bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between postoperative fall history and toe grip strength in patients after total knee arthroplasty: A prospective observational study
Authors: Mawarikado Yuya , Inagaki Yusuke , Fujii Tadashi , Kubo Takanari , Kido Akira , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: April 2024

Background

Factors associated with falls after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have been rarely reported. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence the incidence of falls after TKA, focusing on toe grip strength (TGS) in particular, which has been associated with falls in older adults.

Methods

217 patients who underwent TKA were included and followed up for 1 year. Main study outcome measures were the presence or absence of falls within 1 year after TKA. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used with postoperative falls as the dependent variable and preoperative falls and postoperative TGS on the affected sides as independent variables.

Results

170 (43 and 127 in the fall and non‐fall groups) patients were included in the analysis. The presence of a preoperative falls history before TKA and a weak postoperative affected TGS indicated an increased susceptibility of the patient to fall postoperatively.

Conclusions

Results of the current study revealed the association between postoperative TGS and postoperative falls. We highlight the importance of preoperative fall monitoring and postoperative TGS evaluation to prevent falls after TKA.
Plant biomass of grasses in actively restored grasslands shows stronger association with eco‐physiological properties than in degraded native grasslands
Authors: Xu Danghui , Wang Xiejun , Tang Yuxin , Mou Wenbo , Yao Guangqian , Yuan Jianli , Fang Xiangwen
Published: April 2024

Grassland degradation levels determine plant eco‐physiological properties, and thus influences ecosystem function. However, how land degradation affects the relationship between plant biomass and eco‐physiological properties of native and artificially restored grasslands is insufficiently understood. Here, we evaluated aboveground biomass (AGB), plant photosynthetic capacity, as well as soil texture, in a series of native grasslands (non‐degraded, slightly degraded, moderately degraded, heavily degraded, and extremely degraded) and artificially restored grasslands with different growth times (5, 9, 11, 14 and 17 years) within the alpine grassland ecosystem of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau during the plant growing season. Results showed that, in native grasslands, land degradation significantly decreased the nitrogen (N) concentration and AGB of grasses but did not impact the phosphorus (P) concentration. In actively restored grasslands, the AGB, photosynthetic rate (Pn), N and P of grasses decreased significantly after 9 years or longer of replanting time. Furthermore, the AGB of grasses in actively restored grasslands showed stronger association with eco‐physiological properties than in native grasslands. In native grasslands, degradation affected AGB directly, but also indirectly through Pn. In actively restored grasslands, degradation affected AGB directly, but also indirectly through Pn, N and P. Our findings suggest that the mechanisms by which grass species respond to degradation differ between native and actively restored grasslands. Also, compared to native grasslands, the eco‐physiological properties of grasses are more sensitive to changing environmental conditions in actively restored grasslands. More importantly, the differing response mechanisms are likely to alter the plant community dynamics and future ecosystem stability.
Tunable On‐Chip Electro‐Optic Frequency‐Comb Generation at 8 μm$\umu {\rm m}$ wavelength
Authors: Turpaud Victor , Nguyen Thi Hao Nhi , Koompai Natnicha , Peltier Jonathan , Frigerio Jacopo , Calcaterra Stefano , Coudevylle Jean‐René , Bouville David , Alonso‐Ramos Carlos , Vivien Laurent , Isella Giovanni , Marris‐Morini Delphine
Published: April 2024

The development of compact systems operating in the long‐wave infrared wavelength range is of high interest for spectroscopic and sensing applications. There is currently a wide interest toward the development of optical frequency‐combs to enhance the performances of these systems. Amongst the different techniques to obtain optical frequency‐combs, electro‐optic frequency‐comb generation presents major advantages thanks to the tunable repetition rate only limited by the bandwidth of the used electro‐optical modulator. However, the development of integrated and efficient electro‐optical modulators operating in a wide long‐wave infrared spectral band is still at its infancy, and electro‐optical frequency‐comb has not been demonstrated so far beyond 3 wavelength. In this work, a Schottky‐based modulator embedded in a Ge‐rich graded SiGe waveguide is used for electro‐optic frequency‐comb generation. Considering the limited efficiency of the modulator, harmonically‐rich RF signals are used to enhance the generation of comb lines around the optical carrier. Interestingly, this allows us to demonstrate the generation of electro‐optical combs spanning over 2.4 GHz around 8 wavelength. This paves the way toward fully integrated and tunable mid‐infrared electro‐optic frequency‐comb generation systems.
Scalable Nanophotonic Structures Inside Silica Glass Laser‐Machined by Intense Shaped Beams
Authors: Datta Srijoyee , Clady Raphaël , Grojo David , Utéza Olivier , Sanner Nicolas
Published: April 2024

All‐dielectric nanophotonic devices are usually fabricated by engraving arrays of nanoholes at the surface of high‐index materials, to engineer dedicated optical functions. However, their direct 3D integration in the volume of a material is challenging, inaccessible to current planar nanolithography methods. Here is introduced an ultrafast laser‐machining method that opens the possibility to realize scalable arrays of hollow nanochannels directly inside the bulk of silica glass within a single‐step, maskless, and digital approach. Using a custom‐shaped micro‐Bessel beam and by tuning laser pulse durations from femtoseconds to picosecond to boost processing versatility, dense assemblies of nanochannels with adjustable lengths (up to 30 µm), and submicron lattice periodicity (down to 0.7 µm) are achieved. As a proof‐of‐principle demonstration, a gradient‐index metaphotonic structure is realized and its performance is experimentally characterized, demonstrating its relevancy for imprinting phase functions with magnitude up to in the short‐wave infrared spectral range. Results show that the unique flexibility and scalability provided by individual control of each channel opens a new realistic alternative approach for 3D fabrication of monolithic integrated nanophotonic devices inside a wide range of low‐index standard optical materials.
Metasurface Empowered Compact Non‐Paraxial Optical Vortex Mode Sorter
Authors: Wang Baiming , Wu Lixun , Lin Zhongzhen , Zhong Weihang , Zhu Zhaoxiang , Chen Yujie
Published: April 2024

The optical coordinate transformation based on the ray model can flexibly and efficiently complete the manipulation of complex light fields through a pair of phase plates, and is successfully used to sort orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light. Generally, the phase modulation required by the optical coordinate transformation is derived analytically under the paraxial approximation, however, this would induce the phase modulation error, and thus worsen the quality of the transformed beam. Here, a non‐paraxial design for the spiral coordinate transformation is proposed, where the phase of the unwrapper is obtained by numerically solving the partial differential equations on the coordinate mapping and the phase corrector is obtained by the angular spectrum diffraction integral method. Due to more accurate phase modulation, the non‐paraxial spiral transformation effectively improves the beam quality, and realizes the demultiplexing of OAM modes with higher efficiency and lower cross‐talk. The proposed approach is verified with a compact metasurface‐based optical vortex mode sorter, which is extensible toward OAM‐based multi‐mode systems involving classical and quantum optical information processing.
Are asymptomatic carriers of OTC deficiency always asymptomatic? A multicentric retrospective study of risk using the UCDC longitudinal study database
Authors: Sen Kuntal , Izem Rima , Long Yuelin , Jiang Jiji , Konczal Laura L. , McCarter Robert J. ,   Members of the Urea Cycle Disorders Consortium (UCDC), Gropman Andrea L. , Bedoyan Jirair K.
Published: April 2024

Background

Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) due to an X‐linked OTC mutation, is responsible for moderate to severe hyperammonemia (HA) with substantial morbidity and mortality. About 80% of females with OTCD remain apparently “asymptomatic” with limited studies of their clinical characteristics and long‐term health vulnerabilities. Multimodal neuroimaging studies and executive function testing have shown that asymptomatic females exhibit limitations when stressed to perform at higher cognitive load and had reduced activation of the prefrontal cortex. This retrospective study aims to improve understanding of factors that might predict development of defined complications and serious illness in apparent asymptomatic females. A proband and her daughter are presented to highlight the utility of multimodal neuroimaging studies and to underscore that asymptomatic females with OTCD are not always asymptomatic.

Methods

We review data from 302 heterozygote females with OTCD enrolled in the Urea Cycle Disorders Consortium (UCDC) longitudinal natural history database. We apply multiple neuroimaging modalities in the workup of a proband and her daughter.

Results

Among the females in the database, 143 were noted as symptomatic at baseline (Sym). We focused on females who were asymptomatic (Asx, n = 111) and those who were asymptomatic initially upon enrollment in study but who later became symptomatic sometime during follow‐up (Asx/Sym, n = 22). The majority of Asx (86%) and Asx/Sym (75%) subjects did not restrict protein at baseline, and ~38% of Asx and 33% of Asx/Sym subjects suffered from mild to severe neuropsychiatric conditions such as mood disorder and sleep problems. The risk of mild to severe HA sometime later in life for the Asx and Asx/Sym subjects as a combined group was ~4% (5/133), with ammonia ranging from 77 to 470 μM and at least half (2/4) of subjects requiring hospital admission and nitrogen scavenger therapy. For this combined group, the median age of first HA crisis was 50 years, whereas the median age of first symptom which included neuropsychiatric and/or behavioral symptoms was 17 years. The multimodal neuroimaging studies in female heterozygotes with OTCD also underscore that asymptomatic female heterozygotes with OTCD (e.g., proband) are not always asymptomatic.

Conclusions

Analysis of Asx and Asx/Sym females with OTCD in this study suggests that future evidence‐based management guidelines and/or a clinical risk score calculator for this cohort could be useful management tools to reduce morbidity and improve long‐term quality of life.
High Fat Diet–Wheat Gliadin Interaction and its Implication for Obesity and Celiac Disease Onset: In Vivo Studies
Authors: Haneishi Yuri , Treppiccione Lucia , Maurano Francesco , Luongo Diomira , Miyamoto Junki , Rossi Mauro
Published: April 2024

The intestinal immune system plays a crucial role in obesity and insulin resistance. An altered intestinal immunity is associated with changes to the gut microbiota, barrier function, and tolerance to luminal antigens. Lipid metabolism and its unbalance can also contribute to acute and chronic inflammation in different conditions. In celiac disease (CD), the serum phospholipid profile in infants who developed CD is dramatically different when compared to that of infants at risk of CD not developing the disease. In a mouse model of gluten sensitivity, oral wheat gliadin challenge in connection with inhibition of the metabolism of arachidonic acid, an omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, specifically induces the enteropathy. Recent evidence suggests that gluten may play a role also for development of life‐style related diseases in populations on a high fat diet (HFD). However, the mechanisms behind these effects are not yet understood. Exploratory studies in mice feed HFD show that wheat gliadin consumption affects glucose and lipid metabolic homeostasis, alters the gut microbiota, and the immune cell profile in liver.
A novel single‐layer dual‐band circularly polarized metasurface antenna for maritime communications
Authors: Mao Yunlong , Liu Haonan , Li Si , Zhu Minghui , Zhang Shunqi
Published: April 2024

In this article, a novel single‐layer dual‐band circularly polarized (CP) metasurface antenna for maritime applications is proposed. The metasurface is composed of 4 × 4 hexagonal patches with two different sizes printed on one side of the low‐profile FR4 substrate, while a slot antenna is printed on the other side. A slit is etched in the middle of each hexagonal patch to enhance modal significance, forcing the current flows to be orthogonal to each other at different modes, generating CP waves as identified with characteristic modal analysis. The proposed antenna has been fabricated and measured. Simulated and measured results match well, of which the impedance bandwidth is 55.96% (4.8–8.53 GHz), 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth is 2.7% from 5.46 to 5.61 GHz with a maximum gain of 9.58 dBic and 8.2% from 7.86 to 8.53 GHz with a maximum gain of 9.02 dBic. The proposed antenna is structurally stable, and is applicable for maritime radio navigation and communication services.
Human brain clearance imaging: Pathways taken by magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents after administration in cerebrospinal fluid and blood
Authors: van Osch Matthias J. P. , Wåhlin Anders , Scheyhing Paul , Mossige Ingrid , Hirschler Lydiane , Eklund Anders , Mogensen Klara , Gomolka Ryszard , Radbruch Alexander , Qvarlander Sara , Decker Andreas , Nedergaard Maiken , Mori Yuki , Eide Per Kristian , Deike Katerina , Ringstad Geir
Published: April 2024

Over the last decade, it has become evident that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) plays a pivotal role in brain solute clearance through perivascular pathways and interactions between the brain and meningeal lymphatic vessels. Whereas most of this fundamental knowledge was gained from rodent models, human brain clearance imaging has provided important insights into the human system and highlighted the existence of important interspecies differences. Current gold standard techniques for human brain clearance imaging involve the injection of gadolinium‐based contrast agents and monitoring their distribution and clearance over a period from a few hours up to 2 days. With both intrathecal and intravenous injections being used, which each have their own specific routes of distribution and thus clearance of contrast agent, a clear understanding of the kinetics associated with both approaches, and especially the differences between them, is needed to properly interpret the results. Because it is known that intrathecally injected contrast agent reaches the blood, albeit in small concentrations, and that similarly some of the intravenously injected agent can be detected in CSF, both pathways are connected and will, in theory, reach the same compartments. However, because of clear differences in relative enhancement patterns, both injection approaches will result in varying sensitivities for assessment of different subparts of the brain clearance system. In this opinion review article, the “EU Joint Programme – Neurodegenerative Disease Research (JPND)” consortium on human brain clearance imaging provides an overview of contrast agent pharmacokinetics in vivo following intrathecal and intravenous injections and what typical concentrations and concentration–time curves should be expected. This can be the basis for optimizing and interpreting contrast‐enhanced MRI for brain clearance imaging. Furthermore, this can shed light on how molecules may exchange between blood, brain, and CSF.
Evaluation of the quality of management processes as a determinant of NGOs' effectiveness
Authors: Miškolci Simona , Rajchlová Jaroslava
Published: April 2024

One of the essential prerequisites for increasing nonprofit organizations' effectiveness is the management's quality. The proposed Plan‐Do‐Check‐Act‐based evaluation method enables the NGO management analysis to identify shortcomings and allows benchmarking according to the quality of management processes for continuous improvement. The case evaluation study shows the application results, and their interpretation synthesizes the method's benefits and drawbacks.
Warfarin dosage in a postpartum woman while breastfeeding: A case report
Authors: Uppuluri Ellen , Idrees Niha , Shapiro Nancy
Published: April 2024

Warfarin is the only oral anticoagulant recommended in women who are breastfeeding. Although warfarin is a compatible and recommended agent in the postpartum period and during lactation, little is known regarding changes to warfarin dose requirements in this patient population. Here, we report the case of a 40‐year‐old woman who transitioned from enoxaparin monotherapy back to warfarin at 2 months postpartum, while she was breastfeeding. Despite resuming warfarin at her previously therapeutic dose, her international normalized ratio (INR) remained subtherapeutic and required multiple dose increases. She ultimately required a 100% increase in her warfarin dose postpartum, compared to pre‐pregnancy, to achieve a therapeutic INR. This case suggests patients may require higher warfarin doses postpartum, compared to pre‐pregnancy, especially if breastfeeding. Clinicians should closely monitor these patients and adjust warfarin doses as necessary.
Exploratory analysis of spontaneous versus paced breathing on heart rate variability in veterans with combat‐related traumatic injury
Authors: Maqsood Rabeea , Schofield Susie , Bennett Alexander N. , Khattab Ahmed , Bull Anthony M. J. , Fear Nicola T. , Boos Christopher J. ,   for the ADVANCE Study
Published: April 2024

Background

Respiration is a crucial determinant of autonomic balance and heart rate variability (HRV). The comparative effect of spontaneous versus paced breathing on HRV has been almost exclusively explored in healthy adults and never been investigated in an injured military cohort.

Objective

To examine the effect of spontaneous versus paced breathing on HRV in veterans with combat‐related traumatic injury (CRTI).

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

ArmeD serVices trAuma rehabilitatioN outComE (ADVANCE) study, Stanford Hall, UK.

Participants

The sample consisted of 100 randomly selected participants who sustained CRTI (eg, amputation) during their deployment (Afghanistan 2003–2014) and were recruited into the ongoing ADVANCE prospective cohort study.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

HRV was recorded using a single‐lead ECG. HRV data were acquired during a sequential protocol of 5‐minute spontaneous breathing followed immediately by 5 minutes of paced breathing (six cycles/minute) among fully rested and supine participants. HRV was reported using time domain (root mean square of successive differences), frequency domain (low frequency and high frequency) and nonlinear (sample entropy) measures. The agreement between HRV during spontaneous versus paced breathing was examined using the Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

The mean age of participants was 36.5 ± 4.6 years. Resting respiratory rate was significantly higher with spontaneous versus paced breathing (13.4 ± 3.4 vs. 7.6 ± 2.0 breaths/minute; p < .001), respectively. Resting mean heart rate and root mean square of successive differences were significantly higher with paced breathing than spontaneous breathing (p < .001). Paced breathing significantly increased median low frequency power than spontaneous breathing (p < .001). No significant difference was found in the absolute power of high frequency between the two breathing protocols. The Bland–Altman analysis revealed poor agreement between HRV values during spontaneous and paced breathing conditions with wide limits of agreement.

Conclusion

Slow‐paced breathing leads to higher HRV than spontaneous breathing and could overestimate resting “natural‐state” HRV.
The feasibility and acceptability of integrating dogs into inpatient rehabilitation therapy with children with acquired brain injury
Authors: Narad Megan E. , Knestrick Kaelynn , Wade Shari L. , Kurowski Brad G. , McConnell Allen R. , Quatman‐Yates Catherine C.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Children with acquired brain injury (ABI) are at risk for poor therapeutic engagement due to cognitive impairment, affect lability, pain, and fatigue. Animal‐assisted therapy (AAT) has the potential to improve patient engagement in rehabilitation therapies; however, the feasibility of integrating AAT into the rigorous therapy schedule of inpatient clinical care or its reception by patients, families, and staff is unknown.

Objective

To examine the feasibility and acceptability of incorporating dogs into physical therapy and occupational therapy sessions with pediatric patients being treated on an inpatient rehabilitation unit for acquired brain injury.

Design

A feasibility study of AAT within the context of a within‐subjects crossover study.

Setting

Pediatric inpatient rehabilitation unit.

Participants

Sixteen patients, aged 7–28 years (mean = 13.6 years, standard deviation [SD] = 5.2 years; 50% male), being treated on the inpatient rehabilitation unit following ABI.

Intervention

AAT – the integration of dogs into inpatient physical therapy and occupational therapy sessions.

Main Outcome Measures

Feasibility measures: enrollment rate, the proportion of AAT sessions a dog attended, adverse events, instances where therapist or handler ended session early, patient animal closeness, and utilization of dog in session. Satisfaction measures: parent satisfaction questionnaires and therapist feedback.

Results

Feasibility was supported by high enrollment rate (88.9%) and dog attendance rate of 93%–95%; 84.3% of sessions used the dog in multiple ways and patients reported a high level of closeness with the dog in session, indicating that the dogs were integrated in meaningful ways. No adverse events were noted, therapists reported that intervention was convenient, and clinical care was not negatively impacted. A high level of satisfaction was reported by families and therapists.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that AAT is feasible and acceptable, and it may be a valuable tool for therapists working with patients with ABI on an inpatient rehabilitation unit.
Integration of mathematical modeling and target‐based application of biocontrol agents for the control of Botrytis cinerea in vineyards
Authors: Altieri Valeria , Rossi Vittorio , Fedele Giorgia
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Biocontrol agents (BCAs) are alternatives to synthetic fungicides with low risk to the environment and human health. Although several studies on the biocontrol of gray mold in vineyards have been performed, it is necessary to improve the usage of BCAs in fields conditions. Therefore, in the present study, BCAs were used both in calendar‐based [based on four growth stages (GSs), i.e., flowering, pre‐bunch closure, veraison, and before harvest] and predictive model‐based strategies (only when Botrytis cinerea infection risk was predicted by the model). The BCAs applied during the seasons were selected considering the grapevine GSs. Treatments performed with BCAs were compared with synthetic fungicide treatments and an untreated control. The trials were conducted in three experimental vineyards with four epidemics. To evaluate the level of gray mold control of each treatment, disease severity was assessed at harvest and the presence of latent infection was evaluated.

RESULTS

The integrative use of the predictive model and BCAs provided satisfactory levels of gray mold control, with gray mold severity levels significantly lower (P < 0.001) than those of the untreated control, which had severity values (< 7%) similar to those observed with synthetic fungicides following both calendar and model‐based strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrative use of the predictive model and BCAs represents a valid alternative to conventional methods of gray mold control in vineyards, with more than 75% reduction in fungicide usage. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Childhood neighbourhoods and life‐time fertility in twentieth‐century Southern Sweden: A k‐nearest neighbour approach
Authors: Souza‐Maia Vinicius , Dribe Martin , Hedefalk Finn
Published: April 2024

Despite a large literature on the importance of childhood neighbourhoods for life course transitions, there is a lack of fertility studies combining a life‐course perspective with detailed neighbourhood measures. Addressing this gap, we use longitudinal data in which the entire population of a Swedish town is geocoded at the address‐level, 1939–1967, and linked to national registers from 1968 to 2015. We study how social neighbourhoods in childhood influence fertility outcomes by constructing individual neighbourhoods at the address level to measure the social class of nearby childhood neighbours. We analyse the age at first and last birth, children ever born, birth spacing and childlessness. Growing up in higher‐status neighbourhoods is associated with delayed fertility for both men and women, but no association is found for the number of children ever born or for childlessness. Associations are stable over time, and later ages of neighbourhood exposure matter more, especially for men. Contrary to prior literature's focus on the lower classes, our results are driven by higher‐status individuals growing up in distinctly white‐collar neighbourhoods.
Boosting the Energy Density of Bowl‐Like MnO2@Carbon Through Lithium‐Intercalation in a High‐Voltage Asymmetric Supercapacitor with “Water‐In‐Salt” Electrolyte
Authors: Qian Yudan , Zhou Zhiming , Zhang Qingcheng , Zhao Huaping , Chen Heng , Han Jintong , Wan Haiting , Jin Huile , Wang Shun , Lei Yong
Published: April 2024

Highly concentrated “‘water‐in‐salt”’ (WIS) electrolytes are promising for high‐performance energy storage devices due to their wide electrochemical stability window. However, the energy storage mechanism of MnO2 in WIS electrolytes‐based supercapacitors remains unclear. Herein, MnO2 nanoflowers are successfully grown on mesoporous bowl‐like carbon (MBC) particles to generate MnO2/MBC composites, which not only increase electroactive sites and inhibit the pulverization of MnO2 particles during the fast charging/discharging processes, but also facilitate the electron transfer and ion diffusion within the whole electrode, resulting in significant enhancement of the electrochemical performance. An asymmetric supercapacitor, assembled with MnO2/MBC and activated carbon (AC) and using 21 m LiTFSI solution as the WIS electrolyte, delivers an ultrahigh energy density of 70.2 Wh kg−1 at 700 W kg−1, and still retains 24.8 Wh kg−1 when the power density is increased to 28 kW kg−1. The ex situ XRD, Raman, and XPS measurements reveal that a reversible reaction of MnO2 + xLi+ + xe−↔LixMnO2 takes place during charging and discharging. Therefore, the asymmetric MnO2/MBC//AC supercapacitor with LiTFSI electrolyte is actually a lithium‐ion hybrid supercapacitor, which can greatly boost the energy density of the assembled device and expand the voltage window.
An Indacenodithienothiophene‐Based Wide Bandgap Small Molecule Guest for Efficient and Stable Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Wang Han , Sun Xiaokang , Zhong Xiuzun , Wei Yulin , Xu Ruida , Wang Kai , Hu Hanlin , Xiao Mingjia
Published: April 2024

The strategic and logical development of the third component (guest materials) plays a pivotal and intricate role in improving the efficiency and stability of ternary organic solar cells (OSCs). In this study, a novel guest material with a wide bandgap, named IDTR, is designed, synthesized, and incorporated as the third component. IDTR exhibits complementary absorption characteristics and cascade band alignment with the PM6:Y6 binary system. Morphological analysis reveals that the introduction of IDTR results in strong crystallinity, good miscibility, and proper vertical phase distribution, thereby realizing heightened and balanced charge transport behavior. Remarkably, the novel ternary OSCs have exhibited a significant enhancement in photovoltaic performance. Consequently, open‐circuit voltage (VOC), short‐circuit current (JSC), and fill factor (FF) have all witnessed substantial improvements with a remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.94% when L8‐BO replaced Y6. Beyond the pronounced improvement in photovoltaic performance, superior device stability with a T80 approaching 400 h is successfully achieved. This achievement is attributed to the synergistic interplay of IDTR, providing robust support for the overall enhancement of performance. These findings offer crucial guidance and reference for the design and development of efficient and stable OSCs.
Electron Donor‐Specific Surface Interactions Promote the Photocatalytic Activity of Metal‐Semiconductor Nanohybrids
Authors: Wengler‐Rust Soenke , Staechelin Yannic U. , Lange Holger , Weller Horst
Published: April 2024

In the past two decades, the application of colloidal semiconductor‐metal nanoparticles (NPs) as photocatalysts for the hydrogen generation from water has been extensively studied. The present body of literature studies agrees that the photocatalytic yield strongly depends on the electron donating agent (EDA) added for scavenging the photogenerated holes. The highest reported hydrogen production rates are obtained in the presence of ionic EDAs and at high pH. The large hydrogen production rates are attributed to fast hole transfer from the NP onto the EDAs. However, the present discussions do not treat the influence of EDA‐specific surface interactions. This systematic study focuses on that aspect by combining steady‐state hydrogen production measurements with time‐resolved and static optical spectroscopy, employing 11‐mercaptoundecanoic acid‐capped, Pt‐tipped CdSe/CdS dot‐in‐rods in the presence of a large set of EDAs. Based on the experimental results, two distinct EDA groups are identified: surface‐active and diffusion‐limited EDAs. The largest photocatalytic efficiencies are obtained in the presence of surface‐active EDAs that induce an agglomeration of the NPs. This demonstrates that the introduction of surface‐active EDAs can significantly enhance the photocatalytic activity of the NPs, despite reducing their colloidal stability and inducing the formation of NP networks.
A Compact‐Sized Fully Self‐Powered Wireless Flowmeter Based on Triboelectric Discharge
Authors: Wan Dong , Xia Xin , Wang Haoyu , He Shaoshuai , Dong Jiadan , Dai Jinhong , Guan Dong , Zheng Junyu , Yang Xiya , Zi Yunlong
Published: April 2024

Flow sensing exhibits significant potential for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing processes in industries, resource management, and environmental protection. However, achieving wireless real‐time and omnidirectional sensing of gas/liquid flow on a simple, self‐contained device without external power support has remained a formidable challenge. In this study, a compact‐sized, fully self‐powered wireless sensing flowmeter (CSWF) is introduced with a small size diameter of down to less than 50 mm, which can transmit real‐time and omnidirectional wireless signals, as driven by a rotating triboelectric nanogenerator (R‐TENG). The R‐TENG triggers the breakdown discharge of a gas discharge tube (GDT), which enables flow rate wireless sensing through emitted electromagnetic waves. Importantly, the performance of the CSWF is not affected by the R‐TENG's varied output, while the transmission distance is greater than 10 m. Real‐time wireless remote monitoring of wind speed and water flow rate is successfully demonstrated. This research introduces an approach to achieve a wireless, self‐powered environmental monitoring system with a diverse range of potential applications, including prolonged meteorological observations, marine environment monitoring, early warning systems for natural disasters, and remote ecosystem monitoring.
Ag‐Dependent Behavior Threshold and Metastability in Wide‐Gap (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cells
Authors: Pearson Patrick , Keller Jan , Stolt Lars , Donzel‐Gargand Olivier , Platzer Björkman Charlotte
Published: April 2024

Wide‐gap, high‐Ga (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 thin‐film solar cells with a wide range of Ag contents are fabricated and characterized before and after dark storage, dark annealing at 85 °C, and light soaking. A 1:4 ratio of Ag to Cu enhances initial device performance significantly, with excess Ag enhancing carrier collection at the expense of open‐circuit voltage and fill factor for close‐stoichiometric devices. For off‐stoichiometric devices, increased open‐circuit voltages are offset by losses in carrier collection. Efficiency degradation after treatments is typically increased with additional Ag alloying. A second observation is a behavior threshold identified slightly below an Ag to Cu ratio of 1:1. For compositions below the threshold, the doping response to light soaking and dark annealing is similar to that exhibited by low‐Ga Cu(In,Ga)Se2. Above the threshold, light soaking reduces net doping and that dark annealing can even increase net doping. Furthermore, devices above the threshold exhibit a far greater doping responsivity than those below and display a strong dependence of initial performance and stability on group‐I/group‐III stoichiometry. A third observation is that all devices lose ≈1–2% (absolute) in efficiency after a 3 h light soak, indicating that this loss originates from the high‐Ga content (1:3 In:Ga), rather than the Ag alloying.
Damage assessment of plain, fiber, and reinforced concrete targets against low velocity long rod rigid projectile
Authors: Bisht Mohit , Iqbal M. A.
Published: April 2024

In the present study, the behavior of plain, fiber, and reinforced concrete (PC, FC, and RC) targets against long rod rigid projectile had been investigated. Two different thickness, 55 and 80 mm of PC and FC targets were cast along with 80 mm thick RC targets with 6 different reinforcement configurations. A total of 34 different square targets were manufactured wherein, the aerial dimension measures 400 × 400 mm. The projectiles were made of hardened steel having ogive‐nose with a shank diameter of 18 mm and a mass of 450 g where the caliber‐radius‐head of the ogival nose was kept standard as 3. The ballistic response of all the targets were analyzed in terms of front and rear surface damage, mass loss rate, perforation thickness, and residual velocities against various impact velocities. Explanation regarding the behavior of three different concrete targets against long rod projectile impact loading has been well addressed through the basic laws and relevant theories associated with ballistic impact loading in order to provide guidance for subsequent research in the field of protective structures design. Additionally, perforation thickness and residual velocities corresponding to various impact velocities obtained from experimental study were also found to be in good agreement with the existing empirical model predictions.
Modeling streamflow responses to land use and land cover change using MIKE SHE model in the upper Omo Gibe catchment of Ethiopia
Authors: Werede Kindie Zewdie , Lohani Tarun Kumar , Neka Bogale Gebremariam , Geremew Getachew Bereta
Published: April 2024

The land use and land cover (LULC) changes in the upper Gibe catchment were studied intricately using the MIKE SHE model and analyzed through statistical tests. The Mann–Kendall test was used to identify potential trends, while the Pettit test was used to detect abrupt changes in rainfall, temperature, and streamflow. A set of three maps of LULC change (1990, 2003, and 2018) was developed to observe how they affect the hydrological pattern of the catchment. Statistical analyses were conducted at mean annual time scales to establish relationships among the anomalies. It has been noted that certain temperature gauges showed statistically significant increases in temperature. Change points in the 1980s and 1990s were identified during the study period. The annual streamflow trends displayed an increasing trend that was not that significant. LULC changes contributed to increased surface runoff, attributed to agricultural, settlement, and water body expansion, as well as reductions in bare land, forest, shrubland, and grassland. The MIKE SHE model performed well during both the calibration and validation periods on the monthly time scale. The alterations in LULC had a noticeable impact on stream flows during both wet and dry seasons, resulting in increased mean monthly stream flows during the wet season and decreased flows during the dry season. The MIKE SHE study and related statistical analysis is quite a different method to perceive the results.
Erratum to: Coulomb gluons will generally destroy coherence
Authors: Forshaw Jeffrey R. , Holguin Jack
Published: April 2024

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP12(2021)084
A study on spontaneously translational symmetry breaking in the excited states of holographic superconductor
Authors: Xiang Qian , Zhao Li , Fang Tie-Feng , Wang Yong-Qiang
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We revisit HHH model [1] and extend the ansatz of matter fields to being of depending on a spatial dimension except the holographic direction. Despite homogeneous solutions of ground and excited states, especially for the excited states, there also exists solutions where the translational invariance is broken. It is worth mentioning that no periodic sources are assigned to the matter fields, so the translational symmetry is broken spontaneously. We investigate how the new solutions and the condensates of excited states develop with the change of temperature. Moreover, since this kind of condensate will decrease at certain temperature and eventually vanish at sufficiently low temperature, we also study the relation between this interval and length of lattice. Besides, we compare the free energies of non-translational invariant solutions and those of translational invariance in the HHH model, and find that the free energies of the former situations are lower.
Drell-Yan bounds on gapped continuum spectra
Authors: Arganda E. , Delgado A. , Martin A. , Megías E. , Morales R.A. , Quirós M. , Saxton T.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Theories with gapped continuum spectra have gotten some attention, either as pure 4D models like unparticles, or in 5D realizations as certain soft walls constructions. In this paper, we derive experimental bounds from Drell-Yan processes (pp → ℓ+ℓ−, pp → ℓ±ν) in a particular scenario where the electroweak bosons propagate in an extra dimension that produces a propagator with a continuum spectrum, on top of the isolated corresponding Standard Model pole. Using current LHC data we put a lower bound on the gap of 4.2 TeV (expected), 6.2 TeV (observed, bins with < 10 events combined) at 95% CL, with some dependence in the observed limit on how low statistics bins are treated. We also study the limits for HL-LHC.
Modeling the 2022 Tonga Eruption Tsunami Recorded on Ocean Bottom Pressure and Tide Gauges Around the Pacific
Authors: Fujii Yushiro , Satake Kenji
Published: April 2024

Tsunamis generated by the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption on January 15, 2022 were recorded on ocean bottom pressure and tide gauges around the Pacific Ocean, earlier than the expected arrival times calculated by tsunami propagation speed. Atmospheric waves from the eruption were also recorded globally with propagation speeds of ~ 310 m/s (Lamb wave) and 200–250 m/s (Pekeris wave). Previous studies have suggested that these propagating atmospheric waves caused at least the initial part of the observed tsunami. We simulated the tsunamis generated by the propagation of the Lamb and Pekeris waves by adding concentric atmospheric pressure changes. The concentric sources are parameterized by their propagation speeds, initial atmospheric wave amplitudes that decay with the distance, and a rise time. For the Lamb wave, inversions of the observed tsunami waveforms at 14 U.S. and nine New Zealand DART stations indicate the start of the positive rise at 4:16 UTC, the peak amplitude of 383 hPa, and the propagation speed of 310 m/s, assuming a rise time of 10 min. The later phases of the observed tsunami waveforms can be better reproduced by adding another propagating concentric wave (Pekeris wave) with a negative amplitude (− 50 hPa) and propagation speeds of 200–250 m/s. The DART records around the Pacific indicate that the Pekeris wave speed is faster toward the northwest and slightly slower toward the northeast. The synthetic waveforms roughly reproduced the far-field tsunami waveforms recorded at tide gauge stations, including the later phases, suggesting that the large amplitude in the later phase may be due to the coupling of the Pekeris wave and the tsunami, as well as resonance around tide gauge stations.
Entropy Sources from Tunnelling in Standard CMOS Structures
Authors: Keledjian Julian , Lehmann Torsten
Published: April 2024

Pseudo-random number generators are predominantly utilised as entropy sources in encryption and seeding processes, however, they are deterministic by nature. This paper presents the analysis and design methodology of an on-chip quantum noise source that may suitably be used as an entropy source in true random number generators. Quantum tunnelling is achieved through the strong biasing of a MOS structure to generate gate-referred shot noise. Structures are fabricated in a commercial 40 nm process and the sampled noise is tested against the NIST SP800-90B and SP800-22 test suites, showing a maximal entropy of 0.985 at a bias current of 1500 µA with a consistent pass rate across all NIST tests.
Sterblichkeitsentwicklung in Deutschland im internationalen Kontext
Authors: Grigoriev Pavel , Sauerberg Markus , Jasilionis Domantas , van Raalte Alyson , Klüsener Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund und Ziel

Deutschland hat aufgrund seiner großen Wirtschaftskraft und eines gut ausgebauten Gesundheitssystems gute Voraussetzungen für eine überdurchschnittlich starke Reduzierung der Sterblichkeit. Jedoch fällt Deutschland bei der Lebenserwartung in Westeuropa zunehmend zurück. Unsere Analyse vergleicht die Sterblichkeitsentwicklung in Deutschland mit anderen westeuropäischen Ländern zwischen 1960 und 2019. Wir untersuchen langfristige Tendenzen in der Rangposition Deutschlands im westeuropäischen Vergleich und nehmen eine detaillierte Sterblichkeitsanalyse nach Alter vor.

Methoden

Die Analyse stützt sich auf Mortalitätsdaten aus der Human Mortality Database (HMD). Informationen über die Entwicklung einzelner Todesursachen stammen aus der Datenbank der World Health Organization (WHO). Für den internationalen Vergleich verwenden wir etablierte Mortalitätsindikatoren (altersstandardisierte Sterberate, Perioden-Lebenserwartung).

Ergebnisse

Deutschland weist im Vergleich zu anderen westeuropäischen Ländern eine erhöhte Sterblichkeit in den mittleren und hohen Altersgruppen auf. Dabei ist Deutschlands Rückstand in der Lebenserwartung zum Durchschnitt der anderen westeuropäischen Länder gerade in den letzten 20 Jahren noch einmal angewachsen. Lag Deutschland im Jahr 2000 bei den Männern 0,73 Jahre und bei Frauen 0,74 Jahre zurück, waren es 2019 bereits 1,43 bzw. 1,34 Jahre. Dies erklärt sich überwiegend durch Sterblichkeit an nichtübertragbaren Krankheiten.

Fazit

Damit Deutschland wieder zu den anderen westeuropäischen Ländern aufschließen kann, ist ein stärkerer Fokus auf eine weitere Verringerung der Sterblichkeit im Alter ab 50 Jahren erforderlich. Hierfür ist auch mehr Forschung zu den Ursachen für Deutschlands schlechtes Abschneiden notwendig.
Incidence of pleural effusion with dasatinib and the effect of switching therapy to a different TKI in patients with chronic phase CML
Authors: Jain Akriti G , Gesiotto Quinto , Ball Somedeb , Nodzon Lisa , Rodriguez Amanda , Chan Onyee , Padron Eric , Kuykendall Andrew , Komrokji Rami , Sallman David A. , Lancet Jeffrey E , Pinilla-Ibarz Javier , Sweet Kendra
Published: April 2024

Dasatinib is one of the second generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) which is approved for the treatment of patients with chronic phase CML (CP-CML) both in the front line and in the second line setting. Pleural effusion (PE) is a unique toxicity associated with dasatinib use. Our aim was to study the incidence of pleural effusion in our cohort of patients who were treated with dasatinib for CP-CML and the safety upon TKI switch. A total of 390 patients were treated with dasatinib during their course of treatment for CP-CML. A total of 69 patients (17.6%) developed any grade of PE. About 33 (48%) patients developed CTCAE grade 2 PE, 34 (49%) grade 3 and only 1 patient developed grade 4 PE. Recurrence of PE was observed in 34 (49%) patients. While only 12 patients (17.3%) continued using dasatinib after development of PE, dasatinib was discontinued in the other 57 patients. Therapy was switched to bosutinib in 13 patients out of which 6 (46%) patients re-developed PE. While only 12.5% patients developed re-accumulation of pleural fluid in patients switched to imatinib, none of the patients switched to nilotinib re-developed PE. A change in TKI to bosutinib was associated with a 46% risk of recurrence of PE in patients who develop PE on dasatinib for the treatment of CP-CML. The incidence of recurrent PE was markedly lower in patient switched to imatinib or nilotinib.
Auswirkungen des Susac-Syndroms auf die zentrale Gefäßstruktur der Netzhaut – eine optische Kohärenztomographie-Angiographie-Studie
Authors: Storp Jens Julian , Englmaier Verena Anna , Zimmermann Julian Alexander , Eter Nicole , Lahme Larissa , Alnawaiseh Maged
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Das Susac-Syndrom (SS) stellt eine Endotheliopathie der Gefäße im Bereich des zentralen Nervensystems dar. Die Beteiligung der Netzhaut spielt in der Krankheitsmanifestation eine zentrale Rolle.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel dieser Fall-Kontroll-Studie ist die Untersuchung der makulären Gefäßstruktur bei Patienten mit chronischem SS im Vergleich zu Kontrollpersonen mittels optischer Kohärenztomographie Angiographie (OCTA).

Material und Methoden

Es wurden 12 Augen von 12 Susac-Patienten mit altersgleichen gesunden Kontrollpersonen hinsichtlich ihrer OCT-angiographischen Parameter verglichen. Die Flussdichte (FD) verschiedener makulärer Schichten, Parameter der fovealen avaskulären Zone (FAZ) sowie die Werte der zentralen Netzhautdicke und des zentralen Netzhautvolumens wurden zwischen den beiden Gruppen verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Die FD-Werte der Choriokapillaris waren in Susac-Patienten im Vergleich zu gesunden Kontrollen signifikant verringert. Die FD-Werte des oberflächlichen und tiefen Kapillarplexus der inneren Netzhaut, die Parameter der FAZ sowie die zentrale Netzhautdicke und -volumen zeigten keine signifikanten Unterschiede zwischen den beiden Gruppen.

Diskussion

Das therapierte, chronische SS scheint keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf den vaskulären und strukturellen Aufbau der zentralen, inneren Netzhaut zu haben. Unterschiede der Choriokapillaris deuten jedoch auf Veränderungen in tiefer liegenden, stark vaskularisierten Kapillarschichten hin.