bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey of ‘Trigger Finger’ in Adults
Authors: BONNICI A. V. , SPENCER J. D.
Published: December 2021

Thirty-six patients were reviewed by questionnaire after operative treatment for trigger finger or thumb. Multiple digital involvement occurred in just under one third of the patients in this series and the index and little fingers were relatively rarely involved. Five patients had close relatives affected by the same condition. 17% of patients in this small series were dissatisfied with their operation scar.
Anterior Radio–Carpal Dislocation: An Isolated Injury
Authors: MOORE D. P. , McMAHON B. A.
Published: December 2021

A case of isolated anterior radio-carpal dislocation is described. Closed reduction and cast immobilisation for six weeks gave a satisfactory result.
Simultaneous Dislocations of the Interphalangeal and Carpometacarpal Joints of the Thumb: A Case Report
Authors: WEE J. T. K. , CHANDRA D. , SATKU K.
Published: December 2021

A case of simultaneous dislocations of the interphalangeal and carpometacarpal joints of the thumb after a fall is described. We believe this is a unique situation not reported before in the literature. The results of operative intervention of the open IP joint and closed CMC joint dislocations resulted in a stable pain-free thumb with a good range of motion.
Ulnar Nerve Compression Caused by a Reversed Palmaris Longus Muscle
Authors: REGAN P. J. , ROBERTS J. O. , BAILEY B. N.
Published: December 2021

A case of ulnar nerve compression at the wrist caused by a reversed palmaris longus muscle is reported. We are not aware of any previous reports of ulnar nerve compression due to this particular muscle anomaly.
Dressings of the Nailbed following Nail Avulsion
Authors: DOVE A. F. , SLOAN J. P. , MOULDER T. J. , BARKER A.
Published: December 2021

Dressings of the raw nailbed tend to adhere and to be difficult and painful to remove. We have compared three types of dressing: polyurethane sponge, paraffin-gauze and replacement of the finger-nail. Assessment of adherence and pain showed that replacement of the nail had significant advantages over the other dressings.
Free Vascularised Epiphyseal Transplantation in Upper Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: PHO R. W. H. , PATTERSON M. H. , KOUR A. K. , KUMAR V. P.
Published: December 2021

We describe preliminary observations on the use of free vascularised transfer of proximal fibular epiphysis in replacement of proximal humeral epiphysis or distal radial epiphysis in three patients. An analysis of the early results shows evidence of longitudinal growth, graft hypertrophy and epiphyseal adaptation in transplanted epiphysis. A review of the problems in this type of surgery is included.
Early Restoration of Pinch Grip after Ulnar Nerve Repair and Tendon Transfer
Authors: DE ABREU L. B.
Published: December 2021

Restoration of pinch in ulnar nerve lesions may be achieved within three or four weeks by a one-stage operation combining nerve repair and tendon transfer. We have been using this approach for nerve injuries of the upper limb since 1961, to meet the socio-economic needs of patients who would otherwise need splints and long-term physiotherapy. In our experience, the procedure of choice is transfer of E.I.P. to adductor pollicis and E.P.B. to the first dorsal interosseous. The operative technique and its results in 18 patients followed up for 37–515 days are discussed.
Tendon and Ligament Attachments in Relationship to Growth Plates in a Child’s Hand
Authors: HANKIN F. M. , JANDA D. H.
Published: December 2021

Dissection of the hand of an eight-year-old female cadaver was performed to determine the relationship of tendon and ligament insertions to the growth plates. These soft tissue attachments can influence the fracture patterns noted in children.
Abbrevatio: A New Operation for Chronic Mallet Finger
Authors: LIND J. , HANSEN L. B.
Published: December 2021

An old, but hitherto unpublished, method for surgical correction of chronic mallet finger was carried out in 42 patients. In the abbrevatio operation, the elongated tendon is transected and resutured, after which the developing fibrous scar tissue usually causes adequate shrinkage for correcting the drop-deformity. The D.I.P. joint is transfixed with a K wire in slight hyperextension for six weeks. Forty patients were studied. The result was excellent in 16 patients (40%), good in 20%, fair in 17.5% and poor in 22.5%. On average, the extension defect was decreased from 38.2% to 11.8%. The method is a suitable alternative in patients with annoying chronic mallet finger who refuse arthrodesis or further conservative treatment.
Algodystrophy Following Colles’ Fracture
Authors: ATKINS R. M. , DUCKWORTH T. , KANIS J. A.
Published: December 2021

The prevalence of algodystrophy in the hand was determined at nine weeks and six months following Colles’ fracture. At nine weeks, 27 of 109 patients showed signs of algodystrophy, all of whom demonstrated more than one feature of the disorder. Thereafter, no unaffected patient developed the disorder. At six months, 62% of the previously affected patients showed some residual abnormalities. In 66% of these, there was evidence of continuing vasomotor instability or swelling, suggesting that the syndrome was still active. These observations suggest that algodystrophy of the hand is a more common complication of Colles’ fracture than is generally realised.
Fractures of the Fifth Metacarpal Neck: Is Reduction or Immobilisation Necessary?
Authors: FORD D. J. , ALI M. S. , STEEL W. M.
Published: December 2021

Sixty two patients with fractures of the neck of the little finger metacarpal have been studied. Treatment consisted of unrestricted exercises without any splintage or attempts at reduction, irrespective of the degree of angulation of the fractures. Patients were reviewed at one or two-weekly intervals until movement had recovered and return to work was possible. One year after injury, patients were recalled for examination. Recovery was rapid with no long-term functional restriction, although 14% of patients noted minor cosmetic deformity.
The Posterior Interosseous Artery Free Flap
Authors: TONKIN M. A. , STERN H.
Published: December 2021

A case is reported in which retrograde flow in the posterior interosseous artery did not perfuse the posterior interosseous artery flap, which was subsequently transferred as a free tissue transfer based on the proximal posterior interosseous vessels.
Pseudarthrosis of the Radius Treated by Free Vascularised Bone Graft
Authors: WILLIAMSON D. M. , COPELAND S. A. , LANDI A.
Published: December 2021

We report a case of pseudarthrosis of the radius successfully treated by free vascularised bone grafting. After a comprehensive review of the literature, we recommend this as the treatment of choice in this condition. We also report the use of callus distraction of an incorporated vascularised bone graft to achieve bone lengthening.
A Long-Term Follow-Up of the Effect of Repeated Corticosteroid Injections for Stenosing Tenovaginitis
Authors: FAUNØ P. , ANDERSEN H. J. , SIMONSEN O.
Published: December 2021

Ninety-three consecutive adult patients with stenosing tenovaginitis of 104 digits have been treated by corticosteroid injections repeated at three week intervals up to thrice in partial responders. At follow-up after 3–15 years, partial relapse had occurred in two patients, who now and then experienced triggering but without pain or locking. Complete relief of symptoms was obtained in 76%. There were no complications and the success rate was independent of sex, age, duration of symptoms, the digit involved, or associated diseases. These results are superior to those previously reported following a single injection.
Flexor Tendon Repair Using a “Six Strand” Method of Repair and Early Active Mobilisation
Authors: SAVAGE R. , RISITANO G.
Published: December 2021

A “six-strand” method of tendon repair has been used to treat 36 fingers with flexor tendon lacerations. Following surgery, active mobilisation in a protective splint was begun immediately. 63% of lacerations were in zone 2 and 27% in zone 1. 69% and 100% respectively achieved an excellent or good result using Buck-Gramcko’s assessment method. 81% of all the fingers were rated excellent or good.
Primary Repair of Flexor Tendons in No-Man’s Land Using the Becker Repair
Authors: PRIBAZ J. J. , MORRISON W. A. , MACLEOD A. M.
Published: December 2021

Forty-three digits with severed flexor tendons in no-man’s land have been repaired using a modified Becker’s technique. The results are analysed according to the type of laceration and associated injuries. Using White’s method, 70% obtained satisfactory, 8% fair, and 22% poor results. There were three ruptures but most poor results were due to stiffness after crushing injuries or when both vascular bundles had been divided.
Continuous Passive Motion Following Flexor Tendon Repair
Authors: BUNKER T. D. , POTTER BARBARA , BARTON N. J.
Published: December 2021

A prospective study was performed of 20 consecutive patients with 35 flexor tendon lacerations, in whom post-operative mobilisation was carried out using the Toronto Mobilimb Continuous Passive Motion machine for the first 4½ weeks. Overall the results assessed by Buck Gramcko criteria were 17 (85%) excellent or good, 3 (15%) fair and no poor results. Taking the 17 fingers with zone II lacerations, 14 (82%) were excellent or good, 3 (18%) fair and no poor results.
Triggering Secondary to an Untreated Partially-Cut Flexor Tendon
Authors: FREWIN P. R. , SCHEKER L. R.
Published: December 2021

A case is reported where a flap cut of the radial slip of the flexor digitorum superficialis triggered on the proximal border of the A2 pulley within a healed intact tendon sheath. Shaving the flap resolved the problem. This illustrates another post-traumatic mechanical cause of triggering after partial division of flexor tendons.
Replacement of the Trapezium with a Silicone Elastomer Universal Small Joint Spacer
Authors: HELAL B. , McPHERSON I.
Published: December 2021

31 patients have been received between one and five years (average 2¾ years) after replacement of the trapezium with a silicone elastomer universal small joint spacer for carpo-metacarpal arthritis. Good pain relief was achieved in 84% and most patients retained 80% of power and movement compared to the other hand. Two prostheses fractured and two more subluxed painfully; another two were too big, causing pain, and had to be removed. Minor damage to the radial nerve occurred in four patients.
The Conservative Management of Bennett’s Fracture-Dislocation: A 26-Year Follow-Up
Authors: LIVESLEY P. J.
Published: December 2021

Seventeen patients who had suffered a Bennett’s fracture-dislocation have been reviewed with an average follow up of 26 years. All were treated conservatively. At review, only seven patients had symptoms, but all had a decreased range of movement and grip strength. Twelve had a characteristic deformity in the hand. Radiographs showed persistent subluxation of the first carpo-metacarpal joint and marked degenerative changes. We suggest that, in the light of the poor long-term outcome, this injury should not be managed conservatively but by some operative means.
Morphological Variations of the Ulnar Styloid Process
Authors: BIYANI A. , MEHARA A. , BHAN S.
Published: December 2021

P.A. radiographs of both wrists were taken in 400 normal individuals to study the configuration of the styloid process of the ulna. Five different morphological variations were noticed, the commonest being an elongated process (102 wrists). Medially deviated (41 wrists), parrot beaked (27 wrists) and hypertrophic (16 wrists) patterns were less common. One person had bilateral unfused separate ossification centres for the ulnar styloid. There was no correlation between the length of the styloid process and ulnar variance.
Rupture of Flexor Pollicis Longus as a Complication of Colles’ Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: ROBERTS J. O. , REGAN P. J. , ROBERTS A. H. N.
Published: December 2021

A case of flexor pollicis longus tendon rupture as a complication of a Colles’ fracture in a 17-year-old male is described. Tendon repair by means of a one-stage tendon graft produced a good functional result.
Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia in the Hand: A Case Report
Authors: RISITANO G. , GUPTA A. , BURKE F.
Published: December 2021

Angiolymphoid hyperplasia is an uncommon condition which may give rise to difficulty in diagnosis. The case described was originally regarded as Kaposi’s sarcoma, but H.I.V. testing was negative. Excision of a further lesion established the diagnosis as angiolymphoid hyperplasia.
The Validation of Measures of Outcome Following Suture of Divided Peripheral Nerves Supplying the Hand
Authors: MARSH D.
Published: December 2021

Erik Moberg pioneered the idea of validating measures of sensory function following peripheral nerve suture by correlating their results with those of functional tests. However it is important that powerful prior variables (age at suture, time elapsed since suture and delay between injury and suture) be controlled. Failure to do this may result in spurious correlations, as illustrated by analysis of two sets of data, one collected by the author and the other given in the classic paper of Önne (1962).
Rupture of the Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon after Colles Fracture and by Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: MANNERFELT L. , OETKER R. , OSTLUND B. , ELBERT B.
Published: December 2021

During the period 1973–1986, 116 patients with rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon were operated upon. The lesions were categorised into three anatomical levels: proximal, intermediate and distal. Direct suture was performed for acute lesions; later reconstructive procedures were by means of tendon transfers or free tendon grafts.
The Hand in Psoriasis
Authors: TRAIL I. A. , STANLEY J. K.
Published: December 2021

Fifty-six patients with psoriatic arthropathy have been reviewed to assess the extent and severity of their hand involvement. The hand was affected in 84% of cases. Although the distal interphalangeal joints are said to be classically affected, we found the proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal to be more frequently involved. Many other findings often associated with rheumatoid arthritis (e.g. boutonniére and swan-neck deformities, or tenosynovitis) can be seen in psoriatic arthropathy.
The Chinese Forearm Flap in Reconstruction of the Hand
Authors: GANG R. K.
Published: December 2021

A Chinese flap, based on the radial artery, has been used in 29 patients who presented with problems of reconstruction in the hand. The merits and complications of this procedure are discussed.
Perineural Tumour Spread: an Unusual Cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: MACKAY I. R. , BARUA J. M.
Published: December 2021

We describe the development of the carpal tunnel syndrome in a 58-year-old man, from perineural spread of a previously-excised cutaneous malignancy.
Sequential Forearm Intravenous Regional and Infiltration Anaesthesia: Value for Haemostasis
Authors: PUN W. K. , CHOW S. P. , LUK K. D. K. , SO Y. C. , IP F. K. , CHAN K. C.
Published: December 2021

Intravenous regional anaesthesia using 0.5% lignocaine with a forearm tourniquet is a satisfactory technique for operations on the distal forearm, wrist and hand. Since recovery of pain sensation is rapid, haemostasis after release of tourniquet becomes difficult and sometimes impossible. Local wound infiltration or metacarpal block with 1% lignocaine just before release of the tourniquet can allow subsequent haemostasis and wound closure to be carried out without causing pain. 55 patients received this sequential forearm intravenous regional and infiltrative anaesthesia. Subsequent haemostasis and wound closure could be carried out without pain in 51 patients (92.7%); three patients (5.5%) noticed mild discomfort but the operations could be finished without any additional anaesthetic agent. No complications were encountered with this modified technique.
The Value of Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Soft-Tissue Swellings of the Hand
Authors: ADANI R. , CALÒ M. , TORRICELLI P. , SQUARZINA P. B. , CAROLI A.
Published: December 2021

Twenty patients with palpable swellings of the hand were investigated by computed tomography. The results, when compared with the pathological findings, lead us to consider this a technique of considerable value in the assessment of this kind of disease. The importance of angiography and, occasionally of magnetic resonance imaging, are also stressed.
Hand Injuries at Leisure
Authors: CAMPBELL ALEXANDRA S.
Published: December 2021

In a survey of 383 moderate and severe hand injuries in adults, 246 (64.4%) occurred outwith work. Falling (sixty-four patients) and punching (forty-eight patients) were the commonest mechanisms of blunt injury. Glass (eight), knives (seven) and “do-it-yourself” materials (eight) were most frequently implicated in sharp trauma. No outstandingly dangerous hobbies or social activities were identified.
A Micro Computer Hand Injury Recording System
Authors: ROSS D. J. , LARGE D. F. , SMITH M. E.
Published: December 2021

A system is described which allows an accident department doctor, who has no specific knowledge of computer operation, to record standardised demographic and clinical details of patients with hand injuries. An educational element is present which suggests possible diagnoses following specific injuries and most of the recording is carried out using a light pen, thus obviating the need for any keyboard skills. The information obtained is stored on ‘floppy’ discs (each disc can hold details of up to five hundred patients) allowing straightforward storage, retrieval and analysis of information by either micro or main frame computer.
A Simple Method of Measuring the Electrical Resistance of the Skin
Authors: SWAIN I. D. , WILSON G. R. , CROOK S. C.
Published: December 2021

A simple device has been developed to measure skin resistance. Normal values have been established and the effect of changing measurement parameters has been investigated. Peripheral nerve blocks have also been applied and their effect upon the skin resistance reported.
Finger Mobility Following Flexor Tendon Repair
Authors: PHILLIPS G. F. , McGROUTHER D. A. , ANDREWS B. J.
Published: December 2021

A system has been devised to monitor the movements of the finger made by patients after a tendon repair. A small transducer was used attached to the nail. The results were analysed by computer. The fingers moved much less than expected in spite of instruction.
A Prospective Trial of Prophylactic Povidone Iodine in Lacerations of the Hand
Authors: ROBERTS A. H. N. , ROBERTS F. E. V. , HALL R. I. , THOMAS I. H.
Published: December 2021

A series of 418 patients with lacerations of the hands were allocated randomly to a control group or to a group where the injury was treated with povidone iodine before suture. The incidence of infected and imperfectly healed wounds was determined seven days later. As well as the effect of povidone iodine on infection, thirteen other factors were also analysed. The overall infection rate of 5.0% and the 38.5% imperfect healing rate were not significantly affected by povidone iodine treatment, although both were reduced. The figures of four other trials were combined with this trial and this showed a significant effect of povidone iodine treatment. There were no adverse reactions to povidone iodine. It is therefore recommended that hand lacerations should be treated with povidone iodine prior to suture.

Other factors found to be significantly important in wound infection or imperfect healing were the condition of the dressing, the part of the hand injured and pain. Patients should be strongly advised to keep their dressing clean and dry.
Diagnosis of Osteoid Osteoma Using Computerized Tomography
Authors: BLANKSTEIN A. , MORAG B. , APTER S. , ENGEL J.
Published: December 2021

A thirty-seven-year-old male with Osteoid Osteoma of the proximal ulna is described. He had suffered from pain in his elbow for two and a half years prior to diagnosis. Computer Tomography demonstrated and localised the nidus which was surgically removed.
The Differential Diagnosis of Juvenile Digital Fibromatosis
Authors: TIZIAN C. , BERGER A. , SCHNEIDER W. , VYKOUPIL K. F.
Published: December 2021

Juvenile digital fibromatosis is a rare condition in which distinctive benign soft tumours occur in the hands and feet of children and adolescents.

If bony involvement is found at presentation a malignant soft tissue tumour must be excluded and extensive investigation is required using plain x-rays, scintigraphy and angiography. Histological examination, however, is the only definitive diagnostic measure.

In this paper a case of juvenile digital fibromatosis is presented with a discussion of the differential diagnosis.
Medical Support for California Wildfire Response
Authors: Backer Howard , Duncan David , Christensen Kate , Devereaux Asha , Rosen Brett , Noste Erin , Wright Chuck , Johnson Craig
Published: December 2021

Wildfires have become a regular seasonal disaster across the Western region of the United States. Wildfires require a multifaceted disaster response. In addition to fire suppression, there are public health and medical needs for responders and the general population in the path of the fire, as well as a much larger population impacted by smoke. This paper describes key aspects of the health and medical response to wildfires in California, including facility evacuation and shelter medical support, with emphasis on the organization, coordination, and management of medical teams deployed to fire incident base camps. This provides 1 model of medical support and references resources to help other jurisdictions that must respond to the rising incidence of large wildland fires.
Dynamical behavior of alternate base expansions
Authors: CHARLIER ÉMILIE , CISTERNINO CÉLIA , DAJANI KARMA
Published: December 2021

We generalize the greedy and lazy
$\beta $
-transformations for a real base
$\beta $
to the setting of alternate bases
${\boldsymbol {\beta }}=(\beta _0,\ldots ,\beta _{p-1})$
, which were recently introduced by the first and second authors as a particular case of Cantor bases. As in the real base case, these new transformations, denoted
$T_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
and
$L_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
respectively, can be iterated in order to generate the digits of the greedy and lazy
${\boldsymbol {\beta }}$
-expansions of real numbers. The aim of this paper is to describe the measure-theoretical dynamical behaviors of
$T_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
and
$L_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
. We first prove the existence of a unique absolutely continuous (with respect to an extended Lebesgue measure, called the p-Lebesgue measure)
$T_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
-invariant measure. We then show that this unique measure is in fact equivalent to the p-Lebesgue measure and that the corresponding dynamical system is ergodic and has entropy
$({1}/{p})\log (\beta _{p-1}\cdots \beta _0)$
. We give an explicit expression of the density function of this invariant measure and compute the frequencies of letters in the greedy
${\boldsymbol {\beta }}$
-expansions. The dynamical properties of
$L_{{\boldsymbol {\beta }}}$
are obtained by showing that the lazy dynamical system is isomorphic to the greedy one. We also provide an isomorphism with a suitable extension of the
$\beta $
-shift. Finally, we show that the
${\boldsymbol {\beta }}$
-expansions can be seen as
$(\beta _{p-1}\cdots \beta _0)$
-representations over general digit sets and we compare both frameworks.
Glycated hemoglobin as a surrogate for evaluating the effectiveness of drugs in diabetes mellitus trials: a systematic review and trial-level meta-analysis
Authors: Rivera Paola Andrea , Rodríguez-Zúñiga Milton J. M. , Caballero-Alvarado José , Fiestas Fabián
Published: December 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate whether glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a valid surrogate for evaluating the effectiveness of antihyperglycemic drugs in diabetes mellitus (DM) trials.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of a treatment on HbA1c (mean difference between groups) and clinical outcomes (relative risk of mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and/or kidney injury) in patients with DM. Then, we investigated the association between treatment effects on HbA1c and clinical outcomes using regression analysis at the trial level. Lastly, we interpreted the correlation coefficients (R) using the cut-off points suggested by the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Healthcare (IQWiG). HbA1c was considered a valid surrogate if it demonstrated a strong association: lower limit of the 95 percent confidence interval (95 percent CI) ofRgreater than or equal to .85.

Results

Nineteen RCTs were identified. All studies included adults with type 2 DM. None of the associations evaluated was strong enough to validate HbA1c as a surrogate for any clinical outcome: mortality (R= .34; 95 percent CI −.14 to .69), myocardial infarction (R= .20; −.30 to .61), heart failure (R= .08; −.40 to .53), kidney injury (R= −.04; −.52 to .47), and stroke (R= .81; .54 to .93).

Conclusions

The evidence from multiple placebo-controlled RCTs does not support the use of HbA1c as a surrogate to measure the effectiveness of antihyperglycemic drugs in DM studies.
Introduction & overview
Authors: Galanakis Yannis , Shapland Andrew
Published: December 2021

This brief introduction presents the structure and contents of the current issue of Archaeology in Greece, linking the various contributions to events or very recent discoveries that were reported in the press in the period immediately before the completion of this issue in September. It also offers an overview (not meant to be exhaustive) of archaeological activity in Greece over the past 12 months, focusing on major exhibitions and important recent publications.
The Work of the British School at Athens, 2020–2021
Authors: Bennet John
Published: December 2021

This article, based on an oral presentation in virtual format by the author at its Annual General Meeting on 9 February 2021, summarizes the activities of the British School at Athens (BSA) with a focus on the calendar year 2020. It describes, selectively and concisely, research by award holders, BSA-sponsored fieldwork and study in 2020, research and events associated with the Fitch Laboratory and the Knossos Research Centre, plus other activities of the BSA in Greece and the UK, including seminars, conferences and workshops.
Prehistoric Cyprus: fieldwork and research, 2003–2020
Authors: Papadopoulos Angelos
Published: December 2021

The aim of this overview is to present a detailed survey of the major fieldwork and relevant research on the Neolithic and Bronze Age of Cyprus that took place between 2003 and 2020. This presentation is not meant to be exhaustive, as almost two decades of excavations, surface surveys and publications cannot be covered fully in a review of this length. The following discussion is divided geographically and chronologically, starting with the Neolithic period and moving through to the end of the Bronze Age. It focuses on settlement patterns, aspects of chronology and the roles of mining and seafaring, via fieldwork, conferences, research projects and their subsequent publications.
Cultural Metallurgy—A Key Factor in the Transition from the Chalcolithic to Bronze Age in the Southern Levant
Authors: Amzallag Nissim
Published: December 2021

The causes of the disappearance of Late Chalcolithic society (Ghassulian) in the early fourth millenniumbcremain obscure. This study identifies the collapse as the consequence of a change in the approach to metallurgy from cosmological fundament (Late Chalcolithic) to a practical craft (EB1). This endogenous transition accounts for the cultural recession characterizing the transitional period (EB1A) and the discontinuity in ritual practices. The new practical approach in metallurgy is firstly observed in the southern margin of the Ghassulian culture, which produced copper for distribution in the Nile valley rather than the southern Levant. Nevertheless, the Ghassulian cultural markers visible in the newly emerging areas of copper working (southern coastal plain, Nile valley) denote the survival of the old cosmological traditions among metalworkers of the EB1 culture. Their religious expression unveils the extension of the Ghassulian beliefs attached to metallurgy and their metamorphosis into the esoteric fundaments of the Bronze Age religions.
Non-Mathematical Musings on Information Theory and Networked Musical Practice
Authors: Stone Phil
Published: December 2021

Claude Shannon’s 1948 paper ‘A Mathematical Theory of Communication’ provided the essential foundation for the digital/information revolution that enables these very pixels to glow in meaningful patterns and permeates nearly every aspect of modern life. Information Theory, born fully grown from this paper, has been applied and mis-applied to a multitude of disciplines in the last 70-odd years, from quantum physics to psychology. Shannon himself famously decried those jumping on the ‘scientific bandwagon’ of Information Theory without sufficient mathematical rigour. Nevertheless, having a brief personal connection to Dr Shannon (and being extremely grateful for it), I will take the liberty of colouring some of my experience with computer network music with less-than-rigorous insights gained from his work.
On Designing, Composing and Performing Networked Collective Interactions
Authors: Bevilacqua Frederic , Matuszewski Benjamin , Paine Garth , Schnell Norbert
Published: December 2021

In this article, we discuss some of our research with Local Area Networks (LAN) in the context of sound installations or musical performances. Our systems, built on top of Web technologies, enable novel possibilities of collective and collaborative interaction, in particular by simplifying public access to the artwork by presenting the work through the web browser of their smartphone/tablet. Additionally, such a technical framework can be extended with so-called nano-computers, microprocessors and sensors. The infrastructure is completely agnostic as to how many clients are attached, or how they connect, which means that if the work is available in a public space, groups of friends, or even informally organised flash mobs, may engage with the work and perform the contents of the work at any time, and if available over the Internet, at any place. More than the technical details, the specific artistic directions or the supposed autonomy of the agents of our systems, this article focuses on how such ‘networks of devices’ interleave with the ‘network of humans’ composed of the people visiting the installation or participating in the concert. Indeed, we postulate that an important point in understanding and describing such proposals is to consider the relation between these two networks, the way they co-exist and entangle themselves through perception and action. To exemplify these ideas, we present a number of case studies, sound installations and concert works, very different in scope and artistic goal, and examine how this interaction is materialised from several standpoints.
Conjured from Fragments: KMD'sMr. Hoodand the Transformative Poetics of the Golden Age Rap Album
Authors: McNally James G.
Published: December 2021

Between 1988 and 1991, the rap album took flight. Under the dual impetus of innovations in sampling, and of the album form itself, an explosion of youthful creativity ensured the rap album, mined for more self-consciously artistic potential, emerged as a multi-layered artform that revealed a similarly multi-layered Black genius. For innovators like the Bomb Squad (Public Enemy, Ice Cube, Son of Bazerk), Prince Paul (De La Soul) and others, the rap album was now often “more” than just a rap album. It could at once take on the characteristics of a radio show, a simulated game show, a talking comic book, a picaresque novel, an Afrofuturist vaudeville, or a visit to the movies—and, through any of these, invoke a multitude of stories and critiques from marginalized young Black perspectives.

Drawing on a variety of ideas from Black American cultural studies, particularly those focused on creative transformation as a form of transcendence, this article analyzes the multi-layered creativity of one of this period's most unsung, yet ultimately important albums: KMD's showpiece of sampling transformation and satiric narrative wit,Mr. Hood.Best known as the album that initiated the career of the MC/producer later known as MF DOOM (arguably the most revered figure in underground rap post-1999), it also initiated his surreal approach to sampling non-musical material from sources in popular culture and envisagement of rap as a kind of modern-day folklore. Attempting to find a new way of working across the layers of the rap album—the magical interplay of mood, beat, references, verbal samples, storytelling, etc.—the article argues that such sample-based flights of the imagination represent a continuation of the Afro-magical tradition Theophus Smith calls Conjuring Culture.
Measuring Reading Progress in Second Grade
Authors: Förster Natalie , Erichsen Mathis , Forthmann Boris
Published: December 2021

Abstract. Learning progress assessments (LPA) are increasingly used by teachers to inform instructional decisions. This study presents evidence for the reliability, validity, and measurement invariance of a newly developed LPA for reading in Grade 2 (quop-L2 – quop Lesetest für zweite Klassen) that assesses the development of reading comprehension in German at the word, sentence, and text levels based on short, equivalent computer-based tests at three-week intervals. All tests were sufficiently reliable. The proposed three-dimensional structure was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis based on data from N = 1,913 second-grade students. In a subsample of n = 354 students, correlations between quop-L2 and a standardized reading test, teacher judgments, measures of intelligence, and mathematics provided evidence for quop-L2’s convergent and discriminant validity. The equivalent tests were strictly invariant over time. Most importantly, results of structural equation models showed that progress in the quop-L2 assessment at the sentence and text levels was related to growth in standardized reading tests assessed at the beginning and end of the school year. Thus, results indicate that quop-L2 can reliably and validly assess students’ actual reading performance and progress.
How Fault Surface Features Can Tell Us About Future Earthquakes
Authors: Thompson Elizabeth
Published: December 2021

A new study suggests ways to quantify fault maturity, a property that affects earthquake characteristics.
Creation and annihilation of mobile fractional solitons in atomic chains
Authors: Park Jae Whan , Do Euihwan , Shin Jin Sung , Song Sun Kyu , Stetsovych Oleksandr , Jelinek Pavel , Yeom Han Woong
Published: December 2021

Localized modes in one-dimensional (1D) topological systems, such as Majonara modes in topological superconductors, are promising candidates for robust information processing. While theory predicts mobile integer and fractional topological solitons in 1D topological insulators, experiments so far have unveiled immobile, integer solitons only. Here we observe fractionalized phase defects moving along trimer silicon atomic chains formed along step edges of a vicinal silicon surface. By means of tunnelling microscopy, we identify local defects with phase shifts of 2π/3 and 4π/3 with their electronic states within the band gap and with their motions activated above 100 K. Theoretical calculations reveal the topological soliton origin of the phase defects with fractional charges of ±2e/3 and ±4e/3. Additionally, we create and annihilate individual solitons at desired locations by current pulses from the probe tip. Mobile and manipulable topological solitons may serve as robust, topologically protected information carriers in future information technology.
Discovery of a new species of Adder’s tongue fern from India with comparative analysis of morphological and molecular attributes
Authors: Yadav B. L. , Meghvansi Mukesh K. , Meena Kanta , Gena C. B.
Published: December 2021

Eusporangiate fern genus Ophioglossum L. is commonly known as Adder’s tongue fern as its fertile frond gives the appearance of snake tongue. A new species in this fern genus, O. trilokinathii belonging to Ophioglossaceae family has been discovered from the plateau region of Rajasthan State of northwestern India. The new species can be distinguished from other taxa of this genus by its smaller habit, subglobose-tuberous rhizome, basipetal emergence of young roots, aggregation of old decaying roots on rhizome apex, fertile stalk as well as spike short and thick, trophophylls in rosette, ovate or orbicular and a unique sporoderm sculpture pattern under SEM having broad reticulations with thick and raised muri enclosing large hexagonal or irregular areas on the distal and proximal faces of the spores hitherto unreported in any of the presently known taxa of Ophioglossum. In addition, comparative study of stomatal structure, foliar anatomy and nucleotide sequence data of its three chloroplast DNA markers (trnL-F, rbcL and psbA-trnH) was carried out. In view of all the attributes including habitat, ecology, morphology, foliar anatomy, stomatal features, palynology and molecular phylogenetic data, the present study suggests that the Ophioglossum specimen collected from plateau region of Rajasthan represents a hitherto undescribed species thereby warranting its establishment as O. trilokinathii sp. nov. A detailed comparative account of the new taxon with its allied species has also been provided.
Detection of pathogenic bacteria in milk and whey samples using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer aptasensor based on cerium oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Ghayyem Sena , Faridbod Farnoush
Published: December 2021

A facile and sensitive FRET-based aptasensor for the detection of pathogenic bacteria was introduced. Antibiotic-functionalized cerium oxide nanoparticles were served as an energy donor and aptamer-modified gold nanoparticles were employed as an energy acceptor.
In situ bulk magnetization measurements reveal the state of charge of redox flow batteries
Authors: Zhao Evan Wenbo , Shellard Edward J. K. , Klusener Peter A. A. , Grey Clare P.
Published: December 2021

Two methods, involving NMR spectroscopy and direct magnetic susceptibility measurements, are demonstrated for in situ (online) determination of the state of charge of redox flow batteries.
Investigating the role of zinc precursor during the synthesis of the core of III–V QDs
Authors: Kim Yujin , Lee Seonghoon
Published: December 2021

Three roles of zinc precursor in the synthesis of III–V QDs: a reaction suppressant, a size regulator, and a dopant.
A novel FRET-based dendritic hybridization chain reaction for tumour-related mRNA imaging
Authors: Liu Shiyuan , Liu Zhenxiang , Wang Huimin , Wang Jiaoli , Liu Ruiting , Wang Kemin , Huang Jin
Published: December 2021

A novel FRET-based dendritic hybridization chain reaction (D-HCR) for tumour-related mRNA imaging in live cells was developed.
Ester-directed orthogonal dual C–H activation and ortho aryl C–H alkenylation via distal weak coordination
Authors: Bakthadoss Manickam , Reddy Tadiparthi Thirupathi , Agarwal Vishal , Sharada Duddu S.
Published: December 2021

An orthogonal cross-coupling between aromatic C(sp2) and aliphatic olefinic C(sp2) carbons of two same molecules via dual C–H activation and ortho C–H olefination with various alkenes via distal ester directing group has been developed for the first time.
A facile and sustainable one-pot approach to the aqueous and low-temperature PET-to-UiO-66(Zr) upcycling
Authors: Ribadeneyra Maria Crespo , King James , Titirici Maria Magdalena , Szilágyi Petra Ágota
Published: December 2021

Accelerating waste management requires the conversion of polymer waste to value-added materials through sustainable approaches.
Refining boron–iodane exchange to access versatile arylation reagents
Authors: Karandikar Shubhendu S. , Stuart David R.
Published: December 2021

Aryl(Mes)iodonium salts, which are multifaceted aryl transfer reagents, are synthesized via boron-iodane exchange.
Fast kinetics of monoclinic VO2(B) bulk upon magnesiation via DFT+U calculations
Authors: Gao Danmei , Dong Jingren , Xiao Renchao , Shang Bo , Yu Danmei , Chen Changguo , Liu Yuping , Zheng Kai , Pan Fusheng
Published: December 2021

The Mg2+ diffusivity of 1.62 × 10−7 cm2 s−1 is comparable to that of Li+ at 300 K, demonstrating the high mobility and fast kinetics of VO2(B) as a potential host material.
Substitution pattern controlled charge transport in BN-embedded aromatics-based single molecule junctions
Authors: Wang Rui , Song Kai , Wei Caiyun , Hong Wenjing , Zang Yaping , Qu Dahui , Li Hongxiang
Published: December 2021

The synergistic effect of quantum interference (QI) and coordination on the molecular conductance of BN compounds is systemically studied through break junction technique.
CASPT2 molecular geometries of Fe(ii) spin-crossover complexes
Authors: Finney Brian A. , Chowdhury Sabyasachi Roy , Kirkvold Clara , Vlaisavljevich Bess
Published: December 2021

Using fully internally contracted (FIC)-CASPT2 analytical gradients, geometry optimizations of spin-crossover complexes are reported.
Correction: The first-principles-based microkinetic simulation of the dry reforming of methane over Ru(0001)
Authors: Wang Wan-Ying , Wang Gui-Chang
Published: December 2021

Correction for ‘The first-principles-based microkinetic simulation of the dry reforming of methane over Ru(0001)’ by Wan-Ying Wang et al., Catal. Sci. Technol., 2021, 11, 1395–1406, DOI: 10.1039/d0cy01942a
The structures of ring-expanded NHC supported copper(i) triphenylstannyls and their phenyl transfer reactivity towards heterocumulenes
Authors: Charman Rex S. C. , Mahon Mary F. , Lowe John P. , Liptrot David J.
Published: December 2021

A copper(i) stannyl supported by a ring-expanded N-heterocyclic carbene has been synthesised and its reactivity towards heterocumulenes has been investigated.
Atomistic origin of lattice softness and its impact on structural and carrier dynamics in three dimensional perovskites
Authors: Guo Zhendong , Wang Jing , Yin Wan-Jian
Published: December 2021

Soft lattices, mainly originating from large radii and small absolute valences of Pb2+/I−, cause exotic structural/carrier dynamics in LHPs.
Non-fullerene acceptors with direct and indirect hexa-fluorination afford >17% efficiency in polymer solar cells
Authors: Li Guoping , Feng Liang-Wen , Mukherjee Subhrangsu , Jones Leighton O. , Jacobberger Robert M. , Huang Wei , Young Ryan M. , Pankow Robert M. , Zhu Weigang , Lu Norman , Kohlstedt Kevin L. , Sangwan Vinod K. , Wasielewski Michael R. , Hersam Mark C. , Schatz George C. , DeLongchamp Dean M. , Facchetti Antonio , Marks Tobin J.
Published: December 2021

The rational molecular design of non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs) in organic solar cells (OSCs) can profoundly influence the photovoltaic (OPV) performance.
A smart functional surfactant activated conductive polymer coated on paper with ultra-sensitive humidity sensing characteristics
Authors: Mahlknecht Jonas , Wuzella Günter , Lammer Herfried , Khalifa Mohammed
Published: December 2021

A surfactant assisted polyaniline coated paper based sensor with ultra-sensitive humidity sensing characteristics for smart and flexible wearables.
Anisotropic nodal loop in NiB2 monolayer with nonsymmorphic configuration
Authors: Xia Qian , Hu Yang , Wang Ya-ping , Zhang Chang-wen , Ren Miao-juan , Li Sheng-shi , Ji Wei-xiao
Published: December 2021

A new two-dimensional metal-boride, namely, a NiB2 monolayer, is proposed to possess an anisotropic nodal loop state that is protected by nonsymmorphic glide mirror symmetry.
One-step fabrication of eco-friendly superhydrophobic fabrics for high-efficiency oil/water separation and oil spill cleanup
Authors: Yu Haiyang , Wu Min , Duan Gaigai , Gong Xiao
Published: December 2021

Using 1,4-conjugate addition reaction, PEI/TMSPA/SiO2/DTMS fabrics with excellent superhydrophobic property are fabricated, which can be used for high-efficiency oil/water separation and oil spill cleanup.
Asymmetric synthesis of isoxazole and trifluoromethyl-containing 3,2′-pyrrolidinyl dispirooxindoles via squaramide-catalysed [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions
Authors: Li Tong-Hao , Du Da-Ming
Published: December 2021

A highly efficient squaramide-catalysed asymmetric domino Michael/Mannich [3 + 2] cycloaddition for the stereoselective synthesis of isoxazole and trifluoromethyl-containing 3,2′-pyrrolidinyl dispirooxindoles with high stereoselectivities was developed.
Correction: Guided run-and-tumble active particles: wall accumulation and preferential deposition
Authors: Singh Chamkor
Published: December 2021

Correction for ‘Guided run-and-tumble active particles: wall accumulation and preferential deposition’ by Chamkor Singh, Soft Matter, 2021, 17, 8858–8866, DOI: 10.1039/D1SM00775K.
Correction: Microenvironment-responsive multifunctional hydrogels with spatiotemporal sequential release of tailored recombinant human collagen type III for the rapid repair of infected chronic diabetic wounds
Authors: Hu Cheng , Liu Wenqi , Long Linyu , Wang Zhicun , Yuan Yihui , Zhang Wen , He ShuYi , Wang Jian , Yang Li , Lu Lu , Wang Yunbing
Published: December 2021

Correction for ‘Microenvironment-responsive multifunctional hydrogels with spatiotemporal sequential release of tailored recombinant human collagen type III for the rapid repair of infected chronic diabetic wounds’ by Cheng Hu et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2021, 9, 9684–9699, DOI: 10.1039/D1TB02170B.
AIM2 inflammasome contributes to aldosterone-induced renal injury via endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Wu Yong , Yang Huan , Xu Sujuan , Cheng Ming , Gu Jie , Zhang Weichen , Liu Shaojun , Zhang Minmin
Published: December 2021

Inflammatory response and renal fibrosis are the hallmarks of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the specific mechanism of aldosterone-induced renal injury in the progress of CKD requires elucidation. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2)-mediated inflammasome activation and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) play a pivotal role in the renal fibrosis. Here, we investigated whether overexpression or deficiency of AIM2 affects ERS and fibrosis in aldosterone-infused renal injury. Interestingly, we found that AIM2 was markedly expressed in the diseased proximal tubules from human and experimental CKD. Mechanically, overactivation of AIM2 aggravated aldosterone-induced ERS and fibrotic changes in vitro while knockdown of AIM2 blunted these effects in vivo and in vitro. By contrast, AIM2 deficiency ameliorated renal structure and function deterioration, decreased proteinuria levels and lowered systolic blood pressure in vivo; silencing of AIM2 blocked inflammasome-mediated signaling pathway, relieved ERS and fibrotic changes in vivo. Furthermore, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist eplerenone and ERS inhibitor tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) had nephroprotective effects on the basis of AIM2 overactivation in vitro, while they failed to produce a more remarkable renoprotective effect on the treatment of AIM2 silence in vitro. Notably, the combination of TUDCA with AIM2 knockdown significantly reduced proteinuria levels in vivo. Additionally, immunofluorescence assay identified that apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC) recruitment and Gasdermin-D (GSDMD) cleavage respectively occurred in the glomeruli and tubules in vivo. These findings establish a crucial role for AIM2 inflammasome in aldosterone-induced renal injury, which may provide a novel therapeutic target for the pathogenesis of CKD.