bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mid‐term outcomes and hemodynamic performance of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in bicuspid aortic valve stenosis: Insights from the bicuSpid TAvi duraBILITY (STABILITY) registry
Authors: Fiorina Claudia , Massussi Mauro , Ancona Marco , Montorfano Matteo , Petronio Anna Sonia , Tarantini Giuseppe , Castriota Fausto , Chizzola Giuliano , Costa Giuliano , Tamburino Corrado , Adamo Marianna
Published: September 2023

Background

Limited data are available on transcatheter heart valves (THVs) durability in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) stenosis.

Aims

To evaluate evaluating 4‐year clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of patients with BAV undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods

The bicuSpid TAvi duraBILITY (STABILITY) registry is an Italian multicentre registry including all consecutive patients with BAV and severe aortic stenosis (AS), treated by means of TAVI between January 2011 and December 2017. Outcomes of interest were all‐cause death at 4‐year, over time changes in echocardiographic measurements, and THV durability according to the valve aortic research consortium (VARC)‐3 update definitions.

Results

Study population included 109 patients (50% females; mean age 78 ± 7.5 years) with a mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality score of 5.1 ± 4.3%. Median follow‐up (FU) duration was 4.1 years [interquartile range: 2.8–5.1]. The overall cumulative incidence of all‐cause death by Kaplan–Meier estimates at 4 years was 32%. Compared to baseline, a significant decrease in transprosthetic mean gradient was obtained after TAVI (54 ± 16 vs. 10 ± 5 mmHg; p < 0.001), whereas a significant increase was observed at 4‐year (13 ± 6.4 mmHg, p = 0.03). Cumulative incidence of hemodynamic valve dysfunction (HVD) was 4%. Six patients met HVD criteria: three moderate and three severe HVD. All three cases of severe HVD were clinically relevant (bioprosthetic valve failure [BVF]) with two patients receiving a reintervention (TAVI in TAVI), and one patient experiencing a valve‐related death due to endocarditis.

Conclusions

The STABILITY registry suggests that in patients with severe AS and BAV undergoing TAVI, postprocedural clinical benefits might last, over time, up to 4‐year FU. The low rates of severe HVD and BVF may support the hypothesis of good THV durability also in BAV recipient.
Prosthesis‐patient mismatch after transcatheter implantation of contemporary balloon‐expandable and self‐expandable valves in small aortic annuli
Authors: Leone Pier Pasquale , Regazzoli Damiano , Pagnesi Matteo , Costa Giuliano , Teles Rui , Adamo Marianna , Taramasso Maurizio , De Marco Federico , Mangieri Antonio , Kargoli Faraj , Ohno Yohei , Saia Francesco , Ielasi Alfonso , Ribichini Flavio , Maffeo Diego , Kim Won‐Keun , Maisano Francesco , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Colombo Antonio , Reimers Bernhard , Latib Azeem ,   the TAVI‐SMALL Investigators
Published: September 2023

Background

Evidence of clinical impact of PPM after TAVI is conflicting and might vary according to the type of valve implanted.

Aims

To assess the clinical impact of prosthesis‐patient mismatch (PPM) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with balloon‐expandable (BEV) and self‐expandable valves (SEV) in patients with small annuli.

Methods

TAVI‐SMALL 2 enrolled 628 patients in an international retrospective registry, which included patients with severe aortic stenosis and small annuli (annular perimeter <72 mm or area <400 mm2) treated with transfemoral TAVI at 16 high‐volume centers between 2011 and 2020. Analyses were performed comparing patients with less than moderate (n = 452), moderate (n = 138), and severe PPM (n = 38). Primary endpoint was incidence of all‐cause mortality. Predictors of all‐cause mortality and PPM were investigated.

Results

At a median follow‐up of 380 days (interquartile range: 210–709 days), patients with severe PPM, but not moderate PPM, had an increased risk of all‐cause mortality when compared with less than moderate PPM (log‐rank p = 0.046). Severe PPM predicted all‐cause mortality in patients with BEV (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27–21.2) and intra‐annular valves (IAVs, HR: 4.23, 95% CI: 1.28–14.02), and it did so with borderline significance in the overall population (HR: 2.89, 95% CI: 0.95–8.79). Supra‐annular valve (SAV) implantation was the only predictor of severe PPM (odds ratio: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.13–0.83).

Conclusions

Patients with small aortic annuli and severe PPM after TAVI have an increased risk of all‐cause mortality at early term follow‐up, especially after IAV or BEV implantation. TAVI with SAV protected from severe PPM.
Urinary tract infection in diabetics hospitalized in Befelatanana Hospital, Antananarivo: Epidemiological, clinical, biological profiles and risk factors for multidrug‐resistant bacterial infection
Authors: Raherison Rija Eric , Raharinavalona Sitraka Angelo , Razanamparany Thierry , Randrianotahiana Theo Njakasoa , Randrianomanana Tsikinirina Valisoa , Andrianiaina Miora Maeva Arielle , Rakotomalala Andrianirina Dave Patrick , Andrianasolo Radonirina Lazasoa
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

The main type of urinary tract infection in hospitalized diabetics in Antananarivo is acute pyelonephritis;Escherichia coliis the most isolated uropathogen; imipenem, amikacin, fosfomycin and ceftriaxone are the major antibiotics for whichEscherichia coliretain good sensitivity; Type 2 diabetes is predictive factor for infection by multidrug resistant bacteria.

This study aimed to describe the epidemiological‐clinical profiles of diabetics hospitalized for bacterial urinary tract infections in the Endocrinology Department of Befelatanana Hospital, to identify the main bacteria responsible, their antibiotic sensitivity profile and the factors associated with multidrug‐resistant bacterial infection. A cross‐sectional study was conducted between March 2017 and March 2020 involving all diabetics hospitalized for documented community‐acquired bacterial urinary tract infection during this period. The hospital prevalence of urinary tract infections was 4.64%. The mean age of the patients was 59.06 ± 14.26 years and the sex ratio was 0.15. The main sign was fever (55.76%). The main clinical form was uncomplicated acute pyelonephritis (38.46%). Fifty‐seven bacterial uropathogens were isolated. The most frequent wasEscherichia coli(77.19%).Escherichia coliwas sensitive to ertapenem and nitrofurantoin in 100% of cases, to Amikacin in 97.5% of cases, to Fosfomycin in 94.4% of cases and to Ceftriaxone in 80.65% of cases. Thirteen patients were infected with multidrug‐resistant bacteria, all of them are extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae. Only the type of diabetes was associated with multidrug‐resistant bacteria infection. The epidemiological‐clinical and biological characteristics of urinary tract infections in our diabetics are similar to those reported in the literature. Compliance with the rules of proper antibiotic use is imperative to limit the emergence and spread of multidrug‐resistant bacteria.
Development of a standard for accelerated determination of frost resistance of autoclaved aerated concrete
Authors: Lapovska Svitlana , Klapchenko Vasyl , Demchenko Tetyana
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The “Introduction” analyses the mechanisms of concrete frost damage and describes standard methods for determining the frost resistance of lightweight and cellular concrete.

Research methods

The frost resistance at different freezing temperatures was carried out on samples of autoclaved cellular concrete of D400 to D600 density. Specimens with dimensions of 100 × 100 × 100 mm were cut from prefabricated parts in accordance with EN 771‐4. During the experiment, frost resistance of ААС samples was determined at a standard temperature of −18 ± 2°C, as well as at temperatures from −5°C to −40°C4.

Results and discussion

In the paper, frost resistance of concrete at various freezing temperatures was evaluated by the experimental‐analytical method, which is based on the assumption that frost resistance, expressed in the number of cycles (F) should be inversely proportional to the volume of frozen water at this temperature.

The frost resistance of concrete was evaluated experimentally and analytically at different freezing temperatures, assuming that the frost resistance (F), expressed in the number of cycles, should be inversely proportional to the volume of frozen water at that temperature V(t).

Determination of the rate of ice spreading front and moisture diffusion in building materials by conductometric method during one‐sided freezing allows a more detailed study of the mechanisms of frost failure of building materials.

Conclusions

The proposed experimental‐analytical method for evaluating AAC frost resistance at different freezing temperatures allows, with a small expenditure of time, to obtain more complete information on the material behavior in freezing temperatures than it is provided by the existing standard methods. The analysis of the dependence of freezing resistance on temperature also allows revealing the regions of temperature where it changes most strongly, and to shift, if necessary, these regions towards lower or higher temperatures by adjusting the composition and technology of AAC production.

The developed combined method of independent measurements of moisture diffusion kinetics and ice content makes it possible to determine the speed of diffusion of ice formation front and moisture conductivity depending on the composition (capillary‐porous structure) of samples and their initial storage conditions. This information can give a more reliable picture of the behaviour of AAC under alternating temperature loading under varying initial moisture conditions.
Full‐scale studies of stiffening walls made of autoclaved aerated concrete
Authors: Grzyb Krzysztof , Jasiński Radosław
Published: September 2023

Autoclaved aerated concrete is successfully produced as masonry units to construct single and multi‐family houses. Residential buildings are often erected as load‐bearing structures. Although designers are used to verifying the masonry structure for mainly vertical loads, some elements must act as a stiffening of the building. Horizontal loads of the building can be caused not only by wind pressure and suction but also by uneven subsidence of the ground or mining influences. The role of the stiffening walls is to ensure the geometric invariability of the building and the safe transfer of horizontal loads to the foundations. The Silesian University of Technology conducts extensive research on stiffening walls on full‐scale models of single‐storey buildings. Experimental analyzes enable the description of the propagation and morphology of cracks. Designation of the behavior phases of the stiffening walls is the basis for developing the calculation methodology for stiffening elements.
Use of load‐bearing AAC panels in transportable, prefabricated, pre‐finished, modular housing
Authors: Puzey Adrian , Balding Tony
Published: September 2023

This article will outline a method of building residential homes as Prefabricated, Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC), using AAC panels. These transportable structures are created from solid AAC modules and designed for Residential Homes and Low‐Rise multi‐residential developments. In this transportable system, thick AAC panels are used as the principal construction material and load‐bearing structural element. The AAC modules are factory assembled and fitted out as completed room pods. They are transported to the site where they are lifted directly from the delivery truck and positioned into their final location on steel piers. Engineered AAC floor and ceiling cassettes connect the modular pods together to form a spacious and modern solid AAC home.
Industrial automation and robotics in AAC industry: Selected models and case studies
Authors: Aldarrat Hatem , Drosten Gerrit
Published: September 2023

As the global manufacturing industry entered its fourth revolution (4IR, or Industry 4.0), innovations such as robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence are set to take over and improving the global industries. As the number of active industrial robots worldwide is increasing every day in different applications and industries automation continues to create new types of robots with improved utility and function. In the AAC Industry, these innovations already took place for some time in different process phases and applications such as oiling, autoclaves stacking pins, handling, packing, and so forth. Through this research, advantages commonly attributed to automation and robotics include higher production rates and increased productivity, more efficient use of materials, better product quality, improved safety, shorter workweeks for labor, and reduced factory lead times. Especially reduced scrap and waste through improved accuracy, increased efficiency, and operation around the clock could be emphasized. Based on the accumulated experience of WKB Systems GmbH in the field of the forging industry, selected models, real‐life application case studies, and implementation of different robotics in the AAC industry are discussed in this paper. These examples such as linear robots for autoclaves stacking pins, articulated robots for AAC packing and sorting line, and hybrid systems for handling and packing AAC insulation boards are studied in detail.
Calculation of EPD for individual AAC product classes
Authors: Walther Hartmut B.
Published: September 2023

In fact, climate change is increasing the relevance of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Currently, product‐specific EPDs are coming into vogue instead of average‐based EPDs. Individual EPDs for distinct products can be beneficial, but the data preparation upfront is crucial to avoid greenwashing through the use of false data. Adjustments to the standards for calculating EPDs are currently under development.

The starting point for the calculation of EPD according to EN 15804+A2 is always the annual production and associated consumption of raw materials and energy. The raw material input per product is calculated from recipe data and the respective production quantities as a first step. This shall be done for all products of a plant. Now, the summarized consumptions have to be related with the purchased raw material quantities, correction factors have to be calculated and applied to specify the actual input per product. The use of correction factors is mandatory to avoid inaccuracy and underestimation of actual consumption. Hence, the calculation of one product‐specific EPD requires product‐specific source data preparation for all products.

In AAC production, the correction of the consumed raw materials is particularly important concerning internal recycling. For example, the actual consumption of aluminum is of specific interest. While ground sand within the recycled sludge is unchanged and binders still react in the autoclave, the aluminum is no longer reactive. This can lead to additional aluminum consumption that deviates by one‐third and more from the recipe values.

In the presentation, a comprehensive approach to the calculation of correction factors for different AAC product classes will be introduced. The final calculations for the EPD are not based on recipe data alone but are corrected using procurement data. Thus, the total consumption of a plant can be adequately allocated to all products in the production program.
Influence of carbon dioxide on shrinkage behavior and compressive strength of AAC in accelerated tests
Authors: Rzeczkowski Patrick , Lohaus Ludger
Published: September 2023

Background

The German application standard DIN 20000‐404:2018‐04 for the use of AAC according to DIN EN 771‐4:2015‐11 describes a method to determine the long‐term resistance due to carbonation. Thus, the total value of the drying shrinkage as specified in DIN EN 680:2006‐03 must not exceed 0.40 mm/m. This threshold was evaluated using empirical methods.

Objective

In order to verify the above threshold, additional studies were carried out in this paper on AAC blocks from different manufacturers.

Experimental

Deviating from the standard climate according to DIN EN 680:2006‐03, a parametric study was carried out under laboratory conditions. All AAC specimens were stored at a relative humidity of 80% and a carbon dioxide concentration of 0.5% by volume. In addition to the shrinkage behavior, the compressive strength behavior of the AAC specimens with increasing carbonation progress was investigated.

Results

The degree of carbonation of the individual AAC types progresses at different rates. AAC that carbonates faster shows a greater change in length (up to about 5.2 mm/m) and a significant loss in compressive strength (up to about 50%). In some cases, the compressive strength initially increases before decreasing again. AAC containing fly ash only shows an increase in compressive strength with progressive carbonation.

Conclusions

The determination of the total value of drying shrinkage according to DIN EN 680:2006‐03 appears to be the most suitable method so far to identify AAC blocks with an increased risk towards carbonation with a manageable effort. The accompanying compressive strength tests indicate that the specified limit value of 0.40 mm/m according to DIN 20000‐404:2018‐04 is also appropriate.
CO2 – Quo Vadis? If CO2 emission is really an ecological indicator of green production?
Authors: Walczak Paweł
Published: September 2023

Reduction of CO2 emission has been a main topic in all sectors of our life for many years, and one of the most important milestones in a lot of companies, like in the building sector. It is commonly known that carbonation of building materials based on cement and lime is a natural process. Due to this fact, these materials can be eco‐friendly because they can absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. Autoclaved aerated concrete sample with a density class 600, from different producers, and with different compressive strengths: 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 N/mm2, and density class 500: 2.5 and 4.0 N/mm2 were the subject of this research program. The analysis of phase composition and observation under SEM microscope clearly showed the correlation between compressive strength and the amount of calcium silicate hydrates (C‐S‐H phase) formed under hydrothermal conditions, mainly tobermorite. Tobermorite content in AAC depends on the amount of binder used for its production. The performed calculations showed that not always the material with the lowest carbon footprint is the most eco‐friendly product because when looking at CO2 emissions, one can forget about rational management of natural resources.
Experimental behavior of lintels for AAC masonry buildings: Comparison among different solutions
Authors: Ferretti Daniele , Cerioni Roberto , Riva Andrea , Boretti Giovanbattista , Casillo Alfredo , Michelini Elena
Published: September 2023

The paper investigates the experimental behavior up to failure of different types of lintels for AAC masonry buildings. At first, precast highly‐reinforced AAC lintels, that are quite widespread on the European and Turkish market, were tested in flexure, by considering different reinforcement type and arrangement. The second analyzed solution is represented by RC lintels cast within three juxtaposed special AAC elements with U section, acting as formwork and final external finishing. Also in this case, the effect of reinforcement type (lattice girders, ordinary rebars, or a combination of them) and reinforcement amount on the bearing capacity and mode of failure was analyzed. The experimental results highlight that precast AAC lintels available on the market are very light and are characterized by high stiffness in bending; however, being usually over‐reinforced, their failure is quite brittle. On the contrary, RC lintels cast within U‐shaped AAC blocks (“combined AAC‐RC” specimens) are heavier but can be easily designed to have a ductile behavior, by simply following design Standard recommendations for ordinary RC elements.
Study of the solubility of xonotlite
Authors: Mingione Serena , Lothenbach Barbara , Winnefeld Frank , Opsommer Ann
Published: September 2023

Xonotlite (Ca6Si6O17(OH)2) is a hydrated crystalline calcium silicate with CaO/SiO2 = 1, which forms under hy‐drothermal conditions at temperature above ∼100°C. It has good thermal stability, it dehydrates to wollastonite only at 770 to 800°C and shows a good resistance to high pressures. Deposits of xonotlite are rare in nature, but it can easily obtained by hydrothermal synthesis in the temperature range of 180 to 350°C. Several studies have been conducted to better understand the formation conditions of xonotlite in terms of optimum temperature, duration and starting materials, but very little is known about its solubility under different conditions. The two solubility data sets available in literature differ by as much as 10 log units with no clear reason for this difference. The aim of the present study is to determine the solubility of xonotlite at 20°C and to compare this data with the available data in literature. To achieve this goal, solubility experiments from undersaturation were carried out at ambient temperature (20°C). Thermodynamic modelling was used to calculate the solubility product of xonotlite based on the measured total aqueous concentrations. The derived solubility of xonotlite is comparable to the solubility previous reported for synthetic xonotlite at 25°C. The synthesized xonotlite is several log units more stable than the solubility reported in literature for natural xonotlite, which seems to describe rather the solubility of amorphous C‐S‐H.
Structural performance of aged Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) roof panels
Authors: Goodier Chris , Cavalaro Sergio , Gorse Chris , Blay Karen , Blanco‐Alvarez Ana
Published: September 2023

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight, aerated cementitious material with no coarse aggregate, hence the material properties and structural behavior vary significantly compared with “traditional” reinforced concrete. It was a popular form of precast concrete panelized construction in the 1970s, especially in critical infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and government buildings, and many of these structures are now at the end of their design life.

Although the quality of contemporary RAAC precast elements and structures is considered to be good, concerns exist regarding the durability, serviceability and structural reliability of 40–50 year old RAAC panels still in service.

Ongoing survey regimes and preliminary site observations and investigations of multiples structures in the United Kingdom have revealed significant problems in a small number of panels such as excessive cracking and deflection, insufficient cover, and reinforcement that is corroding and/or incorrectly placed.

This paper therefore presents data on the structural performance and integrity of aged RAAC panels from the 1960s and 70s still in service in the United Kingdom, and presents the outcomes of the most significant and largest research project in the United Kingdom in the last 10 years, which investigated the material properties, structural performance, and monitoring strategies of aged RAAC panels. Structural testing on full scale panels in the laboratory and in situ have been conducted, together with petrographical examination and computational finite element modeling of RAAC panels form different structures and locations around the United Kingdom.

The research has developed considerable new knowledge and understanding regarding the structural and material performance of aged RAAC panels and their associated failure modes, which will have significant implications for the repair, monitoring and management of these national critical infrastructure.
Tunable Regioselectivity in C−H‐Activated Direct Arylation Reactions of Dithieno[3,2‐b:2’,3’‐d]pyrroles
Authors: Vogt Astrid , Stümpges Florian , Bajrami Jessi , Baumgarten Daniel , Millan Judith , Mena‐Osteritz Elena , Bäuerle Peter
Published: September 2023

In this study, regioselectively controlled direct arylation of dithieno[3,2‐b:2,3’‐d]pyrroles (DTPs) is reported. By carefully selecting the catalytic system, Pd source, ligand, and additives, we achieved either selective N‐arylation or unprecedented β‐arylation and β,β′‐diarylation of the DTP core through C−H activation when reacting unsubstituted H‐DTP with 9‐anthracenyl halides. For N‐substituted DTPs, we obtained regioselective carboxylate‐assisted arylation of the α‐position(s). Consequently, depending on the catalytic system and substitution at the DTP nitrogen, we successfully synthesized novel regioselectively substituted DTPs, including N‐aryl, rarely reported β‐aryl, β,β’‐diaryl, α‐aryl, and α,α‘‐diaryl scaffolds. These compounds can be straightforwardly prepared and further functionalized for applications as organic electronic materials.
Cage‐Shaped Phosphites Having C3‐Symmetric Chiral Environment: Steric Control of Lewis Basicity and Application as Chiral Ligands in Rhodium‐Catalyzed Conjugate Additions
Authors: Liu Xiao , Tomita Kazuma , Konishi Akihito , Yasuda Makoto
Published: September 2023

Designing chiral ligands with an axial symmetry higher than C2‐rotational symmetry is one of the most crucial approaches to improving enantioselectivity in asymmetric synthesis. Herein, C3‐symmetric chiral cage‐shaped phosphites are reported. Their Lewis basicity and chiral environment are precisely controlled by the tethered group. The cage‐shaped phosphites successfully worked as chiral ligands in Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric conjugate additions, realizing acceptable yields with excellent enantioselectivity, and were used to synthesize a pharmacologically important molecule.
Circulating Th17/Treg as a promising biomarker for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in indicating comorbidity with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Fan Hongxuan , Zhao Jianqi , Mao Shaobin , Wang Yongle , Wang Miao , Song Xiaosu , Liu Gaizhen , Wang Caihong , Wang Xin , Liang Bin
Published: September 2023

Background

Immune and inflammatory responses have a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This study aims to explore the change of peripheral lymphocytes, especially the absolute and relative changes in peripheral T cells in RA patients with and without ASCVD.

Hypothesis

The changes in the lymphocyte subsets were assessed to provide a novel insight in diagnosing and preventing ASCVD in patients with RA.

Methods

A propensity score matching system (1:1) was conducted to perform a matched case–control study with 169 pairs RA‐ASCVD and RA participants. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between peripheral lymphocytes and RA‐ASCVD.

Result

Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Th17 cell absolute, Th17 cell Ratio, Th17/Treg were associated with a significantly higher risk of ASCVD after model adjustment. Then we focused on Th17/Treg, multivariate logistic analyses in tri‐sectional Th17/Treg groups showed that the odds of ASCVD is gradually increasing with Th17/Treg rank's rising after model adjustment. Finally, the restricted cubic spline of Th17/Treg and odds ratio of RA‐ASCVD was conducted. Interestingly, we found a critical point of Th17/Treg (critical point = 0.2399). Th17/Treg shows a protective role in the odds of ASCVD when Th17/Treg < 0.2399. With smaller Th17/Treg, the protective efficiency is more obvious when Th17/Treg < 0.2399.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that increasing absolute and percentage of Th17 cells in the peripheral blood of patients with RA was associated with the development of ASCVD. And Th17/Treg may be a promising biomarker for patients with RA in indicating comorbidity with ASCVD.
Novel, computational IgE‐clustering in a population‐based cross‐sectional study: Mapping the allergy burden
Authors: Czolk Rebecca , Ruiz‐Castell Maria , Hunewald Oliver , Wanniang Naphisabet , Le Coroller Gwenaëlle , Hilger Christiane , Vaillant Michel , Fagherazzi Guy , Morel‐Codreanu Françoise , Ollert Markus , Kuehn Annette
Published: September 2023

Background

Even though the prevalence of allergies is increasing, population‐based data are still scarce. As a read‐out for chronic inflammatory information, new methods are needed to integrate individual biological measurements and lifestyle parameters to mitigate the consequences and costs of allergic burden for society.

Methods

More than 480.000 data points were collected from 1462 Luxembourg adults during the representative, cross‐sectional European Health Examination Survey, spanning health and lifestyle reports. Deep IgE‐profiles based on unsupervised clustering were correlated with data of the health survey.

Findings

42.6% of the participants reported a physician‐diagnosed allergy and 44% were found to be IgE‐positive to at least one allergen or extract. The main sensitization sources were tree pollens followed by grass pollens and mites (52.4%, 51.8% and 40.3% of sensitized participants respectively), suggesting seasonal as well as perennial burden. The youngest group of participants (25–34 years old) showed the highest burden of sensitization, with 18.2% of them having IgE to 10 or more allergen groups. Unsupervised clustering revealed that the biggest cluster of 24.4% of participants was also the one with the highest medical need, marked by their multi‐sensitization to respiratory sources.

Interpretation

Our novel approach to analyzing large biosample datasets together with health information allows the measurement of the chronic inflammatory disease burden in the general population and led to the identification of the most vulnerable groups in need of better medical care.
A Review of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells Fault Diagnosis: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Zhou Shangwei , Jervis Rhodri
Published: September 2023

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are regarded as a substitution for the combustion engine with high energy conversion efficiency and zero CO2emissions. Stable system operation requires control within a relatively narrow range of operating conditions to achieve the optimal output, leading to faults that can easily cause accelerated degradation when operating conditions deviate from the control targets. Performance recovery of the system can be realized through early fault diagnosis; therefore, accurate and effective diagnostic characterisation is vital for long‐term serving. A review of off‐line and on‐line techniques applied to the fault diagnosis of fuel cells is presented in this work. Off‐line approaches include electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge (GSC), visualisation‐based and image‐based techniques; the on‐line methods can be divided into model‐based, data‐driven, signal‐based and hybrid methods. Since each methodology has advantages and drawbacks, its effectiveness is analysed, and limitations are highlighted.
SERS Detection of Hg2+ using Rhenium Carbonyl Labelled Nanoparticle Films
Authors: Lea Joshua N. , Montgomery Heather J. , Xu Yikai , Bell Steven E. J. , Ashton Lorna , Fletcher Nicholas C.
Published: September 2023

Modified silver nanoparticles with a self‐assembled disulfide functionalized 2,2'‐bipyridine (L1 and L2) monolayer, and the corresponding rhenium complex [Re(L2)(CO)3Br] are shown to provide a method to position the nanoparticles at a water/dichloromethane interface forming a lustrous metal‐like‐liquid film (MeLLF) with a unique SERS response. The film formed using L2 showed divergent behaviour in the presence of a range of metal ions whilst bound to the surface. [Re(L)(CO)3Br] (where L=2,2'‐bipyridine, L1 and L2) in solution demonstrates a selective interaction with Hg2+, observed by UV‐vis, emission and 1H NMR spectroscopy, attributed to abstraction of the bromide. This interaction was demonstrated by subtle changes in the characteristic Raman Re‐CO stretch at 510 cm−1 both with the MeLLF, and when the film is immobilized in a PVA surface‐exposed‐nano‐sheet (SENS). The work provides proof of concept that the organometallic complexes can be employed as “labels” to generate SERS‐active nanoparticle films that possess detection capabilities.
Partial Hydrolysis of Diphosphonate Ester During the Formation of Hybrid TiO2 Nanoparticles: Role of Acid Concentration
Authors: Mysore Ramesha Bharadwaj , Pawlak Bram , Arenas Esteban Daniel , Reekmans Gunter , Bals Sara , Marchal Wouter , Carleer Robert , Adriaensens Peter , Meynen Vera
Published: September 2023

The hydrolysis of the phosphonate ester linker during the synthesis of hybrid (organic‐inorganic) TiO2 nanoparticles is important when forming porous hybrid organic‐inorganic metal phosphonates. In the present work, a method was utilized to control the in‐situ partial hydrolysis of diphosphonate ester in the presence of a titania precursor as a function of acid content, and its impact on the hybrid nanoparticles was assessed. Organodiphosphonate esters, and more specific, their hydrolysis degree during the formation of hybrid organic‐inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles, are relatively under explored as linkers. Here, a detailed analysis on the hydrolysis of tetraethyl propylene diphosphonate ester (TEPD) as diphosphonate linker to produce hybrid TiO2 nanoparticles is discussed as a function of acid content. Quantitative solution NMR spectroscopy revealed that during the synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles, an increase in acid concentration introduces a higher degree of partial hydrolysis of the TEPD linker into diverse acid/ester derivatives of TEPD. Increasing the HCl/Ti ratio from 1 to 3, resulted in an increase in degree of partial hydrolysis of the TEPD linker in solution from 4 % to 18.8 % under the applied conditions. As a result of the difference in partial hydrolysis, the linker‐TiO2 bonding was altered. Upon subsequent drying of the colloidal TiO2 solution, different textures, at nanoscale and macroscopic scale, were obtained dependent on the HCl/Ti ratio and thus the degree of hydrolysis of TEPD. Understanding such linker‐TiO2 nanoparticle surface dynamics is crucial for making hybrid organic‐inorganic materials (i. e. (porous) metal phosphonates) employed in applications such as electronic/photonic devices, separation technology and heterogeneous catalysis.
Trends in the Diversification of the Detergentome
Authors: Wycisk Virginia , Wagner Marc‐Christian , Urner Leonhard H.
Published: September 2023

Detergents are amphiphilic molecules that serve as enabling steps for today's world applications. The increasing diversity of the detergentome is key to applications enabled by detergent science. Regardless of the application, the optimal design of detergents is determined empirically, which leads to failed preparations, and raising costs. To facilitate project planning, here we review synthesis strategies that drive the diversification of the detergentome. Synthesis strategies relevant for industrial and academic applications include linear, modular, combinatorial, bio‐based, and metric‐assisted detergent synthesis. Scopes and limitations of individual synthesis strategies in context with industrial product development and academic research are discussed. Furthermore, when designing detergents, the selection of molecular building blocks, i. e., head, linker, tail, is as important as the employed synthesis strategy. To facilitate the design of safe‐to‐use and tailor‐made detergents, we provide an overview of established head, linker, and tail groups and highlight selected scopes and limitations for applications. It becomes apparent that most recent contributions to the increasing chemical diversity of detergent building blocks originate from the development of detergents for membrane protein studies. The overview of synthesis strategies and molecular blocks will bring us closer to the ability to predictably design and synthesize optimal detergents for challenging future applications.
Electrochemical Properties of BaTaO2N Photocatalyst with Visible‐Light‐Driven Water Splitting Capability
Authors: Higashi Tomohiro , Nishimae Shinji , Inoue Yasunobu , Kageshima Yosuke , Domen Kazunari
Published: September 2023

A BaTaO2N (BTON) particulate photocatalyst enables solar water splitting in response to visible light irradiation at wavelengths of up to 640 nm. The specific nitridation conditions produced distinct types of BTON particles with the capability of one‐step overall water splitting (Active‐BTON) and without the overall water splitting activity (Inactive‐BTON). Unveiling the intrinsic differences between the active‐ and inactive‐BTON particles is crucial for obtaining more in‐depth information about the water splitting activity. Herein, we investigated the electrochemical (EC) and photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties of these BTON photocatalysts using the particulate‐based photoelectrodes for water splitting. EC measurements, including Mott–Schottky analysis, revealed that the flat band potential of Active‐BTON is located at a potential that is more positive than that of Inactive‐BTON, whereas the carrier concentration of Active‐BTON is one‐tenth lower than that of Inactive‐BTON. Irrespective of the pH value of the 1.0 M potassium phosphate aqueous solution, the Active‐BTON‐based photoelectrodes showed a higher photocurrent than that of Inactive‐BTON under simulated AM 1.5G solar illumination. The PEC performance of the BTON was found to be limited by the electrocatalytic activity of the CoOx co‐catalyst, specifically the electrolyte pH.
Not just teens, big drug problems in young adults
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

The Monitoring the Future (MTF) panel study released this month shows that adults ages 35–50 have a big problem with binge drinking and marijuana. This panel study focuses on post‐high school participants; the basic MTF survey is of high school students only. So, epidemiologists can now find out about trends as these young people get older. And it is a good thing to know too, because the most recent survey has found that among adults ages 35–50, there are historic highs for.
Children of ‘extremist’ parents need special care, not bias
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

The predicament of children whose parents are involved in “violent extremism” includes severe psychological risks including distress about family separation, and conflicts of loyalty, according to a study of such families.
Effect of Annealing Temperature and Time on Ni‐Catalyzed In Situ Growth of Graphene on Diamond Substrate
Authors: Wang Sanchuan , Bai Qingshun , Chen Shandeng
Published: September 2023

Graphene has a series of excellent physical and chemical properties. In recent years, the in situ growth of graphene on diamond substrate has been the research focus. In this paper, graphene (or graphite nanoplate) is grown on a diamond substrate by vacuum high‐temperature rapid annealing method with the catalysis of Ni. Annealing temperature and time are varied and graphene with different layer numbers, lattice defect densities, and topographies are produced on a diamond. Different kinds of characterization such as Raman spectroscopy, optical density meter, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are used to characterize and analyze these properties, further determine the critical temperature and critical time of diamond‐graphene transformation, and study the influence of temperature and time on the layer number and quality of graphene. After annealing at 850 °C for 30 min, the sample can grow ≈56 layers of high‐quality graphene, which has quite low roughness and few defects.
An optimal nonlinear companding transform with clipping scheme for universal filtered multicarrier systems
Authors: Chintala Vijaya Durga , Sundru Anuradha
Published: September 2023

In this article, an exponential companding (EC) scheme, which can reduce PAPR without raising the average output power level, is proposed for universal filtered multi carrier (UFMC) signals. However, EC scheme degrades the BER performance. Therefore, an optimal nonlinear companding transform named as “modified exponential companding” (MEC), which can use two companding levels based on a threshold value, is proposed. The proposed MEC scheme shows enhanced PAPR and BER performances than EC scheme. Moreover, the MEC provides more design flexibility and freedom with an unchanged average output power level. Furthermore, a hybrid scheme is also proposed to improve PAPR performance, where clipping operation is employed on MEC signal based on an appropriate clipping threshold. Simulation results illustrate that proposed MEC scheme offers improved system performance with a net gain of 7.22 dB than conventional EC and μ‐law techniques. Besides, the proposed hybrid scheme with clipping ratio 1.3 proffers enhanced PAPR reduction of 8.85 dB and improved net gain of 7.95 dB. Also, the proposed EC, MEC, and hybrid schemes can provide lesser spectrum side‐lobe levels than μ‐law. Finally, the UFMC system with the proposed hybrid scheme is verified by employing wireless open‐access research platform (WARP) as hardware over real‐time channel.
Geographic patterns in range sizes and their drivers of endemic angiosperms in China
Authors: Wang Yunyun , Lyu Tong , Luo Ao , Dimitrov Dimitar , Wang Zhiheng
Published: September 2023

Geographic range size of endemic species is the most important indicator of species' vulnerability to extinction and conservation prioritization, yet variation in range size among species and across space has been relatively understudied. We investigated the variations and geographic patterns of the range size of 9898 angiosperm species endemic to China and compared the effects of historical and contemporary climate and species' functional traits associated with dispersal ability (including growth form, fruit type, and sexual system) on range size variations. Our results revealed that narrow‐ranged endemic species are clustered in Southwest China where angiosperm species' richness peaks. Winter temperature had the strongest and negative effect on the range size of narrow‐ranged endemic species across space and species, while climate seasonality had the strongest and positive effect on the range size of wide‐ranged endemic species. Both historical and contemporary climate have also influenced species range size indirectly via their effects on species' functional traits associated with dispersal ability. Range size of all endemic species, narrow‐ranged and wide‐ranged, showed little phylogenetic signal, suggesting that phylogenetic conservatism plays a minor role in range size variations. Our results show that the range size of angiosperm species endemic to China is driven by both extrinsic spatiotemporal environmental factors and intrinsic species' traits that allow species to cope with environmental change.
Baroreflex activation therapy in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Blanco Carola , Madej Tomas , Mangner Norman , Hommel Jennifer , Grimm Susanna , Knaut Michael , Linke Axel , Winzer Ephraim B.
Published: September 2023

Aims

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is associated with excessive sympathetic and impaired parasympathetic activity. The Barostim Neo™ device is used for electronical baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) to counteract autonomic nervous system dysbalance. Randomized trials have shown that BAT improves walking distance and reduces N‐terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels at least in patients with only moderate elevation at baseline. Its impact on the risk of heart failure hospitalization (HFH) and death is not yet established, and experience in clinical routine is limited.

Methods and results

We report on patient characteristics and clinical outcome in a retrospective, non‐randomized single‐centre registry of BAT in HFrEF. Patients in the New York Heart Association (NYHA) Classes III and IV with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35% despite guideline‐directed medical therapy were eligible. Symptom burden, echocardiography, and laboratory testing were assessed at baseline and after 12 months. Clinical events of HFH and death were recorded at routine clinical follow‐up. Data are shown as number (%) or median (inter‐quartile range). Between 2014 and 2020, 30 patients were treated with BAT. Median age was 67 (63–77) years, and 27 patients (90%) were male. Most patients (83%) had previous HFH. Device implantation was successful in all patients. At 12 months, six patients had died and three were alive but did not attend follow‐up. NYHA class was III/IV in 26 (87%)/4 (13%) patients at baseline, improved in 19 patients, and remained unchanged in 5 patients (P < 0.001). LVEF improved from 25.5 (20.0–30.5) % at baseline to 30.0 (25.0–36.0) % at 12 months (P = 0.014). Left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter remained unchanged. A numerical decrease in NT‐proBNP [3165 (880–8085) vs. 1001 (599–3820) pg/mL] was not significant (P = 0.526). Median follow‐up for clinical events was 16 (10–33) months. Mortality at 1 (n = 6, 20%) and 3 years (n = 10, 33%) was as expected by the Meta‐Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure risk score. Despite BAT, event rate was high in patients with NYHA Class IV, NT‐proBNP levels >1600 pg/mL, or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 mL/min at baseline. NYHA class and eGFR were independent predictors of mortality.

Conclusions

Patients with HFrEF who are selected for BAT are in a stage of worsening or even advanced heart failure. BAT appears to be safe and improves clinical symptoms and—to a modest degree—left ventricular function. The risk of death remains high in advanced disease stages. Patient selection seems to be crucial, and the impact of BAT in earlier disease stages needs to be established.
Matrix functions in network analysis
Authors: Benzi Michele , Boito Paola
Published: September 2023

We review the recent use of functions of matrices in the analysis of graphs and networks, with special focus on centrality and communicability measures and diffusion processes. Both undirected and directed networks are considered, as well as dynamic (temporal) networks. Computational issues are also addressed.
Complexity and multinationals
Authors: Larsen Marcus M. , Birkinshaw Julian , Zhou Yue Maggie , Benito Gabriel R. G.
Published: September 2023

Research Summary

The multinational corporation (MNC) is a typical example of a complex organization. In this essay, we employ an established body of literature on complexity in organizations to explore and discuss the nature and consequences of complexity for global strategy and MNCs. On that basis, we develop a simple organizing framework for complexity in global strategies emphasizing the source (external and internal complexity) and type (process and structural complexity) of complexity. We use this framework to structure and discuss the six research contributions in this Special Issue. We conclude by suggesting additional avenues of research on the interface between global strategy and complexity.

Managerial Summary

Firms internationalize because they recognize business opportunities abroad and devise strategies to successfully exploit them. At the same time, managers face increasing complexity as MNCs expand internationally and engage in more unknown and dispersed operations. Not only do MNCs face considerable complexity by operating in diverse and uncertain environments, but also by managing and coordinating organizational tasks and activities spanning multiple countries. This essay discusses these challenges and corresponding strategies for MNC managers. It also provides an overview of the six research articles included in this Special Issue about complexity and MNCs.