bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of transcranial Doppler in the diagnosis and management of cervical artery dissection: Insights from a multicenter survey within the STOP‐CAD study
Authors: Guo Xiaofan , Sabayan Behnam , Shifflett Benjamin , Khan Muhib , Antonenko Kateryna , Heldner Mirjam R. , Romoli Michele , Marto João Pedro , Keser Zafer , Rothstein Aaron , Khazaal Ossama , Elnazeir Marwa , Hansra Harjot , Meyer Brett C. , Meyer Dawn M. , Bavarsad Shahripour Reza
Published: October 2024

Background

Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a common cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. Local blood clot formation and distal emboli are the key mechanisms for the development of stroke in patients with CAD. Microemboli distal to the dissection point can be detected as high‐intensity transient signals (HITS) using transcranial Doppler (TCD). Despite this unique capability, TCD is used inconsistently in the management of CAD. In this international survey, we aim to explore the frequency and potential barriers to TCD use in CAD.

Method

This study was an international electronic survey, based on the Antithrombotic Treatment for Stroke Prevention in Cervical Artery Dissection (STOP‐CAD) study, aiming at evaluating the use of TCD in diagnosing and managing CAD patients. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed to gather insights into the current practices, perceptions, and potential barriers to the effective use of TCD in participating centers. The collected data was then analyzed.

Results

Fifty‐eight medical centers with advanced stroke care capabilities from Europe and United States participated in this study. Half (29 out of 58) of the sites routinely perform TCD on CAD patients, particularly in the presence of carotid or vertebral artery stenosis, complete carotid occlusion, and early neurologic deterioration. The primary reason for participating institutions not performing TCD was because its results would not change their practice. The protocol for TCD monitoring and managing HITS‐positive CAD patients varied among centers but transitioning from antiplatelet to anticoagulant was the most common practice in this patient population.

Conclusion

Half of the stroke centers in our survey routinely perform TCD monitoring for CAD patients. The detection of HITS in CAD patients is a warning sign for providers, which may prompt a change in secondary stroke prevention management. However, a standard protocol for performing TCD in CAD and treatment recommendations for HITS‐positive CAD are not currently available, which warrants further research.
Weighted multi‐innovation parameter estimation for a time‐varying Volterra–Hammerstein system with colored noise
Authors: Zhao Yanshuai , Ji Yan
Published: October 2024

This article considers the parameter estimation problems of a time‐varying Volterra–Hammerstein (V–H) system with colored noise. We derive a weighted multi‐innovation forgetting factor gradient algorithm by applying the multi‐innovation identification with the weight matrix to adjust the weights of the innovation vector. In order to simplify the identification algorithm and improve the parameter estimation accuracy, the original V–H system with colored noise is separated into two sub‐systems by the hierarchical identification theory. A weighted hierarchical multi‐innovation forgetting factor gradient algorithm is presented for two sub‐systems. Numerical simulation examples test the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Preparation of polyelectrolyte based on bottle brush Polyethylene glycol‐Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) copolymers
Authors: Norouzi Negin , Tehrani Ashkan , Naderkhani Neda , Pourmahdian Saeed , Zahedi Farzad , Mokhtari Zahra
Published: October 2024

The increased demand for high energy‐density batteries led to using lithium metal (Li) anode. However, safety issues associated with Li anode encouraged the researchers to use less reactive and safer electrolytes with higher electrochemical stability. High ionic conductivity (σ), wider electrochemical stability window, and higher mechanical strength alongside the ability to self‐heal possible structural damages were at the center of focus for developing efficient solid electrolytes. In this regard, we developed a group of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) with high σ and electrochemical stability. In this regard, bottle brush polyethylene glycol (bbPEG) was synthesized using a chain transfer reaction. Polynipaam (PNIPAAM) blocks were also incorporated into the structure to prepare a block copolymer based on PNIPAM‐bbPEG‐PNIMAM represented by the ABA structure. The block copolymer was then blended with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with the block copolymer to PVDF weight ratio of 7:2% and 25% bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide (TFSI) salt was added and the final mixture was UV‐cured. The results indicated that the final SPE possessed high ionic conductivity with a relatively high lithium‐ion transference number () of 0.416 and the σ of 1.265 × 10−5 S/cm at 25°C.
Microhardness and wear behavior of nanodiamond‐reinforced nanocomposites for dental applications
Authors: Moriche Rocío , Artigas‐Arnaudas Joaquín , Chetwani Bhanu , Sánchez María , Campo Mónica , Prolongo Margarita G. , Rams Joaquín , Prolongo Silvia G. , Ureña Alejandro
Published: October 2024

In polymer‐based dental composites, wear is a three‐body wear system mainly abrasive, because of the food particles and wear products suspended in the oral cavity, which are transferred to the microcavities of the surface of the replacements. Due to this fact, the incorporation of nanodiamond as reinforcement in these polymer–matrix composites, which promotes the creation of a solid lubricant tribofilm surface could be advantageous. With the reinforcement of nanodiamonds, BisGMA/TEGDMA‐based composites increase their microhardness by 95%–420%. A maximum hardness exceeding 65 HV is achieved with a reinforcement of 3.2 wt%. The specific wear rate of neat BisGMA/TEGDMA is near 10−4 mm3/Nm and the Archard's coefficient is 2.6 × 105. The incorporation of a content of 1.6 wt% ND is enough to cause a diminution of ~78% in the friction coefficient and a reduction of the specific wear rate and Archard's coefficient of ~50%. Nevertheless, the addition of relatively high contents reduces the effectiveness of photoinitiation and photocuring, which is related to the scattering and absorption of light radiation by ND. This causes a significant decline in elastic properties starting at 50 μm from the surface.

Highlights

Photocuring polymer resin was successfully reinforced with nanodiamonds.

Microhardness increases from 95% up to 420%, close to commercial composites.

Friction coefficient and wear rate are reduced with 1.6 wt% nanodiamonds.

High levels of reinforcement reduce the effectiveness of photocuring.
Contribution of Genomic Imbalance in Prenatal Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract: A Multi‐Center Cohort Study
Authors: Li Keying , Wang Huilin , Chau Matthew Hoi Kin , Dong Zirui , Cao Ye , Zheng Yu , Leung Tak Yeung , Choy Kwong Wai , Zhu Yuanfang
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To investigate the diagnostic utility of copy‐number variant (CNV) detection by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and genotype‐phenotype associations in prenatal congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT).

Methods

This is a retrospective multi‐center study of CNV analysis in 457 fetuses with ultrasound‐detected CAKUT and normal karyotypes. Cohorts from published studies were included for further pooled analyses (N = 2746). A literature review of single‐nucleotide variant (SNV) and small insertions and deletions (Indel) analysis by whole‐exome sequencing was performed to investigate monogenic causes.

Results

In our multi‐center cohort, 5.3% (24/457) of fetuses had pathogenic CNVs (pCNV); 3.9% (14/359) and 10.2% (10/98) in isolated and non‐isolated CAKUT, respectively. Fetuses with isolated hyperechogenic kidneys (HEK) had the highest incidence of having pCNVs. In the literature review, 6.6% (180/2746) of fetuses carried pCNVs; 6.1% and 7.5% in isolated and non‐isolated CAKUT, respectively. SNV/Indel analysis provided at least 16.5% (63/381) additional diagnostic yield beyond CNV analysis; 12.8% and 23.8% in isolated and non‐isolated CAKUT, respectively.

Conclusion

pCNVs comprise a significant proportion of genetic diagnostic findings in prenatal CAKUT, most commonly detected in fetuses with isolated HEK, MCDK, renal agenesis, and non‐isolated CAKUT. Monogenic causes should be considered when karyotyping and CMA are nondiagnostic.
Synthesis of a poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) composite with bioactive additives in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Khudaida Salal Hasan , Cai Xiang‐Wei , Chen Pei‐Hua , Su Chie‐Shaan
Published: October 2024

In this study, a composite of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) with two bioactive additives, beta‐tricalcium phosphate and calcium sulfate dihydrate, was synthesized through precipitation polymerization in supercritical carbon dioxide using 2,2′‐azobis(2‐methylpropionitrile) as a free‐radical initiator. The feasible reaction temperature and pressure were screened, and the effects of monomer weight and initiator‐to‐monomer ratio are discussed. With the appropriate condition for synthesizing PHEMA with a satisfactory yield higher than 95%, two bioactive additives were introduced into the reaction medium for designing the composite. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, powder X‐ray diffractometry, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis were employed to analyze the spectroscopic properties, surface morphology, crystal structure, element distribution, and thermal properties of the PHEMA composite. These results confirm the successful preparation of a PHEMA composite and demonstrate an approach to synthesizing a biocompatible composite using a one‐step and organic solvent‐free process.

Highlights

A poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) composite with beta‐tricalcium phosphate and calcium sulfate dihydrate was designed in supercritical CO2.

A feasible condition was screened with a satisfactory yield higher than 95%.

Rough surfaces in composite particles offer potential for biomedical use.
Forced trends and internal variability in climate change projections of extreme European windstorm frequency and severity
Authors: Priestley Matthew D. K. , Stephenson David B. , Scaife Adam A. , Bannister Daniel , Allen Christopher J. T. , Wilkie David
Published: October 2024

Climate change projections of European windstorm damages are highly uncertain because of different climate model responses and large internal variability. This study uses generalized linear models and a weighted median estimation to optimally extract forced trends in a number of European windstorm metrics. Footprints of windstorms associated with extratropical cyclones are created for an ensemble of models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) across a full transient time series from 1980 to 2100. Trends are assessed over time, but also as a function of global mean surface temperature changes. Trends in aggregate severity are attributed to changes in storm average severity, frequency, and area impacted, with changes in area being the dominant driver of changes to average storm severity. Confidence in the findings is assessed, with high confidence of declines in frequency for southern and northern Europe, medium confidence of an increase in average windstorm severity for parts of northwestern Europe, and low confidence of any changes for eastern Europe. A 15‐member ensemble of the MPI‐ESM1‐2‐LR model is used to assess internal variability. Trends between individual members can vary significantly; however, the uncertainty due to internal variability in the 15‐member ensemble is generally only 50% of that in the multimodel ensemble of CMIP6 models for aggregate severity. With largest uncertainty coming from model differences, a large proportion of uncertainty in future windstorms is therefore potentially reducible with modelling advances.
In‐Pipe Maintenance Robot Using Spray‐In‐Place Pipe Technique for Long‐Distance and Complex Pipe Environment
Authors: Chan Colin Pak Yu , Qu Zijia , Shiu Kin Hei , So Chun Ho , Koh Keng Huat , Farhan Musthafa , Ho Chun Yiu , Wong Tsz Hei , Lai King Wai Chiu
Published: October 2024

Conventional pipe rehabilitation technologies are not the most sustainable solution for the utility industry because of various drawbacks, such as time consumption, disturbance to operations, society, and traffic, and the production of waste material. However, aged underground metal pipes are affected by natural forces. Trenchless rehabilitation technologies have been introduced for the treatment and renovation of aged pipes to ensure that utilities are safe and durable from an economic perspective. This paper proposes a portable and automatic robotic solution for a trenchless spray‐in‐place pipe approach for small underground pipelines. This approach shortens the duration of the rehabilitation operation from approximately a week to < 5 h. The robot delivered and monitored a protective well‐mixed urethane coating with plural components accurately using rotary mixing and spraying with a low‐pressure and safer configuration (< 0.8 MPa). The robot exhibited superior capacities in complicated pipe environments for turning into 90° elbows and 6‐in. (150 mm), 8‐in. (200 mm), and 10‐in. (250 mm) pipelines. An automated robot was deployed and rehabilitated at various underground and on‐ground pipe sites. The spray performance was validated using tensile tests. This robot can be applied to any pipeline system and can be developed for other in‐pipe robotic construction and renovation approaches.
Pairwise Accelerated Failure Time Regression Models for Infectious Disease Transmission in Close‐Contact Groups With External Sources of Infection
Authors: Sharker Yushuf , Diallo Zaynab , KhudaBukhsh Wasiur R. , Kenah Eben
Published: October 2024

Many important questions in infectious disease epidemiology involve associations between covariates (e.g., age or vaccination status) and infectiousness or susceptibility. Because disease transmission produces dependent outcomes, these questions are difficult or impossible to address using standard regression models from biostatistics. Pairwise survival analysis handles dependent outcomes by calculating likelihoods in terms of contact interval distributions in ordered pairs of individuals. The contact interval in the ordered pair is the time from the onset of infectiousness in to infectious contact from to, where an infectious contact is sufficient to infect if they are susceptible. Here, we introduce a pairwise accelerated failure time regression model for infectious disease transmission that allows the rate parameter of the contact interval distribution to depend on individual‐level infectiousness covariates for, individual‐level susceptibility covariates for, and pair‐level covariates (e.g., type of relationship). This model can simultaneously handle internal infections (caused by transmission between individuals under observation) and external infections (caused by environmental or community sources of infection). We show that this model produces consistent and asymptotically normal parameter estimates. In a simulation study, we evaluate bias and confidence interval coverage probabilities, explore the role of epidemiologic study design, and investigate the effects of model misspecification. We use this regression model to analyze household data from Los Angeles County during the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, where we find that the ability to account for external sources of infection increases the statistical power to estimate the effect of antiviral prophylaxis.
Risk Factors for Actinic Keratosis, Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer and Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma in Persons with and Without Parkinson’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Azizi Esther , Feuerman Hana , Peleg Idit , Pavlotsky Felix , Segal Zvi , Oberman Bernice , Lev Nirit , Hodak Emmilia , Djaldetti Ruth , Hassin-Baer Sharon , Inzelberg Rivka
Published: October 2024

Background

An epidemiological link between Parkinson's disease (PD) and cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) has been widely reported. The role of CMM risk factors in this association is unclear.

Objectives

To compare rates of risk factors for skin tumours, specifically actinic keratosis (AK), non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and CMM, between persons with and without PD.

Methods

In this cross-sectional observational study, patients attending tertiary PD clinics and community controls were interviewed for background/medical data and underwent dermatological examination. Logistic regression models assessed risk factors for skin tumours and their interactions with PD status.

Results

Included were 141 persons with PD and 155 controls; mean age 71.7 and 72.6 years, respectively. In both groups, the majority were males of Ashkenazi origin. Altogether, AK, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and CMM were recorded in 76 (53.9%) persons with PD and 92 (59.3%) controls (NS). CMM prevalence predominated in PD patients. In the PD group, prolonged sun exposure (p = 0.007), freckles (p < 0.001) and solar lentigines (p = 0.008) were associated with skin tumours. In the control group, dysplastic atypical moles were negatively associated with skin tumours (p = 0.017). Logistic regression of the whole cohort showed that older age (p < 0.001), fair complexion (p = 0.04) and prolonged sun exposure (p = 0.01) were associated with skin tumours, but PD status was not independently associated, and no interactions were found between PD status and CMM risk factors.

Conclusions

Periodic dermatological screening of PD populations is mandatory, especially for carriers of major phenotypic risk factors or presenting with AK, NMSC or CMM.
Self‐Oxidated Hybrid Conductive Network Enables Efficient Electrochemical Lithium Extraction Under High‐Altitude Environment
Authors: Wan Zhixin , Liu Ziqi , Xiao Yiyang , Ruan Qinqin , Wang Qian , Zhang Haitao , Yao Meng , Zhang Yun
Published: October 2024

The electrochemical deintercalation method has been considered as an effective way to address the demand for lithium resources due to its environmental friendliness, high selectivity, and high efficiency. However, the performance of electrochemical lithium extraction is closely dependent on the electrode material and needs to be compatible under plateau environments with high‐altitude and low‐temperature. Herein, an in situ self‐oxidation method is conducted to construct a hybrid conductive network on the surface of LiFePO4 (LFP‐HN). The introduction of a hybrid conductive network enhanced the interfacial electron/lithium‐ion transfer. In addition, structural stability is strengthened through suppressing the intercalation of impurity cations. Consequently, the LFP‐HN delivered extremely high lithium extraction capacity (27.42 mg g−1), low energy consumption (4.91 Wh mol−1), and superior purity (91.05%) in Baqiancuo real brine (4788 m, −10 °C). What's more, LFP‐HN‐based large‐scale prototypes are constructed and operated at Baqiancuo, which is calculated to extract 25 kg Lithium Carbonate Equivalent per cycle (4.55 h, 100 pairs of plates). Based on the excellent performance, the modification strategy developed in this work can be a promising solution for industrial lithium extraction under high‐altitude environment.
Toward the Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries with Improved Overall Performance: Electrolyte with Surface Adsorptive Additive
Authors: Wang Yahui , Zhao Ran , Yang Jingjing , Zou Jiawen , Zhang Anqi , Han Xiaomin , Hu Zhifan , Lv Mengge , Wang Xinran , Wu Chuan , Bai Ying
Published: October 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) with slightly acidic electrolytes process advantages such as high safety, competitive cost, and satisfactory electrochemical performance. However, the failure behaviors of both electrodes, regarding zinc dendrite growth, interfacial parasitic reactions, and the collapse of cathode materials hinder the practical application of ZIBs. To alleviate the issues of both anode and cathode at the same time, D‐xylose (DX) is introduced to the electrolyte as a multifunctional additive. As a result, the side reaction of the anode is suppressed and the metallic deposition behavior is regulated due to the hydrogen bonding network reconstruction and preferential surface adsorption of DX; for the MnO2 cathode, the DX adsorption can help the interfacial charge transfer and increase the reactive sites. Benefiting from these merits, DX‐optimized Zn//Zn battery displays reveal a prolonged lifespan of 6912 h and an ultra‐high cumulative capacity of 17.28 Ah cm−2 at 5 mA cm−2. With the function of water reactivity suppression, the Coulombic efficiency reaches 99.91% at 2 mA cm−2; the Zn||MnO2 full batteries exhibit excellent cyclability over 2000 cycles at 5C with an increased capacity of 118.9 mAh g−1, indicating the dual functions to both of the electrodes for AZIBs.
Predictive Modeling and SHAP (SHapley Additive ExPlanations) Analysis for Enhancing Natural Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Oral Burcu , Maddah Hisham A. , Yildirim Ramazan
Published: October 2024

Achieving high power conversion efficiency (PCE) in natural dye‐sensitized solar cells remains a challenge. To better understand such challenges and explore potential solutions, a dataset is created from 113 experimental articles published recently. The data are analyzed using random forest and gradient boosting algorithms, and predictive models for open‐circuit voltage (Voc), short‐circuit current density (Jsc), fill factor (FF), and PCE are developed. The model predictions are quite successful for all four performance indicators, with root mean square errors of 0.1, 1.7, 0.09, and 0.5 for Voc, Jsc, FF, and PCE, respectively. The SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) analysis is also performed to determine the effects of the descriptors on output variables. It is found that the dye extraction (such as dye/solvent ratio and extraction time) and deposition methods are highly influential for all four performance variables. It is also observed that chlorophyll, anthocyanin, and carotenoid dyes can improve Voc, whereas there is no major dye type that can be identified for improvement of Jsc. Flavonoids, curcumin, and tannins dyes are found to be capable of increasing the cell FF; only the anthocyanin and chlorophyll can have a direct positive impact on the PCE output.
Maternal vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters at 36 weeks' gestation in gestational and pre‐existing diabetes mellitus
Authors: Szczepkowska A. , Lausegger S. , Papastefanou I. , Nicolaides K. H. , Charakida M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To compare maternal vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters at 35–37 weeks' gestation in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), those with pre‐existing diabetes mellitus (DM) and those without GDM or pre‐existing DM.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study in women with a singleton pregnancy attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. The visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, and measurement of vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters using a non‐invasive operator‐independent device. These included carotid‐to‐femoral pulse‐wave velocity, augmentation index, cardiac output, stroke volume, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total peripheral resistance and heart rate. The values in the GDM and pre‐existing DM groups were compared to those in the unaffected group.

Results

We examined 6746 women, of whom 396 were excluded because they had chronic hypertension or developed pre‐eclampsia or gestational hypertension. The study population of 6350 pregnancies contained 99 (1.6%) with pre‐existing Type‐I or Type‐II DM and 617 (9.7%) that developed GDM, including 261 (42.3%) that were treated with diet alone, 239 (38.7%) treated with metformin alone and 117 (19.0%) treated with insulin with or without metformin. Among women with GDM and those with pre‐existing DM, compared to those without GDM or pre‐existing DM, there was a higher median cardiac output and heart rate, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse‐wave velocity, but there was no significant difference in stroke volume or total peripheral resistance. There were no significant differences within the GDM group according to treatment type, except for higher heart rate in women treated with metformin alone compared to the group treated with diet alone.

Conclusion

Women with GDM and those with pre‐existing DM have evidence of early vascular disease in the third trimester, and this may contribute to their increased long‐term cardiovascular risk. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Recurrent Feline Mammary Fibroadenomatous Hyperplasia in a Cat During Gestation
Authors: Maneeganondh Nichanan , Boonbal Nitaya , Kunkitti Panisara
Published: October 2024

Feline mammary fibroadenomatous hyperplasia (FMFH) is an extensive proliferation of feline mammary tissues in response to endogenous or exogenous progestogens. The treatment of choice for FMFH is anti‐progestins or ovariohysterectomy (OVH). OVH if there is no intention of breeding the queen. This report describes a case of recurrent FMFH in an 11‐month‐old female Maine Coon cat. The condition was successfully treated with aglepristone during its first occurrence but recurred during the cat's subsequent gestation. OVH was performed along with aglepristone administration, resulting in complete regression of FMFH 21 days after aglepristone injection. The recurrence of FMFH successful treatment is well described; however, this case illustrates the necessity for further discussion regarding the utilisation of cats previously diagnosed with FMFH for breeding purposes.
Recurrent steroid‐responsive hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy in a Maine Coon cat
Authors: Henry Perrine , Culshaw Geoff , Oliveira Maria Ines , Glebocka Magdalena , Johnsen Camilla Tørnqvist
Published: October 2024

A 5‐year‐old, neutered, female Maine Coon with history of eosinophilic enteritis presented for acute deterioration following placement of a subcutaneous ureteral by‐pass. Physical examination revealed a new 4/6, left, parasternal, systolic heart murmur. Echocardiography diagnosed hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy with severe left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Resolution of the hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy phenotype was observed after 3 months of treatment with corticosteroids (1–2 mg/kg/day) implemented for a concurrent chronic enteropathy. Myocardial thickening and moderate left ventricular outflow tract obstruction recurred after discontinuation of steroids. Again, resolution of the cardiac changes was observed after 1 month of treatment with tapering doses of corticosteroids (0.8–2 mg/kg/day). A second recurrence occurred when steroids were decreased to 0.25 mg/kg/day. Due to adverse effects, the dose was only increased to 0.4 mg/kg/day. During follow‐up over the next 10 months, this treatment regimen resulted in stabilisation of the disease, with echocardiographic changes compatible with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy stage B1 and minimal left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.
Large and Parallel Human Sorting Networks
Authors: Szeider Stefan
Published: October 2024

This paper presents two innovative extensions of the classic Human Sorting Network (HSN) activity from the CS Unplugged program. First, we describe the implementation of a large-scale HSN with 50 input nodes, realized with high school students in Vienna, Austria. We detail the logistical challenges and solutions for creating an HSN of this magnitude, including location selection, network layout, and participant coordination. Second, we report on using parallel 6-input HSNs, which introduce a competitive element and enhance engagement. This parallel setup allows for races between teams and can be adapted for various age groups and knowledge levels. Both extensions aim to increase the educational impact and enjoyment of the HSN activity. We provide comprehensive insights into our experiences, enabling other educators and researchers to replicate or further develop these HSN variants.
Highly-enhanced propagation of long-range kinks in heterogeneous media
Authors: González Jorge A. , Bellorín Alberto , Guerrero Luis E. , Jiménez Salvador , Marín Juan F.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We investigate a field-theoretical model that describes the interaction between kinks and antikinks and between kinks and other heterogeneous fields and impurities. We show that the long-range kink can tunnel through a barrier created by heterogeneous fields and impurities even when the energy of the center of mass of the kink is less than the height of the energy barrier. We also study the conditions under which the kink can pass freely through a disordered medium. We introduce the concept of “effective translational symmetry”. We compare our results with those from recent papers published in this journal, where the Bogomol’nyi-Prasad-Sommerfield property is discussed.
Quantizing Carrollian field theories
Authors: Cotler Jordan , Jensen Kristan , Prohazka Stefan , Raz Amir , Riegler Max , Salzer Jakob
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Carrollian field theories have recently emerged as a candidate dual to flat space quantum gravity. We carefully quantize simple two-derivative Carrollian theories, revealing a strong sensitivity to the ultraviolet. They can be regulated upon being placed on a spatial lattice and working at finite inverse temperature. Unlike in conventional field theories, the details of the lattice-regulated Carrollian theories remain important at long distances even in the limit that the lattice spacing is sent to zero. We use that limit to define interacting continuum models with a tractable perturbative expansion. The ensuing theories are those of generalized free fields, with non-Gaussian correlations suppressed by positive powers of the lattice spacing, and an unbroken supertranslation symmetry.
Post-COVID-19-Zustand – klinische Phänotypisierung in der Praxis
Authors: Humkamp Karen , Costa Ana Sofia , Reetz Kathrin , Walders Julia
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Die hohe Anzahl und klinische Heterogenität der neurologischen Beeinträchtigungen bei Patientinnen mit einem Post-COVID-19-Zustand (PCC) stellt eine Herausforderung für die ambulante Versorgung dar.

Ziel der Arbeit

Unser Ziel war die Evaluation der Anwendbarkeit der vorgeschlagenen Subtypen gemäß der kürzlich aktualisierten Leitlinie „Long/Post-COVID“ (Stand 30.05.2024) und deren tiefere Phänotypisierung mittels klinisch und neuropsychologisch erhobener Befunde aus unserer neurologischen Post-COVID-Ambulanz.

Methoden

Die Auswertung basierte auf querschnittlich erhobenen neurologischen und testpsychologischen Untersuchungen der Patientinnen, die mithilfe standardisierter Fragebögen und Testbatterien durchgeführt wurden. Außerdem fand eine eingehende Anamnese der aktuellen Symptomatik sowie die systematische retrospektive Erfragung der Akutsymptomatik bis 4 Wochen nach bestätigter Infektion statt. Die Einteilung der Subtypen erfolgte gemäß o. g. Leitlinie anhand der Anamnese, Vorbefunden sowie ausgewählter Patientenfragebögen. Zusätzlich wurde ein 5. Subtyp aus der vorangegangenen Leitlinie „Long/Post-COVID“ (Stand 05.03.2023) ergänzt.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 157 Patientinnen zwischen August 2020 und März 2022 eingeschlossen. Die Vorstellung erfolgte im Median 9,4 Monate (IQR = 5,3) nach der Infektion, wobei das mediane Alter 49,9 Jahre (IQR = 17,2) betrug und 68 % weiblich waren, bei einer Hospitalisierungsrate von insgesamt 26 %. Subtyp 1 (Post-intensive-care-Syndrom) wies die höchste Männerquote und den höchsten Body-Mass-Index (BMI) sowie den größten Anstieg subjektiver Wortfindungsstörungen (70 %) auf. In Subtyp 2 (Folgekrankheiten) dominierten kognitive Beeinträchtigungen und die höchsten Depressionswerte. Subtyp 3 (Fatigue und Belastungsintoleranz) war am häufigsten (44 %), hatte den größten Frauenanteil, die meisten Symptome und die stärkste subjektive Fatigue. Subtyp 4 (Exazerbation einer Grunderkrankung) wies vor allem affektive Symptome auf. Subtyp 5 (Beschwerden ohne Alltagsrelevanz) hatte die niedrigsten Werte für Depression, Fatigue und BMI. Neurologische und psychische Erkrankungen waren überall häufig vorbestehend.

Diskussion

Das Management eines PCC kann durch eine standardisierte Subtypeneinteilung, die individuelle und frühzeitige Behandlungskonzepte ermöglicht, verbessert werden. Risikopatientinnen sollten identifiziert und über Risikofaktoren sowie Präventionsstrategien aufgeklärt werden. Körperliche Aktivität und Reduzierung kardiovaskulärer Risikofaktoren sind essenziell. Bei kognitiven Defiziten und gleichzeitiger affektiver Symptomatik sollte zeitnah eine psychotherapeutische Anbindung und medikamentöse Behandlung mit selektiven Serotonin-Wiederaufnahme-Hemmern (SSRI) erfolgen.
A 262-line Matlab code for the level set topology optimization based on the estimated gradient field in the body-fitted mesh
Authors: Zhuang Zicheng , Xu Fengming , Ye Junhong , Tong Wei , Chen Zeyao , Weng Yiwei
Published: October 2024

Topology optimization is an influential technique engineers and designers employ to achieve desirable material distribution within a designated domain. This educational article introduces a concise and efficient Matlab code, comprising only 262 lines, developed explicitly for the Level Set topology optimization based on the estimated Gradient Field (GFLS) in the body-fitted mesh. Unlike conventional level set methods that rely on the upwind scheme employed in the structured meshes, the proposed algorithm adopts the per-cell linear estimation of the discrete gradient vectors in the body-fitted mesh framework to obtain the velocity field and update the level set function. The Matlab code, named GFLS262, consists of a 62-line main program, 41-line finite element analysis function, and 48-line sub-functions, enabling the implementation of the GFLS method in 2D scenarios. Additionally, a 111-line function describes an improved mesh generator incorporated in the code to facilitate the generation of body-fitted meshes. The superiority of this innovative approach over the previous optimization methods with invariant meshes is demonstrated through various benchmark examples. For ease of access and further learning, the educational Matlab code is available on the website and can also be found in the Appendix section of this article.
Sampling in quasi shift-invariant spaces and Gabor frames generated by ratios of exponential polynomials
Authors: Ulanovskii Alexander , Zlotnikov Ilya
Published: October 2024

We introduce two families of generators (functions)

$${\mathcal {G}}$$

G

that consist of entire and meromorphic functions enjoying a certain periodicity property and contain the classical Gaussian and hyperbolic secant generators. Sharp results are proved on the density of separated sets that provide non-uniform sampling for the shift-invariant and quasi shift-invariant spaces generated by elements of these families. As an application, new sharp results are obtained on the density of semi-regular lattices for the Gabor frames generated by elements from these families.
Radiative energy budgets of migrational microphytobenthic biofilms
Authors: Haro S. , Barnett A. , Papaspyrou S. , Corzo A. , Kühl M. , Jesus B.
Published: October 2024

Epipelic, biofilm-forming diatoms are key drivers of the primary production of mudflats. Such primary production is strongly affected by the vertical migration of diatoms, which is modulated by diurnal photoperiods, tidal cycles, and photoprotection mechanisms. However, the role of vertical migration in the radiative energy budget (REB) of microphytobenthic biofilms remains largely unknown. Here we used microsensor measurements of temperature and O2 in combination with reflectance spectroscopy and variable chlorophyll fluorimetry to construct the REB of intertidal, epipelic diatom-dominated biofilms for different emersion times (1, 3 and 5 h after the beginning of the in-situ emersion) and photon irradiance regimes, i.e., 400 and 800 µmol photon m−2 s−1. The effect of migration on REBs was studied by inhibiting diatom motility with Latrunculin A (Lat-A). Photosynthetic activity and light utilization efficiency decreased slightly, after adding Lat-A, while the amount of reflected light energy remained constant at ~ 23% of the incident irradiance and the majority (76–78%) of the incident light energy was dissipated as heat. Of the energy dissipated as heat, < 24% was dissipated upward in Lat-A treated samples, while an increasing downward heat dissipation was observed in Lat-A treated samples, as compared to control samples under an irradiance of 800 µmol photon m−2 s−1. However, we found no statistical significant differences in the REB and physiological parameters in the different treatments. Thus, we did not find any evidence that vertical migration of diatoms affected photosynthesis and light efficiency in the microphytobenthic biofilm over an emersion cycle, and a clear effect of non-photochemical quenching in REB and heat dissipation fluxes was not observed.
Burden of neural tube defects in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sinha Anuvi , P Ponmani , Chakraborty Hirok , Barnwal Rajan Kumar , Sinha Ratnesh
Published: October 2024

Background

One of the most common and serious congenital defects is neural tube defect (NTD) in India. The data about the NTDs in India is lacking. The objective of this meta-analysis is to provide an estimate of NTDs in India with regional variations.

Method

This study was conducted by doing a literature search using PubMed (Medline) and Embase databases for studies published from their inception to 1 October 2023 by using relevant keywords. We have prepared our study protocol by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist, and our study is registered in PROSPERO. Pooled prevalence was calculated by using the Der Simonian-Liard method and random effect model to find out the burden of NTD in India. Additionally, subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. NHLBI (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) tool was used for assessing the study quality.

Results

A total of 1129 articles were identified by using the predefined keywords in which 27 articles were selected which were fitting the selection criteria defined in our study. The prevalence of NTDs in our meta-analysis was found to be 9.46 per 1000 births with a 95% confidence interval of 8.01 to 10.91 per 1000 births with significant heterogeneity with I2 of 99.15%.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the increasing trend of NTDs over the past decades, with significant regional variation in India. There is an urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies such as advocacy and awareness, antenatal screening for NTDs, folic acid supplementation, and food fortification. Future research is required for identification and implementation for a target-based approach for region specific.
Clinical outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Wills Mélissa V. , Alavi Mohammad Hesam , Aleassa Essa M. , Tu Chao , Wilson Rickesha , Corcelles Ricard , Augustin Toms , Bencsath Kalman P. , Cha Walter , Gutnick Jesse , Szomstein Samuel , Rosenthal Raul , Kroh Matthew , Feng Xiaoxi , Aminian Ali
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Obesity is a major risk factor for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Effective therapeutics for preventing disease progression and alleviating symptoms are limited. This study aims to examine the effects of bariatric surgery on clinical outcomes of IIH.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from the medical record of 97 patients with obesity and an existing diagnosis of IIH who underwent primary bariatric surgery at the Cleveland Clinic health system in the USA between 2005 and 2023. Pre- and postoperative data on presence of symptoms and clinical markers of IIH (headaches, visual field defects, papilledema, visual symptoms), intracranial pressure, and usage of IIH medications were compared.

Results

A total of 97 patients (98% female, median age 46.7 years, median BMI 48.3 kg/m2) with IIH who underwent bariatric surgery including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 66, 68%), sleeve gastrectomy (n = 27, 27.8%), and gastric banding (n = 4, 4.1%) were analyzed. In a median follow-up time of 3.0 years, the median total weight loss was 24% (interquartile range, 13–33%). There was a significant improvement in headache, papilledema, visual field deficits, and visual symptoms after bariatric surgery. The mean lumbar opening pressure before and after bariatric surgery was 34.8 ± 8.2 cm CSF and 24.2 ± 7.6 cm CSF, respectively, with a mean reduction of 10.7 cm CSF (95% confidence interval, 4.7 to 16.6), p = 0.003. The dosage of acetazolamide and topiramate, as well as the number of medications taken for IIH, decreased significantly after bariatric surgery (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

For patients who have obesity, bariatric surgery is a viable treatment modality for alleviation or improvement of symptoms of IIH.
Waterjet pulse lavage as a safe adjunct to video assisted retroperitoneal debridement in necrotising pancreatitis
Authors: Kotecha Krishna , Yeh John , Chui Juanita N. , Tree Kevin , Greer Douglas , Boue Alex , Gall Tamara , McKay Siobhan , Mittal Anubhav , Samra Jaswinder S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Minimally invasive surgical necrosectomy plays an important role in the management of infected pancreatic necrosis, with a goal of removing debris and debriding necrotic tissue. Pulse lavage is designed to simultaneously hydrostatically debride and remove the infected necrotic tissue with suction. It is also able to remove significant amounts of debris without traumatic manipulation of the necrotic tissue which may be adherent to surrounding tissue and can result in injury.

Methods and results

The surgical technique of utilising a waterjet pulse lavage device during the minimally invasive necrosectomy is detailed. Sixteen patients being managed via a step-up approach underwent endoscopic necrosectomy via a radiologically placed drain tract. All sixteen patients were successfully managed endoscopically without conversion to open necrosectomy, and survived their admission. There were no complications associated with the use of the waterjet pulse lavage.

Conclusion

Waterjet pulse lavage is a useful adjunct in minimally invasive necrosectomy, which reduces the length of the necrosectomy procedure, and facilitates removal of necrotic tissue while minimising the risk of traumatising healthy tissue.
Symmetric stiffness matrices for isoparametric finite elements in nonlinear elasticity
Authors: Valvo Paolo S.
Published: October 2024

The article illustrates a position-based finite element formulation, which greatly simplifies the statement of nonlinear elasticity problems. The formulation adopts as main unknowns the nodal positions in the current configuration instead of the nodal displacements. As a result, simple analytical expressions are obtained of the secant and tangent stiffness matrices for general isoparametric finite elements. Contrary to most formulations of the literature, the secant stiffness matrices turn out to be symmetric. Furthermore, any hyperelastic constitutive law can be easily implemented. Specialised expressions are deduced for the stiffness matrices of a two-node truss bar element and a three-node planar triangular element. The validity of the proposed approach is illustrated through the analysis of a steep von Mises truss and Cook’s membrane. For illustration, the de Saint Venant–Kirchhoff and neo-Hookean material models are considered.
Gender bias of antisocial and borderline personality disorders among psychiatrists
Authors: Özel Beren , Karakaya Ezgi , Köksal Fazilet , Altinoz Ali Ercan , Yilmaz-Karaman Imran Gokcen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) challenge mental health professionals with similar maladaptive behaviors. However, these two disorders differ regarding available evidence-based treatments. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) has been criticized as being gender-biased diagnostic construct. The present study aimed to determine the gender bias of ASPD and BPD among Turkish psychiatrists.

Methods

Three case vignettes were randomly presented as male or female to the psychiatrists online. The first case was a patient with schizophrenia case to confirm the participant’s ability to diagnose. The second case was a patient with ASPD, and the third one was a patient with BPD.

Results

Two hundred fifty participants diagnosed the first case correctly (n = 250). The results with statistical significance demonstrated that a female case with ASPD was 5.1 times more likely to get misdiagnosed than a male case with ASPD (p˂0.0001).

Conclusions

Categorical classification of personality disorders in DSM leads to gender bias in in the diagnosis of ASPD and BPD. The present study shows that female cases with ASPD are misdiagnosed as BPD which may result in treatment attempts without evidence.
Very Low Birthweight Placenta: Clustering of Morphologic Characteristics
Authors: Hansen Anne R. , Collins Margaret H. , Genest David , Heller Debra , Shen-Schwarz Susan , Banagon Petra , Allred Elizabeth N. , Leviton Alan
Published: October 2024

Our objective was to use factor analysis as a data reduction tool to organize a large number of placental pathologic features into useful aggregates. We examined 1146 placentas of live-born infants with a birth weight of 500–1500 g. We then conducted analyses of pairs of characteristics and multiple characteristics to identify “associated groups” and “factors,” respectively. We found an associated group and factor that had placental features associated with acute inflammation and another associated group and factor that had features associated with vasculopathy. Acute umbilical vasculitis had the strongest correlation with other features of the acute inflammation associated group and factor. Gross evidence of acute inflammation (opacification and green appearance of membrane) was eliminated in the reduction from associated group to factor. Infarcts and syncytial knots were strongly dissociated with features of acute inflammation. The multiple pathologic features of the very low birthweight placenta can be aggregated into two associated groups or two factors. Lack of membrane opacification cannot be used as a criterion for declining microscopic examination. The absence of infarcts and syncytial knots should prompt a search for features of acute inflammation. If a placenta has two or more findings from the acute inflammation factor or the vasculopathy factor, it is unlikely to demonstrate features from the other factor.