bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Förster resonance energy transfer within single chain nanoparticles
Authors: Maag Patrick H. , Feist Florian , Frisch Hendrik , Roesky Peter W. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: February 2024

We introduce a methodology based on Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) to evidence the folding of single polymer chains into single chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) via fluorescence readout.
Developing an abnormal high-Na-content P2-type layered oxide cathode with near-zero-strain for high-performance sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Hu Hai-Yan , Li Jia-Yang , Liu Yi-Feng , Zhu Yan-Fang , Li Hong-Wei , Jia Xin-Bei , Jian Zhuang-Chun , Liu Han-Xiao , Kong Ling-Yi , Li Zhi-Qi , Dong Hang-Hang , Zhang Meng-Ke , Qiu Lang , Wang Jing-Qiang , Chen Shuang-Qiang , Wu Xiong-Wei , Guo Xiao-Dong , Xiao Yao
Published: February 2024

A Mg-substituted abnormal P2-NaxTMO2 cathode material with a stoichiometric content of Na up to 1 was developed. Such ultrahigh Na content in the P2-type structure enables an absolute solid-solution reaction with near-zero-strain characteristics.
Scenario-based recycling strategies for perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells: a harmonized life cycle assessment study
Authors: Kipyator Mercy Jelagat , Rossi Federico , Vesce Luigi , di Carlo Aldo , Basosi Riccardo , Parisi Maria Laura , Sinicropi Adalgisa
Published: February 2024

Environmental performances of end-of-life strategies for perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells.
A modulated MOF as a modification layer on copper foil for lithium dendrite suppression
Authors: Cheng Nien-Chih , Wu Yan Cheng , Chu Yi-Chuan , Hsu Hsuan-Yu , Chen Wei-Chao , Wang Pin-Han , Chang Tseng-Lung , Chang Jeng-Kuei , Wang Cheng-Yu
Published: February 2024

A small size Cu-BTC modified electrode in lithium metal batteries showed low roughness and contact angle, significantly improving the cycle life.
Superhydrophobic and mechanical properties enhanced the electrospinning film with a multiscale micro-nano structure for high-efficiency radiation cooling
Authors: Kong Lijing , Sun Puqing , Liu Jincheng , Lin Yongxing , Xiao Chao , Bao Chao , Zheng Kang , Xue Meng , Zhang Xian , Liu Xianglan , Tian Xingyou
Published: February 2024

Design of a hierarchical and interlock structure based on PVDF electrospinning film, which combines the remarkable features of excellent radiation cooling, self-cleaning, and enhanced mechanical properties.
An in situ formed ZIF-67 derived NiFeCo-P nano-array for accelerating the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Guo Xi , Li Li , Wang Shuo , Zhang Huan , Kuang Yuzhen , Duan Guangbin , Cao Bingqiang
Published: February 2024

Phosphating ternary nickel/iron/cobalt hybrid nano-arrays (NiFeCo-P) synthesized by three steps of impregnation, hydrothermal reaction and phosphating calcination exhibits low overpotential, good kinetics and high structural stability.
Designing a σ0π2 singlet ground state carbene from dicationic carbones
Authors: Wagner J. Philipp
Published: February 2024

We show how to design a σ0π2 singlet ground state carbene by removing two electrons from carbones.
Study on growth technology and optical properties of large size and high quality methylamine lead bromide single crystals
Authors: Sun Yuanlong , Ma Yundong , Li Xiangting , Hu Ziyu , Zheng Guozong
Published: February 2024

As a new generation of photoelectric materials, organic–inorganic halide perovskites have been widely used in photodetectors, solar cells and other fields, but most of the current mainstream applications are thin film materials.
Effect of the linking bridge type on the self-assembly behaviour of 2′,3′-difluoroterphenyl derivatives
Authors: Drzewicz Anna , Jasiurkowska-Delaporte Małgorzata , Kula Przemysław , Juszyńska-Gałązka Ewa
Published: February 2024

The linking bridge type has an influence on the self-assembly behaviour and the relaxation dynamics.
Wavelength-resolved quantum yields for vanillin photochemistry: self-reaction and ionic-strength implications for wildfire brown carbon lifetime
Authors: Drozd Greg T. , Weltzin Tate , Skiffington Samuel , Lee Dong , Valiev Rashid , Kurtén Theo , Madison Lindsey R. , He Yiheng , Gargano Lydia
Published: February 2024

Photochemistry of multifunctional aromatics like vanillin can depend strongly on wavelength, initial concentration, and ionic strength. Using several narrow-band LEDs we present wavelength resolved quantum yields for loss of vanillin.
Recent developments and future perspectives of microfluidics and smart technologies in wearable devices
Authors: Apoorva Sasikala , Nguyen Nam-Trung , Sreejith Kamalalayam Rajan
Published: February 2024

Wearable devices are increasingly popular in health monitoring, diagnosis, and drug delivery. Advances allow real-time analysis of biofluids like sweat, tears, saliva, wound fluid, and urine.
Atomic Ru clusters supported on CeO2(110) for effectively catalyzing the electrochemical N2 reduction reaction: insights from density functional theory
Authors: Cao Heng , Zhou Shulan
Published: February 2024

The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction on Ru3/CeO2(110).
Enantioselective insertion of vinyl diazoacetates into O–H bonds of carboxylic acids
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Shao Ying , Tang Shengbiao , Sun Jiangtao
Published: February 2024

A rhodium and phosphoric acid-catalyzed regio- and enantioselective vinyl carbene insertion into the O–H bonds of carboxylic acids has been achieved.
Studies on the effect of fluorine on the interaction of different metal ions with a fluorinated azobenzene-Schiff base: intramolecular C–F activation under polar solvent
Authors: Patel Samridhi , Chandra Girish
Published: February 2024

Herein, we report a comparative study on the interactions of different metal ions with fluorinated and non-fluorinated azobenzene-Schiff bases. Also, polar solvent was found to get activated the C–F bond with alkali metal ions.
Energy transfer for Ce3+ → Tb3+ → Sm3+ induced bright white emission in single-phase CaLa4(SiO4)3O:Ce3+, Tb3+, Sm3+ phosphors and their application in white-light-emitting diodes
Authors: Yuan Bo , Gou Jiaxuan , Qi Chaochao , Kong Li , Qu Mingyang , Luan Guoyan , Zhang Xiangting
Published: February 2024

The emergence of phosphor-converted white-light-emitting diodes has crucial significance in the sustainable development of energy; hence, the evolution of phosphors with eminent luminescence and high stability is imperative.
A capillary-induced negative pressure is able to initiate heterogeneous cavitation
Authors: Chen Shan , Zhang Hongguang , Guo Zhenjiang , Pagonabarraga Ignacio , Zhang Xianren
Published: February 2024

With molecular dynamics simulations we reveal that capillarity is able to induce spontaneous cavitation, for which heterogeneous nucleation can be described with classical nucleation theory.
Porous covalent organic frameworks in photocatalytic ROS-mediated processes
Authors: Karousis Nikolaos , Tasis Dimitrios
Published: February 2024

Porous covalent organic frameworks towards photocatalytic ROS-mediated hydrogen peroxide production and organic substances degradation.
Age Estimation and Gender Attribution in Typically Developing Children and Children With Dysarthria
Authors: Haas Elisabet , Ziegler Wolfram , Schölderle Theresa
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

The purposes of this study were (a) to investigate adult listeners' perceptions of age and gender in typically developing children and children with dysarthria and (b) to identify predictors of their estimates among auditory-perceptual parameters and an acoustic measure of vocal pitch (
F
0). We aimed to evaluate the influence of dysarthria on the listeners' impressions of age and gender against the background of typical developmental processes.

Method:

In a listening experiment, adult listeners completed age and gender estimates of 144 typically developing children (3–9 years of age) and 25 children with dysarthria (5–9 years of age). The Bogenhausen Dysarthria Scales for Childhood Dysarthria (BoDyS-KiD) were applied to record speech samples and to complete auditory-perceptual judgments covering all speech subsystems. Furthermore, each child's mean
F
0 was determined from samples of four BoDyS-KiD sentences.

Results:

Age estimates for the typically developing children showed a regression to the mean, whereas children with dysarthria were systematically underestimated in their age. The estimates of all children were predicted by developmental speech features; for the children with dysarthria, specific dysarthria symptoms had an additional effect. We found a significantly higher accuracy of gender attribution in the typically developing children than in the children with dysarthria. The prediction accuracy of the listeners' gender attribution in the preadolescent children by the included speech characteristics was limited.

Conclusions:

Children with dysarthria are more difficult to estimate for their age and gender than their typically developing peers. Dysarthria thus alters the auditory-perceptual impression of indexical speech features in children, which must be considered another facet of the communication disorder associated with childhood dysarthria.
Evaluating Anterior and Posterior Oral Tongue Contributions to Pressure Generation: A Comparison Between Regular and Effortful Saliva Swallows
Authors: Bahia Mariana M. , Lowell Soren Y.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

This study determined the contributions of the anterior and posterior tongue regions in tongue pressure generation during regular saliva swallows (SSs) and effortful swallows (ESs) completed under two different instructions. The association between tongue pressure and perceived effort to swallow was also examined.

Method:

Forty healthy adults without swallowing disorders participated in this study, divided into two age groups: 20 younger (
M
age
= 21.95 years,
SD
= 4.43) and 20 older (
M
age
= 70.10 years,
SD
= 4.30). Simultaneous data acquisition involved submental surface electromyography, tongue manometry, and a visual analog scale across swallowing conditions (SS, ES with tongue emphasis, and ES with pharyngeal squeezing). The main outcome measures were tongue pressure during swallowing and perceived effort to swallow.

Results:

Overall tongue pressure during ESs with tongue emphasis and with pharyngeal squeezing was greater than that during SSs (
R
2
= .78,
p
< .001). Moreover, tongue pressure during the ES with tongue emphasis was greater than that during the ES with pharyngeal squeezing (
t
= 25.63,
p
< .001). The posterior tongue region generated more pressure during SSs (
R
2
= .64,
p
< .001) and the ES with tongue emphasis (
R
2
= .55,
p
< .001) than the anterior tongue. Finally, a positive correlation was found between perceived effort and tongue pressure during swallowing (
r
= .75, 95% CI [0.72, 0.77]).

Conclusions:

Tongue pressure generation was affected by the type of instruction used to elicit ESs, and the posterior tongue showed relatively greater pressure contributions than the anterior tongue for ESs with tongue emphasis and SSs. Furthermore, age-related declines in pressure generation during swallowing were not evidenced in this study, underscoring the ability of healthy older individuals to appropriately modulate lingual pressure during ESs. Last, our results showed that the visual analog scale is a simple tool for rating swallowing effort during ESs, supporting its potential clinical use to train ESs.
On rate performance of M‐ary amplitude shift keying compact ultra massive array systems for massive connectivity
Authors: Wong Kai‐Kit , Chae Chan‐Byoung , Zhang Yangyang
Published: February 2024

Compact ultra massive array (CUMA) is a new form of the emerging fluid antenna system where a huge number of flexible‐position antennas are selected to produce the output signal. By making sure that the in‐phase channels (similarly for the quadrature channels) of the desired signal at the selected antenna ports align, it builds an advantage of the desired signal over the interference. It is known that CUMA as a multiple access scheme is able to deal with hundreds of users on the same channel use, in the case of rich scattering, if binary phase shift keying is considered. It is nevertheless unclear if higher‐level modulation can bring even greater network rate in this extreme massive connectivity scenario. This letter investigated this situation by presenting the average data rate expression of CUMA when M‐ary amplitude shift keying is used, assuming a binary symmetric channel. Numerical results reveal that M‐ary amplitude shift keying can indeed raise the rate performance considerably.
Fault recovery strategy for urban distribution networks using soft open points
Authors: Lan Liangsheng , Liu Guangqi , Zhu Sitong , Hou Min , Liu Xinrui
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the frequent occurrence of natural disasters has seriously threatened the security and stability of distribution networks. Amidst these natural disasters, researchers have increasingly focused on ensuring fault recovery in distribution networks. Soft open points (SOPs) are new types of power electronic devices that can effectively recover faults in distribution networks. When a fault occurs, SOPs can quickly block and isolate fault short‐circuit current, provide power access to non‐fault areas, and optimise the power flow of distribution networks. Based on the critical role of distributed generation (DG) power supply in fault recovery, this study proposes a method that leverages the synergistic capabilities of SOPs and DG to recover faults in distribution networks. By employing a binary particle swarm optimisation algorithm, this method effectively improves load recovery, reduces the number of switching operations, and minimises network loss. The proposed method was simulated and verified using the IEEE 33‐node and 99‐node systems.
DC fast charging stations for electric vehicles: A review
Authors: Sawant Vikram , Zambare Pallavi
Published: February 2024

The expansion of the DC fast‐charging (DCFC) network is expected to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation by offering drivers additional charging options for longer journeys. However, DCFC places significant stress on the grid, leading to costly system upgrades and high monthly operational expenses. Incorporating energy storage into DCFC stations can mitigate these challenges. This article conducts a comprehensive review of DCFC station design, optimal sizing, location optimization based on charging/driver behaviour, electric vehicle charging time, cost of charging, and the impact of DC power on fast‐charging stations. The review is closely aligned with current state‐of‐the‐art technologies and encompasses academic research contributions. A critical assessment of 146 research articles published from 2000 to 2023 identifies research gaps and explores avenues for future study based on the literature review.
Contactless and short‐range vital signs detection with doppler radar millimetre‐wave (76–81 GHz) sensing firmware
Authors: Chen Pi‐Yun , Lin Hsu‐Yung , Zhong Zi‐Heng , Pai Neng‐Sheng , Li Chien‐Ming , Lin Chia‐Hung
Published: February 2024

Vital signs such as heart rate (HR) and respiration rate (RR) are essential physiological parameters that are routinely used to monitor human health and bodily functions. They can be continuously monitored through contact or contactless measurements performed in the home or a hospital. In this study, a contactless Doppler radar W‐band sensing system was used for short‐range, contactless vital sign estimation. Frequency‐modulated continuous wave (FMCW) measurements were performed to reduce the influence of a patient's micromotion. Sensing software was developed that can process the received chirps to filter and extract heartbeat and breathing rhythm signals. The proposed contactless sensing system eliminates the need for the contact electrodes, electric patches, photoelectric sensors, and conductive wires used in typical physiological sensing methods. The system operates at 76–81 GHz in FMCW mode and can detect objects on the basis of changes in frequency and phase. The obtained signals are used to precisely monitor a patient's HR and RR with minimal noise interference. In a laboratory setting, the heartbeats and breathing rhythm signals of healthy young participants were measured, and their HR and RR were estimated through frequency‐ and time‐domain analyses. The experimental results confirmed the feasibility of the proposed W‐band mm‐wave radar for contactless and short‐range continuous detection of human vital signs.
CrackTinyNet: A novel deep learning model specifically designed for superior performance in tiny road surface crack detection
Authors: Li Haitao , Peng Tao , Qiao Ningguo , Guan Zhiwei , Feng Xinyun , Guo Peng , Duan Tingting , Gong Jinfeng
Published: February 2024

With the rapid advancement of highway construction, the maintenance of highway infrastructure has become particularly vital. During highway maintenance, the effective detection of tiny road surface cracks helps to extend the lifespan of roads and enhance traffic efficiency and safety. To elevate the performance of existing road detection models, the CrackTinyNet (CrTNet) algorithm is specifically proposed for detecting tiny road surface cracks. This algorithm utilizes the novel BiFormer general visual transformer, designed expressly for tiny objects, and optimizes the loss function to a normalized Wasserstein distance loss function. It replaces traditional downsampling with Space‐to‐Depth Conv to prevent the excessive loss of tiny object information in the network structure. To highlight the model's advantage in detecting tiny road cracks, ablation experiments and comparison trials were conducted with mainstream deep learning models for crack detection. The results of the ablation experiments show that, compared to the baseline, CrTNet improved the Mean Average Precision (MAP) by 0.22. When compared to other network models suitable for road detection, these results exhibited an improvement of over 8.9%. In conclusion, the CrTNet proposed in this study enables a more accurate detection of tiny road cracks, playing a significant role in the advancement of intelligent traffic management.
Successive data injection in conditional quantum GAN applied to time series anomaly detection
Authors: Kalfon Benjamin , Cherkaoui Soumaya , Laprade Jean‐Frédéric , Ahmad Ola , Wang Shengrui
Published: February 2024

Classical GAN architectures have shown interesting results for solving anomaly detection problems in general and for time series anomalies in particular, such as those arising in communication networks. In recent years, several quantum GAN (QGAN) architectures have been proposed in the literature. When detecting anomalies in time series using QGANs, huge challenges arise due to the limited number of qubits compared to the size of the data. To address these challenges, a new high‐dimensional encoding approach, named Successive Data Injection (SuDaI) is proposed. In this approach, SuDaI explores a larger portion of the quantum state, compared to the conventional angle encoding method used predominantly in the literature. This is achieved through repeated data injections into the quantum state. SuDaI encoding allows the authors to adapt the QGAN for anomaly detection with network data of a much higher dimensionality than with the existing known QGANs implementations. In addition, SuDaI encoding applies to other types of high‐dimensional time series and can be used in contexts beyond anomaly detection and QGANs, opening up therefore multiple fields of application.
Edge computing‐based optimal dispatching of charging loads considering dynamic hosting capacity
Authors: Wu Chang , Yu Hao , Zhao Jinli , Li Peng , Xu Jing , Wang Chengshan
Published: February 2024

Owing to the rapid increase in electric vehicle integration and the uncoordinated charging behaviour of electric vehicles, the overloading risk of distribution transformers has deteriorated. This impact caused by large‐scale electric vehicle integration can be effectively reduced through the orderly guidance of electric vehicle charging behaviours. Here, a dispatching strategy for charging loads is proposed to address the problems of the uncoordinated charging demand in electric vehicles and overloading risk of distribution transformers in residential areas. First, an edge‐side dynamic index of the electric vehicle hosting capacity is proposed to guide the optimal dispatching of charging loads. Subsequently, an optimal dispatching model of the charging loads is established based on edge computing. The edge‐side dispatching strategy for the charging loads is then further updated considering the participation willingness of electric vehicle users. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is validated using a modified residential distribution network in Tianjin. The results show that the proposed strategy can effectively decrease the overloading risk of distribution transformers while realizing the efficient operation of electric vehicles on the edge side.
Interrupted‐sampling repeater jamming suppression based on block sparse recovery and random phase encoding
Authors: Ji Yunhao , Wei Shan , Lu Yaobing , Li Zigeng
Published: February 2024

The interrupted‐sampling repeater jamming (ISRJ) is an effective kind of intro‐pulse coherent jamming based on digital radio frequency memory. It appears as a group of false targets that are difficult to distinguish on the range profile after pulse compression, which seriously affects the target identification and tracking. According to the coherence between ISRJ and real target echo and the waveform discontinuity caused by intermittent interception, a new method is proposed for ISRJ parameter estimation and jamming suppression based on block sparse recovery. To ensure the effectiveness of sparse recovery, the transmitted signal is divided into several random phase‐encoded sub‐pulses. Firstly, the pulse‐number and time‐delay of the received echo are estimated by block orthogonal matching pursuit. Then, the jamming slices are identified based on the sampling duty ratio and the Doppler frequency is estimated through matching. Finally, according to the parameter estimation results, the jamming slices are reconstructed to eliminate ISRJ. Numerical experiments in two typical scenarios have shown that this method can effectively suppress ISRJ. Especially in the scenario of high jamming duty ratio, this method exhibits good anti‐jamming performance.
Short‐term load and spinning reserve prediction based on LSTM and ANFIS with PSO algorithm
Authors: Ferdosian Mohammad , Abdi Hamdi , Karimi Shahram , Kharrati Saeed
Published: February 2024

With the increase in population and the growth of technology, the load demand has increased and major changes in spinning reserve are unavoidable. Short‐term forecasting to hourly predict the required load and spinning reserve is of great importance. All of the power system studies in planning and operation fields are depend on short‐term hourly load forecasting. In this work, the problem of load forecasting and spinning reserve based on deep learning (DL) algorithms and traditional methods is investigated with the help of the proposed information combination system. The proposed method tries to reduce the weaknesses of the stated methods and increase the accuracy of the predicted signal. First, short‐term predicting of load and spinning reserve is performed using a combination of adaptive network‐based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and meta‐heuristic algorithms including differential evolution (DE), genetic algorithm (GA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO). The ANFIS‐PSO is selected as the best ANFIS combination in load and spinning reserve prediction with a lower error criterion than other methods. Also, the long short‐term memory (LSTM) network can provide good accuracy for load and spinning reserve forecasting. Therefore, the combination of ANFIS‐PSO and LSTM is used to reduce the average error and error variance.
The effect of partial shading on the reliability of photovoltaic modules in the built-environment
Authors: Özkalay Ebrar , Valoti Flavio , Caccivio Mauro , Virtuani Alessandro , Friesen Gabi , Ballif Christophe
Published: February 2024

Residential photovoltaic systems often experience partial shading from chimneys, trees or other structures, which can induce hot-spots in the modules. If the temperature and frequency of these hot-spots are high, the module's reliability and safety may be at risk. IEC 61215-2:2021 hot-spot endurance test is utilized to evaluate the materials' ability to withstand partial shading. Since modules in residential systems can be subjected to higher temperatures than those in the open field, IEC TS 63126:2020 recommends adjusting the module temperature for the hot-spot endurance test according to the module's operating temperature. This study tested the hot-spot endurance of PERC, IBC and HJT modules under standard (55 °C) and more severe (75 °C, Level 2 condition in IEC TS 63126:2020) test conditions, as well as outdoor accelerated-ageing tests were performed with shadow masks. The results demonstrated that irrespective of environmental conditions, hot-spots can form at lower temperatures, with more shading-tolerant cells (i.e., cells with lower breakdown voltage) or with shorter strings. We also show that it is possible to shorten the effort- and time-consuming hot-spot endurance test described in the standard and obtain similar results. In addition, the hot-spot endurance test for residential PV systems was evaluated in terms of module temperatures and duration. In this respect, we propose to increase the testing temperatures of the hot-spot endurance testing for modules operating at high temperatures in IEC TS 63126:2020.
Morphological, piezoelectric and dielectric properties of piezoelectric lead-free ceramic Bi4Ti3O12 for energy harvesting applications: milling process effects
Authors: Derraz Meryiem , Ennawaoui Chouaib , Ben Achour Mohamed Aymen , Hajjaji Abdelowahed , Laadissi El Mehdi , Chhiti Younes , Azim Az Eddine , Jama Charafeddine
Published: February 2024

A lead-free piezoelectric ceramic, Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12), is synthesized as an environmentally friendly alternative to the commonly used Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT). This study focuses on investigating the effects of processing conditions on the morphological and structural properties of piezoelectric ceramics. The material is synthesized successfully through a solid-state reaction technique and is fully characterized using various techniques, including XRD, Raman, TG/DTG, SEM/EDX, piezoelectric, and dielectric analysis. The results show that wet or dry milling affects the morphological properties of the piezoelectric ceramic powder. SEM images reveal that the ceramic prepared by solvent-assisted solid-state (BTOS) exhibits a crystallite length of about 2 micrometers, compared to the ceramic powder prepared in a dry medium (BTO), which shows a crystallite length of about 9 micrometers. The d33 piezoelectric coefficient values are around 27.7 pC/N and 21.4 pC/N, and the Kp values are found to be 29% and 26% for BTOS and BTO, respectively. This work contributes to the optimization of lead-free piezoelectric ceramic processing with potential applications in various sectors.
Correlation between cephalic screw positioning of Standard Gamma 3 Nail for intertrochanteric fractures and cut-out incidence
Authors: Ortolani Alessandro , Lana Debora , Martucci Antonio , Pesce Francesco , Stallone Stefano , Milani Lorenzo , Urso Roberto , Melucci Giuseppe , Tigani Domenico
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Lateral fractures of proximal femur are the most frequent fractures in elderly people. Internal fixation using medullary nails is the gold standard of treatment (Gamma 3 nail is the most implanted device) due to reduced incidence of complications than other devices. We report our experience in treating this kind of fractures with Gamma 3 nail, between January 2015 and December 2021. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients treated in our orthopaedic department; level of clinical care is III: 559 patients (431 females and 128 males, with an average age of 85.3 years) with lateral femoral neck fracture. All patients were surgically treated with Gamma 3 standard nail (SGN). We evaluated preliminary X-rays to classify fractures, according to AO-OTA classification and post-operative X-ray to verify cephalic screw position site, according to areas described by Cleveland in 1959: we measured tip-to-apex distance (TAD) and tip-to-apex calcar referred distance (CalTAD). Finally Chang reduction quality criteria (CRQC) for fracture reduction of trochanteric fractures were determined using preoperative or postoperative Antero-Posterior (AP) and lateral radiographs in a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Incidence of cut-out was evaluated in relation with these parameters. Patients were divided into 2 groups: first group had cephalic screw in optimal positions (5-8-9), the other group had cephalic screw in other positions. Results: In 328 patients (58.7%) screw was in positions 5-8-9, in 231 patients (41.2%) screw was in not-optimal position. Median TAD was 19.1 ± 7.0 mm (range = 0.0–50.5); in 463 patients (82.8%) TAD was ≤ 25 mm. Median CalTAD was 21.4 ± 4.7 mm (range = 5.7–39.2); in 105 patients (79.4%) CalTAD was ≤ 25 mm. Cut-out was observed in 8 cases (1.43%). Multivariate analysis showed a significant correlation (p < 0,05) between incidence of cut-out and fracture type 31A2 and with TAD values >25 mm. Cephalic screw position did not influence incidence of cut-out. Discussion: In order to obtain fracture healing with a low risk of failure, in particular cut-out, it is necessary to obtain good reduction of fracture and optimal lag screw position in order to achieve a TAD inferior to 25 mm.
Progressionsbeeinflussung der chronischen Niereninsuffizienz
Authors: Schuller Max , Saritas Turgay
Published: February 2024

Was ist neu?

Spannungsfeld Blutdruckzielwerte Entsprechend den Vorgaben der Guidelines der European Society of Hypertension (ESH) von 2023 empfiehlt sich bei chronischer Niereninsuffizienz (CKD) mit Albuminurie, kardiovaskulärer Vorerkrankung oder Diabetes mellitus ein Zielblutdruck von <130/80mmHg. In den übrigen Fällen sollte zumindest ein Blutdruck von <140/90mmHg erreicht werden. Ausnahmen stellen die geriatrische Population oder Menschen mit einer Lebenserwartung < 1 Jahr dar, wo eine aggressive Blutdrucksenkung sogar potenziell gefährlich sein kann.

Zunehmende Indikationen für SGLT2-Inhibitoren Neben Renin-Angiotensin-System-Inhibitoren (RASi) bilden Natrium-Glucose-Cotransporter-2-Inhibitoren (SGLT2i) die Basis der CKD-Therapie, unabhängig vom Diabetes-Status. Bis auf wenige Ausnahmen sollten SGLT2i bei einer eGFR >20ml/min/1,73m2 eingesetzt werden. Einmal eingeleitet können sie bis zur Dialysepflichtigkeit beibehalten werden. Ein Abfall der eGFR bis zu 30% vom Ausgangswert im ersten Monat nach Einleitung eines RASi oder SGLT2i ist als unbedenklich zu bewerten und sollte keinesfalls zum Absetzen führen.

Nichtsteroidale MRA bei diabetischer Nierenerkrankung Finerenon steht als erster Vertreter der nichtsteroidalen Mineralokortikoid-Rezeptor-Antagonisten (nsMRA) für die diabetische Nierenerkrankung mit Urin-Albumin-Kreatinin Ratio (UACR) >30mg/g [3mg/mmol] bis zu einer eGFR von 25ml/min/1,73m2 zur Verfügung. Finerenon auf Basis einer optimierten RASi vermindert die CKD-Progression sowie kardiovaskuläre Events.
Rheumatoide Arthritis – Einordnung der neuen Sicherheitswarnungen für JAK-Inhibitoren
Authors: Fiehn Christoph
Published: February 2024

Was ist neu?

Neue Sicherheitsdaten für Januskinase-Inhibitoren In der ORAL-SURVEILLANCE-Studie haben sich Hinweise auf ein erhöhtes Risiko für kardiovaskuläre Ereignisse, Thromboembolien und bestimmte Malignome unter einer Therapie mit Tofacitinib bei rheumatoider Arthritis ergeben. Betroffen sind Patient*innen >65 Jahre, aktuelle oder frühere Raucher und –im Falle kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse – Patient*innen, die schon mal ein solches Ereignis erlebt haben.

Erneuerte Empfehlungen Die JAK-Inhibitoren sollen daher in dieser Patientengruppe nur eingesetzt werden, wenn keine geeigneten Therapiealternativen zur Verfügung stehen.
Andrologisch-reproduktionsmedizinische Aspekte bei rheumatologischen Erkrankungen des Mannes
Authors: Schuppe Hans-Christian , Köhn Frank-Michael
Published: February 2024

Chronisch-entzündliche Systemerkrankungen wie die rheumatoide Arthritis und die zu ihrer Behandlung eingesetzten Pharmaka können die reproduktive Gesundheit des Mannes beeinträchtigen. Mögliche Angriffspunkte sind endokrine Regulationsmechanismen der Hypothalamus-Hypophysen-Gonadenachse, Spermatogenese, Nebenhodenfunktion und Spermienausreifung sowie Erektionsfähigkeit und Samentransport. Ausprägung und Reversibilität der Störungen hängen vom Alter bei Erstmanifestation, der Dauer und dem Schweregrad der Grunderkrankung ab. Unter den zur Immunsuppression eingesetzten Medikamenten ist insbesondere die Gonadotoxizität von Cyclophosphamid zu beachten, auch Sulfasalazin und Sirolimus beeinträchtigen die Ejakulatqualität. Für zahlreiche weitere synthetische und biologische DMARD wird der Evidenzgrad verfügbarer Studien als gering eingestuft bzw. liegen noch keine Daten vor. Bei Kinderwunsch ist eine frühzeitige interdisziplinäre Paar-Betreuung zu empfehlen. Hierzu gehört eine umfassende andrologische Diagnostik, um die Ursachen bzw. Kofaktoren einer Fertilitätsstörung identifizieren und den möglichen Einfluss von Grunderkrankung und Therapiemaßnahmen einordnen zu können. Besteht das Risiko eines Verlustes der Zeugungsfähigkeit, muss auf die Möglichkeit der Kryokonservierung von Spermien hingewiesen werden.
Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection associated with strong
inflammatory response in 3 cats
Authors: Geisen Vera , Pantchev Nikola , Wuelfing Katrin , Würthner Carolin , Gierschner Kerstin , Urban Christine , Lambach Yvonne , Hartmann Katrin , Bergmann Michèle
Published: February 2024

Anaplasmosis is a vector-borne disease caused by Anaplasma (A.) spp. which
currently is still rarely diagnosed in cats. This article describes 3
independent cases of anaplasmosis in cats from different regions of Germany
presented to veterinarians in 2021. All cats showed unspecific clinical signs,
such as fever, reduced general condition, and decreased appetite. One cat
additionally had generalized limb pain, another showed reluctance to move as
well as vomiting. On complete blood cell count, only 1 of 3 cats showed mild
thrombocytopenia. A. phagocytophilum was detected in blood samples of all
3 cats by polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, in 2 cats (in which blood
smears were evaluated) morulae could be detected within neutrophilic
granulocytes. Initially, all 3 cats had highly elevated serum amyloid A (SAA)
concentrations. Treatment with doxycycline caused a rapid improvement of
clinical signs, followed by a decrease of SAA concentrations to normal levels as
well as negative PCR results after a treatment duration of at least 28 days. In
cats with fever, otherwise unspecific clinical signs with only mild or no
hematological changes, elevated SAA concentrations, and previous exposure to
ticks, attending veterinarians should consider anaplasmosis as differential
diagnosis.
Kongressbericht - „WIP-Tag der Versorgungsforschung 2023“ –
Digitale Transformationen in der PKV
Authors: Jacke Christian O. , Wild Frank
Published: February 2024

Motiv für den „WIP-Tag der Versorgungsforschung“

Das Wissenschaftliche Institut der PKV (WIP) hat u. a. die Aufgabe,
Erkenntnisse zur medizinisch-pflegerischen Versorgung von Privatversicherten zu
gewinnen und zu diskutieren. Dabei ist der Austausch mit den PKV-Unternehmen von
zentraler Bedeutung. Zudem gilt es einen engen Dialog von Wissenschaft und Praxis
herzustellen, um dabei Themen der Versorgungsforschung eng mit der Arbeit im
Leistungsmanagement der PKV-Unternehmen zu verbinden.
Geschlechtsspezifische Aspekte in der Bildgebung der axialen Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Ziegeler Katharina , Poddubnyy Denis
Published: February 2024

Die Bildgebung der Sakroiliakalgelenke spielt in der Diagnostik der axialen Spondyloarthritis eine zentrale Rolle. In der Interpretation der Bildgebung gibt es jedoch wichtige, geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede zu beachten. So haben Frauen aufgrund anatomischer Gegebenheiten ein höheres Risiko, mechanisch-degenerative Erkrankungen der Sakroiliakalgelenke zu erleiden, die zuweilen schwer von einer Sakroiliitis zu unterscheiden sind. Bedeutend sind hier eine höhere Mobilität des Gelenkkomplexes sowie eine insgesamt kleinere Gelenkoberfläche und höhere Druckbelastungen im Gehen und Stehen; dies betrifft insbesondere Frauen in oder nach einer Schwangerschaft. Zudem existieren Geschlechtsunterschiede im radiologischen Erscheinungsbild der axialen Spondyloarthritis, insbesondere in der MRT. So finden sich bei Männern häufiger Ankylosen und postentzündliche Fettmetaplasie und bei Frauen häufiger gelenkbezogene Sklerosen. Insgesamt ist die diagnostische Genauigkeit der MRT der Sakroiliakalgelenke bei Frauen niedriger als bei Männern und sollte mit Vorsicht und unter Berücksichtigung der anatomischen Unterschiede interpretiert werden.
Diabetische Ketoazidose bei einer Patientin mit HNF4A-MODY
Authors: Harms Marlen , Stegemann Birgit , Beier Bernhard , Müssig Karsten
Published: February 2024

Eine 27-jährige Patientin mit HNF4A-Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) wurde zur
Behandlung einer schweren diabetischen Ketoazidose (DKA) und eines fortgeschrittenen
diabetischen Fußsyndroms infolge einer fehlenden Therapieadhärenz stationär aufgenommen. Die
DKA konnte im Rahmen eines kurzzeitigen Aufenthaltes auf der Intensivstation beherrscht werden
und der Glukosestoffwechsel nach Initiierung einer intensivierten konventionellen
Insulintherapie und einer umfassenden und individuellen Diabetesschulung langfristig optimiert
werden. Dank intensiver Bemühungen des interdisziplinären Behandlungsteams konnte eine
Fußamputation vermieden werden und die Wunden zur Abheilung gebracht werden. Angesichts
unserer Fallbeschreibung und früherer Fallbeschreibungen von Patienten mit anderen
MODY-Formen, bei denen es bei Erstdiagnose oder im Krankheitsverlauf zu einer DKA kam, sollte
an dem in den aktuellen Kriterien zur Diagnose eines MODY geforderten Fehlen einer DKA nicht
länger festgehalten und diese Kriterien entsprechend modifiziert werden. Zudem sollten die
betroffenen Patienten angesichts der unverändert hohen Mortalität einer DKA umfassend geschult
werden.
Intradermaler und serologischer Allergietest zur Abklärung
einer Insektenstich-Hypersensitivität bei einem
Dahomey-Ochsen
Authors: Schäfer Laura , Stahl Lydia Tatjana , Sickinger Marlene , Thom Nina
Published: February 2024

In diesem Fallbericht wird eine eosinophile Dermatitis um die
Präputialöffnung eines Dahomey-Ochsen beschrieben, die durch
eine Insektenstich-Hypersensitivität gegen Culicoides spp.
verursacht wurde. Nach bestem Wissen und Gewissen der Autoren ist dies der erste
Bericht, der einen intradermalen und serologischen Allergietest bei einem Rind
beschreibt.
Retropharyngeale Manifestation eines T-Zell-reichen B-Zell-Lymphoms
bei einem 7-jährigen Isländerwallach
Authors: Klinkel Samira , Marchewski Julia , Witt Swantje , Roscher Katja
Published: February 2024

Ein 7-jähriger Isländerwallach wurde mit akuter hochgradiger
Dyspnoe sowie seit 6 Wochen bestehendem eitrigem Nasenausfluss vorgestellt.
Klinisch standen bei der Erstuntersuchung eine hochgradige Schwellung der
Mandibular- und Retropharyngeallymphknoten sowie eine gemischte Dyspnoe im
Vordergrund.

Mittels Labordiagnostik, Endoskopie und zytologischer Untersuchung eines
Feinnadelaspirates aus einem Mandibularlymphknoten konnte die Diagnose eines
malignen Lymphoms gestellt werden. Der Wallach wurde auf Grund der infausten
Prognose bei deutlich gestörtem Allgemeinbefinden euthanasiert. Die
pathohistologische Untersuchung ergab ein multizentrisches T-Zell-reiches
B-Zell-Lymphom.
Die Epidemiologie des Glaukoms – eine altersassoziierte
Erkrankung
Authors: Wolfram Christian
Published: February 2024

Hintergrund Epidemiologische Studien beschreiben die Verbreitung des Glaukoms und
seiner Risikofaktoren in der Bevölkerung.

Material und Methoden Einschlägige populationsbasierte epidemiologische Studien
zum Glaukom wurden analysiert und daraus anhand offizieller Bevölkerungsstatistiken die
aktuelle und zukünftige Prävalenz des Glaukoms für Deutschland abgeschätzt.

Ergebnisse Aktuell beträgt die Glaukomprävalenz in der erwachsenen Bevölkerung ab
40 Jahren in Deutschland ca. 2,1%, entsprechend 980 000 Menschen derzeit. Hinzu kommen ca.
eine weitere Million Menschen mit einer okulären Hypertension. Zwei Drittel aller
Glaukompatienten sind über 70 Jahre alt. Bis zum Jahr 2060 wird sich die Glaukomprävalenz
aufgrund der demografischen Alterung auf ca. 2,8% erhöhen.

Schlussfolgerung Trotz einer sinkenden Bevölkerungsgröße werden Glaukome immer
häufiger. Die Bedeutung des Gesundheitsproblems Glaukom nimmt zu.
Bleeding Disorder of Unknown Cause: A Diagnosis of Exclusion
Authors: Mehic Dino , Gebhart Johanna , Pabinger Ingrid
Published: February 2024

Patients with an unexplained mild to moderate bleeding tendency are diagnosed with bleeding disorder of unknown cause (BDUC), a classification reached after ruling out other mild to moderate bleeding disorders (MBD) including von Willebrand disease (VWD), platelet function defects (PFDs), coagulation factor deficiencies (CFDs), and non-hemostatic causes for bleeding. This review outlines our diagnostic approach to BDUC, a diagnosis of exclusion, drawing on current guidelines and insights from the Vienna Bleeding Biobank (VIBB). According to guidelines, we diagnose VWD based on VWF antigen and/or activity levels ≤50 IU/dL, with repeated VWF testing if VWF levels are <80 IU/dL. This has been introduced in our clinical routine after our findings of diagnostically relevant fluctuations of VWF levels in a high proportion of MBD patients. PFDs are identified through repeated abnormalities in light transmission aggregometry (LTA), flow cytometric mepacrine fluorescence, and glycoprotein expression analysis. Nevertheless, we experience diagnostic challenges with regard to reproducibility and unspecific alterations of LTA. For factor (F) VIII and FIX deficiency, a cutoff of 50% is utilized to ensure detection of mild hemophilia A or B. We apply established cutoffs for other rare CFD being aware that these do not clearly reflect the causal role of the bleeding tendency. Investigations into very rare bleeding disorders due to hyperfibrinolysis or increase in natural anticoagulants are limited to cases with a notable family history or distinct bleeding phenotypes considering cost-effectiveness. While the pathogenesis of BDUC remains unknown, further explorations of this intriguing area may reveal new mechanisms and therapeutic targets.
Minimally Invasive Correction of Failed Percutaneous Atrial Septal Closure with Device Embolization
Authors: Costa Vlander , Caldonazo Tulio , Montanhesi Paola , Fischer Johannes , Mukharyamov Murat , Kirov Hristo , Doenst Torsten
Published: February 2024

We present the case of a minimally invasive surgical correction for failed percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure in a 57-year-old female patient with residual ASD, tricuspid regurgitation, atrial fibrillation, and embolization of one of two occluders to the superior mesenteric artery. Our surgical approach consisted of anterolateral minithoracotomy, aortic and femoral vein cannulation, cryoablation, cardiac device removal, closure of ASD with autologous pericardium, and tricuspid repair. The procedure was uneventful and patient was discharged home on postoperative day 4.
Social Determinants of Health and Patient-reported Outcomes Following Autologous Breast Reconstruction, Using Insurance as a Proxy
Authors: Plotsker Ethan L. , Graziano Francis D. , Kim Minji , Boe Lillian A. , Tadros Audree B. , Matros Evan , Azoury Said C. , Nelson Jonas A.
Published: February 2024

Background Insurance type can serve as a surrogate marker for social determinants of health and can influence many aspects of the breast reconstruction experience. We aimed to examine the impact of insurance coverage on patients reported outcomes with the BREAST-Q (patient reported outcome measure for breast reconstruction patients, in patients receiving) in patients receiving deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction.

Methods We retrospectively examined patients who received DIEP flaps at our institution from 2010 to 2019. Patients were divided into categories by insurance: commercial, Medicaid, or Medicare. Demographic factors, surgical factors, and complication data were recorded. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact, Kruskal–Wallis rank sum tests, and generalized estimating equations were performed to identify associations between insurance status and five domains of the BREAST-Q Reconstructive module.

Results A total of 1,285 patients were included, of which 1,011 (78.7%) had commercial, 89 (6.9%) had Medicaid, and 185 (14.4%) had Medicare insurances. Total flap loss rates were significantly higher in the Medicare and Medicaid patients as compared to commercial patients; however, commercial patients had a higher rate of wound dehiscence as compared to Medicare patients. With all other factors controlled for, patients with Medicare had lower Physical Well-being of the Chest (PWBC) than patients with commercial insurance (β = − 3.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): −5.0, −1.2, p = 0.002). There were no significant associations between insurance classification and other domains of the BREAST-Q.

Conclusion Patients with government-issued insurance had lower success rates of autologous breast reconstruction. Further, patients with Medicare had lower PWBC than patients with commercial insurance regardless of other factors, while other BREAST-Q metrics did not differ. Further investigation as to the causes of such variation is warranted in larger, more diverse cohorts.
Challenges in the Monitoring of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange during Acute Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia in Adults under ECMO
Authors: Cavalie Candice , Gendron Nicolas , Kantor Elie , Provenchère Sophie , Sonneville Romain , Gkalea Vasiliki , Bourrienne Marie-Charlotte , Faille Dorothée , Ajzenberg Nadine
Published: February 2024

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been proposed to remove heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) antibodies before planned thoracic surgery in patients with acute HIT and to allow brief re-exposure to heparin during surgery. In patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), simultaneous administration of TPE and alternative nonheparin anticoagulant therapies is challenging.

We report 2 patients on ECMO with acute HIT who underwent repeated TPE to enable cardiothoracic surgery with the use of heparin. In both cases, serial monitoring of HIT antibody titer and heparin-induced platelet activation assay (HIPA) was performed. The effect of adding exogenous platelet factor 4 (PF4) in the HIPA was also tested.

Negative anti-PF4/H IgG levels were achieved after 5 and 3 TPE sessions, respectively and patients could beneficiate from surgery with brief heparin re-exposure without any thrombotic complication. Negative HIPA results were obtained before negative anti-PF4/H IgG in one patient but remained positive in the other despite very low antibody titers. The addition of PF4 in HIPA led to more contrasted results for the two patients.

Serial HIT screening including immunological and functional assays is necessary to closely monitor TPE in acute HIT patients on ECMO who require surgery. The addition of PF4 in HIPA could help detect clinically relevant platelet-activating antibodies and guide re-exposure to heparin.