bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Quality Nonpolar a‐Plane AlGaN Film Grown on Si‐Doped AlN Template by Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Cai Tingsong , Guo Yanan , Liu Zhibin , Zhang Ruijie , Wang Dadi , Li Jinmin , Wang Junxi , Yan Jianchang
Published: March 2024

High crystalline quality and flat a‐plane aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) films are obtained on Si‐doped AlN templates with a moderate silane (SiH4) flow rate by metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). The effects of the SiH4 flow rate on the surface morphology, crystalline quality, stress state, and optical property of a‐plane AlN templates and AlGaN films are comprehensively investigated. As the SiH4 flow rate increases from 0 to 7.0 nmol min−1, the full width at half maximum of X‐ray rocking curve values along [0001]/[1–100] directions for the AlGaN films are monotonically reduced to 1124/1143 arcsec. Meanwhile, the surface root mean square roughness value is decreased to 0.88 nm. These achievements are attributed to the suppression of the anisotropy degrees and in‐plane stress of AlN templates. In addition, an excess SiH4 flow rate leads to deteriorated surface morphologies and increased basal plane stacking fault (BPSF) densities for both AlN and AlGaN films. This work suggests that doping AlN layers with an appropriate SiH4 flow rate is a promising route to obtain high‐quality a‐plane AlGaN films for efficient nonpolar deep ultraviolet (DUV) devices.
Relaxed static output stabilization of polynomial fuzzy control systems by Lagrange membership functions
Authors: Bao Zhiyong , Li Sike , Li Xiaomiao , Du Yuehao , Liu Fucai
Published: March 2024

This article is concerned with the stability analysis of the static output‐feedback polynomial fuzzy‐model‐based (SOF PFMB) control systems through designing a novel membership grade integration (MGI) approach. The nonconvex problems of the SOF PFMB control systems are convexificated into the convex conditions by introducing block diagonal positive‐definite Lyapunov matrix and nonsingular transformation matrix. We proposed new approximate membership functions, that is, Lagrange membership functions (LMFs), which can be introduced into the stabilization process to relieve the conservativeness of stability results. The LMFs are general representations of piecewise‐linear membership functions, which makes the number of stability conditions not limited by the number of sample points. In a fixed subdomain, arbitrary sample points can be employed by the LMFs method and achieve higher approximation capability by increasing more sample points so that membership grades can be incorporated into the system analysis. Furthermore, a novel MGI approach, including the information of premise variables and LMFs, is proposed making the stability conditions more relaxed. Finally, two simulation examples show the merits of the developed techniques.
The first unique‐headed bug (Hemiptera, Enicocephalomorpha) from Cretaceous Iberian amber, and the Gondwanan connections of its palaeoentomological fauna
Authors: Davranoglou Leonidas‐Romanos , Pérez‐de la Fuente Ricardo , Baňař Petr , Peñalver Enrique
Published: March 2024

Enicocephalomorpha, also known as unique‐headed bugs, are a seldom‐collected infraorder of heteropteran insects whose evolutionary relationships have puzzled entomologists for more than a century. Unique‐headed bugs are exceptionally rare in the fossil record, which hinders our understanding of the morphological transformations of the lineage across time and also affects the calibration of molecular clock estimates used to date the origins of the infraorder. Here, we report the discovery of Enicocephalinus ibericus sp. nov. from Iberian amber in the Ariño deposit in Spain, early Albian (Early Cretaceous) in age. The new species represents the second oldest fossil enicocephalomorphan to date, and the second record of this infraorder from European deposits. Remarkably, the closest relative of E. ibericus is the congeneric E. acragrimaldii Azar from Lebanese amber that is c. 20 myr older (Barremian), indicating a long‐term persistence of the Enicocephalinus lineage across geological time. A review of the existing literature enabled us to record a total of 20 congeneric insect species that have been found in both Lebanese and Iberian ambers, suggesting the existence of previously underappreciated entomofaunal connections between southern Laurasia (the European archipelago) and northern Gondwana during the Cretaceous. We show that the palaeoentomological record holds remarkable potential for elucidating the faunistic exchanges and palaeobiogeographical patterns in the peri‐Tethyan region during the Cretaceous.
In silico investigation of the role of miRNAs in a possible developmental origin of prostate cancer in F1 and F2 offspring of mothers exposed to a phthalate mixture
Authors: Aquino A. M. , Fioretto M. N. , Alonso‐Costa L. G. , Rocha V. A. , Souza P. V. , Magosso N. , Barbisan L. F. , Justulin L. A. , Flaws J. A. , Scarano W. R.
Published: March 2024

A previous study using miRNA sequencing revealed that exposure to a mixture of phthalates during pregnancy and lactation dysregulated rno‐miR‐184 and rno‐miR‐141‐3p in the ventral prostate (VP) of offspring. Here, rno‐miR‐184 and rno‐miR‐141‐3 expressions were obtained by RT‐qPCR in the VP of F1 males as well as in F2 offspring, aiming to establish a relationship with possible oncogenic targets through in silico analyses with multigenerational approach. Additionally, some targets were measured by western blots to highlight a possible relationship between the deregulated miRNAs and some of their targets. VP samples from rats exposed to a mixture of phthalates maternally during pregnancy and lactation (GD10 to PND21‐F1) and VP from offspring (F2) were examined. The phthalate mixture at both concentrations (20 μg and 200 mg/kg/day) increased the expression of both miRNAs in the F1 (PND22 and 120) and F2 (descendants of F1‐treated males) prostate. Target prediction analysis revealed that both microRNAs are responsible for modulating the expression and synthesis of 40 common targets. A phthalate target association analysis and the HPA database showed an interesting relationship among these possible miRNAs modulated targets with prostate adenocarcinoma and other oncogenic processes. Western blots showed alteration in P63, P53, WNT5, and STAT3 expression, which are targeted by the miRNAs, in the VP of F1/F2 males. The data draw attention to the epigenetic modulation in the prostate of descendants exposed to phthalates and adds to one of the few currently found in the literature to point to microRNAs signature as biomarkers of exposure to plasticizers.
Identifying immune‐related prognostic biomarkers in osteosarcoma: Development and validation of the tumor immune microenvironment risk model based on analysis of TCGA
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Fan Yizhe , Shen Zhongyuan , Chen Zhiyu , You Wulin
Published: March 2024

Objective

Osteosarcoma is a rare and aggressive malignancy with limited effective therapeutic options. This study aimed to identify immune‐related prognostic biomarkers and develop a prognostic model for osteosarcoma.

Methods

We performed integrated analysis of transcriptomic data and immune cell infiltration profiles of 84 osteosarcoma samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the prognostic value of the TIMErisk model. We also performed functional annotation and pathway enrichment analyses to explore the potential mechanisms underlying the TIMErisk model.

Results

We identified a seven‐gene TIMErisk model (C2, APBB1IP, BST2, TRPV2, CCL5, GBP1, and F13A1) that was independently associated with overall survival of osteosarcoma patients. The TIMErisk model showed significant associations with immune cell infiltration and immunosuppressive gene expression. In addition, the TIMErisk model was associated with drug sensitivity, and we found that several immune checkpoint genes were significantly differentially expressed between high‐ and low‐TIMErisk groups. Functional annotation and pathway enrichment analyses revealed that the TIMErisk model was associated with multiple immune‐related pathways, including antigen processing and presentation, cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, and T cell receptor signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study identified a novel TIME‐based prognostic model for osteosarcoma that incorporates immune‐related genes and can be used to predict patient prognosis and response to immunotherapy. Our findings highlight the importance of the TIME microenvironment in osteosarcoma progression and suggest that immune‐related biomarkers may have clinical significance in the management of osteosarcoma.
Synthesis of mesoporous TiO2‐MCM‐41 photocatalyst for quinolone antibiotics removal from aqueous solution
Authors: Trang Nguyen Thi Thu , Xuan Mai Thi , Hoang Nguyen Viet , Dong Nguyen Thanh , Linh Pham Tuan , Nguyet Vu Thi , Nhiem Nguyen Thi , Vinh Tran Quang
Published: March 2024

In this paper, a significant aspect of using TiO2 photocatalyst immobilized on MCM‐41 mesoporous material by sol‐gel method for ciprofloxacin (CIP) and norfloxacin (NOR) antibiotics removals was studied. The structure and morphology of the materials were evaluated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer analysis combined with field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM‐EDX), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopes (TEM), and N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms (BET) methods. Characterization results indicated that the presence of TiO2 anatase phase with relatively high TiO2 content (up to 60 % by weight) did not destroy the mesopore system of MCM‐41 substrate. Photoactivity of the catalyst was tested through the degradation of two quinolone antibiotics, CIP, and NOR. In this study, the factors affecting the decomposition efficiency of the above pharmaceutical antibiotics such as, the immobilized content of TiO2 and the concentrations of antibiotics as and catalyst were also evaluated using Langmuir‐Hinshelwood (LH) model. The TiO2 immobilized on MCM‐41 material showed a better ability to remove CIP and NOR antibiotics than the commercial TiO2 nanoparticles (P25) due to the high dispersion of active sites on an MCM‐41 high specific surface area mesoporous substrate.
Synthesis of poly(Oak bark) particles from oak bark extract and its utilization as a drug carrier material
Authors: Alpaslan Duygu , Dudu Tuba Ersen , Aktas Nahit
Published: March 2024

As oak bark extract includes pharmaceutically meaningful precious biochemicals such as vanillic acid, quercetin, catechin, caffeic acid, gallic acid, ferulic acid, syringic acid, chlorogenic acid, q‐coumaric and protocatechuic acid, the present study focuses on synthesizing polymeric particles from that extract while keeping their targeted natural bioactivity. In this study, due to the bioavailability of oak bark extracts, poly(Oak bark)water extract (p(OB)w), poly(Oak bark)ethanol extract (p(OB)e) and poly(Oak bark)water‐ethanol extract (p(OB)we) particles were synthesized using redox polymerization method. Additionally, the biocompatibility, hydrogen peroxide scavenging (H2O2), antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of these substances were investigated. The characterization of the synthesized particles was conducted by FTIR and SEM methods. It was determined that even low amounts of particles (1 mg) had high antioxidant and H2O2 activity. It was found that the particles (0.1 mg/mL) showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans within the parameters tested for antimicrobial activity. Paracetamol, which is widely used as a model drug and especially recommended for use in the Covid‐19 outbreak, was chosen to test the release potential of the p(OB)w, p(OB)e and p(OB)w‐e particles. Paracetamol release studies were measured with a UV‐VIS spectrophotometer at pH 7.4 and 37°C.
Traumatic lateral patellar luxation in a dog
Authors: Simpson Matthew , Banks Charlotte Louise , Frykfors von Hekkel Anna , Watton Thom , Meeson Richard
Published: March 2024

A 2‐year‐old, female, entire, German shepherd dog presented for investigation of non‐weight‐bearing right hindlimb lameness following a suspected road traffic accident 1 day prior. Orthopaedic examination confirmed right lateral patellar luxation. Stifle radiographs revealed normal patella positioning with stifle joint effusion and periarticular soft tissue swelling. A surgical approach to the stifle was performed via a craniomedial parapatellar incision. A 10 cm proximodistal tear was present in the medial retinacular muscular fascia, vastus medialis, medial parapatellar fibrocartilage and joint capsule. The soft tissues were meticulously reconstructed using absorbable monofilament sutures. Surgical repair of the traumatised medial soft tissues allowed for complete resolution of the traumatic lateral patellar luxation. Moderate right hindlimb lameness persisted immediately postoperatively and improved to only a mild lameness before discharge (4 days postoperatively). The dog returned to normal exercise, with no lameness or postoperative complications reported at short‐ or long‐term follow‐up (42 and 424 days, respectively).
Radiative Metamaterials Based on Effective-Medium Theory
Authors: Tan Haohan , Xu Liujun
Published: March 2024

Thermal metamaterials have made significant advancements in the past few decades. However, the concept of thermal metamaterials is primarily rooted in the thermal conduction mechanism, which has consequently restricted their application scope. It is imperative to consider thermal radiation, another crucial thermal transport mechanism, particularly in high-temperature regimes, when designing thermal devices. In this chapter, we present the advancements in this area, with a specific focus on research conducted using the effective-medium theory. Additionally, we explore the potential applications of radiative thermal metamaterials and discuss prospective research directions from a microscopic perspective for future investigations.
Diffusion Approximation and Metamaterial Design of Thermal Radiation
Authors: Yang Fu-Bao , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: March 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the design and application of metamaterials, especially in achieving unique physical properties.Transformation theory, as a powerful tool, has been actively employed not only in the realm of wave systems, such as electromagnetic waves but also in diffusion systems, including thermal diffusion, mass diffusion, and plasmonic diffusion.This chapter delves into the forefront of metamaterial design, emphasizing the significance of radiative heat transfer in this field and how the clever integration of transformation theory with the Rosseland diffusion approximation opens up innovative avenues for metamaterial design. We will also focus on novel approaches to achieving thermal camouflage, laying a solid foundation for future technological developments. Since the Rosseland diffusion approximation primarily addresses far-field problems, this article will further introduce a range of different types of metamaterials, covering near-field and far-field applications to cater to various domain-specific requirements. Special attention will be given to applications in radiative cooling and thermophotovoltaic systems, exploring how metamaterial design can enhance the performance of these systems. Finally, we will summarize the key findings of this article, encompassing other metamaterial designs relevant to radiative heat transfer and thermal conduction. We will also propose some promising directions for future research, offering a glimpse into the potential impact of metamaterials in the fields of science and engineering.
Diffusion Metamaterials: Basic Simulation Methods
Authors: Jin Peng
Published: March 2024

Recent theoretical advances have spurred the development of metamaterials endowed with exceptional thermal properties. Traditional approaches, however, falter when applied to irregular geometries. The application of coordinate transformation theory necessitates metamaterials that exhibit inhomogeneous and anisotropic properties, a demand that natural materials struggle to meet. Fortunately, cutting-edge simulation techniques are poised to bridge this gap, enabling the use of bulk materials. This chapter delves into the most prominent simulation strategies that harness intelligent algorithms for the creation of metamaterials, and evaluates their efficacy through finite element analysis. These algorithm-driven designs promise to significantly broaden the adaptability, functionality, and flexibility of metamaterials beyond the constraints of conventional configurations.
Entanglement entropy of two disjoint intervals and spin structures in interacting chains in and out of equilibrium
Authors: Marić Vanja , Bocini Saverio , Fagotti Maurizio
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We take the paradigm of interacting spin chains, the Heisenberg spin-$$ \frac{1}{2} $$

1
2

XXZ model, as a reference system and consider interacting models that are related to it by Jordan-Wigner transformations and restrictions to sub-chains. An example is the fermionic analogue of the gapless XXZ Hamiltonian, which, in a continuum scaling limit, is described by the massless Thirring model. We work out the Rényi-α entropies of disjoint blocks in the ground state and extract the universal scaling functions describing the Rényi-α tripartite information in the limit of infinite lengths. We consider also the von Neumann entropy, but only in the limit of large distance. We show how to use the entropies of spin blocks to unveil the spin structures of the underlying massless Thirring model. Finally, we speculate about the tripartite information after global quenches and conjecture its asymptotic behaviour in the limit of infinite time and small quench. The resulting conjecture for the “residual tripartite information”, which corresponds to the limit in which the intervals’ lengths are infinitely larger than their (large) distance, supports the claim of universality recently made studying noninteracting spin chains. Our mild assumptions imply that the residual tripartite information after a small quench of the anisotropy in the gapless phase of XXZ is equal to − log 2.
New physics in the third generation. A comprehensive SMEFT analysis and future prospects
Authors: Allwicher Lukas , Cornella Claudia , Isidori Gino , Stefanek Ben A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We present a comprehensive analysis of electroweak, flavor, and collider bounds on the complete set of dimension-six SMEFT operators in the U(2)5-symmetric limit. This operator basis provides a consistent framework to describe a wide class of new physics models and, in particular, the motivated class of models where the new degrees of freedom couple mostly to the third generation. By analyzing observables from all three sectors, and consistently including renormalization group evolution, we provide bounds on the effective scale of all 124 U(2)5-invariant operators. The relation between flavor-conserving and flavor-violating observables is analyzed taking into account the leading U(2)5 breaking in the Yukawa sector, which is responsible for heavy-light quark mixing. We show that under simple, motivated, and non-tuned hypotheses for the parametric size of the Wilson coefficients at the high scale, all present bounds are consistent with an effective scale as low as 1.5 TeV. We also show that a future circular e+e− collider program such as FCC-ee would push most of these bounds by an order of magnitude. This would rule out or provide clear evidence for a wide class of compelling new physics models that are fully compatible with present data.
Lebensqualität, Krankheitslast und Versorgungsbedarf von Patienten mit Vitiligo
Authors: Augustin Matthias , Gewiss Caroline , Ben-Anaya Nesrine , Böhm Markus
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund

Vitiligo ist mit einer Prävalenz von 0,5–2,0 % eine der weltweit häufigsten Hauterkrankungen mit einem Verlust des Pigments. Die Hauterkrankung hat einen entstellenden, oft stigmatisierenden Charakter und ist oft mit psychosozialen Belastungen assoziiert.

Zielsetzung

Es erfolgt eine Übersicht über die psychosoziale Beeinträchtigung, Krankheitslast und den resultierenden Versorgungsbedarf von Patienten mit Vitiligo.

Material und Methoden

Es handelt sich um eine narrative Übersichtsarbeit auf der Grundlage einer Literaturrecherche in PubMed für die Jahre 1996 bis 2022 zu den Themen Krankheitslast, Lebensqualität und Stigmatisierung.

Ergebnisse

Die Recherche ergab für den Suchzeitraum 175 relevante Originalarbeiten inklusive klinischer Studien, Metaanalysen und systematischer Übersichtsarbeiten (n = 65). Dabei dokumentiert eine Vielzahl an Studien, dass Vitiligo bei den Betroffenen mit erheblichen psychosozialen Belastungen und relevanten Einbußen an Lebensqualität einhergeht. Problembereiche betreffen insbesondere Stigmatisierung, sexuelle Funktionsstörungen, Angst, vermindertes Selbstwertgefühl und Probleme im Beruf. Das beobachtete erhöhte Ausmaß von Angst und Depressionen korreliert mit der Schwere und Aktivität der Vitiligo. Oft trägt auch Komorbidität zur weiteren Krankheitslast bei. Diese Faktoren determinieren bei einem relevanten Teil der Betroffenen einen hohen Versorgungsbedarf.

Diskussion

Die Vitiligo stellt nicht in erster Linie ein kosmetisches Problem dar, sondern eine behandlungsbedürftige Erkrankung im Sinne der Definition der Weltgesundheitsorganisation von Gesundheit als körperliches, geistiges und soziales Wohlbefinden. Die Nutzen von Behandlungsoptionen sind an ihren Effekten auf patientenberichtete Endpunkte zu messen.

Graphic abstract
Simultaneous film temperature and film thickness measurements for jet impingement applications using two-color laser-induced fluorescence
Authors: Koegl Matthias , Mil‘to Nikita , Zigan Lars
Published: March 2024

The study investigates a jet impingement cooling process of a cylindrical geometry relevant for electric and electronic applications. The applied two-color detection technique enables a simultaneous determination of film temperature and film thickness. For this purpose, the heat transfer oil Marlotherm LH was doped with the temperature-sensitive fluorescence tracer nile red. The temperature determination was realized by suitable band pass filters. Preliminary spectral investigations were carried out in terms of varying dye concentration, temperature and film thickness. At high dye concentrations (up to 37.5 mg/L), reabsorption effects lead to a spectral shift toward higher wavelengths with increasing film thickness. Low dye concentrations (0.29 mg/L, 0.59 mg/L) show no film thickness dependent spectral shift. A film temperature investigation at low dye concentration showed no bias of the intensity ratio due to film thickness, i.e., no additional spectral shift toward lower wavelengths was observed. The investigations on the jet impingement setup revealed an increasing film temperature and decreasing film thickness with increasing solid temperature. The average film temperature increases with increasing solid temperature from 298 (solid temperature 298 K) to 308 K (solid temperature 398 K). At higher solid temperatures, the film temperature increases with distance to the stagnation zone. The average film thickness decreases with increasing solid temperature from 0.24 to 0.17 mm. At high solid temperatures, the film temperature increased with radial distance to the stagnation zone. This behavior is caused by the increasing temperature gradient with increasing solid temperature and decreasing viscosity with increasing film temperature.
Sex-specific structural and functional cardiac remodeling during healthy aging assessed by cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Grassow Leonhard , Gröschel Jan , Saad Hadil , Krüger Leo Dyke , Kuhnt Johanna , Müller Maximilian , Hadler Thomas , Blaszczyk Edyta , Schulz-Menger Jeanette
Published: March 2024

Background

Aging as a major non-modifiable cardiac risk factor challenges future cardiovascular medicine and economic demands, which requires further assessments addressing physiological age-associated cardiac changes.

Objectives

Using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), this study aims to characterize sex-specific ventricular adaptations during healthy aging.

Methods

The population included healthy volunteers who underwent CMR at 1.5 or 3 Tesla scanners applying cine-imaging with a short-axis coverage of the left (LV) and right (RV) ventricle. The cohort was divided by sex (female and male) and age (subgroups in years): 1 (19–29), 2 (30–39), 3 (40–49), and 4 (≥50). Cardiac adaptations were quantitatively assessed by CMR indices.

Results

After the exclusion of missing or poor-quality CMR datasets or diagnosed disease, 140 of 203 volunteers were part of the final analysis. Women generally had smaller ventricular dimensions and LV mass, but higher biventricular systolic function. There was a significant age-associated decrease in ventricular dimensions as well as a significant increase in LV mass-to-volume ratio (LV-MVR, concentricity) in both sexes (LV-MVR in g/ml: age group 1 vs. 4: females 0.50 vs. 0.57, p=0.016, males 0.56 vs. 0.67, p=0.024). LV stroke volume index decreased significantly with age in both sexes, but stronger for men than for women (in ml/m2: age group 1 vs. 4: females 51.76 vs. 41.94, p<0.001, males 55.31 vs. 40.78, p<0.001). Ventricular proportions (RV-to-LV-volume ratio) were constant between the age groups in both sexes.

Conclusions

In both sexes, healthy aging was associated with an increase in concentricity and a decline in ventricular dimensions. Furthermore, relevant age-related sex differences in systolic LV performance were observed.

Graphical Abstract

↓, decrease; ↑, increase; ±, maintaining. Abbreviations: CMR, cardiovascular magnetic resonance; EDV, end-diastolic volume; EF, ejection fraction; LV, left ventricle; MVR, mass-to-volume ratio; RV, right ventricle; SVI, stroke volume index; T, Tesla; VR, volume ratio.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation in patients with significant septal hypertrophy
Authors: Beyer Martin , Demal Till Joscha , Bhadra Oliver D. , Linder Matthias , Ludwig Sebastian , Grundmann David , Voigtlaender-Buschmann Lisa , Waldschmidt Lara , Schirmer Johannes , Schofer Niklas , Pecha Simon , Blankenberg Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Conradi Lenard , Seiffert Moritz , Schaefer Andreas
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous reports suggest septal hypertrophy with an interventricular septum depth (IVSD) ≥ 14 mm may adversely affect outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) due to suboptimal valve placement, valve migration, or residual increased LVOT pressure gradients.

Aims

This analysis investigates the impact of interventricular septal hypertrophy on acute outcomes after TAVI.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2021, 1033 consecutive patients (55.8% male, 80.5 ± 6.7 years, EuroSCORE II 6.3 ± 6.5%) with documented IVSD underwent TAVI at our center and were included for analysis. Baseline, periprocedural, and 30-day outcome parameters of patients with normal IVSD (< 14 mm; group 1) and increased IVSD (≥ 14 mm; group 2) were compared. Data were retrospectively analyzed according to updated Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) definitions. Comparison of outcome parameters was adjusted for baseline differences between groups using logistic and linear regression analyses.

Results

Of 1033 patients, 585 and 448 patients were allocated to groups 1 and 2, respectively. There was no significant difference between groups regarding transfemoral access rate (82.6% (n = 478) vs. 86.0% (n = 381), p = 0.157). Postprocedural mean transvalvular pressure gradient was significantly increased in group 2 (group 1, 7.8 ± 4.1 mmHg, vs. group 2, 8.9 ± 4.9 mmHg, p = 0.046). Despite this finding, there was no significant difference between groups regarding the rates of VARC-3 adjudicated composite endpoint device success (90.0% (n = 522) vs. 87.6% (n = 388), p = 0.538) or technical success (92.6% (n = 542) vs. 92.6% (n = 415), p = 0.639). Moreover, the groups showed no significant differences regarding the rates of paravalvular leakage ≥ moderate (3.1% (n = 14) vs. 2.6% (n = 9), p = 0.993), postprocedural permanent pacemaker implantation (13.4% (n = 77) vs. 13.8% (n = 61), p = 0.778), or 30-day mortality (5.1% (n = 30) vs. 4.5% (n = 20), p = 0.758).

Conclusion

Although transvalvular mean pressure gradients were significantly higher in patients with increased IVSD after TAVI, acute outcomes were comparable between groups suggesting no early impact of adverse hemodynamics due to elevated IVSD. However, how these differences in hemodynamic findings may affect mid- and long-term outcomes, especially in terms of valve durability, needs to be evaluated in further investigations.

Graphical Abstract
Fibrosing colonopathy associated with cysteamine bitartrate delayed-release capsules in cystinosis patients
Authors: Kishk Omayma A. , Kim Ivone , Cheng Carmen , Summan Mukesh , Muñoz Monica A.
Published: March 2024

Background

The objective of this report is to identify and characterize cases of fibrosing colonopathy, a rare and underrecognized adverse event, associated with cysteamine delayed-release (DR) in patients with nephropathic cystinosis.

Methods

We searched the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and the medical literature for postmarketing reports of fibrosing colonopathy associated with cysteamine through August 2, 2023.

Results

We identified four cases of fibrosing colonopathy reported with the use of cysteamine DR. The time to onset ranged from 12 to 31 months. In one case, the patient required surgery to have a resection of a section of the strictured colon and a diverting ileostomy. Fibrosing colonopathy was diagnosed by histopathology in two of the cases.

Conclusions

Our case series identified the risk of fibrosing colonopathy in patients taking cysteamine DR and prompted regulatory action by the FDA. As outlined in changes to the U.S. prescribing information for cysteamine DR, healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential risk of fibrosing colonopathy with cysteamine DR, especially as symptoms can be non-specific leading to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. If the diagnosis of fibrosing colonopathy is confirmed, consideration should be given to permanently discontinuing cysteamine DR and switching to cysteamine immediate-release treatment.

Graphical abstract
Thermal pre-treatment of reactive aluminium alloy waste powders
Authors: Biabani Roya , Ferrari Piero , Vaccari Mentore
Published: March 2024

This study focussed on assessing the efficiency of thermal pre-treatment of Al alloy waste powders to facilitate their subsequent treatment and disposal. Five samples originating from aluminium surface finishing industries underwent thermogravimetric analyses and were subjected to a laboratory tub furnace. Four set temperatures (450, 475, 500, 525 °C) for the tubular furnace were selected based on the TG results. Using sequential images of the sample inside the tubular furnace, the ignition delay time was calculated. In addition, the efficiencies of medium-temperature thermal pre-treatment were determined using the gas volume method. The shot blasting samples (S1 and S2) exhibited shorter ignition delay times compared to the sandblasting (S3) and one of the polishing samples (S4). The influence of ZnO alloy content on the ignition delay time was investigated, revealing that the ignition delay time decreased with an increase in ZnO alloy content. The raw and pre-treated materials were analysed for morphology, composition and reactivity. The pre-treatment efficiency of the samples improved, especially with a retention time longer than the ignition delay of the samples. Recommendations for the storage and handling of pre-treated products were provided.
Notes on random optimal control equilibrium problem via stochastic inverse variational inequalities
Authors: Barbagallo Annamaria , Pansera Bruno Antonio , Ferrara Massimiliano
Published: March 2024

The main objective of the paper is to analyze how policymakers influence the random oligopolistic market equilibrium problem. To this purpose, random optimal control equilibrium conditions are introduced. Since the random optimal regulatory tax is characterized by a stochastic inverse variational inequality, existence and well-posedness results on such an inequality are proved. At last a numerical example is discussed.
Ethno-Racial Inequities of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications and Recommendations for Mental Health Professionals
Authors: Dailey Stephanie F. , Talleyrand Regine M. , Goodman Rachael D.
Published: March 2024

The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately impacted Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities due to systemic health disparities based on race, ethnicity, and systemic inequities. Among extent literature on BIPOC mental health and COVID-19, there is a pressing need for culturally responsive, trauma-informed treatment approaches that go beyond the broader impacts of the pandemic or immediate pandemic-related concerns and address the persisting impacts of the COVID-19 on BIPOC mental health. To this end, our article aims to equip professional counselors with the necessary tools to serve BIPOC clients more effectively by (1) understanding the ethno-racial inequities of the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) assessing the intersectional dimensions of stress and trauma associated with COVID-19, and (3) employing therapeutic approaches to promote physical and mental well-being in BIPOC clients.
A strategic approach to bankruptcy problems based on the TAL family of rules
Authors: Bouwhuis Dirck , Borm Peter , Hendrickx Ruud
Published: March 2024

This paper analyzes bankruptcy problems from a strategic perspective using the parameterized TAL family of bankruptcy rules. We construct a strategic game where every player selects a parameter, and the rule from the TAL family that corresponds to the mean of the chosen parameters is used to divide the estate. We prove the existence of Nash equilibria for this strategic game. In particular, we provide the set of all Nash equilibria for two players, and for more players, we prove existence by constructing a Nash equilibrium of a particular form based on the notion of a pivotal player.
Current pharmacologic treatment of brain metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Okuno Takae , Isobe Takeshi , Tsubata Yukari
Published: March 2024

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that can metastasize to the lungs, brain, bones, liver, adrenal glands, and other organs; however, the occurrence of brain metastases is the most common event. Symptoms of brain metastasis include motor dysfunction, mental dysfunction, seizures, headaches, nausea, and vomiting, and significantly reduce the quality of life of cancer patients. Brain metastases are a poor prognostic factor, and controlling them is extremely important for prolonging prognosis and improving the quality of life. Currently, local surgery and radiotherapy are recommended for their treatment. However, recently, cancer treatments using molecular-targeted drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors have been introduced, which may also be effective against brain metastases. Therefore, it is necessary to determine whether local or systemic therapy is optimal for each case. In this review, we focus on recent findings regarding drug therapy in treating brain metastases from advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
Determining the factors affecting the ICT use of Turkish students attending PISA-2018: Multilevel profile analysis approach
Authors: Başaran Bülent
Published: March 2024

This study aims to classify student profiles based on the type and frequency of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) usage. Each profile exhibits homogeneous characteristics and heterogeneous characteristics compared to other groups. Additionally, the study investigates whether covariates at the school and student levels create differences in these profiles. For this purpose, a mixed-method analysis (Latent Profile Analysis (LPA), Multi-level Latent Profile Analysis (MLPA) and Multi-level Logistic Regression Analysis (MLRA)) were used to identify ICT usage profiles. The study analysed data from 6,890 Turkish students across 186 schools participating in PISA 2018 (Program for International Student Assessment), revealing three distinct ICT usage profiles: Profile-1 (Low-Level ICT Users (19.06%)), Profile-2 (Intermediate-Level ICT Users (71.10%)), and Profile-3 (Advanced-Level ICT Users (9.84%)). The MLRA showed that students with low ICT usage have less access to ICT resources. Students in the Low-Level ICT Users profile also had lower scores on ICT-related motivation factors (interest, competence, social interaction, and autonomy). No significant effect of ICT usage on mathematics, reading, and science scores was observed. Variance differences at student and school levels could not be fully explained by covariates at the school level (type of school, ratio of computers connected to the internet per student, lack of educational materials and personnel). However, the ratio of computers per student effectively explained these differences. According to an MLPA, schools were categorised into two groups based on ICT resources: 'high' and 'low'. In schools with high ICT resources, the proportion of students in Profile-2 was found to be 45.8%, while those in Profile-3 accounted for 9%. In contrast, in schools with low ICT resources, the percentage of students in Profile-2 was 22.45%, and in Profile-3, it was 1.82%. These findings indicate that the level of a school's ICT resources significantly impacts students' technology usage skills. A significant finding of the research is that most Turkish students use ICT at an intermediate level at home for school lessons. The COVID-19 pandemic has further increased the importance of studying at home using ICT resources.
The evaluation of gamification implementation for adult learners: A scale development study based on andragogical principles
Authors: Zainuddin Zamzami , Chu Samuel Kai Wah , Othman Juliana
Published: March 2024

This study utilised scale development analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of gamification based on Knowles' andragogical principle in facilitating online learning for adult students. An exploratory sequential mixed-method research design was employed, incorporating interviews and field notes to gather qualitative data for scale construction. The Gamification for Adult Questionnaires (GAQ) scale was developed via questionnaires and analysed quantitatively. The thematic analysis of qualitative interviews revealed 23 sub-themes based on the five main andragogical principles used as a foundation for the quantitative analysis scales. Initially, 47 items were constructed, but five items with low communalities were excluded and an EFA with varimax rotation was performed on the remaining 42 items. The KMO and Bartlett test yielded a satisfactory value of 0.90 Williams et al. (2010). The Chi-square test (Bartlett's method) resulted in a significant sphericity level of p < .01. The EFA results enabled the categorisation of the 42 items into four factors: independent learning (9 items), learning engagement (15 items), knowledge-experience sharing (7 items), and application to real-life situations (11 items). The high alpha coefficient of 0.97 suggests the scale is reliable, and the 42 items account for 81% of the variance. The results indicate that the GAQ scale is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating gamification based on andragogical principles in adult learning settings. This study provides a foundation for future researchers interested in exploring gamification with contemporary teaching methods and technology for adult learners using Knowles' andragogical principles.
The Index of Parental Activities, Context and Experiences (I-PACE): Psychometric Properties of a New Brief Early Parenting Questionnaire
Authors: Hughes Claire , Devine Rory T. , White Naomi , Fink Elian
Published: March 2024

Time pressures make brevity important for parent self-report measures, yet evidence highlights the multi-faceted nature of parenting and contextual influences. To straddle these competing goals, we developed a brief (23-item) yet broad Index of Parental Activities, Context, and Experiences (I-PACE) aimed at parents of toddlers and pre-schoolers. In two studies we assessed the validity and reliability of the I-PACE. Study 1 involved 870 caregivers (95% female, 75% with degrees, 90% White British) and examined I-PACE ratings alongside; (a) ratings of children’s social-emotional skills and behavior problems; and (b) child age and parental depressive symptoms, to assess its sensitivity to contrasts in child development and parental experience. Study 2 included 191 families with 14-month-olds, for whom 188 mothers and 178 fathers completed the I-PACE and an index of life satisfaction. Supporting the replicability of findings from the I-PACE, both studies showed the same differentiated 5-factor structure (i.e., parental experiences, parenting activities, home environment quality, neighborhood environment quality and childcare environment quality). Supporting the I-PACE’s validity, Study 1 showed that all 5 factors were independently related to both children’s social-emotional skills and behavior problems, with predicted associations with child age and parental depressive symptoms. Supporting the I-PACE’s inter-rater reliability, within-couple associations were significant for parenting activities, home environment, neighborhood quality and childcare quality. Together, these findings indicate that the I-PACE offers a broad yet brief index of early parenting with good psychometric properties and we discuss promising avenues for future research.
Synthetic data generation using finite element method to pre-train an image segmentation model for defect detection using infrared thermography
Authors: Pareek Kaushal Arun , May Daniel , Meszmer Peter , Ras Mohamad Abo , Wunderle Bernhard
Published: March 2024

The vision of a deep learning-empowered non-destructive evaluation technique aligns perfectly with the goal of zero-defect manufacturing, enabling manufacturers to detect and repair defects actively. However, the dearth of data in manufacturing is one of the biggest obstacles to realizing an intelligent defect detection system. This work presents a framework for bridging the data gap in manufacturing using the potential of synthetic datasets generated using the finite element method-based digital twin. The non-destructive technique under consideration is pulse infrared thermography. A large number of synthetic thermographic measurements were generated using 2D axisymmetric transient thermal simulations. The representativeness of synthetic data was thoroughly investigated at various steps of the framework, and the image segmentation model was trained separately on experimental and synthetic datasets. The study results reveal that when carefully rendered, synthetic datasets represent the experimental data well. When evaluated on real-world experimental samples, the segmentation model pre-trained on synthetic datasets generalizes well to the experimental samples. Furthermore, another advantage of synthetic datasets is the ease of labelling a large amount of data. Finally, the robustness assessment of the model was done on two new datasets: one where the complete experimental setup was changed, and the other was an open-source infrared thermography dataset
Prevalence of Neutralizing Autoantibodies Against Type I Interferon in a Multicenter Cohort of Severe or Critical COVID-19 Cases in Shanghai
Authors: Shi Dongling , Chen Jie , Zhao Meng , Tang Yuanjia , Zhao Chen , Jin Yinpeng , Tian Di , Liao Yixin , Wang Xuebi , Wang Wei , Fan Xiaohong , Yi Zhigang , Chen Xiaohua , Ling Yun
Published: March 2024

Objective

We sought to explore the prevalence of type I interferon-neutralizing antibodies in a Chinese cohort and its clinical implications during the Omicron variant wave of SARS-CoV-2.

Methods

Type I interferon (IFN) autoantibodies possessing neutralizing capabilities were identified using luciferase assays. The capacity of the autoantibodies for in vitro interference with antiviral activity of IFN was assessed by using a SARS-CoV-2 replicon system. An analysis of the demographic and clinical profiles of patients exhibiting neutralizing antibodies was also conducted.

Results

In this cohort, 11.8% of severe/critical cases exhibited the existence of type I IFN-neutralizing antibodies, specifically targeting IFN-α2, IFN-ω, or both, with an elderly male patient tendency. Notably, these antibodies exerted a pronounced inhibitory effect on the antiviral activity of IFN against SARS-CoV-2 under controlled in vitro conditions. Furthermore, a noteworthy correlation was discerned between the presence of these neutralizing antibodies and critical clinical parameters, including C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, D-dimer levels, and lymphocyte counts.

Conclusion

The presence of type I IFN-neutralizing antibodies is a pervasive risk factor for severe/critical COVID-19 in the Chinese population.
Translation and Psychometric Testing of the Hägerbäumer Presenteeism Scale in English
Authors: Golz Christoph , Kilcher G. , Gerlach M. , Hägerbäumer M. , Peter K. A. , Blozik E.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Interest in presenteeism has increased in research. Presenteeism is a behaviour of going to work despite illness. It has been predominantly measured using single items, which introduce limitations to validity. To overcome these limitations, Hägerbäumer developed a German multi-item presenteeism scale.

Methods

The aim of the study was to provide an English translation and psychometric testing of the scale. This was conducted in two phases with native English-speaking employed adults. Phase 1 includes translation and cognitive debriefing, phase 2 testing construct validity and internal consistency reliability.

Results

Cognitive debriefing with 10 employees revealed no problems with understanding or answering the translated items. In total, 487 employed adults participated in the study, of which data from 287 were included in the analysis. For structural validity, the goodness-of-fit indicators all reached their thresholds (TLI = 0.98, CFI = 0.99, RMSEA = 0.07, SRMR = 0.02). The scale does not show differences between sexes and age groups but between sectors (F6,70.95 = 5.53, p < 0.001). The internal consistency reliability was satisfactory with α = 0.89 (CI 95%, 0.87–0.91).

Conclusion

The translated multidimensional scale for measuring presenteeism at the behavioural level demonstrated good psychometric properties in an initial validation. Further psychometric testing is required before using this scale in cross-national comparison in research and international companies.