bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
18F‐FDG‐PET/CT imaging in diagnostic workup of pediatric precursor B‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma
Authors: Kroeze Emma , Padilla Laura Arias , Burkhardt Birgit , Attarbaschi Andishe , von Mersi Hannah , Kebudi Rejin , Nievelstein Rutger A. J. , Tolboom Nelleke , Hagleitner Melanie M , Kuiper Roland P , Beishuizen Auke , Loeffen Jan L. C.
Published: August 2023

18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging is currently not used in standard diagnostics for B‐cell precursor lymphoblastic lymphoma (BCP‐LBL), and it is unknown whether PET/CT imaging would lead to agreement between detection of lesions with the gold standard imaging methods. Therefore, we performed a retrospective cohort study in which we included 32 pediatric BCP‐LBL patients and determined localizations by reviewing local imaging reports. There was a disagreement between protocol‐based imaging and PET/CT in 59% of the patients, and the discrepancies mostly comprise of additional lesions detected with PET/CT, typically in lymph node and bone or the absence of bone marrow involvement with PET/CT. If PET/CT was leading in determining definite stage of disease, this would lead to a different stage and therapy branch in 31% and 28% of the patients, respectively.
Factor activity levels and bleeding scores in pediatric hemophilia carriers enrolled in the ATHNdataset
Authors: Puetz John , Hu Brian
Published: August 2023

Background

Multiple studies have now shown that a significant proportion of hemophilia carriers meet the criteria for having hemophilia and/or report abnormal bleeding. However, to date, investigations of hemophilia carriers have almost exclusively involved women over 18 years of age. Little is known about factor activity levels and bleeding scores in carriers during childhood. We queried a large deidentified database of subjects with bleeding disorders residing in the United States to determine factor activity levels and bleeding scores.

Procedures

The ATHNdataset was queried for hemophilia carriers under 18 years of age. Collected information included demographics, factor activity levels, and bleeding scores.

Results

Over 700 carriers in the pediatric age group were identified, of which 626 submitted factor activity levels. Nearly half had factor activity levels less than 40 IU/dL, thereby meeting criteria for having hemophilia. Of those reporting bleeding scores, only 13.5% reported an abnormal bleeding score for age. The proportion reporting abnormal bleeding scores was higher in those with factor levels less than 40 IU/dL (23%) than those greater than 40 IU/dL (9.7%).

Conclusions

The proportion of pediatric carriers with hemophilia was double of that previously reported for adults. Of those with hemophilia reporting a bleeding score, the majority (77%) did not report an abnormal bleeding score for age. However, nearly 10% of pediatric carriers not meeting criteria for having hemophilia reported abnormal bleeding scores for age. Similar results are reported in adults suggesting that factor activity levels may not be predictive of bleeding symptoms in carriers.
A systematic review of the prevalence of pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline variants in individuals with FOXO1 fusion‐positive rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Freycon Claire , Lupo Philip J , Witkowski Leora , Budd Crystal , Foulkes William D. , Goudie Catherine
Published: August 2023

Several cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS) are reported to predispose to rhabdomyosarcoma, most frequently in children with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. There are lingering questions over the role of CPS in individuals with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS), which are frequently driven by FOXO1 fusion oncoproteins. We conducted a systematic review to identify patients with FOXO1 fusion‐positive ARMS (FP‐ARMS) who underwent germline DNA sequencing. We estimated the prevalence of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in cancer predisposing genes (CPGs) and of CPSs. We included 19 publications reporting on 191 patients with FP‐ARMS. P/LP variants in CPGs were identified in 26/191 (13.6%) patients, nine (4.9%) of which were associated with a CPS diagnosis. Evidence for causal associations between CPSs and FP‐ARMS could not be assessed with available data from this review. Only one patient was affected with a CPS known to predispose to rhabdomyosarcoma, Li–Fraumeni syndrome. Typical CPS associations with rhabdomyosarcoma are rare, but not nonexistent, in patients with FP‐ARMS. FOXO1 fusion status, alone, is insufficient for clinicians to rely on to distinguish between patients with/without CPS.
Case study: Investigating the effect of the A2 Pasquill atmospheric condition on the dispersion modeling of heavy gases
Authors: Nathani Alia , Ong Chee Seang
Published: August 2023

This study provides a defensible argument for the inclusion of the A2 Pasquill weather parameter in dispersion modeling, in addition to the typical F2 and D5. The A2 parameter conservatively models gas releases that concentrate at ground level, thus allowing for a more robust design of vent heights, surrounding structures/equipment and safety measures. For this investigation, 12 case studies of common hydrocarbon and aromatic gas mixtures were developed in PHAST (Process Hazard Analysis Software Tool) version 8.6. Each case varied in temperature, release pressure (velocity), and molecular weight (MW) to simulate dense gases likely to tend toward ground level. Subsequently, each case study was modeled with the Pasquill Atmospheric Stability Classes, A2, D5, and F2, to visualize the dispersion of dense gases under different weather conditions and evaluate which weather parameter would be most inclusive of high‐severity scenarios. Results demonstrate that dense (colder than dew point, heavy, pressurized) gases yield highest ground‐level concentrations using the A2 atmospheric condition, and the further the release temperature falls below the mixture's dew point, the greater the mixture concentration at ground level. Consequence modeling recommendations are discussed, and specific gas properties are addressed that necessitate using a model that is conservative in its estimation of ground‐level concentrations.
Population pharmacokinetics of ivermectin after mass drug administration in lymphatic filariasis endemic communities of Tanzania
Authors: Fimbo Adam M. , Mlugu Eulambius M. , Kitabi Eliford Ngaimisi , Kulwa Gerald S. , Iwodyah Mohammed A. , Mnkugwe Rajabu Hussein , Kunambi Peter P. , Malishee Alpha , Kamuhabwa Appolinary A. R. , Minzi Omary M. , Aklillu Eleni
Published: August 2023

Ivermectin (IVM) is a drug of choice used with albendazole for mass drug administration (MDA) to halt transmission of lymphatic filariasis. We investigated IVM pharmacokinetic (PK) variability for its dose optimization during MDA. PK samples were collected at 0, 2, 4, and 6 h from individuals weighing greater than 15 kg (n = 468) receiving IVM (3‐, 6‐, 9‐, or 12 mg) and ALB (400 mg) during an MDA campaign in Tanzania. Individual characteristics, including demographics, laboratory/clinical parameters, and pharmacogenetic variations were assessed. IVM plasma concentrations were quantified by liquid‐chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and analyzed using population‐(PopPK) modeling. A two‐compartment model with transit absorption kinetics, and allometrically scaled oral clearance (CL/F) and central volume (Vc/F) was adapted. Fitting of the model to the data identified 48% higher bioavailability for the 3 mg dose compared to higher doses and identified a subpopulation with 97% higher mean transit time (MTT). The final estimates for CL/F, Vc/F, intercompartment clearance, peripheral volume, MTT, and absorption rate constant for a 70 kg person (on dose other than 3 mg) were 7.7 L/h, 147 L, 20.4 L/h, 207 L, 1.5 h, and 0.71/h, respectively. Monte‐Carlo simulations indicated that weight‐based dosing provides comparable exposure across weight bands, but height‐based dosing with capping IVM dose at 12 mg for individuals with height greater than 160 cm underdoses those weighing greater than 70 kg. Variability in IVM PKs is partly explained by body weight and dose. The established PopPK model can be used for IVM dose optimization. Height‐based pole dosing results in varying IVM exposure in different weight bands, hence using weighing scales for IVM dosing during MDA is recommended.
PLPF‐VSLAM: An indoor visual SLAM with adaptive fusion of point‐line‐plane features
Authors: Yan Jinjin , Zheng Youbing , Yang Jinquan , Mihaylova Lyudmila , Yuan Weijie , Gu Fuqiang
Published: August 2023

Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is required in many areas and especially visual‐based SLAM (VSLAM) due to the low cost and strong scene recognition capabilities conventional VSLAM relies primarily on features of scenarios, such as point features, which can make mapping challenging in scenarios with sparse texture. For instance, in environments with limited (low‐even non‐) textures, such as certain indoors, conventional VSLAM may fail due to a lack of sufficient features. To address this issue, this paper proposes a VSLAM system called visual SLAM that can adaptively fuse point‐line‐plane features (PLPF‐VSLAM). As the name implies, it can adaptively employ different fusion strategies on the PLPF for tracking and mapping. In particular, in rich‐textured scenes, it utilizes point features, while in non‐/low‐textured scenarios, it automatically selects the fusion of point, line, and/or plane features. PLPF‐VSLAM is evaluated on two RGB‐D benchmarks, namely the TUM data sets and the ICL_NUIM data sets. The results demonstrate the superiority of PLPF‐VSLAM compared to other commonly used VSLAM systems. When compared to ORB‐SLAM2, PLPFVSLAM achieves an improvement in accuracy of approximately 11.29%. The processing speed of PLPF‐VSLAM outperforms PL(P)‐VSLAM by approximately 21.57%.
Urban sustainability as a social function of the city: Strategic correlation based on Brazilian legislation with the new urban agenda and sustainable development goals
Authors: Dias Felipe Teixeira , Leite Marcos Esdras , Fernandes Edilaine Neves , Cembranel Priscila , Rita Raíssa Maria , de Andrade Guerra José Baltazar Salgueirinho Osório
Published: August 2023

Global cities are the arena of several socioenvironmental phenomena. To alleviate the disparities and catastrophes arising from the rapid process of urbanization, several nations have begun to pursue a common aim: sustainable development. In this regard, goals and parameters have been established by the United Nations (UN) to encourage debates aimed at the protection of the planet. Since 1930, discussions have sought to promote actions and rethink urban planning, for example, at the International Congress of Modern Architecture, which produced the Athens Charter. In this context, the study reported herein correlates the New Urban Agenda, which systematizes the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) together with the social functions of a city, a concept instigated by international legislation, charters and research to consolidate urban sustainability. As a proposed methodology, this study systemizes integrative data processing, with an applicable approach. In addition, a systematic analysis of the literature was carried out to create definitions and concepts on this theme. As a result, it was verified that social functions can and should integrate global urban policies, particularly when articulated with the SDGs and the New Urban Agenda.
The Cleanroom‐Free, Cheap, and Rapid Fabrication of Nanoelectrodes with Low zM Limits of Detection
Authors: Maroli Gabriel , Abarintos Vernalyn , Piper Andrew , Merkoçi Arben
Published: August 2023

Nanoscale electrodes have been a topic of intense research for many decades. Their enhanced sensitivities, born out of an improved signal‐to‐noise ratio as electrode dimensions decrease, make them ideal for the development of low‐concentration analyte sensors. However, to date, nanoelectrode fabrication has typically required expensive equipment and exhaustive, time‐consuming fabrication methods that have rendered them unsuitable for widespread use and commercialization. Herein, a method of nanoband electrode fabrication using low cost materials and equipment commonly found in research laboratories around the world is reported. The materials' cost to produce each nanoband is less than €0.01 and fabrication of a batch takes less than 1 h. The devices can be made of flexible plastics and their designs can be quickly and easily iterated. Facile methods of combining these nanobands into powerful devices, such as complete three‐electrode systems, are also displayed. As a proof of concept, the electrodes are functionalized for the detection of a DNA sequence specific to SARS‐CoV‐2 and found to display single molecule sensitivity.
Robust Cellulose Nanocrystal‐Based Self‐Assembled Composite Membranes Doped with Polyvinyl Alcohol and Graphene Oxide for Osmotic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Minmin , Zhang Fusheng , Li Qiongya , Xiao Jie , Lin Qiwen , Qing Guangyan
Published: August 2023

Osmotic energy from the salinity gradients represents a promising energy resource with stable and sustainable characteristics. Nanofluidic membranes can be considered as powerful alternatives to the traditional low‐performance ion exchange membrane to achieve high‐efficiency osmotic energy harvesting. However, the development of a highly efficient and easily scalable core membrane component from low‐cost raw materials remains challenging. Here, a composite membrane based on the self‐assembly of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and graphene oxide (GO) nanoflakes as additives is developed to provide a solution. The introduction of soft PVA polymer significantly improves the mechanical strength and water stability of the composite membrane by forming a nacre‐like structure. Benefiting from the abundant negative charges of CNC nanorods and GO nanoflakes and the generated network nanochannels, the composite membrane demonstrates a good cation‐selective transport capacity, thus contributing to an optimal osmotic energy conversion of 6.5 W m−2 under a 100‐fold salinity gradient and an exemplary stability throughout 25 consecutive days of operation. This work provides an option for the development of nanofluidic membranes that can be easily produced on a large scale from well‐resourced and sustainable biomass materials for high‐efficiency osmotic energy conversion.
Constructing High‐Performance Ternary Device Using Analogous Polymer Donors
Authors: Fang Yu , Deng Xiangmeng , Lu Jiayong , Huang Bin , Chen Shanshan , Liu Kunming , Zhang Jialin , Jeong Seonghun , Yang Changduk , Liu Jinbiao
Published: August 2023

Both ternary copolymerization and ternary blending are effective methods to fine‐tune polymer structure and manipulate thin‐film morphology to improve device performance. In this work, three D‐A‐A‐A (D: donor, A: acceptor) terpolymer donors (FY1, FY2, and FY3) are synthesized by introducing BDD (1,3‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐5,7‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐c:4,5‐c']dithiophene‐4,8‐dione) units into the D–A alternating copolymer PM6 backbone. Owing to the promoted conjugated planarity and excellent absorption of BDD, the obtained terpolymers display an extended absorption range and enhanced π–π stacking orientation, which is a promising third component in ternary device. As a result, the optimal FY1:PM6:BTP‐eC9‐based ternary device afforded an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 18.52%, owing to the efficient charge transport, negligible energy loss, and suitable domain size. The result provides an efficient method to obtain high‐performance polymer solar cells by using analogous polymer donors in ternary device.
Building Negative‐Thermal‐Expansion Protective Layers on the Grain Boundary of Ni‐rich Cathodes Enables Safe and Durable High Voltage Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Nie Wei , Tang Yongfu , Cheng Hongwei , Tian Feng , Sun Qiangchao , Lu Xionggang , Zhao Yufeng
Published: August 2023

Ni‐rich layered oxide cathode materials demonstrate high energy densities for Li‐ion batteries, but the electrochemically driven thermal runaway and mechanical degradation remain their long‐standing challenges in practical applications. Herein, it presents a novel ZrV2O7 (ZVO) coating with negative thermal expansion properties along the secondary particles and primary particle grain boundaries (GBs), to simultaneously enhance the structural and thermal stability of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811). It unveils that, such an architecture can significantly enhance the electronic conductivity, suppress the microcracks of GBs, alleviate the layered to spinel/rock‐salt phase transformation, and meanwhile relieve the lattice oxygen loss by increasing the oxygen vacancy formation energy increased (1.43 vs 1.90 eV). Consequently, the ZVO‐coated NCM811 material demonstrates a remarkable cyclability with 86.5% capacity retention after 100 cycles, and an outstanding rate performance of 30 C under a high‐voltage of 4.6 V, outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art literature. More importantly, the Li+ transportation can be readily blocked at 120 °C by the negative‐thermal‐expansion ZVO coating, thus avoiding the high‐temperature thermal runaway.
Clinical findings, treatment and outcome in cats diagnosed with precursor‐targeted immune‐mediated anaemia in a referral hospital in the UK: 30 cases (2010–2021)
Authors: Maldonado‐Moreno Alba , Seth Mayank , Monti Paola , Miller Rachel
Published: August 2023

Aims

This retrospective study aimed to report clinical findings, treatment response and survival in cats diagnosed with precursor‐targeted immune‐mediated anaemia (PIMA) in a referral hospital in the UK.

Methods

Feline cases diagnosed with presumed PIMA between January 2010 and February 2021 were retrospectively recruited. Signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic tests, treatment and outcome were recorded. Descriptive analytics were performed. Outcomes were documented according to survival to discharge, 30‐day survival, total survival time, response to immunosuppressive treatment and frequency of relapses.

Results

Thirty cats met the inclusion criteria. A higher prevalence of females (19/30) was identified (p = 0.001). Most cats (25/30) presented with haematocrit below 0.15 L/L. Concurrent cytopenias occurred in 18 of 30 cats. Bone marrow diagnosis was erythroid hyperplasia in 24 of 30 cases. Survival to discharge was documented in 26 of 30 cats, of which 23 survived more than 30 days since diagnosis. Initial treatment included blood products (26/30) and prednisolone (26/30) or prednisolone with ciclosporin (3/30); 18 of 30 cats responded to treatment, with a normal haematocrit at a mean of 28 days. The initial haematocrit and the presence of concurrent cytopenia were not statistically different between responders and non‐responders. The median survival time was 140 days (range 1–3930 days).

Conclusions and relevance

The treatment response rate of feline PIMA was high (60%), with a mortality rate of 23% over the 30 days following diagnosis. Relapses occur frequently (77%) but the response rate after treatment modification was high (76%) and therefore ongoing treatment may be justified at that point. Long survival times (up to 3930 days) can be achieved.
Anesthesia for office‐based facial plastic surgery procedures
Authors: Bharadwaj Suhas , Dougherty William
Published: August 2023

Objective

The objective of this study is to provide a state‐of‐the‐art review on the use of anesthetics for in‐office facial plastic procedures.

Methods

A search was performed on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Review using the keywords “anesthesia,” “office‐based procedures,” “local anesthesia,” “facial plastics,” “oral sedation,” “moderate sedation,” and “deep sedation.”

Results and Conclusions

Over the past few decades, the shift toward in‐office invasive procedures has increased patient convenience and decreased hospital resource utilization. Many tools exist to reduce patient anxiety and discomfort in an office‐based setting. With proper patient selection and technique, facial plastic surgeons can adequately anesthetize patients to perform Mohs reconstruction, cutaneous excisions, blepharoplasty, face‐lifts, and other in‐office procedures.
Development of convective heat transport in nanofluid flow of Oldroyd‐B model with magnetic dipole moment
Authors: Li Shuguang , Khan Sami Ullah , Al‐Khaled Kamel , Ali Ezza , Khan M. Ijaz , Elamin Khalda Mohamed Ahmed , Fadhl Bandar M. , Makhdoum Basim M.
Published: August 2023

The phenomenon of heat as well as mass transfer due to ferromagnetic flow of Oldroyd‐B nanofluid is addressed. The additional thermal source like heat source, thermal radiation, and activation energy features has been implemented to extend the dynamic of flow problem. The source of flow is moving stretching surface with magnetic dipole impact. The convective boundary conditions are implemented. The Boungrino nanofluid model is used to observe the thermophoresis and Brownian motion consequences. The mathematical modeling of problem in view of flow assumptions will be converted into the non‐dimensional form. The numerical shooting technique will be implemented for presenting the approximate simulations. After verifying the solution accuracy, the physical dynamic of problem with variation of parameter is presented. It is noticed that the velocity profile reduces due to ferrohydrodynamic interaction parameter. An enhanced thermal profile is observed due to relaxation time constant and ferrohydrodynamic interaction parameter. Furthermore, the concentration profile reduces for retardation time constant parameter.
2d Sigma-Models and DAHA
Authors: Gukov Sergei , Koroteev Peter , Nawata Satoshi , Pei Du , Saberi Ingmar
Published: August 2023

In this section, we study representation theory of DAHA, strictly speaking, the spherical subalgebra of DAHA of type $$A_1$$

A
1

, in terms of brane quantization in the 2d A-model [85] on the moduli space of flat $${{\,\textrm{SL}\,}}(2,\mathbb {C})$$

SL

(
2
,
C
)

-connections on a once-punctured torus. The brane quantization lends itself well to a geometric approach to representation theory of spherical DAHA, which provides novel viewpoints.
4d Theories, Fivebranes, and M-Theory
Authors: Gukov Sergei , Koroteev Peter , Nawata Satoshi , Pei Du , Saberi Ingmar
Published: August 2023

In this section, we study line operators in the 4d $$\mathcal {N}=2^*$$

N
=

2
∗

theories. A 4d $$\mathcal {N}=2$$

N
=
2

theory of class $$\mathcal {S}$$
S
arises from a compactification of 6d $$\mathcal {N}=(2, 0)$$

N
=
(
2
,
0
)

theory on a once-punctured torus C. The spectrum of line operators in the theory depends on additional discrete data, a maximal isotropic lattice $$\textsf{L}\subset H^1(C,Z(G))$$

L
⊂

H
1

(
C
,
Z

(
G
)

)

where line operators must be invariant under the discrete group $$\textsf{L}$$
L
. Therefore, we will show that a non-commutative algebra of line operators of a 4d $$\mathcal {N}=2^*$$

N
=

2
∗

theory on $$S^1\times \mathbb {R}\times _q \mathbb {R}^2$$

S
1

×
R

×
q

R

2

with the $$\Omega $$
Ω
-background is the $$\textsf{L}$$
L
-invariant subalgebra of spherical DAHA.
Exploring Value and Ethical Dimensions of Disruptive Technologies for Learning and Teaching
Authors: Väljataga Terje , Pata Kai , Annus Andrea , Calisto Michelle Andrade , Cambronero Agueda Gomez , Eisemann Elmar , Kasini Athina , Marroquim Ricardo , Remolar Inmaculada , Szécsi László , Zaidi Amir , Vidal Rubén García
Published: August 2023

Disruptive technology has become an integral part of our lives, and it has brought about a significant transformation in the way we interact, communicate, and share information, also in the field of education. Innovation in technology needs to be based on ethics and values of the intended result. As the use of disruptive technology continues to grow, so does the need to understand and consider ethical and value dimensions. How can disruptive technology be developed and used in an ethical way for learning and teaching? What are the values the development and implementation of disruptive technology for education should take into account? How to measure and evaluate values and ethical dimensions of disruptive technology for educational purposes? Are some of the important questions to address. This workshop paper presents a method for eliciting values and ethical dimensions of learning scenarios with disruptive technologies in vocational and higher education settings and illustrates its implementation in the context of the Horizon Europe e-DIPLOMA project. The workshop method, combining value cards and learning scenarios with disruptive technologies, was implemented in seven different countries. The preliminary results of the workshops are presented. The method has the potential to draw peoples’ attention to prospective value concerns and ethical aspects necessary for understanding and acknowledging the consequence of implementing disruptive technologies in education.
Expositionstherapie bei Panikstörung und Agoraphobie im Kontext bestehender antidepressiver Medikation
Authors: Hahnfeld Malte , Ritter Philipp , Sauer Cathrin , Weidner Kerstin , Noack René
Published: August 2023

Hintergrund

Kognitive Verhaltenstherapie (KVT) und Pharmakotherapie mit Antidepressiva stellen bei Agoraphobie und/oder Panikstörung jeweils hochwirksame Behandlungsmethoden dar. Eine Kombination von KVT und Antidepressiva wird jedoch aufgrund potenziell ungünstiger Interferenzeffekte diskutiert. Untersucht wurden die Assoziationen einer bestehenden antidepressiven Medikation mit Panik- und agoraphobischer Symptombelastung und deren Veränderung im Kontext einer strukturierten fünfwöchigen tagesklinischen und auf Expositionen fokussierten Behandlung in einem naturalistischen Setting.

Methodik

Von insgesamt n = 488 Patient*innen konnte für n = 380 retrospektiv die Medikamenteneinnahme während der Behandlung ermittelt werden: n = 100 (26,3 %) nahmen Antidepressiva verschiedener Wirkstoffklassen ein. Die Berechnungen erfolgten mittels multipler linearer Regressionsanalyse, t‑Tests, Responseanalysen und χ2-Tests.

Ergebnisse

Patient*innen mit bestehender antidepressiver Medikation erfüllten häufiger die Kriterien einer komorbiden depressiven Störung (p < 0,001). Das Maß der Symptomveränderung und die Therapieresponseraten unterschieden sich nicht zwischen Patient*innen mit und ohne Antidepressiva in Bezug auf die Angstsymptomatik.

Diskussion

Im untersuchten Kontext profitierten Patient*innen mit und ohne bestehende antidepressive Medikation in gleichem Maße von KVT in Bezug auf die Angstsymptomatik.
Optimal design and performance analysis of coastal microgrid using different optimization algorithms
Authors: Bakeer Abualkasim , Elmorshedy Mahmoud F. , Salama Hossam S. , Elkadeem Mohamed R. , Almakhles Dhafer J. , Kotb Kotb M.
Published: August 2023

Owing to the stochastic behavior of renewable energy activity and the multiple design considerations, the advancement of hybrid renewable energy-based microgrid (HREMG) systems has become a complex task. This study proposes a design optimization algorithm for the long-term operation of an autonomous HREMG along with the optimal system capacities. The investigated energy system comprises photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, diesel generators, and batteries. It aims to energize a remote coastal community with a daily load demand of 400 kWh in Marsa Matruh, Egypt. Since most studies utilize commercial tools in the design optimization procedure, the African vultures optimization approach (AVOA) is developed to find the optimal energy alternative and determine the optimal component’s capacity considering achieving the minimum energy cost and loss of power supply probability. Moreover, an adequate energy management strategy is suggested to coordinate the power flow within the energy system in which renewable energy sources are fully penetrated. To check the AVOA robustness and efficacy, its performance is compared with the HOMER Pro most popular commercial tool as well as with new metaheuristic algorithms, namely the grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) and Giza pyramid construction (GPC) under the same operating environment. The results revealed that the proposed AVOA achieved superior economic results toward the least net present cost ($346,614) and energy price (0.0947 $/kWh). Moreover, over 20 independent runs, the AVOA showed a better performance in terms of convergence and execution time compared to other tools/algorithms. The obtained findings could be a useful benchmark for researchers in the sizing problem of hybrid energy systems.
Bone Mineral Density During and After Lactation: A Comparison of African American and Caucasian Women
Authors: Augustine Marilyn , Boudreau Robert , Cauley Jane A. , Majchel Deborah , Nagaraj Nayana , Roe Lauren S. , Sood Poonam , Stewart Andrew F. , Horwitz Mara J.
Published: August 2023

During lactation, changes in maternal calcium metabolism are necessary to provide adequate calcium for newborn skeletal development. The calcium in milk is derived from the maternal skeleton through a process thought to be mediated by the actions of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in combination with decreased circulating estrogen concentrations. After weaning, bone lost during lactation is rapidly regained. Most studies of bone metabolism in lactating women have been performed in Caucasian subjects. There are well-documented differences between African American (AA) and Caucasian (C) bone metabolism, including higher bone mineral density (BMD), lower risk of fracture, lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D), and higher PTH in AA compared to C. In this prospective paired cohort study, BMD and markers of bone turnover were compared in self-identified AA and C mothers during lactation and after weaning. BMD decreased in both AA and C women during lactation, with similar decreases at the lumbar spine (LS) and greater bone loss in the C group at the femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH), demonstrating that AA are not resistant to PTHrP during lactation. BMD recovery compared to the 2 week postpartum baseline was observed 6 months after weaning, though the C group did not have complete recovery at the FN. Increases in markers of bone formation and resorption during lactation were similar in AA and C. C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) decreased to 30% below post-pregnancy baseline in both groups 6 months after weaning, while procollagen type 1 N-terminal (P1NP) returned to baseline in the AA group and fell to below baseline in the C group. Further investigation is required to determine impacts on long term bone health for women who do not fully recover BMD before a subsequent pregnancy.
Branching coral growth and visual health during bleaching and recovery on the central Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Anderson-King K. D. , Wayman C. , Stephenson S. , Heron S. F. , Lough J. M. , McWilliam M. , Richardson L. E. , Scott M. E. , Cantin N. E.
Published: August 2023

Coral reefs are under threat from cumulative impacts such as cyclones, crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks and climate-driven coral bleaching events. Branching corals are more severely impacted by these events than other coral morphologies due to their sensitivity to heat stress and weaker skeletons and COTS preferred prey. The central Great Barrier Reef experienced unprecedented back-to-back bleaching events in 2016 and 2017. This study commenced in 2017 at the peak of heat stress and examined the impact of the heatwave on the survival and recovery of corals by assessing the growth, health (based on the visual health index) and physiological parameters (chlorophyll a, zooxanthellae density, lipid and protein content) of two species, Acropora millepora and Pocillopora acuta (N = 60 colonies for each species). It was conducted across a gradient of turbidity at three reefs, Pandora, Orpheus and Rib, that experienced in April 2017, degree heating weeks (DHW) of 9, 8 and 7, respectively. Orpheus experienced the worst bleaching, based on visual health score, followed by Rib and Pandora. Rib experienced the greatest mortality (78% by Nov 2017); however, this was attributed to the presence of actively feeding crown-of-thorns starfish. Growth rates of A. millepora were almost twice the rate of P. acuta. Both species showed significant seasonal variation with growth of A. millepora and P. acuta 35–40% and 23–33% significantly greater in the summer, respectively. Differences in growth rates were best explained by indicators of energy acquisition. For example, the most important predictor variable in determining higher growth rates and visual health score in A. millepora was chlorophyll a content. For P. acuta, visual health score was the best predictor variable for higher growth rates. This study highlights the important role that chlorophyll a and associated symbionts play in growth and survival in these corals during and after a heat stress event.
Muscle deoxygenation during ramp incremental cycle exercise in older adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: McDermott Adam , Nevin Aaron , Gildea Norita , Rocha Joel , O’Shea Donal , Egaña Mikel
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To explore profiles of fractional O2 extraction (using near-infrared spectroscopy) during ramp incremental cycling in older individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Twelve individuals with T2D (mean ± SD, age: 63 ± 3 years) and 12 healthy controls (mean age: 65 ± 3 years) completed a ramp cycling exercise. Rates of muscle deoxygenation (i.e., deoxygenated haemoglobin and myoglobin, Δ[HHb + Mb]) profiles of the vastus lateralis muscle were normalised to 100% of the response, plotted against absolute (W) and relative (%peak) power output (PO) and fitted with a double linear regression model.

Results

Peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak) was significantly (P < 0.01) reduced in T2D (23.0 ± 4.2 ml.kg−1.min−1) compared with controls (28.3 ± 5.3 ml.kg−1.min−1). The slope of the first linear segment of the model was greater (median (interquartile range)) in T2D (1.06 (1.50)) than controls (0.79 (1.06)) when Δ%[HHb + Mb] was plotted as a function of PO. In addition, the onset of the second linear segment of the Δ%[HHb + Mb]/PO model occurred at a lower exercise intensity in T2D (101 ± 35 W) than controls (140 ± 34 W) and it displayed a near-plateau response in both groups. When the relationship of the Δ%[HHb + Mb] profile was expressed as a function of %PO no differences were observed in any parameters of the double linear model.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that older individuals with uncomplicated T2D demonstrate greater fractional oxygen extraction for a given absolute PO compared with older controls. Thus, the reductions in V̇O2peak in older people with T2D are likely influenced by impairments in microvascular O2 delivery.
The benefit of metformin in the treatment of pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Gkiourtzis Nikolaos , Michou Panagiota , Moutafi Maria , Glava Agni , Cheirakis Konstantinos , Christakopoulos Aristeidis , Vouksinou Eleni , Fotoulaki Maria
Published: August 2023

This is the first meta-analysis of the available literature about the efficacy of metformin exclusively in pediatric patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We conducted a systematic literature search through major electronic databases till March 12, 2023, investigating the efficacy and safety of metformin in pediatric NAFLD. Weighted mean difference (WD) and standard deviation (SD) were used for continuous outcomes. In total, 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 309 pediatric patients with NAFLD were included in the meta-analysis. Metformin could not reach a statistically significant improvement in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels [(ALT: WMD =  − 1.55 IU/L, 95% CI: − 5.38 to 2.28, I2 = 16%, p = 0.43), but had a statistically significant impact (p < 0.05) in insulin and HOMA-IR regulation, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein level improvement.

   Conclusion: According to the data of this meta-analysis, treatment with metformin failed to statistically improve liver enzymes but may be beneficial in the improvement of lipid parameters and insulin metabolism regulation in pediatric patients with NAFLD. As there are not enough available studies in the literature, the influence of metformin on liver ultrasonography or histology in pediatric NAFLD should be further analyzed in future studies.

What is Known:• Lifestyle modification with weight loss through physical activity and dietary modification is the recommended treatment option for pediatric NAFLD.• Metformin may reduce steatosis on ultrasound and may have a beneficial role in liver histology collated with insulin resistance improvement.

What is New:• Metformin may improve insulin sensitivity and lipid parameters in children with obesity and NAFLD.• Metformin does not have a significant effect on transaminase levels in children with obesity and NAFLD.
Antibiotic impregnated cement coated intramedullary nail (ACCIN) using bronchoscopy tubing: technical tips, case series and a review of the literature
Authors: Graff Christy , Mathur Tanishq
Published: August 2023

Antibiotic impregnated cement coated intramedullary nails (ACCINs) have been used in clinical practice for many years and have been shown to help eradicate infection in tibial osteomyelitis while providing stability. We present a novel technique for preparation using bronchoscopy tubing, as well as technical tips and a review of the literature, for ease of preparation and potential subsequent retrieval.
Systemische Lysetherapie (rtPA) des ischämischen Schlaganfalls bei Patient:innen unter oraler Antikoagulation
Authors: Sick Cristina Cerinza , Vosko Milan R.
Published: August 2023

Die systemische Thrombolyse ist eine effektive und häufige Rekanalisationstherapie des akuten ischämischen Schlaganfalles. Eine Antikoagulation ist traditionell eine der typischen Kontraindikationen für die Anwendung der Lysetherapie. Die orale Antikoagulation (OAK) ist die effektivste Form der Prophylaxe von systemischen Thrombosen bei Patient:innen mit nicht valvulärem Vorhofflimmern. Jedoch auch diese Patient:innen können Rezidivschlaganfälle erleiden.

Dieser Beitrag bietet eine kurze Zusammenfassung der aktuellen Daten zur Thrombolyse bei Patient:innen mit akutem ischämischem Schlaganfall unter OAK und stellt einen Fallbericht vor.
Deep learning discovery of macroscopic governing equations for viscous gravity currents from microscopic simulation data
Authors: Zeng Junsheng , Xu Hao , Chen Yuntian , Zhang Dongxiao
Published: August 2023

Although deep learning has been successfully applied in a variety of science and engineering problems owing to its strong high-dimensional nonlinear mapping capability, it is of limited use in scientific knowledge discovery. In this work, we propose a deep learning based framework to discover the macroscopic governing equation of an important geophysical process, i.e., viscous gravity current, based on high-resolution microscopic simulation data without the need for prior knowledge of underlying terms. For two typical scenarios with different viscosity ratios, the deep learning based equations exactly capture the same dominant terms as the theoretically derived equations for describing long-term asymptotic behaviors, which validates the proposed framework. Unknown macroscopic equations are then obtained for describing short-term behaviors, and additional deep-learned compensation terms are eventually discovered. Comparison of posterior tests shows that the deep learning based PDEs actually perform better than the theoretically derived PDEs in predicting evolving viscous gravity currents for both long-term and short-term regimes. Moreover, the proposed framework is proven to be very robust against non-biased data noise for training, which is up to 20%. Consequently, the presented deep learning framework shows considerable potential for discovering unrevealed intrinsic laws in scientific semantic space from raw experimental or simulation results in data space.
Soil Moisture and Sea Surface Salinity Derived from Satellite-Borne Sensors
Authors: Boutin J. , Yueh S. , Bindlish R. , Chan S. , Entekhabi D. , Kerr Y. , Kolodziejczyk N. , Lee T. , Reul N. , Zribi M.
Published: August 2023

The monitoring of soil moisture and sea surface salinity over the Earth has been profoundly enhanced during the last thirteen years due to a new generation of satellite sensors. L-band radiometry is currently the only technology providing direct measurements of soil moisture, insensitive to surface roughness and distribution of elements in the soil, and the only technology the only technology for measuring that allows us to measure sea surface salinity from space. The Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS) and Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite missions resolve global and local variability with a spatial resolution of approximately 43 km, a swath width close to 1000 km, and a sampling time, for each mission, of at least twice every 3 days. These resolutions and samplings can be increased by either merging data from the two sensors, and with complementary information gathered from other passive or active sensors, or with in situ information at higher spatial resolution. Numerous scientific studies based on the use of this new type of measurement have led to a better understanding and constraint of the processes governing the variability of the water cycle, ocean circulation and the Earth's climate. The continuity of measurements, and the increased spatial and radiometric resolution is critical for fulfilling scientific needs. Future L-band radiometry missions currently being planned in Europe (the Copernicus Imaging Microwave Radiometer), and in China (the Ocean Salinity mission) should provide better constraints on auxiliary parameters by combining multiple frequencies, but they will not have improved spatial resolution beyond SMOS and SMAP. The temporal continuity with SMOS and SMAP will likely not be ensured. In parallel, new concepts are being developed to increase spatial resolution of both land and ocean parameters.
Enhanced therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles within chitosan hydrogel in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Yang Shuangshuang , Chen Siyu , Zhang Chengpeng , Han Jing , Lin Chunyuan , Zhao Xiaohui , Guo Huizhen , Tan Yi
Published: August 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) have emerged as promising candidates for cell-free therapy in various diseases, including chronic cutaneous wounds. However, the lack of standardized protocols for EVs’ preparation and identification poses a significant challenge to their clinical application. Thus, the objective was to develop a safe and efficient method for the large-scale production of hUCMSC-derived EVs while establishing a comprehensive identification protocol encompassing morphology, particle size distribution, protein expression, and purity. This study observed that most of the EVs acquired through the protocol exhibited either a cup-shaped or round-shaped structure, with a median diameter of ~73.25 nm. The proportions of EVs positive for CD9, CD63, and CD81 were 37.5%, 38.6%, and 19.8%, respectively. To enhance their therapeutic potential in wound treatment, EVs were incorporated into chitosan hydrogel, forming chitosan hydrogel-EVs (CS-EVs). Furthermore, it was demonstrated that CS-EVs exhibited continuous release of EVs into the surrounding environment and, importantly, that the released EVs were internalized by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), resulting in significant enhancement of cell migration and angiogenesis. Additionally, in a rat model of diabetic foot ulcers, CS-EVs demonstrated a robust therapeutic effect in promoting wound healing. Following a 15-day treatment period, the group treated with CS-EVs demonstrated an impressive 93.3% wound closure ability, accompanied by a high degree of re-epithelialization. In contrast, the control group exhibited only a 71.5% reduction in wound size. In summary, this study offers solutions for the purification, characterization, and application of EVs in clinical wound treatment. These results not only offer fresh perspectives on the involvement of hUCMSC-derived EVs in wound healing but also introduce a non-invasive approach for applying EVs that holds practical significance in skin repair.

Graphical Abstract
Inequality and Social Distancing during the Pandemic
Authors: Brown Caitlin , Ravallion Martin
Published: August 2023

We study how pre-pandemic inequalities in the United States influenced social distancing over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Richer counties tended to see more protective mobility responses in the initial (pre-pharmaceutical) phase, but less protective responses later. Near linearity of this income effect implies that inequality between counties contributed very little to overall mobility reductions. By contrast, higher within-county inequality and/or poverty came with substantially larger attenuations to non-residential mobility at given average incomes. There were also significant effects of the county’s racial and age composition. County employment composition is found to be additionally important, with reductions in mobility in counties with a higher share of professional workers.
Throughflow effect on bi-disperse convection
Authors: Capone Florinda , De Luca Roberta , Massa Giuliana
Published: August 2023

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of a vertical constant throughflow on convective instabilities in a horizontal layer of fluid-saturated bi-disperse porous medium heated from below. Via linear instability and nonlinear stability analyses of the throughflow solution, the linear and nonlinear critical Rayleigh numbers for convective instabilities have been determined and studied as functions of the strength of the throughflow.
Impact of lymphovascular invasion on otherwise low-risk papillary thyroid carcinomas: a retrospective and observational study
Authors: Puga Francisca Marques , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Hartl Dana M. , Bani Mohamed-Amine , Moog Sophie , Pani Fabiana , Breuskin Ingrid , Guerlain Joanne , Faron Matthieu , Denadreis Desirée , Baudin Eric , Hadoux Julien , Lamartina Livia
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Presence of venous vascular invasion is a criterion of intermediate risk of recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the presence and type of vascular invasion (lymphatic or venous) is often underreported and its impact on PTCs without other risk features remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of both lymphatic and venous invasion on the risk of recurrence/persistence on otherwise low-risk PTCs.

Methods

Retrospective study including patients with otherwise low-risk PTCs but with vascular invasion, diagnosed between 2013 and 2019. The persistence/recurrence during the follow-up was evaluated. Pathology was reviewed to confirm the presence of lymphovascular invasion and determine the type of invasion.

Results

A total of 141 patients were included. Lymphovascular invasion was confirmed in 20.6%. After surgery, 48.9% (N = 69) of the patients received radioactive iodine (RAI). The median follow-up time was 4 [3–6] years. Overall, 6 (4.2%) patients experienced persistent/recurrent disease in the neck, including 3 with lymphovascular invasion, confirmed as “only lymphatic”. Overall, patients with tumors harboring lymphovascular invasion had sensibly more persistent/recurrence disease compared with those without lymphovascular invasion (10.3% vs 2.7%, p = 0.1), especially in the subgroup of patients not treated with RAI (20% vs 1.6%, p = 0.049) [OR 15.25, 95% CI 1.24-187.85, p = 0.033].

Conclusion

Lymphovascular invasion, including lymphatic invasion only, is associated with a sensibly higher risk of persistent/recurrent disease in otherwise low-risk PTCs, namely in patients not treated with RAI. Lymphatic invasion could have a role in risk-stratification systems for decision making.