proposed. In particular, the triggered threshold with real‐time characteristics varies with the measurement outputs. To be specific, the shared insecure communication network can be subjected to hybrid attacks including the stochastic FDI attacks and ADoS attacks limited by duration and frequency. Moreover, the token‐dependent fuzzy non‐fragile observer (NFO) with norm‐bounded uncertainty and corresponding fuzzy control law are constructed by virtue of the Zero‐Order‐Hold (ZOH) strategy. Then, several sufficient criteria that guarantee the exponential stability of the system and the reachability of the specified sliding surface are given. Eventually, a numerical example is presented to verify the applicability of the proposed security control strategy.
Applying parentage methods to detect gravel augmentation effects on juvenile Chinook Salmon recruitment rates
Authors: Blankenship Scott M. , Scherer Avery , Dean Cheryl , Sellheim Kirsten , Sweeney Jamie , Merz Joseph
Published: March 2024

Quantifiable measurement of habitat restoration effects on salmonid reproductive performance is limited, although it is necessary for evaluating whether population responses follow management actions. We investigated using close‐kin mark‐recapture methods to partition restoration effects within standard monitoring metrics of juvenile emigrants leaving the natal reach. This approach allowed for statistical comparison of relative juvenile capture rates (recruitment) from Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) naturally reproducing in gravel augmented (restored) and nonaugmented (unrestored) reaches of a highly managed California River. Genetic parentage techniques linked adult females that had spawned in augmented and nonaugmented spawning habitats with juvenile Chinook Salmon sampled the following spring at a trap located below the natal spawning area. Successful recruitment was documented from both augmented and nonaugmented habitats, with no statistical difference between the two habitat types. The capture rate per adult female was low (0.19–0.24 juveniles/female) compared to rates observed in other systems. Within the juvenile collections, most females in the study had 0 or 1 offspring observed; however, one female that spawned in a restored habitat had 25 offspring recovered at the trap. We modeled juvenile capture rates in relation to a range of biological and environmental variables including spawning habitat site, spawning habitat treatment (augmented and nonaugmented), annual spawner abundance, year spawned, female fork length, spawning and hatch day, and flow maximum and variance. There was an inverse relationship between annual adult abundance (escapement obtained from carcass surveys) and recruitment (juvenile recoveries at trap), suggesting habitat limitation may be creating density‐dependent effects. Additionally, female body size was positively associated with recruitment, while spawning day and mean daily temperature were inversely associated with recruitment, suggesting that both biological and environmental factors independent of habitat influenced reproduction potential. This study provides evidence that habitat restoration could have an additive (incremental) positive effect on recruitment rate, informing hatchery management and restoration activities related to population recovery.
Multiple Treatment of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Through Gambogic Acid‐Loaded Mesoporous Polydopamine
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Liu Hongmei , Huang Shan , Peng Hong , Li Jiamei , Tu Kerong , Tan Sumin , Xie Rou , Lei Lei , Yue Qin , Gao Huile , Cai Lulu
Published: March 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous subtype of breast cancer, characterized by aggressiveness and high recurrence rate. As monotherapy provides limited benefit to TNBC patients, combination therapy emerges as a promising treatment approach. Gambogic acid (GA) is an exceedingly promising anticancer agent. Nonetheless, its application potential is hampered by low drug loading efficiency and associated toxic side effects. To overcome these limitations, using mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) endowed with photothermal conversion capabilities is considered as a delivery vehicle for GA. Meanwhile, GA can inhibit the activity of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) to enhance the photothermal effect. Herein, GA‐loaded MPDA nanoparticles (GA@MPDA NPs) are developed with a high drug loading rate of 75.96% and remarkable photothermal conversion performance. GA@MPDA NPs combined with photothermal treatment (PTT) significantly inhibit the tumor growth, and effectively trigger the immunogenic cell death (ICD), which thereby increase the number of activated effector T cells (CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells) in the tumor, and hoist the level of immune‐inflammatory cytokines (IFN‐γ, IL‐6, and TNF‐α). The above results suggest that the combination of GA@MPDA NPs with PTT expected to activate the antitumor immune response, thus potentially enhancing the clinical therapeutic effect on TNBC.
Highly Efficient Room‐Temperature Nonvolatile Magnetic Switching by Current in Fe3GaTe2 Thin Flakes
Authors: Yan Shaohua , Tian Shangjie , Fu Yang , Meng Fanyu , Li Zhiteng , Lei Hechang , Wang Shouguo , Zhang Xiao
Published: March 2024

Effectively tuning magnetic state by using current is essential for novel spintronic devices. Magnetic van der Waals (vdW) materials have shown superior properties for the applications of magnetic information storage based on the efficient spin torque effect. However, for most of known vdW ferromagnets, the ferromagnetic transition temperatures lower than room temperature strongly impede their applications and the room‐temperature vdW spintronic device with low energy consumption is still a long‐sought goal. Here, the highly efficient room‐temperature nonvolatile magnetic switching is realized by current in a single‐material device based on vdW ferromagnet Fe3GaTe2. Moreover, the switching current density and power dissipation are about 300 and 60000 times smaller than conventional spin‐orbit‐torque devices of magnet/heavy‐metal heterostructures. These findings make an important progress on the applications of magnetic vdW materials in the fields of spintronics and magnetic information storage.
Effect of Spheroidizing Annealing Process on Microstructure and Properties of Quenching and Tempering 60Cr16MoMA Martensitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Teng Huan , Qian Shasha , Xie Jiahao , Zhao Hongshan , Wei Xicheng , Dong Han
Published: March 2024

The effect of spheroidizing annealing on carbide characteristic parameters, mechanical properties and wear resistance of the quenching and tempering (Q&T) high carbon martensitic stainless steel is investigated. The microstructure of the steel is characterized and analyzed through various techniques, including scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Results show that the microstructure of the annealing steel is mainly composed of ferrite and M23C6 carbide. With the rise of austenitizing temperature, the average diameter of carbide of the annealed steel increases. The average diameter of carbides in the Q&T steel changes in the same way as that observed in the annealed steel. The steel has the lowest annealing hardness, highest Q&T toughness, and wear resistance at an annealed soaking temperature of 860 °C. The influence factor of the toughness and wear resistance can be identified that small‐sized carbides and low angle grain boundaries exhibit strong interface adhesive strength. This reduces the probability of cracking in the particle or at the interface.
Collective Inattention in an Online Milk‐Sharing Community: Rules of Relevance and the COVID‐19 Vaccine
Authors: Singer Amy
Published: March 2024

This article examines a complete collection of posts made within two of the largest online peer‐to‐peer breastmilk‐sharing communities in the United States, collected during the first month after the COVID‐19 vaccine became available to all U.S. adults. I propose that such communities support not only the circulation of human milk among strangers but also the circulation of widely shared attentional norms alongside interactional rules of relevance and concern. When collectively held attentional norms are violated, Goffmanian face‐saving maneuvers become visible. This case study engages studies of cultural cognition—in particular, those on collective rules of relevance and attention—to make sense of emergent cultural blind spots.
Artemisia argyi extracts overcome lapatinib resistance via enhancing TMPRSS2 activation in HER2‐positive breast cancer
Authors: Ho Chien‐Yi , Wei Cheng‐Yen , Zhao Ruo‐Wen , Ye Yi‐Lun , Huang Hui‐Chi , Lee Jen‐Chih , Cheng Fang‐Ju , Huang Wei‐Chien
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer stands as the predominant malignancy and primary cause of cancer‐related mortality among females globally. Approximately 25% of breast cancers exhibit HER2 overexpression, imparting a more aggressive tumor phenotype and correlating with poor prognoses. Patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (HER2 TKIs), such as Lapatinib, develop acquired resistance within a year, posing a critical challenge in managing this disease. Here, we explore the potential of Artemisia argyi, a Chinese herbal medicine known for its anti‐cancer properties, in mitigating HER2 TKI resistance in breast cancer. Analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) revealed diminished expression of transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), a subfamily of membrane proteolytic enzymes, in breast cancer patients, correlating with unfavorable outcomes. Intriguingly, lapatinib‐responsive patients exhibited higher TMPRSS2 expression. Our study unveiled that the compounds from Artemisia argyi, eriodictyol, and umbelliferone could inhibit the growth of lapatinib‐resistant HER2‐positive breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, they suppressed HER2 kinase activation by enhancing TMPRSS2 activity. Our findings propose TMPRSS2 as a critical determinant in lapatinib sensitivity, and Artemisia argyi emerges as a potential agent to overcome lapatinib via activating TMPRSS2 in HER2‐positive breast cancer. This study not only unravels the molecular mechanisms driving cell death in HER2‐positive breast cancer cells induced by Artemisia argyi but also lays the groundwork for developing novel inhibitors to enhance therapy outcomes.
Comprehensive analysis of basement membrane‐related gene based on single‐cell and bulk RNA sequencing data to predict prognosis and evaluate immune characteristics in colorectal cancer
Authors: Han Jing , Wang Qipeng , Li Shangshang , Yang Jie , Qiu Zhengcai , Fu Wei
Published: March 2024

Aims

Basement membrane‐related genes (BMs) participate in regulating cell polarity, invasion, metastasis, and survival across different tumor types. Nevertheless, the specific functions of BMs in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain uncertain.

Methods

To investigate the clinical relevance of BMs in CRC, we retrieved both gene expression and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets for subsequent analysis. The Kaplan–Meier (K–M) survival curve was employed to evaluate prognosis in high‐ and low‐risk groups. Furthermore, additional analyses, including nomogram construction, functional enrichment, examination of the tumor immune microenvironment, prediction of small‐molecule drugs, and more, were conducted to delve into the significance of BM‐related signatures in CRC. Single‐cell data from seven CRC patients were obtained from the TISCH2 database, and expression validation and cell source exploration of BM‐related signatures were performed. Lastly, the expression and function of TIMP1, a key gene in BMs that may play a role in the progression of CRC, was validated in vitro through a series of basic experiments.

Results

We constructed a seven BMs‐based model to categorize CRC patients into high‐risk and low‐risk groups. K–M survival analysis indicated a poorer prognosis for high‐risk CRC patients. Cox regression analysis further identified the risk score as an independent prognostic factor for CRC patients. The nomogram model exhibited superior discrimination and calibration abilities of CRC patients. Based on the results from GO/KEGG and GSEA, genes in the high‐risk subgroup were implicated in immune‐related pathways and exhibited a positive correlation with immune checkpoints. In single‐cell data, we found that TIMP1 is highly expressed in many cells, especially in malignant tumor cells. We also observed up‐regulation of TIMP1 in CRC cell lines, promoting cancer invasion and migration in vitro.

Conclusions

Our study has discovered a novel prognostic index derived from BM‐related genes in CRC patients. Specifically, the new model enables patient stratification, improving the selection of individuals likely to benefit from immunotherapy.
Freestanding carbon‐based hybrid anodes for flexible supercapacitors: Part I—An inclusive outlook on current collectors and configurations
Authors: Ghafoor Samra , Nadeem Nimra , Zahid Muhammad , Zubair Usman
Published: March 2024

Flexible supercapacitors with hybrid anodes have gained significant attention in energy storage research, owing to their remarkable specific capacitance, outstanding power and energy densities, rapid charging‐to‐discharging rates, and superior flexibility. However, bare carbonaceous anodes exhibit limited capacitive performance, resulting in low energy density. To address this issue, recent efforts focus on hybridizing carbonaceous anodes with metal‐based active materials to enhance their electrochemical performance. This part of review comprehensively outlines the available options of carbonaceous materials used as substrates for constructing hybrid free‐standing flexible anodes. Various persuasive approaches are discussed, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing the electrochemical performance of carbonaceous substrates. In addition, this piece of work provides an insight into the possible configurations of such devices for real‐life applications.

This article is categorized under:

Emerging Technologies > Energy Storage

Emerging Technologies > Materials
Moving Beyond a Checklist: Community Schools for Democratic Education in California and Beyond
Authors: Cohen Abbie
Published: March 2024

Democracy in community schools means active and engaged participation from students, families, teachers, staff, the community, and all stakeholders, ensuring equitable education that meets the unique needs of the community.
Let the Light In
Authors: Kehn Hannah
Published: March 2024

For a moment, imagine the collective power possible if a large mass of young adults graduated from high school firmly believing in the power of their ideas and how to make them a reality with other people. Creating the context, knowledge, and systems that support this is what democratic education looks like at New Visions Charter High School for the Humanities IV.
Start with the Learning Plan
Authors: Norquist Shannon
Published: March 2024

A progressive career and technical high school whose tagline is “One student at a time,” meaning that learning is driven by each student’s interests and learning needs with the teacher, or advisor, coming alongside to provide academic support and career guidance.
Alif Layla Arts Center: Dream, Explore, Act
Authors: Aizaz Fatima
Published: March 2024

I envision democratic education to be a community-centered education that empowers students to be critical thinkers who are reflective and aware of themselves, their community and their histories. It fosters the values of empathy, curiosity and justice, and empowers students to become active agents of change and voices against oppression. Alif Layla Arts Center is a step towards this direction by proposing the design of a community-based arts center.
Integration von kommunalen Instrumenten zur nachhaltigen Entwicklung der lokalen Ernährungswirtschaft – Beispiele aus Leipzig und Leutkirch
Authors: Wiek Arnim , Sipple David , Pomm Sebastian , Krumböck Michael , Henle Hans-Jörg
Published: March 2024

In immer mehr Kommunen haben Politik wie Verwaltung die Bedeutung der lokalen Ernährungswirtschaft erkannt und begonnen, diese durch Planung, Wirtschaftsförderung, Kooperation, sowie Bildung und Information nachhaltig zu entwickeln. Allerdings beschränken sich die meisten solcher Versuche auf punktuelle Anwendungen kommunaler Instrumente. Es gibt kaum Beispiele von integrativen/systemischen Ansätzen, bei denen eine Vielzahl von kommunalen Instrumenten sektorenübergreifend zur Anwendung kommen. Ausnahmen sind die Stadt Leipzig und die Stadt Leutkirch im Allgäu, neben einigen anderen. Dieser Beitrag stellt die integrativen Ansätze dieser beiden Städte vor, diskutiert sie kritisch und konstruktiv, und zieht Schlussfolgerungen hinsichtlich der Möglichkeiten und Herausforderungen für die integrative nachhaltige Entwicklung der lokalen Ernährungswirtschaft.
Spontaneous symmetry breaking on surface defects
Authors: Cuomo Gabriel , Zhang Shuyu
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Coleman’s theorem states that continuous internal symmetries cannot be spontaneously broken in two-dimensional quantum field theories (QFTs). In this work we consider surface (i.e. two-dimensional) defects in d-dimensional conformal field theories (CFTs) invariant under a continuous internal symmetry group G. We study under which conditions it is possible for a surface defect to break spontaneously a continuous internal symmetry. We find that spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) is impossible under reasonable assumptions on the defect Renormalization Group (RG) flow. Counterexamples are possible only for exotic RG flows, that do not terminate at a fixed-point. We discuss an example of this kind. We also illustrate our no-go result with an effective field theory analysis of generic defect RG flows. We find a generic weakly coupled defect universality class (with no SSB), where correlation functions decay logarithmically. Our analysis generalizes the recent discovery by Metlitski of the extraordinary-log boundary universality class in the O(N) model.
On time-dependent backgrounds in 1 + 1 dimensional string theory
Authors: Balthazar Bruno , Chu Jinwei , Kutasov David
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In perturbative string theory, one is generally interested in asymptotic observables, such as the S-matrix in flat spacetime, and boundary correlation functions in anti-de Sitter spacetime. However, there are backgrounds in which such observables do not exist. We study examples of such backgrounds in 1 + 1 dimensional string theory. In these examples, the Liouville wall accelerates and can become spacelike in the past and/or future. When that happens, the corresponding null infinity, at which the standard scattering states are defined, is shielded by the Liouville wall. We compute scattering and particle production amplitudes in these backgrounds in the region in parameter space where the wall remains timelike, and discuss the continuation of this picture to the spacelike regime. We also discuss the physics from the point of view of the dynamics of free fermions in backgrounds with a time-dependent Fermi surface.
The $$H^\infty $$-Functional Calculi for the Quaternionic Fine Structures of Dirac Type
Authors: Colombo Fabrizio , Pinton Stefano , Schlosser Peter
Published: March 2024

In recent works, various integral representations have been proposed for specific sets of functions. These representations are derived from the Fueter–Sce extension theorem, considering all possible factorizations of the Laplace operator in relation to both the Cauchy–Fueter operator (often referred to as the Dirac operator) and its conjugate. The collection of these function spaces, along with their corresponding functional calculi, are called the quaternionic fine structures within the context of the S-spectrum. In this paper, we utilize these integral representations of functions to introduce novel functional calculi tailored for quaternionic operators of sectorial type. Specifically, by leveraging the aforementioned factorization of the Laplace operator, we identify four distinct classes of functions: slice hyperholomorphic functions (leading to the S-functional calculus), axially harmonic functions (leading to the Q-functional calculus), axially polyanalytic functions of order 2 (leading to the $$P_2$$

P
2

-functional calculus), and axially monogenic functions (leading to the F-functional calculus). By applying the respective product rule, we establish the four different $$H^\infty $$

H
∞

-versions of these functional calculi.
Which surgical technique may yield the best results in large, infected, segmental non-unions of the tibial shaft? A scoping review
Authors: Akhoundzadeh Dena , Bloemers Frank W. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , Schoonmade Linda J. , Geeraedts Leo M. G.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Infected nonunion of the tibia with a large segmental bone defect is a complex and challenging condition for the patient and surgeon. This scoping review was conducted to identify existing evidence and knowledge gaps regarding this clinical scenario. Secondly, the objective of this study was to search for a valid recommendation on the optimal treatment.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in the bibliographic databases: PubMed, Embase.com, and Web of Science Core Collection. Studies reporting on bone transport techniques, the Masquelet technique, and vascularized fibular grafts in bone defects greater than 5 cm were included. Bone healing results and functional results were compared according to duration of nonunion, infection recurrence, bone consolidation, complication rate, external fixation time, and time until full weight-bearing.

Results

Of the 2753 articles retrieved, 37 studies could be included on bone transport techniques (n = 23), the Masquelet technique (n = 7), and vascularized fibular grafts (n = 7). Respective bone union percentages were 94.3%, 89.5%, and 96.5%. The percentages of infection recurrence respectively were 1.6%, 14.4% and 7.0%, followed by respectively 1.58, 0.78, and 0.73 complications per patient.

Conclusion

Bone transport was found to be the most widely studied technique in the literature. Depending on the surgeon’s expertise, vascularized fibular grafts may be held as a favourable alternative. This review indicates that further high-quality research on large bone defects ($$\ge$$
≥
5 cm) in patients with infected tibial nonunions is necessary to gain more insight into the potentially beneficial results of vascularized fibular grafts and the Masquelet technique.
Kratom – Nahrungsergänzungsmittel oder tödliche Droge?
Authors: Huter Tobias , Edler Carolin , Ondruschka Benjamin , Iwersen-Bergmann Stefanie , Schröder Ann Sophie
Published: March 2024

Die in Deutschland nichtregulierte Substanz Kratom mit dem psychoaktiven Wirkstoff Mitragynin wird hierzulande z. B. als Nahrungsergänzungsmittel vertrieben und führt in verschiedenen Dosierungen von stimulierenden bis zu sedierenden Effekten. Das Nebenwirkungsprofil reicht von Schwindel über Krampfanfälle bis zur Atemdepression. International sind bereits mehrere Todesfälle im Zusammenhang mit Kratom (Misch- und Monointoxikationen) berichtet worden. Es wird die erste tödliche Mitragyninmonointoxikation aus Deutschland vorgestellt.
Prävalenz von neuen psychoaktiven Stoffen im Kontext von Fahreignungsbegutachtungen – Auswirkungen auf die Verkehrssicherheit?
Authors: Holzer A. , Graw M. , Wagner T. , DeVol D. , Musshoff F. , Fels H.
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund

Ein Nachweis neuer psychoaktiver Stoffe (NPS) erfolgt bei Fragestellungen im Kontext von Beurteilungen einer Fahrsicherheit oder einer Fahreignung in der Regel nur selten, nicht zuletzt aufgrund einer fehlenden Beauftragung. Bei Aufträgen zu forensisch-toxikologischen Analysen durch Behörden beschränkt man sich zumeist auf ein Panel der gängigsten Substanzen bzw. Substanzklassen und selbst bei Auffälligkeiten im Straßenverkehr wird häufig nicht auf solche Substanzen untersucht, insbesondere dann, wenn ggf. schon eine einzige andere Substanz nachgewiesen wurde. Auch bei Abstinenzkontrollen im Bereich von Fahreignungsbegutachtungen wird in der Regel nur ein festgelegtes polytoxikologisches Screening auf die gängigsten berauschenden Mittel an Urin- bzw. Haarproben durchgeführt, sodass ein Umstieg auf die hierbei nicht erfassten NPS nicht ausgeschlossen ist.

Material und Methoden

Es wurden die Ergebnisse einer bereits publizierten Studie [7, 21], in der 1037 Urin- und Haarproben im Kontext von drogenbedingten Fahreignungsbegutachtungen retrospektiv auf NPS untersucht wurden, im Hinblick auf den Ausgang der initialen Begutachtung bzw. des Abstinenzkontrollprogramms betrachtet.

Ergebnisse

In 4,2 % der Proben konnten NPS nachgewiesen werden. Zwei Klienten mit einem positiven NPS-Befund wurde im Rahmen der Begutachtung eine günstige Eignungsvoraussetzung attestiert, während 32 Klienten ihr Abstinenzkontrollprogramm erfolgreich abschließen konnten, obwohl ihre Proben NPS enthielten.

Diskussion

Die Ergebnisse legen somit nahe, dass ein messbarer Anteil von Verkehrsteilnehmern einen fortgesetzten Konsum berauschender Mittel in Form von NPS betreibt. Dies kann in der Folge auch mit negativen Auswirkungen auf die Verkehrssicherheit verbunden sein.
Deferral of non-emergency cardiac interventions is associated with increased emergency hospitalizations up to 24 months post-procedure
Authors: Andreß Stefanie , Felbel Dominik , Buckert Dominik , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Imhof Armin , Stephan Tilman
Published: March 2024

Background

Patients, whose non-emergency cardiac procedure was postponed during the COVID-19 pandemic, have shown signs of disease progression in the short term. Data on the long-term effects are currently lacking.

Aim

To assess outcomes through 3 years following deferral.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center analysis includes consecutive patients whose non-emergency cardiovascular intervention was postponed during the first COVID-19-related lockdown (March 19 to April 30, 2020). Outcomes over 36 months post-procedure were analyzed and compared to a seasonal control group undergoing non-emergency intervention in 2019 as scheduled (n = 214). The primary endpoint was a composite of emergency cardiovascular hospitalization and death. Additionally, NT-proBNP levels were analyzed.

Results

The combined endpoint occurred in 60 of 178 patients (33.7%) whose non-emergency transcatheter heart valve intervention, rhythmological procedure, or left heart catheterization was postponed. Primary endpoint events did not occur more frequently in the study group during the 36-month follow-up (p = 0.402), but within the first 24 months post-procedure (HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.20–2.60, p = 0.003). Deferred patients affected by an event in the postprocedural 24 months had significantly higher NT-proBNP levels at the time of intervention (p < 0.001) (AUC 0.768, p = 0.003, optimum cut-off 808.5 pg/ml, sensitivity 84.2%, specificity 65.8%) and thereafter (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Deferral of non-emergency cardiovascular interventions is associated with poor outcomes up to 24 months post-procedure. Adverse effects affect patients who develop signs of acute heart failure, as indicated by NT-proBNP, prior to treatment. These findings could help improve resource allocation in times of limited capacity.

Graphical Abstract
Finding Optimal Solutions with Neighborly Help
Authors: Burjons Elisabet , Frei Fabian , Hemaspaandra Edith , Komm Dennis , Wehner David
Published: March 2024

Can we efficiently compute optimal solutions to instances of a hard problem from optimal solutions to neighbor instances, that is, instances with one local modification? For example, can we efficiently compute an optimal coloring for a graph from optimal colorings for all one-edge-deleted subgraphs? Studying such questions not only gives detailed insight into the structure of the problem itself, but also into the complexity of related problems, most notably, graph theory’s core notion of critical graphs (e.g., graphs whose chromatic number decreases under deletion of an arbitrary edge) and the complexity-theoretic notion of minimality problems (also called criticality problems, e.g., recognizing graphs that become 3-colorable when an arbitrary edge is deleted). We focus on two prototypical graph problems, colorability and vertex cover. For example, we show that it is $$\text {NP}$$
NP
-hard to compute an optimal coloring for a graph from optimal colorings for all its one-vertex-deleted subgraphs, and that this remains true even when optimal solutions for all one-edge-deleted subgraphs are given. In contrast, computing an optimal coloring from all (or even just two) one-edge-added supergraphs is in $$\text {P}$$
P
. We observe that vertex cover exhibits a remarkably different behavior, demonstrating the power of our model to delineate problems from each other more precisely on a structural level. Moreover, we provide a number of new complexity results for minimality and criticality problems. For example, we prove that Minimal-3-UnColorability is complete for $$\text {DP}$$
DP
(differences of $$\text {NP}$$
NP
sets), which was previously known only for the more amenable case of deleting vertices rather than edges. For vertex cover, we show that recognizing $$\beta $$
β
-vertex-critical graphs is complete for $$\Theta _2^\text {p}$$

Θ
2
p

(parallel access to $$\text {NP}$$
NP
), obtaining the first completeness result for a criticality problem for this class.
Endoscopic self-expandable metal stent versus endoscopy vacuum therapy for traumatic esophageal perforations: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: de Oliveira Alessandrino Terceiro , Barreira Márcio Alencar , da Cunha Parente Júnior José Wilson , Junior José Ruver Lima Herculano , Ribeiro Jeany Borges e Silva , de Azevedo Orleancio Gomes Ripardo , de Vasconcelos Paulo Roberto Cavalcante
Published: March 2024

Background

Traumatic esophageal perforations (TEP) are a grave medical condition and require immediate intervention. Techniques such as Esophageal Self-Expandable Metal Stent (E-SEMS) and Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy (EVT) show promise in reducing tissue damage and controlling esophageal leakage. The present study aims to compare the application of EVT to E-SEMS placement in TEP.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study valuated 30 patients with TEP. The E-SEMS and EVT groups were assessed for time of hospitalization, treatment duration, costs, and clinical outcome.

Results

Patients treated with EVT (24.4 ± 13.2) demonstrated significantly shorter treatment duration (p < 0.005) compared to the group treated with E-SEMS (45.8 ± 12.9) and patients submitted to E-SEMS demonstrated a significant reduction (p = 0.02) in the time of hospitalization compared to the EVT (34 ± 2 vs 82 ± 5 days). Both groups demonstrated a satisfactory discharge rate (E-SEMS 93.7% vs EVT 71.4%) but did not show statistically significant difference (p = 0.3155). E-SEMS treatment had a lower mean cost than EVT (p < 0.05). Descriptive statistics were utilized, arranged in table form, where frequencies, percentages, mean, median, and standard deviation of the study variables were calculated and counted. The Fisher's Exact Test was used to evaluate the relationship between two categorical variables. To evaluate differences between means and central points, the parametric t-test was utilized. Comparisons with p value up to 0.05 were considered significant.

Conclusion

E-SEMS showed a shorter time of hospitalization, but a longer duration of treatment compared to EVT. The placement of E-SEMS and EVT had the same clinical outcome. Treatment with E-SEMS had a lower cost compared with EVT.
Intermediate Principal Stress Effects on the 3D Cracking Behavior of Flawed Rocks Under True Triaxial Compression
Authors: Sun Yuan , Fei Fan , Wong Louis Ngai Yuen , Choo Jinhyun
Published: March 2024

Crack initiation, growth, and coalescence in flawed rocks have been extensively studied for 2D (planar, penetrating) flaws under uniaxial/biaxial compression. However, little is known as to the mechanisms and processes of cracking from 3D flaws under true triaxial compression, where the intermediate principal stress ($$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

) is distinguished from the major and minor principal stresses. In this work, we systematically investigate the effects of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

on the 3D cracking behavior of rock specimens with preexisting flaws, through the use of mechanistic simulations of mixed-mode fracture in rocks. We explore how two characteristics of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

, namely, (i) its orientation with respect to the flaw and (ii) its magnitude, affect two aspects of the cracking behavior, namely, (i) the cracking pattern and (ii) the peak stress. Results show that the orientation of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

exerts more control over the cracking pattern than the flaw inclination angle. The peak stress becomes highest when $$\sigma _1$$

σ
1

is parallel to the flaw, whereas it becomes lowest when $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

is parallel to the flaw. Also, the effects of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

magnitude are more significant when $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

becomes more oblique to the flaw plane. On the basis of our observations, we propose mechanisms underlying the cracking behavior of 3D flawed rocks under true triaxial compression.

Highlights

The effects of the intermediate principal stress ($$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

) on the 3D cracking behavior of flawed rocks under true triaxial compression are systematically investigated.

The orientation of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

exerts more control over the cracking pattern than the flaw inclination angle.

The effects of $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

magnitude become more significant when $$\sigma _2$$

σ
2

are more oblique to the flaw plane.

Mechanisms underlying the cracking behavior of 3D flawed rocks under true triaxial compression are proposed based on the observations made.
Hybrid organic–inorganic fibers for solid-state batteries
Authors: Procházka Václav , Havlík Míka Martin , Kočí Jan , Klusoňová Nikola , Sedláčková Eliška
Published: March 2024

This study is dedicated to the acquisition and quantification of processing parameters essential for the fabrication of customizable organic–inorganic hybrid nano/microfibers through electrospinning. These fibers are generated from suspensions comprising active electrode materials utilized in the construction of all solid-state batteries. Owing to the catalytic properties exhibited by certain electroactive materials and the coagulation tendencies stemming from the presence of various particles, there exists a limited operational interval within which stable fibers can be produced while maintaining the suspension at a suitable viscosity. Our second goal was to ascertain the relationship between the quality of the resulting fibers and the spinnability of the suspension, particularly regarding its electrical conductivity. Solutions and suspensions were studied with help of 29Si NMR spectroscopy, EIS, and conductometry, fiber morphology with confocal and electron microscopy.

Graphical abstract
Involvement of GLR-mediated nitric oxide effects on ROS metabolism in Arabidopsis plants under salt stress
Authors: Gokce Azime , Sekmen Cetinel Askim Hediye , Turkan Ismail
Published: March 2024

Plant glutamate receptor-like channels (GLRs) play important roles in plant development, immune response, defense signaling and Nitric oxide (NO) production. However, their involvement in abiotic stress responses, particularly in regulating Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate GLR-mediated NO production on ROS regulation in salt-stressed cells. To achieve this, Arabidopsis thaliana Columbia (Col-0) were treated with NaCl, glutamate antagonists [(DNQX (6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione and AP-5(D-2-amino-5-phosphono pentanoic acid)], and NO scavenger [cPTIO (2-(4-Carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide potassium salt)]. Salt-stressed plants in combination with DNQX and AP-5 have exhibited higher increase in lipid peroxidation (TBARS), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide radical (O−2) contents as compared to solely NaCl-treated plants. Furthermore, NO and total glutathione contents, and S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) activity decreased with these treatments. AP-5 and DNQX increased the activities of NADPH oxidase (NOX), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), cell wall peroxidase (CWPOX) in salt-stressed Arabidopsis leaves. However, their activities (except NOX) were significantly inhibited by cPTIO. Conversely, the combination of NaCl and GLR antagonists, NO scavenger decreased the activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR) resulting in elevated GSSG levels, a low GSH/GSSG ratio, impaired ROS scavenging, excessive ROS accumulation and cell membrane damage. The findings of this study provide evidence that GLR-mediated NO plays a crucial role in improvement of the tolerance of Arabidopsis plants to salt-induced oxidative stress. It helps to maintain cellular redox homeostasis by reducing ROS accumulation and increasing the activity of SOD, GSNOR, and the ASC-GSH cycle enzymes.
The digital power of the tower: digital communication technologies and dwelling experience in residential large urban developments
Authors: Gershon-Coneal Ori , Eizenberg Efrat , Jabareen Yosef
Published: March 2024

Residential large urban developments are the dominant mode of housing development in many cities around the world. They introduce new technologies to the residential setting that reshape the dwelling experience. Using digital ethnography and in-depth interviews with residents of three residential large urban developments at the center of Israel, this paper portrays how the digital dimension is embedded in and reshapes the performance and experience of the housing environment. We argue the centrality of the digital dimension to the emergence of a distinctly different dwelling experience and the transformation of residential power relations in the city.
Cation Effect in Polysaccharide-Based Hydrogel Beads Produced for Europium Adsorption from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Levy-Ontman Oshrat , Nagar Shir , Paz-Tal Ofra , Wolfson Adi
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, renewable and biodegradable polysaccharide-based hydrogels have enjoyed wide applicability among them also as adsorbents for heavy metal removal from wastewaters. Herein we prepared hydrogel beads from iota and kappa carrageenans using a variety of salts as crosslinkers, that were tested for the first time in europium ion (Eu3+) sorption from an aqueous solution as representative lanthanide. The type of the salt, and especially the valance and the hydrated radius of the cation, were found to dictate hydrogel bead formation and structure and, therefore, the Eu3+ sorption yield. The results of ATR-FTIR, SEM and TGA analyses to characterize the iota carrageenan hydrogel beads that were prepared with alkali cations, before and after interaction with Eu3+, indicate that the adsorbent prepared with LiCl was much stiffer and more stable than those prepared with NaCl or KCl. The iota carrageenan beads that were prepared with LiCl were also reused 5 times while exhibiting high adsorption capacities.
The effect of temperature on birth rates in Europe
Authors: Hajdu Tamás
Published: March 2024

Using data from 32 European countries for nearly 244 million live births between 1969 and 2021, this paper examines the effects of temperatures on birth rates. The results show that exposure to hot days slightly reduces birth rates five to eight months later, while much stronger negative effects are observed nine to ten months after exposure to hot temperatures. Thereafter, a partial recovery is observed, with slightly increased birth rates. This study also shows that the effect of high-humidity hot days is much stronger than that of hot days with low humidity. Besides, the effect of heatwave days has been found to be more severe than that of hot days that are not preceded by other hot days. This study finds that some adaptation to heat might be expected only in the long run.