bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic impact of main pulmonary artery to ascending aorta diameter ratio in patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Hakgor Aykun , Dursun Atakan , Kahraman Basak Catalbas , Yazar Arzu , Savur Umeyir , Akhundova Aysel , Olgun Fatih Erkam , Arman Mehmet Emir , Boztosun Bilal
Published: February 2024

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right ventricular dysfunction are poor prognostic predictors in patients underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for severe aortic stenosis (AS).

Aims

The prognostic impact of the main pulmonary artery/ascending aorta diameter ratio (MPA/AOr), measured simply by computed‐tomographic angiography (CTA), was investigated in this patient group.

Methods

A total of 374 retrospectively evaluated patients (mean age 78.1 ± 8.4 years, 192 [51.3%] females) who underwent TAVI for severe AS were included. MPA/AOr was measured on preprocedural CTA in all patients and the effect of this measurement on the presence of PH, in‐hospital and 2‐year‐overall long‐term mortality was investigated.

Results

The presence of PH was defined as a systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) >42 mmHg measured by echocardiography. According to multivariate‐logistic‐regression analysis, MPA/AOr (adjusted [Adj] odds ratio [OR]: 1.188, confidence interval [CI] 95% [1.002–1.410], p = 0.048), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (adj OR:0.736, CI 95% [0.663–0.816], p < 0.001) and left atrial diameter (adj OR:1.051, CI 95% [1.007–1.098], p = 0.024) were identified as independent predictors of PH. In addition, a statistically significant correlation was found between MPA/AOr and TAPSE (r: −0.283, p < 0.001). Furthermore, MPA/AOr was found to be an independent predictor of both in‐hospital (adj OR:1.434, CI 95% [1.093–1.881], p = 0.009) and 2‐year long‐term (adj OR:1.518, CI 95% [1.243–1.853], p < 0.001) mortality in multivariate analysis including TAPSE, STS score and sPAP. In the 2‐year Kaplan–Meier survival probability analysis, an MPA/AOr >0.86 was found to have a hazard ratio of 3.697 (95% CI: 2.341–5.840), with a log‐rank p < 0.001.

Conclusion

MPA/AOr, which can be measured simply by CTA, may be useful as an indicator of the presence of PH and poor prognosis in patients planned for TAVI for severe AS.
Appropriate dose of NaCl supplementation improves protein structures, microbial communities and extensibility of dough, and quality of traditional fermented dried noodles
Authors: Tang Renyong , Fan Chengmeng , Liu Sunpeng , Zhang Beibei , Gong Yuhui , Guo Xiulan
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

In the production process of Zhongjiang traditional fermented dried noodles (TFDNs), about 10% of NaCl is added; however, the underlying mechanisms of its effects remain unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the impact of varying NaCl concentrations (6%–14%) on protein conformation, tensile and rheological properties, microbial communities in the dough, and quality of the dried noodles.

Findings

The results indicated that 6%–10% NaCl supplementation increased the ordered structures, disulfide bond contents, rheological parameters, the abundance of Pantoea and cumulative abundance of Mitochondria and Chloroplast in the dough, and reduced bacterial diversity and disordered structures; 8%–10% NaCl enhanced tensile properties of dough, cooking quality, and sensory attributes of noodles; cooked noodles with 10% NaCl had the best hardness, adhesiveness, springiness, and chewiness. However, excessive NaCl (12%–14%) did not confer these benefits. Furthermore, dough containing 6% NaCl exhibited excessive stickiness and reduced tensibility, rendering it unsuitable for making dried noodles.

Conclusions

The addition of 8%–10% NaCl improved protein structural properties and bacterial community in the dough and ultimately elevated the extensibility of the dough and the quality of TFDN.

Significance and Novelty

These findings reveal the potential mechanisms of NaCl in the processing of TFDN and lay a foundation for producing healthier TFDN with lower sodium in the future.
Polyoxometalate‐Based Frameworks: Construction Strategies and Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Yang Lu , Xu Mengzhen , Wang Haining , Zhang Daopeng , Zhou Zhen
Published: February 2024

Polyoxometalate‐based frameworks, as a kind of material constructed by polyoxometalates (POMs), metal ions or clusters, organic ligands, are combined both the advantages of oxygen‐rich POMs and porous metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) within one single system. This integration greatly expands their potential applications compared to the individual POMs or MOFs. Particularly for photocatalysis, the narrow light absorption range of the typical POMs units in the ultraviolet region hinders their extensive uses as visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts. However, the incorporation of photoactive units into POMs‐based frameworks can be considered as an effective approach to overcome this limitation. In this paper, we review selected examples of recent progress based on the POM‐based frameworks along with their construction strategies and applications in various areas of photocatalysis, mainly including water splitting, CO2 reduction, organic synthesis and also the selective coupling reactions.
Recent Developments of Nontraditional Single‐Molecule Toroics
Authors: Li Xiao‐Lei , Ma Zhifang , Tang Jinkui
Published: February 2024

Single‐molecule toroics (SMTs), defined as a type of molecules with toroidal arrangement of magnetic moment associated with bi‐stable non‐magnetic ground states, are promising candidates for high‐density information storage and the development of molecule based multiferroic materials with linear magneto–electric coupling and multiferroic behavior. The design and synthesis of SMTs by arranging the magnetic anisotropy axis in a circular pattern at the molecular level have been of great interest to scientists for last two decades since the first detection of the SMT behavior in the seminal Dy3 molecules. DyIII ion has long been the ideal candidate for constructing SMTs due to its Kramer ion nature as well as high anisotropy. Nevertheless, other LnIII ions such as TbIII and HoIII ions, as well as some paramagnetic transition metal ions, have also been used to construct many nontraditional SMTs. Therefore, we review the progress in the studies of SMTs based on the nontraditional perspective, ranging from the 3D topological to 1D&2D&3D polymeric SMTs, and 3d–4f to non Dy‐based SMTs. We hope the understanding we provide about nontraditional SMTs will be helpful in designing novel SMTs.
Pertechnetates – A Structural Study Across the Periodic Table
Authors: Strub Erik , Grödler Dennis , Zaratti Daniele , Yong Clarence , Dünnebier Lisa , Bazhenova Sonja , Roca Jungfer Maximilian , Breugst Martin , Zegke Markus
Published: February 2024

The number of crystal structures of pertechnetates derived from aqueous solutions has been expanded from seven to over 30. We report the conversion of NH4TcO4 to aqueous HtcO4 via acidic cation exchange. This is followed by the synthesis and structural elucidation of pertechnetate salts of alkaline earth (AE), transition metal I and lanthanoids (Ln) elements. Various degrees of hydration and coordination are discussed. Where possible, a comparison with the perrhenate homologues is made. The described syntheses and materials may be used as novel starting materials for extended technetium research.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Discrete Europium(II) Hydride Complexes
Authors: Richardson Georgia M. , Evans Matthew J. , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , McCone Jordan A. J. , Cameron Scott A. , Maron Laurent , Jones Cameron , Anker Mathew D.
Published: February 2024

The bulky β‐diketiminate ligand frameworks [BDIDCHP]− and [BDIDipp/Ar]− (BDI=[HC{C(Me)2N‐Dipp/Ar}2]− (Dipp=2,6‐diisopropylphenyl (Dipp); Ar=2,6‐dicyclohexylphyenyl (DCHP) or 2,4,6‐tricyclohexylphyenyl (TCHP)) have been developed for the kinetic stabilisation of the first europium (II) hydride complexes, [(BDIDCHP)Eu(μ‐H)]2, [(BDIDipp/DCHP)Eu(μ‐H)]2 and [(BDIDipp/TCHP)Eu(μ‐H)]2, respectively. These complexes represent the first step beyond the current lanthanide(II) hydrides that are all based on ytterbium. Tuning the steric profile of β‐diketiminate ligands from a symmetrical to unsymmetrical disposition, enhanced solubility and stability in the solution–state. This provides the first opportunity to study the structure and bonding of these novel Eu(II) hydride complexes crystallographically, spectroscopically and computationally, with their preliminary reactivity investigated.
Boll distribution of cotton effected by varying potassium rates within different irrigation levels
Authors: Bumguardner Amee R. , Lewis Katie L. , Byrd Seth A. , Ritchie Glen L. , Morgan Gaylon D.
Published: February 2024

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) requires potassium (K) in large amounts for crop growth and development and is more sensitive to low K availability in soils than other agronomic crops. Low K concentrations within the plant may decrease the rate of photosynthesis, which will impact plant growth and development. Cotton yield potential has increased due to genetic improvements, which may have increased the quantity and rate at which cotton takes up K. This research aimed to determine the effect of K fertilizer rates within irrigation level on boll distribution and yield contribution from specific node zones. This study was conducted at New Deal, TX in 2016 and 2017. Muriate of potash (KCl) was applied using knife injection at rates of 0, 45, 90, 135, and 180 kg K h−1 with 80% and 30% evapotranspiration (ET) irrigation levels. Differences were not noted for estimated box mapping yield between K rates in 2016 (p = 0.3996). When 180 kg K ha−1 was applied, total bolls and estimated box mapping yield within 30% ET increased in the early and middle node zones and total nodes over all other K application rates in 2017. It was observed with box mapping that the early and middle node zones were able to utilize applied K more effectively due to the increase in bolls and yield compared to the late and vegetative node zones. Our results suggest that K is an important nutrient in cotton production due to the impacts it has on the early and middle node zones.
Do newer maize hybrids grow roots faster and deeper?
Authors: Sciarresi Cintia , Thies August , Topp Christopher , Eudy Douglas , Trifunovic Slobodan , Ruiz Alejo , Dixon Philip M. , Miguez Fernando , Burras Lee C. , Archontoulis Sotirios V.
Published: February 2024

Understanding historical changes in root depth attributes is needed for crop productivity and sustainability assessments, but such information is rare. We explored whether newer maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids grow roots faster and deeper than older hybrids and quantified the role of management and environment on root trait expression. We measured root front velocity (RFV) and maximum root depth in 11 Bayer Crop Science legacy hybrids released from 1983 to 2017 across five environments in the US Corn Belt during 2021 and 2022. Root depth was measured weekly during vegetative stages with manual probes and the maximum root depth at crop harvest with a Giddings probe. Results indicated that the RFV and maximum root depth slightly increased with the year of hybrid release (0.13% per year, p = 0.1) at 8.7 plants m−2. Historical increases in plant density from 4.7 to 8.7 plants m−2 lowered RFV and maximum root depth, but the new hybrids compensated for this loss, resulting in 4% higher RFV and 3% higher maximum depth when comparing systems from 1983 to 2017. The environment strongly influenced root trait expression (>41%). Rain anomaly and soil bulk density explained a portion of this variation. We found a linear relationship between root depth and leaf number (R2 = 0.95) and a nonlinear relationship between RFV and maximum root depth (R2 = 0.77), which can stimulate crop model improvements. Faster and deeper roots were not correlated with maize yields in our environments. This study enhances our understanding of maize breeding impacts on root traits.
Penetrance interactions of colour pattern loci in the African Monarch and their implications for the evolution of dominance
Authors: ffrench‐Constant Richard H. , Bennie Jonathan , Gordon Ian J. , Depew Lorna , Smith David A. S.
Published: February 2024

Scoring the penetrance of heterozygotes in complex phenotypes, like colour pattern, is difficult and complicates the analysis of systems in which dominance is incomplete or evolving. The African Monarch (Danaus chrysippus) represents an example where colour pattern heterozygotes, formed in the contact zone between the different subspecies, show such intermediate dominance. Colour pattern in this aposematic butterfly is controlled by three loci A, B and C. The B and C loci are closely linked in a B/C supergene and significant interaction of B and C phenotypes is therefore expected via linkage alone. The A locus, however, is not linked to B/C and is found on a different chromosome. To study interactions between these loci we generated colour pattern heterozygotes by crossing males and females bearing different A and B/C genotypes, collected from different parts of Africa. We derived a novel scoring system for the expressivity of the heterozygotes and, as predicted, we found significant interactions between the genotypes of the closely linked B and C loci. Surprisingly, however, we also found highly significant interactions between C and the unlinked A locus, modifications that generally increased the resemblance of heterozygotes to homozygous ancestors. In contrast, we found no difference in the penetrance of any of the corresponding heterozygotes from crosses conducted either in allopatry or sympatry, in reciprocal crosses of males and females, or in the presence or absence of endosymbiont mediated male‐killing or its associated neoW mediated sex‐linkage of colour pattern. Together, this data supports the idea that the different colour morphs of the African Monarch meet transiently in the East African contact zone and that genetic modifiers act to mask inappropriate expression of colour patterns in the incorrect environments.
Mechanical soil disturbance in a pine savanna has multiyear effects on plant species composition
Authors: Dixon Cinnamon M. , Robertson Kevin M. , Reid Angela M. , Rother Monica T.
Published: February 2024

Soil disturbance threatens native perennial grasslands and savannas worldwide, including pine savannas of the North American Coastal Plain. Disk harrows are used in the region to plow linear features for firebreaks to contain prescribed fires, to manage game and other wildlife, and to reduce wildfire hazard to protect forest resources. However, the long‐term response of vegetation to these disturbances has not been well investigated. Our aim was to compare vegetation changes over time (0–9 years) following repeated disturbance by disking and a single disturbance by disking for firebreaks with undisturbed vegetation within a native pine savanna. We hypothesized that (1) a single disking event has multiyear effects on plant species composition and abundance because of the loss of perennial, dispersal‐limited species, but that partial survival of propagules allows the recovery to be more complete than following repeated disturbance, and (2) post‐disturbance changes are determined by species' life‐history characteristics resulting in a successional trajectory toward the undisturbed community. We established 10 plots within a repeated‐disturbance firebreak and a single‐disturbance firebreak, and in undisturbed vegetation (n = 30). We identified plant species within the plots six times over nine years, categorized plant species by life span, seed bank persistence, and dispersal mechanism, and assessed changes in the plant community using ordination. Changes in species  composition in both repeated and single disturbance treatments showed a pattern consistent with succession toward the undisturbed plant community, but vegetation in neither disturbance treatment matched undisturbed treatment conditions within the nine years of study. Repeated‐disturbance plots progressed from a high occurrence of annuals to species with persistent seed banks and wind‐dispersed species. Single‐disturbance plots were more strongly associated with perennials, species lacking a persistent seed bank, and species dispersed by vertebrate consumption, but not to the same degree as undisturbed plots, although differences decreased slightly over time. Our results relating to narrow mechanical soil disturbances in pine savanna vegetation are consistent with studies concluding that similar but larger scale disturbances have long‐term degradational effects on the plant community. Therefore, conservation management plans should consider the possible negative long‐term effects of soil disturbance on native perennial herbaceous plant communities.
Dispersal synchronizes giant kelp forests
Authors: Wanner Miriam S. , Walter Jonathan A. , Reuman Daniel C. , Bell Tom W. , Castorani Max C. N.
Published: February 2024

Spatial synchrony is the tendency for population fluctuations to be correlated among different locations. This phenomenon is a ubiquitous feature of population dynamics and is important for ecosystem stability, but several aspects of synchrony remain unresolved. In particular, the extent to which any particular mechanism, such as dispersal, contributes to observed synchrony in natural populations has been difficult to determine. To address this gap, we leveraged recent methodological improvements to determine how dispersal structures synchrony in giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera), a global marine foundation species that has served as a useful system for understanding synchrony. We quantified population synchrony and fecundity with satellite imagery across 11 years and 880 km of coastline in southern California, USA, and estimated propagule dispersal probabilities using a high‐resolution ocean circulation model. Using matrix regression models that control for the influence of geographic distance, resources (seawater nitrate), and disturbance (destructive waves), we discovered that dispersal was an important driver of synchrony. Our findings were robust to assumptions about propagule mortality during dispersal and consistent between two metrics of dispersal: (1) the individual probability of dispersal and (2) estimates of demographic connectivity that incorporate fecundity (the number of propagules dispersing). We also found that dispersal and environmental conditions resulted in geographic clusters with distinct patterns of synchrony. This study is among the few to statistically associate synchrony with dispersal in a natural population and the first to do so in a marine organism. The synchronizing effects of dispersal and environmental conditions on foundation species, such as giant kelp, likely have cascading effects on the spatial stability of biodiversity and ecosystem function.
Biocompatible Phosphorescent Ir(III) Complexes for Hypoxia Sensing in PLIM Mode
Authors: Samandarsangari Mozhgan , Zharskaia Nina A. , Silonov Sergey A. , Galenko Ekaterina E. , Karpitskaya Daria O. , Rück Angelika , Kritchenkov Ilya S. , Tunik Sergey P.
Published: February 2024

In this work, two new biscyclometalated Ir(III) complexes with diimine ligands were synthesized. The compounds were characterized by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and HR ESI mass spectrometry. All complexes exhibit efficient phosphorescence with pronounced sensitivity to the presence of oxygen. The photophysical properties of the obtained compounds, including absorption, emission spectra, lifetimes and quantum yields of phosphorescence were measured in various aqueous and model biological media with variations in pH, temperature and at various O2 concentrations. The complexes exhibit a very good sensory response to the changes in oxygen concentration, resulting in an increase in quantum yields and lifetimes by 2.8–5.5 times upon oxygen removal from aerated aqueous solutions. Biological tests with CHO‐K1 cell line have shown that these compounds display low toxicity, rapid internalization into cells and localization predominantly in lysosomes. For the most promising complex the phosphorescence lifetime imaging experiments were conducted, revealing that this sensor markedly changes the phosphorescence lifetime values in cells from 1.8 to 4.1 μs upon transition from normoxia to simulated hypoxia. The obtained results indicate that this type of iridium chromophores can be effectively used for assessing the oxygen status of living objects by using time‐resolved luminescent microscopy.
Beyond the Limits of Perbromo‐Substituted Octahedral Pnictogenaboranes: A Spectroscopic and Computational Study
Authors: Keller Willi , Fanfrlík Jindřich , Hnyk Drahomír
Published: February 2024

Octahedral closo‐1,2‐Pn2B4Br4 (Pn=P, As) molecules react with tetrahydrothiophene (THT), regarded as a soft base, much slower than with tetrahydrofuran (THF), considered a hard base. Namely, the reaction begins with only Pn=P at temperatures above 140 °C; 4‐Br(CH2)4S‐closo‐1,2‐P2B4Br3 has been detected as the first product resulting from the cleavage and insertion of a thiobutylate group into the B−Br bond. Unlike in the reaction with THF, the addition of a second THT moiety has not been observed. Conversely, also starting from 140 °C, conjuncto‐3,3’‐(1,2‐Pn2B4Br3)2 has been found as the final product of the reaction, which indicates the presence of 3‐Br(CH2)4S‐closo‐1,2‐P2B4Br3 as another intermediate during the conversion. A computational examination has revealed that it occurs through a pentagonal pyramidal stationary point as an additional intermediate, the latter of which serves as the crucial structural assembly for the thermal conversion that produces the conjuncto motif. Computations of the energy balance and 11B and 31P NMR chemical shifts are in agreement with experimental observations. This reaction is made possible by the presence of σ‐holes on the bromine atoms. In addition, the presence of the σ‐holes on the pnictogens has enabled ESI‐MS to detect various anions appearing during earlier and current syntheses.
Sensitive and rapid analysis of plasmid DNA topology isoforms by capillary gel electrophoresis with laser induced fluorescence in uncoated capillary
Authors: He Yan , Orlet John , Cunio Olivia , Thompson Lawrence , Jones Michael T
Published: February 2024

The work describes the use of SYBR Gold to improve the detection sensitivity of plasmid DNA topoisomers by capillary gel electrophoresis with laser induced fluorescence in an uncoated capillary. The impact of different dyes, including ethidium bromide, SYBR Green and SYBR Gold, was compared based on detection and separation of DNA plasmid topoisomers. Use of SYBR Gold enabled improvement of detection sensitivity by 15‐fold while maintaining good separation resolution of the different topoisomers. The baseline dropped with the use SYBR Gold but was overcome by the employment of a capillary with longer ineffective length (40 vs. 20 cm). Separation resolution and reproducibility were impacted by the concentration of SYBR Gold and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. With the use of a short capillary (10 cm effective length and 50 cm total length), fast separations of supercoiled, linear, open circular, and other isoforms were accomplished within 8 min. Appropriate capillary cleaning with 0.1 M sodium hydroxide/0.1 M hydrochloric acid and capillary storage with 0.1 M hydrochloric acid ensured good separation reproducibility of 217 runs during an extended period of use.
Thermal performance of solar flat plate collector using energy storage phase change materials
Authors: Babu Dinesh , Shukla Anuj Kumar , Gaba Vivek Kumar , Dewan Anupam
Published: February 2024

The present study has been carried out to improve the overall efficiency of a conventional flat plate solar collector (FPSC) using two different heat storage phase change materials (PCMs). Two grades of paraffin wax—Paraffin‐P116 (PCM‐1) and Paraffin‐5838 (PCM‐2) as PCM are selected for the analysis based on their high heat fusion rate, low thermal conductivity, and suitable phase transition temperature. The present code has been validated with experimental results and it showed a maximum error of 6.43% in predicting the water outlet temperature. Absorber plate temperature, useful heat transfer rate, water outlet temperature and efficiencies are estimated to improve the performance of FPSC with and without PCM for various flow rates (15 lph and 30 lph) with two different weights of PCM (9 kg and 14 kg) for three different locations in India, [Chennai (13.0827° N, 80.2707° E), Bengaluru (12.9716° N, 77.5946° E), and Delhi (28.7041° N, 77.1025° E)]. The maximum increment in the efficiency of FPSC with the use of PCM‐1 is 19.59% and with the use of PCM‐2 is 16.53%. Using 14 kg of PCM‐1 with the conventional FPSC at water inlet flow rate of 15 lph increases the overall thermal efficiency up to 19.59% compared with conventional FPSC. The maximum increase in the percentage of efficiency with PCM‐1 from conventional FPSC for different cases of 15 lph‐09 kg is 16.34%, 15 lph‐14 kg is 19.59%, 30 lph‐09 kg is 14.57% and 30 lph‐14 kg is 18.45%. From the present study, it can be concluded that the overall efficiency of FPSC is increased with the use of 14 kg of PCM‐1 with conventional FPSC at the inlet water flow rate of 15 lph.
Identifying and Predicting Delayed Mortality with Toxicokinetic–Toxicodynamic Models
Authors: Jager Tjalling
Published: February 2024

The prevalence of standardized toxicity testing in ecotoxicology has largely obscured the notion that toxicity is a function of time as well. The necessity of considering time is vividly demonstrated by observations of delayed mortality, that is, deaths continue to occur even when animals are no longer exposed to a toxicant. In this contribution, I explore to what extent toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic (TKTD) models from the framework of the General Unified Threshold model for Survival (GUTS) can capture delayed mortality, and to what extent this phenomenon can be predicted from short-term standard tests. I use a previously published data set for fluoroquinolones in Daphnia magna that shows strongly delayed mortality (using immobilization as a proxy for death). The model analysis shows that the GUTS stochastic death models can capture delayed mortality in the complete data set with a long recovery phase, but that the delayed effects would not have been predicted from a 2-day standard test. The study underlines the limited information content of standard acute test designs. Toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic modeling offers a handle on the time aspects of toxicity but cannot always be relied on to provide accurate extrapolations based on severely limited standard tests. The phenomenon of delayed toxicity requires more structured study to clarify its prevalence and impact; I discuss several avenues for further investigation. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1030–1035. © 2024 SETAC.
Liquidity‐adjusted value‐at‐risk using extreme value theory and copula approach
Authors: Kamal Harish , Paul Samit
Published: February 2024

In this study, we propose the application of the GARCH‐EVT‐Copula model in estimating liquidity‐adjusted value‐at‐risk (L‐VaR) of energy stocks while modeling nonlinear dependence between return and bid‐ask spread. Using the L‐VaR framework of Bangia et al. (1998), we present a more parsimonious model that effectively captures non‐zero skewness, excess kurtosis, and volatility clustering of both return and spread distributions of energy stocks. Moreover, to measure the nonlinear dependence between return and spread series, we use multiple copulas: Clayton, Gumbel, Frank, Normal, and Student‐t. Based on the statistical backtesting and economic loss functions, our results suggest that the GARCH‐EVT‐Clayton copula is superior and most consistent in forecasting L‐VaR compared with other competing models. This finding has several implications for investors, market makers, and daily traders who appreciate the importance of liquidity in market risk computation.
Forecasting agricultures security indices: Evidence from transformers method
Authors: Bilel Ammouri
Published: February 2024

In recent years, ensuring food security has become a global concern, necessitating accurate forecasting of agriculture security to aid in policymaking and resource allocation. This article proposes the utilization of transformers, a powerful deep learning technique, for predicting the Agriculture Security Index (
). The
is a comprehensive metric that evaluates the stability and resilience of agricultural systems. By harnessing the temporal dependencies and complex patterns present in historical
data, transformers offer a promising approach for accurate and reliable forecasting. The transformer architecture, renowned for its ability to capture long‐range dependencies, is tailored to suit the
forecasting task. The model is trained using a combination of supervised learning and attention mechanisms to identify salient features and capture intricate relationships within the data. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, various evaluation metrics, including mean absolute error, root mean square error, and coefficient of determination, are employed to assess the accuracy, robustness, and generalizability of the transformer‐based forecasting approach. The results obtained demonstrate the efficacy of transformers in forecasting the
, outperforming traditional time series forecasting methods. The transformer model showcases its ability to capture both short‐term fluctuations and long‐term trends in the
, allowing policymakers and stakeholders to make informed decisions. Additionally, the study identifies key factors that significantly influence agriculture security, providing valuable insights for proactive intervention and resource allocation.
Early feeding after free flap reconstruction of the oral cavity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Barlow Joshua , Sragi Zara , Rodriguez Nina , Alsen Mathilda , Kappauf Catharine , Ferrandino Rocco , Chennareddy Susmita , Kotz Tamar , Kirke Diana N. , Teng Marita S. , Genden Eric M. , Khan Mohemmed N. , Roof Scott A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Traditionally, patients undergoing free flap reconstruction for oral cavity defects have been given nothing by mouth for 6–14 days post‐operatively due to concern for orocutaneous fistula development.

Methods

Multiple databases were screened for studies assessing the rate of orocutaneous fistula formation in early (≤5 days) versus late (>5 days) feeding groups following oral cavity free flap reconstruction. Fixed‐ and random‐effects meta‐analyses were used.

Results

One randomized controlled trial, one prospective cohort, and three retrospective cohort studies were included. The early feeding group displayed no significant increase in orocutaneous fistula formation (RD = −0.02, p = 0.06) or free flap failure (RD = −0.01, p = 0.39), with a significantly shorter hospital length of stay (mean difference [days] = −2.43, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

While further prospective trials are necessary, initiation of oral intake before post‐operative day 5 may be appropriate in properly selected patients following oral reconstruction.
Tandem catalysis in electrocatalytic nitrate reduction: Unlocking efficiency and mechanism
Authors: Wu Ziyang , Song Yanhui , Guo Haocheng , Xie Fengting , Cong Yuting , Kuang Min , Yang Jianping
Published: February 2024

The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) holds promise for ecofriendly nitrate removal. However, the challenge of achieving high selectivity and efficiency in electrocatalyst systems still significantly hampers the mechanism understanding and the large‐scale application. Tandem catalysts, comprising multiple catalytic components working synergistically, offer promising potential for improving the efficiency and selectivity of the NO3RR. This review highlights recent progress in designing tandem catalysts for electrochemical NO3RR, including the noble metal‐related system, transition metal electrocatalysts, and pulsed electrocatalysis strategies. Specifically, the optimization of active sites, interface engineering, synergistic effects between catalyst components, various in situ technologies, and theory simulations are discussed in detail. Challenges and opportunities in the development of tandem catalysts for scaling up electrochemical NO3RR are further discussed, such as stability, durability, and reaction mechanisms. By outlining possible solutions for future tandem catalyst design, this review aims to open avenues for efficient nitrate reduction and comprehensive insights into the mechanisms for energy sustainability and environmental safety.
Effect of acetate and methanol on the kinetics of total dissolved selenium removal in a chemostat
Authors: Mohammadi Elnaz , Baldwin Susan A.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Carbon (C) source consumption in industrial bioreactors removing soluble selenium (Se) contributes to the operating cost and can influence the rate of removal. This study used a laboratory chemostat to investigate the dependency of the rate of dissolved Se removal on the concentration of acetate and methanol, two C sources used in treatment of Se containing mine‐influenced water. It was hypothesized that the rate of dissolved Se removal follows a Monod kinetic model with C source as the limiting substrate.

RESULTS

A chemostat fed with 25 mg‐selenate‐Se L−1 and acetate as C source at different concentrations operated over a range of hydraulic retention times (HRTs) achieved maximal removal of 99.7% dissolved Se at an HRT of 1.5 days [rate 16.7 mg‐Se (L day)−1]. When methanol was fed into the chemostat as the C source instead of acetate, the extent and rate of removal were much less [65% at an HRT of 6 days, rate 2.7 mg‐Se (L day)−1]. Carbon source consumption per mole of dissolved Se removed was not constant and exceeded stoichiometric estimates. Monod kinetic parameters for the Dechloromonas/Ralstonia consortium growing on acetate were estimated as = 3.36 mg‐C L−1 and = 0.70 L day−1. The Methylophilaceae consortium growing on methanol did not exhibit Monod kinetic growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Using acetate as a C source achieved greater efficiency of dissolved Se removal than when methanol was used. Total dissolved Se removal rate was dependent on acetate only at low concentrations and when the HRT was close to washout. However, total dissolved Se removal rate was strongly dependent on HRT when methanol was used. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Interaction between Acanthamoeba and Staphylococcus
Authors: Özcan Aykol Şevval M. , Zeybek Zuhal
Published: February 2024

Free‐living amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are infected by various bacteria in nature, and thus bacteria can protect themselves from adverse environmental conditions. Contrary to this ameba–bacteria relationship whether Acanthamoeba has antibacterial effects on bacteria is the different aspect of the relationship between these microorganisms. In this study, we investigate various Acanthamoeba strains have antibacterial effects on various Staphylococcus strains. Three environmental Acanthamoeba strains, isolated from various aquatic environments in Turkey, and Acanthamoeba castellanii ATCC 50373 standard strains were used in the study. The antistaphylococcal effect of cell‐free supernatant (CFS) obtained from these amoebae against 12 different Staphylococcus bacteria was investigated by colony counting method. In addition, the pathogenicity of the tested Acanthamoeba strains was determined using osmotolerance and thermotolerance tests. CFSs obtained from Acanthamoeba were found to have varying degrees of antistaphylococcal effects on various Staphylococcus strains (0%–100%). It was determined that the CFS of the standard Acanthamoeba strain showed 100% inhibitory effect against one clinical methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain (M2). Also, CFS of Ugöl strain showed 99.97% inhibitory effect against one clinical methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus epidermidis strain (L3). It was determined that all Acanthamoeba isolates had no pathogenic potential. According to the results, it has been observed that Acanthamoeba produces antibacterial substance(s) against Staphylococcus bacteria and that the ameba–bacteria relationship may also result in the detriment of the bacteria. Furthermore, the current study indicates that new and natural antimicrobial agents from Acanthamoeba can be used as an alternative to infections caused by Staphylococcus.
High rates of vitamin D insufficiency among patients presenting for total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Liu Christina , Seyok Thany , Moye Stephen , Sugita Lansing , Eltouny Ehab , Carrera Christopher , Denagamage Prabhavi , Charles Julia , Fitz Wolfgang , Chen Antonia F. , Earp Brandon
Published: February 2024

Widely varying prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been reported in patients presenting for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The primary aim of this study was to determine vitamin D levels in TKA patients and to compare to patients already routinely evaluated for vitamin D levels, patients with fragility fractures of the distal radius (DRF). There is significant overlap between patients presenting for TKA and with DRF, both in terms of medical comorbidities and overall health status, making these populations suitable comparative cohorts. Wefound that all patients presenting for TKA consultation had vitamin D insufficiency and 33% had vitamin D deficiency, compared to only 37% and 14% in the DRF cohort, a patient population routinely evaluated for vitamin D due to the high risk of deficiency. Furthermore, patients with DRF had higher levels of vitamin D before (38 ± 16 vs. 23 ± 5) and after vitamin D supplementation (39 ± 17 vs. 33 ± 10), suggesting that patients presenting for TKA are at even higher risk of vitamin D insufficiency than patients presenting with DRF. Reassuringly, supplementation successfully corrected 39.0% and 55.8% of patients in the DRF and TKA cohorts, respectively.
Association between nutrition intake and muscle mass in adult inpatients receiving nutrition support: A prospective cohort study
Authors: de Abreu Silva Luciana , de Vasconcelos Generoso Simone , da Rocha Vanessa Moreira , da Mata Lincoln Antinossi Cordeiro , Castro Carolina Fernandes , Ribeiro Mariana Vassallo , Campolina Bruna Guerra , Duarte Camila Kümmel
Published: February 2024

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate the association between muscle mass variation, estimated by different equations, during hospitalization with the energy and protein intake and clinical and nutrition outcomes of patients using nutrition support.

Methods

A prospective observational study with patients older than 18 years in use of enteral and/or parenteral nutrition therapy and monitored by the Nutritional Therapy Committee between December 14, 2021, and December 14, 2022. Data were collected from the electronic records and were applied in 11 equations to estimate the four different portions of muscle mass of patients receiving nutrition support at the beginning and the end of hospitalization.

Results

A total of 261 patients were evaluated, with a median age of 61.0 (49.0–69.75) years, and 106 were women (40.6%). According to the nutrition diagnosis, several participants had severe malnutrition (39.5%). The most muscle mass estimation equations indicated a reduction of muscle mass during hospitalization. All patients presented negative energy and protein balances during hospitalization, but greater protein intake increased the lean soft tissue. Also, the greater the number of infections, metabolic complications, and scheduled diet interruption, the greater was the chance of losing muscle mass.

Conclusion

There can be an association between the variation in muscle mass and energy and protein intake during hospitalization of patients using nutrition support. In addition, variation in muscle mass was associated with complications from nutrition support. The results emphasize the importance of anthropometric measurements to estimate muscle mass when other methods are not available.
Association between weight‐for‐length percentile and ICU length of stay in patients with a single ventricle undergoing bidirectional Glenn repair: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Adair Austin B. , Gong Wu , Lindsell Christopher J. , Clay Mark A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Poor weight gain has been identified as an independent risk factor for increased surgical morbidity and mortality for patients with single‐ventricle physiology undergoing staged surgical palliation. Conversely, excessive weight gain has also emerged as an independent risk factor predicting increased morbidity and mortality in a single‐center study. Given this novel single‐center concept, we investigated the impact of excessive weight on patients with single‐ventricle physiology undergoing bidirectional Glenn palliation in a multicenter study model.

Methods

Patients from the Pediatric Heart Network Single Ventricle Reconstruction Trial (n = 387) were analyzed in a retrospective cohort study examining the independent effect of weight percentile on intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) and ventilator days. Locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) regression was used to plot weight‐for‐length (WFL) percentiles by ICU LOS and ventilator days. Unadjusted and adjusted ordinal regression was used to model ICU LOS and ventilator days.

Results

Scatterplots and LOESS regression curves demonstrated increasing ICU LOS and ventilator days for increasing WFL percentiles. Unadjusted ordinal regression analysis of ICU LOS demonstrated a trend of increasing ICU LOS for increasing WFL percentiles that was not statistically significant (P = 0.11). A similar trend was demonstrated in adjusted ordinal regression that was not statistically significant (P = 0.48). Unadjusted and adjusted ordinal regression analysis of ventilator days did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

Excessive weight gain has a clinically relevant but not statistically significant association with increased ICU LOS and ventilator days for those patients in the >90th WFL percentile for age.
Franchise management strategy driving franchisee performance in the service sectors in Thailand
Authors: Darawong Chonlatis
Published: February 2024

This empirical study aims to investigate the impact of different dimensions of franchise management strategies on franchisee performance in the professional service sector. The hypothesized relationship was supported by agency theory, which explains the situation of two parties, one representing the other in day‐to‐day transactions. The samples were 259 managers and supervisors who had worked for franchise service businesses located in Thailand and had regular contact with the franchisor of the global firm. Purposive and snowballing methods were employed to distribute questionnaires to the target respondents. The results of structural equation modeling indicated a good fit of the data to the proposed model. Hypothesis testing revealed noteworthy direct influences of four franchise management strategies, namely innovative culture, supportive service, information exchange, and recommendation, on the performance of franchisees. This study offers valuable insights into the importance of implementing effective franchise management strategies and their direct implications for franchisee performance. The findings have practical implications for franchise businesses, highlighting key areas of focus for enhancing franchisee success and overall business performance.
High three‐dimensional accuracy of component placement and lower limb alignment using a robotic arm‐assisted system and gap‐balancing instrument in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Diquattro Emanuele , Prill Robert , Salzmann Mikhail , Traina Francesco , Becker Roland
Published: February 2024

Purpose

It was hypothesized that robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA‐TKA) using additionally a gap‐balancing instrumentation will show high accuracy in executing the planning in femoral and tibial component placement throughout the range of knee motion (ROM) during TKA surgery.

Methods

Prospectively collected data were analysed for patients undergoing RA‐TKA. A cruciate retaining cemented design was implanted using the MAKO® robotic system. Lower limb alignment at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° of flexion was recorded at the beginning of surgery and finally after implantation of the components. A ligament tensioner was inserted after tibial precut to measure the extension and flexion gap, and final component placement was planned based on 3D CT images. Femoral and tibial component placement was measured in all three planes.

Results

A total of 104 patients were included (mean age 69.4 ± 9 years; 44 male, 60 female). The difference in component placement after planning and final implantation showed less valgus of 0.7° ± 1.4° (p < 0.001), less external rotation of 0.6° ± 1.9° (p = 0.001) and less flexion of 0.9° ± 1.8° (p < 0.001) for the femoral component. The tibial component was placed in more varus of 0.2° ± 0.9° (p = 0.056) and more posterior slope of 0.5° ± 0.9° (p < 0.001). The lower limb alignment in extension was 4.4° ± 5.2° of varus of the native knee and changed to 1.2° ± 1.9° of varus after TKA (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Robotic‐assisted TKA helps to achieve the target of alignment and component placement very close to the planning. It allows optimal component placement of off‐the‐shelf implants respecting patient's specific anatomy.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Endoscopic Versus Microscopic Tympanoplasty: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis
Authors: Gkrinia Eleni , Ntziovara Anna Maria , Brotis Alexandros G. , Tzimkas‐Dakis Konstantinos , Saratziotis Athanasios , Korais Christos , Hajiioannou Jiannis
Published: February 2024

Objective

Endoscopic ear surgery is no longer a promising technique, but a well‐established one. This study aims to compare endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty based on current literature evidence, in terms of their efficacy and safety characteristics.

Data Sources

We conducted a systematic literature search of four medical databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov), focusing on randomized controlled or observational studies comparing microscopic to endoscopic tympanoplasty.

Review Methods

Data related to the efficacy and safety of each technique were extracted. Outcome data were summarized using pooled mean differences or pooled odds ratio along with their 95% confidence intervals. The risk of bias was estimated, by using the ROBINS‐I and RoB‐II assessment tools, while the overall quality of evidence was evaluated according to the GRADE working group.

Results

Thirty‐three studies, with 2646 patients in total, were included in the meta‐analysis. Success rate was evaluated by estimating tympanic graft failure (pooled mean difference:−0.23; 95% CI: −0.61, 0.14, I2 = 33.42%), and air‐bone gap improvement (pooled mean difference:−0.05; 95% CI:−0.23, 0.13, I2 = 52.69%), resulting in comparable outcomes for the two techniques. A statistically significant difference favoring the endoscopic technique was detected regarding postoperative wound infection (OR: −1.72; 95% CI: −3.39, −0.04, I2 = 0%), dysgeusia (OR: −1.47; 95% CI: −2.47, −0.47, I2 = 0%), otitis externa development (OR: −1.96; 95% CI: −3.23, −0.69, I2 = 0%), auricular numbness (OR: −2.56; 95% CI: −3.93, −1.19, I2 = 0%), as well as surgical duration (OR: −1.86; 95% CI: −2.70, −1.02, I2 = 43.95%), when compared to the postauricular microscopic approach.

Conclusion

Endoscopic tympanoplasty is an innovative alternative to the microscopic technique, resulting in commensurate outcomes regarding success rate. Furthermore, it offers superior results concerning postoperative complications, while it presents a significant reduction in the duration of surgery, mainly when it is compared to the postauricular microscopic approach.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3466–3476, 2024