bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra‐articular corticosteroid injections provide a clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo only at short‐term follow‐up in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bensa Alessandro , Albanese Jacopo , Boffa Angelo , Previtali Davide , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To quantify the clinical relevance of intra‐articular corticosteroid effects compared to placebo for the injective treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases were searched on May 3, 2023. This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published in English, with no time limitation regarding publication date, comparing intra‐articular corticosteroids and placebo injections for knee OA. The effects were quantified at short‐ (≤6 weeks), mid‐ (>6 weeks and ≤3 months), and long‐term (≥6 months) follow‐ups. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the outcomes (visual analogue scale for pain ‐ VAS: 1.4, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index ‐ WOMAC: 9) was used to interpret the clinical improvement provided by intra‐articular corticosteroid injections compared to placebo. The quality of each article was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool and the GRADE guidelines.

Results

Among the 1030 articles retrieved, 11 RCTs (842 patients) were included. A comparison of the two groups revealed statistically significant differences in the improvement of VAS and WOMAC scores in terms of the mean difference (MD); this difference was in favour of corticosteroids at short‐term (p < 0.001, MD = −1.6 and p < 0.001, MD = −9.9, respectively) and mid‐term follow‐ups (p = 0.001, mean MD = −1.3 and p = 0.005, MD = −4.9, respectively). No difference was observed at the long‐term follow‐up. The MDs between the improvements in the two groups reached the MCID values for the VAS and WOMAC only at the short‐term follow‐up. The RoB 2 tool and the GRADE evaluations showed the presence of risk of bias and limited quality of evidence.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis demonstrated that intra‐articular corticosteroid injections offer clinically perceivable pain relief and functional improvement higher than the placebo effect only at short‐term follow‐up in patients affected by knee OA, with benefits losing clinical relevance already after 6 weeks. These results, together with the low number and the limited quality of the RCTs comparing this treatment with placebo, question the indication for the use of corticosteroid injections in clinical practice for the treatment of knee OA.

Level of Evidence

Level I.
Imaging in revision total knee arthroplasty: A novel 3D classification system for tibial bone defects
Authors: Brenneis Marco , Flevas Dimitrios A. , Braun Sebastian , Sculco Peter K. , Boettner Friedrich
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The primary purpose of the study was to use pre‐revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) computer‐tomography (CT)‐images to analyse typical tibial bone defects and create a new schematic three‐dimensional (3D)‐classification system. The secondary purpose was to investigate the association between defect size and implant selection at the time of revision surgery.

Methods

Eighty‐four patients with preoperative CT‐scans underwent revision of a primary TKA. CT‐image segmentation with the 3D‐Slicer Software was performed retrospectively, and a new three‐dimensional classification system was used to grade tibial bone defects. The location of tibial bone defects was recorded for all cases. Volumetric 3D bone defect measurements were used to investigate the association between the bone defect volume, the indication for rTKA, and the use of modular revision components. The t‐test, the Mann–Whitney‐U test, and the Fisher's exact‐test were used for group comparisons, and the Kruskal–Wallis test was used for multiple group comparisons.

Results

The most common anatomic regions for both contained and uncontained tibial bone defects were the anteromedial epiphysis (N = 50; mean epiphyseal‐defect: 5.9 cm³) and metaphysis (N = 15; mean metaphyseal‐defect: 9.6 cm³). A significant association was found between patients with preoperative metaphyseal defects (N = 22) and the use of tibial augments (N = 7) (p = 0.04). The use of cones/sleeves was associated with a significantly increased 3D‐CT volume of the preoperative metaphyseal bone defects (p = 0.04). Patients with osteoporosis had significantly larger volumetric defects in the metaphysis (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Our results emphasise the importance of considering the three‐dimensional nature of tibial defects in rTKA. The findings suggest that an understanding of the volume of the defect size through CT imaging can predict the need for augments and cones/sleeves and, especially in patients with osteoporosis can help the surgeon identify larger metaphyseal defects and ensure optimal metaphyseal fixation through appropriate implant selection.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Trends in Management and Cost Burden of Facial Fractures: A 14‐Year Analysis
Authors: Weitzman Rachel E. , Subramanian Tejas , Zhao Karena , Shomorony Andre , Sclafani Anthony P.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To discuss patient demographics and management and better understand the economic impact associated with the treatment of facial fractures at a major metropolitan level 1 trauma center.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

We identified 5088 facial fractures in 2479 patients who presented from 2008 to 2022. Patient demographics, mechanism of injury, associated injuries, treatment information, and hospital charges were collected and analyzed to determine factors associated with surgical management and increased cost burden.

Results

Our 14‐year experience identified 1628 males and 851 females with a mean age of 45.7 years. Orbital fractures were most common (41.2%), followed by maxilla fractures (20.8%). The most common mechanism was fall (43.0%). Surgical management was recommended for 41% of patients. The odds of surgical management was significantly lower in female patients, patients age 65 and older, and patients who presented after the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The odds of surgical management was significantly higher for patients who had a mandible fracture or greater than 1 fracture. The average cost of management was highest for naso‐orbito‐ethmoidal fractures ($37,997.74 ± 52,850.88), followed by LeFort and frontal fractures ($29.814.41 ± 42,155.73 and $27,613.44 ± 39.178.53, respectively). The highest contributor to the total average cost of management was intensive care unit‐related costs for every fracture type, except for mandible fractures for which the highest contributor was operating room (OR)‐related costs.

Conclusions

This study represents one of the largest comprehensive databases of facial fractures and one of the first to provide a descriptive cost analysis of facial trauma management.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3120–3126, 2024
Vocal Fold Paralysis After Spinal and Epidural Anesthesia: A Case Report and Scoping Review
Authors: Contu Nicolò , Gallus Roberto , Profice Paolo , Lucchetti Dario , Degni Emilia , Rizzo Davide , Artuso Alberto , Bussu Francesco
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Cranial nerve paralysis is a rare complication of spinal and epidural anesthesia, and some cases of vocal fold paralysis (VFP) have been reported. The aim of this article is to report a case, identify evidence supporting the possibility of VFP being a complication of spinal and epidural anesthesia and to investigate the frequency, the characteristics, and the possible mechanisms of such a complication.

Data Sources

CINAHL Complete, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Pubmed, and EMBASE.

Methods

Case report according to CARE guidelines; scoping review according to PRISMA‐ScR criteria. All types of studies that reported on patients of any age and sex, all types of spinal/epidural anesthesia regardless of the location and of drugs used were included. A data extraction sheet was completed for each study selected for inclusion based on the full‐text screenings. Extracted data included: study characteristics, participant characteristics, intervention characteristics, outcome measures, clinical investigations. The study did not receive external funding.

Results

Eight studies met inclusion criteria and a total of 13 events (in 12 patients, including ours) were reported to date. Although there are some hypotheses in regard to the mechanism underlying the phenomena, including mechanical and inflammatory ones, the exact cause is still unclear.

Conclusions

Only few cases of VFP after spinal or epidural anesthesia have been reported to date; however, it seems possible that VFP might be a potential underreported complication of such procedures. We believe that more research on the topic is warranted, especially considering the wide population potentially at risk.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3477–3484, 2024
Incandescence‐Like Nonlinear Ultra‐Broadband Emission from Randomly Assembled Plasmonic Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Lin , Wan Zixuan , Yang Yuting , Xu BeiBei , Qiu Jianrong , Strek Wieslaw , Liu Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

Efficient light sources with emission spanning from visible to infrared range are of central importance for applications including precision spectroscopy and sensing. Under irradiation with constant‐wave (CW) lasers, here, the generation and modulation of incandescence‐like ultra‐broad emission (600–4000 nm) from random aggregates of metal oxide nanoparticles are demonstrated by judicious doping of free carriers, that of any existing photoluminescence process and commercial broadband light sources. It is revealed that this emission is associated with a dominant thermal origin and it is characterized by a pump‐dependent nonlinear response with the maximum order of nonlinearity exceeding 8, which is benefited from the intensified light‐matter interaction mediated by the high density of hot spots in the random plasmonic nanostructures. Moreover, by leveraging the prominent plasmon response, the emission spectra and intensity can be tuned by the Drude terms of the oxide nanoparticles. the use of this broadband infrared (IR) emission is exploited further as the light source for the demonstration of IR spectrometry, exemplified by the examination of organic molecules. The method for producing strong and continuum IR emission based on engineered plasmonic oxide can stimulate further exploitation of miniaturized IR light sources for applications including imaging and sensing.
The impact of environmental, social, and governance ratings on corporate innovation: From the perspective of informal institutions
Authors: Zhu Wei , Li Wei‐jian , Wang Lei
Published: January 2024

The significance of rating events in capital markets has garnered considerable attention from investors, experts, and academics, with third‐party rating agencies being one of the topics. We focus on the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings on corporate innovation and confirm a positive relationship. We also believe that ESG ratings play a governance role as informal institutions in stimulating corporate innovation. The efficacy of ESG ratings in promoting corporate innovation is dependent on a favorable information environment that is devoid of negative influences. We confirm the synergistic effect of ESG ratings with other informal institutions and the substitution effect with formal institutions.
A waveguide‐fed reflector antenna with high gain and multi‐beam capability demonstrated at 220 GHz
Authors: Chen Yanzheng , Raza Ali
Published: January 2024

A waveguide‐fed reflector antenna with high gain and multi‐beam capability is introduced and demonstrated at 220 GHz. Terahertz waves have a very small wavelength, which poses great challenges to the fabrication of terahertz antenna arrays and the connection with the T/R components. In this paper, a horn array with an element spacing less than one wavelength for terahertz frequency is presented and demonstrated, and its excitations are fan‐out using curved waveguides. The horn array is used as a feeding source of an offset parabolic reflector to achieve high‐gain and multi‐beam performance. The reflector antenna achieves four beam positions with θ = −0.7°, −0.2°, 0.2°, and 0.7°, and each beam obtains the gain of about 45 dBi. The experimental reflector antenna is fabricated and tested. Good experimental results further confirm the feasibility of the antenna and the potential application in Terahertz systems.
Cluster‐Katalysatoren unter dem Tunnelmikroskop
Authors: Lechner Barbara A. J.
Published: January 2024

Nanomaterialien sind aus Energiekonversions‐ und ‐speichertechnologien nicht mehr wegzudenken. FCI‐Dozentenpreisträgerin Barbara A. J. Lechner untersucht mit ihrer Gruppe die Dynamik und Stabilität von Nanopartikeln sowie Subnanometer‐Clustern auf atomarer Skala.
Trendbericht Anorganik 2024: Nebengruppen, Bioanorganik und Koordinationschemie
Authors: Kreidt Elisabeth , Werncke Gunnar
Published: January 2024

Hauptgruppen‐ und Molekülchemie: Die leichteste Metall‐Metall‐Bindung im Bisberyllocen; ein doppeltes Highlight in der Carbenchemie: C zweifach oxidiert mit formal vier Valenzelektronen und Bor‐Flanken für extreme Lewis‐Azidität; außergewöhnliche Liganden ermöglichen, ungewöhnlich reaktive Spezies zu isolieren: ein kristallines Triplett‐Bismutiniden. Nebengruppen, Bioanorganik und Koordinationschemie: Rhodiumnitren, zweifach koordiniertes Ytterbium und lumineszierendes Chrom sowie quadratisch‐planares Cu4S.
Are algorithms biased in education? Exploring racial bias in predicting community college student success
Authors: Bird Kelli A. , Castleman Benjamin L. , Song Yifeng
Published: January 2024

Predictive analytics are increasingly pervasive in higher education. However, algorithmic bias has the potential to reinforce racial inequities in postsecondary success. We provide a comprehensive and translational investigation of algorithmic bias in two separate prediction models—one predicting course completion, the second predicting degree completion. We show that if either model were used to target additional supports for “at‐risk” students, then the algorithmic bias would lead to fewer marginal Black students receiving these resources. We also find the magnitude of algorithmic bias varies within the distribution of predicted success. With the degree completion model, the amount of bias is over 5 times higher when we define at‐risk using the bottom decile than when we focus on students in the bottom half of predicted scores; in the course completion model, the reverse is true. These divergent patterns emphasize the contextual nature of algorithmic bias and attempts to mitigate it. Our results moreover suggest that algorithmic bias is due in part to currently‐available administrative data being relatively less useful at predicting Black student success, particularly for new students; this suggests that additional data collection efforts have the potential to mitigate bias.
Validating the Turkish adaptation of the Positive and Negative Affect Scale‐Children (PANAS‐C) for Turkish adolescents
Authors: Yıldız Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to adapt the Positive and Negative Affect Scale for Children (PANAS‐C) developed by Laurent et al. into Turkish and to examine its validity and reliability on high school adolescents. The data of the study were analyzed with four different study groups. The first study group consisted of 414 high school adolescents, 262 girls (63.3%) and 152 boys (36.7%), between the ages of 14 and 19, with a mean age of 15.80 (SD = 1.15). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted with the first study group to determine the construct validity of the scale and a 14‐item short form of the scale was obtained. A total of 295 adolescents, 159 girls (53.9%) and 136 boys (46.1%), between the ages of 14 and 19, with a mean age of 16.06 (SD = 1.16), participated in the second study group. CFA was conducted with this group for the construct validity of the short form; a two‐dimensional structure was obtained as in the original form of the scale. In addition, multiple‐group CFA was conducted with the data obtained from the second study group, and cross‐validation of the scale regarding gender was ensured. The internal consistency coefficient, combined reliability values, and average variance extracted values of the scale were examined with both the first and second study groups, and the values obtained were found to be acceptable. The third study group consisted of 69 high school students, 36 girls, and 33 boys, with an average age of 15.67 (SD = 0.82). The criterion‐related validity of the scale was examined with the third group. As a result of the criterion‐related validity study, it was found that there was a moderately positive relationship between positive emotion and life satisfaction and a negative relationship between positive emotion and depression. On the other hand, there was a moderate negative relationship between negative emotion and life satisfaction and a significant positive relationship between negative emotion and depression. The test‐retest reliability of the scale was examined with the fourth study group. For this purpose, 63 students were administered the PANAS‐C at 3‐week intervals. Significant relationships were found for test–retest reliability, r = .70, p < .01 for the positive emotion dimension, and r = .63, p < .01 for the negative emotion dimension. The results of the study were discussed and interpreted and suggestions for researchers were presented.
A longitudinal qualitative exploration of teachers' experiences of stress and well‐being during COVID‐19
Authors: Blaydes Madison , Gearhart Cassandra A. , McCarthy Christopher J. , Weppner Caroline H.
Published: January 2024

Teachers, a population already vulnerable to high stress, experienced heightened demands, and reduced resources during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This longitudinal study utilized inductive thematic analysis to explore 241 K‐12 teachers' qualitative accounts of stressors, supports, and pandemic‐specific impacts through their responses to three open‐ended questions. Responses were collected across 5 months. Three domains emerged: demands (e.g., navigating hybrid learning), resources (e.g., helpful teaching teams), and pandemic‐related outcomes (e.g., burnout), along with 12 themes. Demands were the most frequently endorsed domain across the months, speaking to the diverse challenges teachers encountered during this stressful time. Resources were less frequently mentioned, yet signaled opportunities for intervention. Results suggest important implications for how teachers experienced pandemic teaching, such as lasting impacts on well‐being, and suggestions to improve future stress and crisis response.
Reduced exercise capacity for muscle mass in adolescents living with obesity
Authors: Colapelle Juliano , St‐Pierre Julie , Erdstein Julius , Lands Larry C.
Published: January 2024

Background

Adolescents living with obesity (AlwO) can have limited exercise capacity. Exercise capacity can be predicted by a 2‐factor model comprising lung function and leg muscle function, but no study has looked at cycling leg muscle function and its contribution to cycling exercise capacity in AlwO.

Methods

Twenty‐two nonobese adolescents and 22 AlwO (BMI > 95 percentile) were studied. Anthropometry, body composition (dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry), spirometry, 30‐s isokinetic work capacity, and maximal exercise (cycle ergometry) were measured.

Results

AlwO had greater total body mass, lean body mass, and lean leg mass (LLM). Lung function trended higher in AlwO. Leg 30‐s work did not differ in absolute terms or per allometrically scaled LLM. Peak oxygen consumption did not differ between the groups in absolute terms or as percent predicted values (79.59 ± 14.6 vs. 82.3 ± 11.2% predicted control versus ALwO) but was lower in AlwO when expressed per kg body mass, kg lean body mass, scaled lean body mass, and LLM. Peak oxygen consumption related to both lung function and 30‐s work, with no observed group effect. 30‐s leg work related to the scaled LLM, with a small group effect. There was some correlation between leg work and time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity in AlwO (rs = 0.39, p = .07).

Conclusion

AlwO have larger LLM and preserved exercise capacity, when expressed as percentage of predicted, but not per allometrically scaled LLM. Increasing time spent in moderate to vigorous activity may benefit AlwO.
Linearity Improvement of TiOx‐Based Flexible Memristor Synapses Even Under Bending
Authors: Song Hongjia , Hu Shimin , Liu Yingdong , Bao Ruikai , Liu Jiawei , Zhong Xiangli , Wang Jinbin
Published: January 2024

The flexible memristor synapses based on binary metal oxides have significant potential in building artiﬁcial neural networks to meet people's demands. To obtain flexible memristor synapses with high linearity of conductance update, herein, the effect of Al doping and SiOxlayer adding on the flexible TiOx‐based memristor synapse even under bending is studied. The results show that the doping Al and adding SiOxlayer improves the linearity of conductance update by 3 times. The bending test results of the SiOx/Al:TiOx‐based memristor synapse show that the linearity decreases slightly with the decrease of the bending radius. When the bending radius is reduced to 5 mm, the total nonlinearity (NL) value of the device is about 0.42. It is still much smaller than the total NL value of TiOx‐based memristor synapse in flat state (about 0.76). The test results of conducting atomic force microscopy show that the improvement of linearity is due to the optimization of conductive filaments. The results provide a feasible program for improving linearity of TiOx‐based flexible memristor synapse even under bending, which can support for the development of high‐performance binary metal oxide flexible memristor synapse.
Likelihood ratio combination of multiple biomarkers via smoothing spline estimated densities
Authors: Du Zhiyuan , Du Pang , Liu Aiyi
Published: January 2024

The diagnostic accuracy of multiple biomarkers in medical research is crucial for detecting diseases and predicting patient outcomes. An optimal method for combining these biomarkers is essential to maximize the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve (AUC). Although the optimality of the likelihood ratio has been proven by Neyman and Pearson, challenges persist in estimating the likelihood ratio, primarily due to the estimation of multivariate density functions. In this study, we propose a non‐parametric approach for estimating multivariate density functions by utilizing Smoothing Spline density estimation to approximate the full likelihood function for both diseased and non‐diseased groups, which compose the likelihood ratio. Simulation results demonstrate the efficiency of our method compared to other biomarker combination techniques under various settings for generated biomarker values. Additionally, we apply the proposed method to a real‐world study aimed at detecting childhood autism spectrum disorder (ASD), showcasing its practical relevance and potential for future applications in medical research.
Immunomodulation of wound healing leading to efferocytosis
Authors: Zhao Yun , Li Minxiong , Mao Jiayi , Su Yinghong , Huang Xin , Xia Wenzheng , Leng Xiangfeng , Zan Tao
Published: January 2024

Effectively eliminating apoptotic cells is precisely controlled by a variety of signaling molecules and a phagocytic effect known as efferocytosis. Abnormalities in efferocytosis may bring about the development of chronic conditions, including angiocardiopathy, chronic inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases. During wound healing, failure of efferocytosis leads to the collection of apoptosis, the release of necrotic material and chronic wounds that are difficult to heal. In addition to the traditional phagocytes‐macrophages, other important cell species including dendritic cells, neutrophils, vascular endothelial cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes contribute to wounding healing. This review summarizes how efferocytosis‐mediated immunomodulation plays a repair‐promoting role in wound healing, providing new insights for patients suffering from various cutaneous wounds.
Machine Learning for Quantitative Structural Information from Infrared Spectra: The Case of Palladium Hydride
Authors: Usoltsev Oleg , Tereshchenko Andrei , Skorynina Alina , Kozyr Elizaveta , Soldatov Alexander , Safonova Olga , Clark Adam H. , Ferri Davide , Nachtegaal Maarten , Bugaev Aram
Published: January 2024

Infrared spectroscopy (IR) is a widely used technique enabling to identify specific functional groups in the molecule of interest based on their characteristic vibrational modes or the presence of a specific adsorption site based on the characteristic vibrational mode of an adsorbed probe molecule. The interpretation of an IR spectrum is generally carried out within a fingerprint paradigm by comparing the observed spectral features with the features of known references or theoretical calculations. This work demonstrates a method for extracting quantitative structural information beyond this approach by application of machine learning (ML) algorithms. Taking palladium hydride formation as an example, Pd‐H pressure‐composition isotherms are reconstructed using IR data collected in situ in diffuse reflectance using CO molecule as a probe. To the best of the knowledge, this is the first example of the determination of continuous structural descriptors (such as interatomic distance and stoichiometric coefficient) from the fine structure of vibrational spectra, which opens new possibilities of using IR spectra for structural analysis.
Robust Magnetic Proximity Induced Anomalous Hall Effect in a Room Temperature van der Waals Ferromagnetic Semiconductor Based 2D Heterostructure
Authors: Wu Hao , Yang Li , Zhang Gaojie , Jin Wen , Xiao Bichen , Zhang Wenfeng , Chang Haixin
Published: January 2024

Developing novel high‐temperature van der Waals ferromagnetic semiconductor materials and investigating their interface coupling effects with 2D topological semimetals are pivotal for advancing next‐generation spintronic and quantum devices. However, most van der Waals ferromagnetic semiconductors exhibit ferromagnetism only at low temperatures, limiting the proximity research on their interfaces with topological semimetals. Here, an intrinsic, van der Waals layered room‐temperature ferromagnetic semiconductor crystal, FeCr0.5Ga1.5Se4 (FCGS), is reported with a Curie temperature (TC) as high as 370 K, setting a new record for van der Waals ferromagnetic semiconductors. The saturation magnetization at low temperature (2 K) and room temperature (300 K) reaches 8.2 and 2.7 emu g−1, respectively. Furthermore, FCGS possesses a bandgap of ≈1.2 eV, which is comparable to the widely used commercial silicon. The FCGS/graphene 2D heterostructure exhibits an impeccably smooth and gapless interface, thereby inducing a robust van der Waals magnetic proximity coupling effect between FCGS and graphene. After the proximity coupling, graphene undergoes a charge carrier transition from electrons to holes, accompanied by a transition from non‐magnetic to ferromagnetic transport behavior with robust anomalous Hall effect (AHE). Notably, the van der Waals magnetic proximity‐induced AHE remains robust even up to 400 K.
Halogen Anion Management in Solution‐Processed Perovskite Films for Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Gu Leilei , Chen Mingzhu , Liu Xianming , Chen Dongnian , Gu Yanbo , Wang Shubo
Published: January 2024

Solution processability is a prominent advantage for the commercial fabrication of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, ionic side reactions can cause perovskite solutions to age, which greatly limits the industrial prospects for reproducible production of PSCs. Herein, the mechanism of underlying halogen anion side reactions is elucidated and an effective scheme for managing halogen anions is proposed. The oxidation of halogen anions is the main factor of solution aging. The addition of iodine monobromide (IBr) stabilizes the precursor solution by promoting the reverse oxidation reaction. Meanwhile, IBr can manage the loss of halogen anion in perovskite layers, effectively reducing the defect density. Moreover, IBr can improve the crystallization process to prepare perovskite films with large‐sized grains and high crystallinity. As a result, the IBr‐based perovskite solution can be stored for 14 days, the optimal device efficiency (24.05% at 0.09 cm2) and long‐term operational stability are far superior to control samples. By this strategy, a large‐area perovskite solar module with an efficiency of 19.34% is fabricated on the 6 × 6 cm2 substrate. This study is dedicated to providing a strategy for managing halogen anions to inhibit solution aging and improve film quality.
On the Metastable Ferrite Hot Rolling of Low‐Grade Electrical Steels: Its Microstructure, Texture and Low‐Temperature Annealed Structure
Authors: Shan Zhongyu , Yang Ping , Gu Xinfu , Cui Fenge
Published: January 2024

The hot‐rolled sheets of low‐grade electrical steels undergo complete austenite‐ferrite phase transformation, resulting in fine equiaxed grains in the sheets. These fine initial grains eventually lead to a strong detrimental {111} texture in the final product after cold‐rolling and annealing process. This work, based on the phase transformation delay of columnar grain structure in cast slabs, proposes a novel approach called metastable ferrite hot rolling, namely, a two‐stage heating at 900 °C and then at 1100 °C shortly and hot rolling, to avoid complete transformation and to retain original {100} oriented regions. In addition, low‐temperature annealing is employed to increase grain sizes of hot‐rolled sheets thereby improving the final texture and magnetic properties after cold‐rolling and annealing. The results indicate that metastable ferritic columnar grains can be maintained during the two‐stage heating process at 1100 °C and primarily undergoes subgrain growth. The transformation from ferrite to austenite at 1100 °C is very slow. During the hot rolling with a high 86% reduction by two passes, the notable grain refinement is mainly caused by dynamic recrystallization rather than dynamic phase transformation as evidenced by the observation from the rolling plane.
Reviving Europe's rivers: Seven challenges in the implementation of the Nature Restoration Law to restore free‐flowing rivers
Authors: Stoffers Twan , Altermatt Florian , Baldan Damiano , Bilous Olena , Borgwardt Florian , Buijse Anthonie D. , Bondar‐Kunze Elisabeth , Cid Nuria , Erős Tibor , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Funk Andrea , Haidvogl Gertrud , Hohensinner Severin , Kowal Johannes , Nagelkerke Leopold A. J. , Neuburg Jakob , Peller Tianna , Schmutz Stefan , Singer Gabriel A. , Unfer Günther , Vitecek Simon , Jähnig Sonja C. , Hein Thomas
Published: January 2024

The EU Nature Restoration Law represents an important opportunity for freshwater habitat restoration and, consequently, freshwater biodiversity protection. However, a number of challenges must be anticipated in its implementation, which may compromise its success. Some aspects, particularly those relating to freshwater ecosystems, require more clarification. We use riverine ecosystems to illustrate existing ambiguities in the proposed legislation and the potential consequences of leaving these aspects open to interpretation during the implementation process. We also discuss potential solutions to these problems which could help ensure that the law's objectives are met. We argue that river network structure and connectivity dimensions, which result into river meta‐ecosystems, must be explicitly considered. For that purpose, we ask for clear definitions of the critical terms “free‐flowing rivers,” “barriers,” and “reference areas.” In addition, we recommend developing methods for integrated assessment of connectivity across river networks. As a key property of river ecosystems, this must be used to prioritize actions to increase the length and number of free‐flowing rivers. Adequate restoration planning at larger spatial scales will benefit from a meta‐ecosystem perspective and accurate representation of aquatic‐terrestrial linkages, which will significantly improve the efficacy of restoration efforts. Furthermore, stakeholder and citizen engagement offer important opportunities at local, national, and European scales, and should be fostered to ensure inclusive decision‐making. The conservation challenges outlined here are particularly important for rivers, but they also have implications for other ecosystems. These considerations are useful for policymakers, conservationists, and other stakeholders involved in the Nature Restoration Law and related policy initiatives.

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Human Water > Water Governance
Two‐dimensional hypercoordinate chemistry: Challenges and prospects
Authors: Song Bingyi , Yang Li‐Ming
Published: January 2024

Planar hypercoordinate compounds are fascinating but challenging to be realized. The difficulty in stabilizing and fabricating such compounds prevent us from in‐deep understanding these compounds and exploring potential applications. Molecular‐level insights on underlying mechanism for the formation of viable hypercoordinate compounds is the key towards the development of this field. This review aims to summarize recent advances in this direction. Regular polygons ALCN (A and L are central and ligand atoms, CN is coordination number) are generally applicable models used to derive the unified mathematical relations between the radii of constitute atoms and the angles of regular polygons as exemplified by two typical examples Gr14LCN and TMBCN (Gr14 is Group 14 element, TM is transition metal, B is boron). Effective schemes and some useful rule of thumb are proposed towards the architecture of 2D hypercoordinate crystals ALx (x is composition ratio). A set of design flow chart and several effective design strategies and principles are suggested for 2D‐HyperMaters. Potential diverse applications of 2D‐HyperMaters are discussed and summarized. Grand blueprint for planar hypercoordinate chemistry is drew. Finally, future prospects of 2D‐HyperChem is outlooked.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Reaction Mechanisms and Catalysis

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Materials Science

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures
Nonlinear Regression on Growth Curves for Placental Parameters in R
Authors: Lemos Daniela , Braga Ana Cristina , Nogueira Rosete
Published: January 2024

Growth charts play a crucial role in the evaluation and surveillance of paediatric populations, serving as indispensable tools for paediatricians and public health researchers. The development of these growth charts for fetal parameters has been extensively used in recent decades. However, investigation of placental parameters and their relationship with obstetric outcome has been relatively neglected, resulting in a significant gap in understanding their biological significance. This study presents an alternative approach for constructing reference growth curves specific to the placental parameter, Diameter 2. Our methodology uses the generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape (GAMLSS), offering distinct advantages over traditional quantile regression methods. One of the key advantages of GAMLSS is its flexibility to accommodate any statistical distribution, allowing for the modelling of various parameters that characterize the distribution of the response variable. Through the application of our proposed methodology, we demonstrated that by using P-splines as a smoothing function and Box-Cox t (BCT) as a distribution, we can achieve a representative growth curve for the Diameter 2 of the placenta throughout gestational age (GA). The resulting models demonstrated high representativeness, with $$R^2$$

R
2

values of 0.7608 and 0.7673 and AIC scores of 7953 and 7946 for the best two models, respectively. Moreover, our approach has the ultimate goal to facilitate early diagnosis of fetal complications, thereby providing valuable assistance to healthcare professionals.
Anomalous strangeness transport
Authors: Megías Eugenio , Vázquez-Mozo Miguel Á.
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Nondissipative transport of strangeness is studied in a chiral hadronic plasma with three flavors. In the phase in which chiral symmetry is preserved, strangeness transport is found to be driven by both an external magnetic field and fluid vorticity. As for the constitutive relations of the baryon and electromagnetic currents, they exhibit vortical terms proportional to the strangeness chemical potential. In the superfluid phase, transverse nondissipative diffusion of the baryon, electromagnetic, and strangeness charges is found, which survives in the limit of vanishing chiral imbalance and mixes in a fashion similar to standard dissipative diffusion in quark-gluon plasma.
Renormalized electric and magnetic charges for O(rn) large gauge symmetries
Authors: Peraza Javier
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In this work we present the construction of a renormalized symplectic form on an extended phases space where the higher order large gauge transformations (LGT) act canonically. The expressions of the subn-leading electric charges associated with each O(rn) LGT are then obtained, in agreement with the expressions previously proposed in [1] by means of the tree-level subn-leading formulas. We also present the duality extension of the extended phase space, computing the full electromagnetic charge algebra, showing a tower of central extensions.
Upper bound on the Atiyah-Singer index from tadpole cancellation
Authors: Ishiguro Keiya , Kai Takafumi , Nishimura Satsuki , Otsuka Hajime , Takeuchi Maki
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We propose an upper bound on the Atiyah-Singer index in the effective action of string theory. For E8×$$ {E}_8^{\prime } $$

E
8
′

and SO(32) heterotic string theories on smooth Calabi-Yau threefolds with line bundles, we find that the tadpole cancellation and supersymmetry conditions lead to an upper bound on the generation number of quarks and leptons as well as Higgs doublets. By taking into account the observed value of four-dimensional gauge couplings and the supergravity approximation, we explicitly evaluate the bound on favorable complete intersection Calabi-Yau threefolds. The bound can be extended to Calabi-Yau threefolds in the Kreuzer-Skarke database. We also put the upper bound on the Atiyah-Singer index in Type IIB/F-theory compactifications.
Navigation und Robotik – status präsens und zukünftige Implikationen
Authors: Maderbacher Günther , Baier Clemens , Meyer Matthias , Holzapfel Dominik , Pagano Stefano , Grifka Joachim , Greimel Felix
Published: January 2024

Einleitung

Sowohl Navigationssysteme als auch die Robotik ermöglichen eine höhere Präzision bei der Implantation eines künstlichen Kniegelenkes. Eine Verbesserung der klinischen Ergebnisse kann dadurch aber nicht erreicht werden. Wir stellten die Hypothese auf, dass es im Rahmen der Implantation einer Knietotalendoprothese zwar zur Rekonstruktion des Alignments in der Koronarebene kommt, durch die variable rotatorische Tibia- sowie variable translatorische Femur- und Tibiakomponentenpositionierung zu einer Veränderung der restlichen Alignmentparameter der unteren Extremität kommt. Diese Parameter könnten jedoch mittels Navigationssystem oder Roboter bestimmt werden und könnten zukünftige Implikationen für diese Systeme darstellen.

Methoden

In 9 gesunden Kniegelenken von fixierten Ganzkörperleichen nach Thiel erfolgte die Bestimmung der Kinematik (Rollback bzw. tibiale Innenrotation sowie tibiale Ab‑/Adduktion) und der Stellung zwischen Femur bzw. Epikondylen und Tibia vor und nach Implantation einer Knietotalendoprothese zwischen 0 und 90° Beugung mithilfe eines Navigationssystems (Knee 2.6, Fa. Brainlab, München, Deutschland).

Ergebnisse

Nach endoprothetischer Versorgung kam es zu keiner Veränderung des natürlichen koronaren Alignment. In Streckung und den frühen Beugegraden zeigte sich die Rotationsstellung des Femurs gegenüber der Tibia verändert. Dies führte auch zu einer veränderten Positionierung des Epicondylus medialis und lateralis in Relation zur Tibia: Während beide Epikondylen nach endoprothetischer Versorgung in Relation zur Tibia lateraler positioniert waren, war der Epicondylus lateralis bis 20° Beugung signifikant dorsaler gelegen.

Diskussion

Nach endoprothetischer Versorgung eines Kniegelenkes in etablierter Technik kam es zu einer guten Rekonstruktion des koronaren Alignments bei gleichzeitiger Veränderung des Alignments sowohl in rotatorischer als auch translatorischer Richtung zwischen Femur und Tibia. Mittels Navigation aber auch Robotik wären wir in der Lage, sämtliche Alignmentparameter zu quantifizieren und könnten eine Ausrichtung der Komponenten bzw. eine Rekonstruktion des Gesamtalignments in allen sechs Freiheitsgraden erzielen. Womöglich wären wir dadurch in der Lage, auch einen klinischen Vorteil zu erzielen bzw. es könnten die Standzeiten noch weiter erhöht werden.

Graphic abstract
Outcomes after TAVI in patients with atrial fibrillation and a history of recent PCI: Results from the ENVISAGE-TAVI AF trial
Authors: Moreno Raúl , Souza José , Smolnik Rüdiger , Nombela-Franco Luis , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Hengstenberg Christian , Valgimigli Marco , Jin James , Ohlmann Patrick , Dangas George , Unverdorben Martin , Möllmann Helge
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and a recent (≤ 90 days) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are at high bleeding risk due to the addition of oral antiplatelet (OAP) agents on top of oral anticoagulants. Data on outcomes of these patients are needed to optimize antithrombotic treatment.

Methods

This analysis compared annualized clinical event rates in patients with and without a recent PCI enrolled in ENVISAGE-TAVI AF, a prospective, randomized, open-label, adjudicator-masked trial comparing edoxaban and vitamin K antagonists in AF patients after TAVI. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were net adverse clinical events (NACE) and major bleeding.

Results

Overall, 132 (94.3%) patients with a recent PCI (n = 140) received OAP after TAVI, compared with 692 (55.9%) patients without a recent PCI (n = 1237). Among patients with a recent PCI on OAP agents, use of dual antiplatelet therapy decreased to 5.5%, and use of single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) increased to 78.0% over 3 months post-randomization. Conversely, use of SAPT predominated at all time points in patients without a recent PCI history. There were no significant differences in the incidence of NACE or other outcomes assessed, except for major bleeding events, which were more frequent in patients with vs without a recent PCI history (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 2.17 [1.27, 3.73]; P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Patients with AF undergoing TAVI with a recent PCI have a similar risk of ischemic events and mortality, but an increased risk of major bleeding compared with patients without a recent PCI.

Graphical abstract
JAGGER localization and function are dependent on GPI anchor addition
Authors: Figueiredo Raquel , Costa Mónica , Moreira Diana , Moreira Miguel , Noble Jennifer , Pereira Luís Gustavo , Melo Paula , Palanivelu Ravishankar , Coimbra Sílvia , Pereira Ana Marta
Published: January 2024

Key message

GPI anchor addition is important for JAGGER localization and in vivo function. Loss of correct GPI anchor addition in JAGGER, negatively affects its localization and function.

In flowering plants, successful double fertilization requires the correct delivery of two sperm cells to the female gametophyte inside the ovule. The delivery of a single pair of sperm cells is achieved by the entrance of a single pollen tube into one female gametophyte. To prevent polyspermy, Arabidopsis ovules avoid the attraction of multiple pollen tubes to one ovule–polytubey block. In Arabidopsisjagger mutants, a significant number of ovules attract more than one pollen tube to an ovule due to an impairment in synergid degeneration. JAGGER encodes a putative arabinogalactan protein which is predicted to be anchored to the plasma membrane by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. Here, we show that JAGGER fused to citrine yellow fluorescent protein (JAGGER-cYFP) is functional and localizes mostly to the periphery of ovule integuments and transmitting tract cells. We further investigated the importance of GPI-anchor addition domains for JAGGER localization and function. Different JAGGER proteins with deletions in predicted ω-site regions and GPI attachment signal domain, expected to compromise the addition of the GPI anchor, led to disruption of JAGGER localization in the cell periphery. All JAGGER proteins with disrupted localization were also not able to rescue the polytubey phenotype, pointing to the importance of GPI-anchor addition to in vivo function of the JAGGER protein.
Spatial analysis of remote sensing and meteorological indices in a drought event in southwestern Spain
Authors: Quirós Elia , Fragoso-Campón Laura
Published: January 2024

The effects of global warming and climate change are being felt through more extreme and prolonged periods of drought. Multiple meteorological indices are used to measure drought, but they require hydrometeorological data; however, other indices measured by remote sensing and used to quantify vegetation vigor can be correlated with the former. This study investigated the correlation between both index types by vegetation type and season. The correlations were also spatially modeled in a drought event in southwestern Spain. In addition, three maps with different levels of detail in terms of vegetation categorization were compared. The results generally showed that grassland was the most well correlated category between the SPEI and the FAPAR, LAI, and NDVI. This correlation was more pronounced in autumn and spring, which is when most changes in vegetation senescence and growth occur. The spatiotemporal analysis indicated a very similar behavior for grasslands grouped in an area indicated by the climate change adaptation maps as having a high evapotranspiration forecast. Finally, in a forest-based forecast analysis, the indices that best explained the performance of the SPEI were again FAPAR, LAI, and NDVI, with a lag of up to 20 days. Therefore, the results showed that remotely sensed indices are good indicators of drought status and can be variably explanatory of traditional drought indicators. Moreover, complementing the study with spatiotemporal analysis made it possible to detect areas particularly vulnerable to climate change.