bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Shock Compression on the Photovoltaic Performance of NiCo2O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Franklin J. Bosco , Saravanan P. , Suruthi S. , Bincy F. Irine Maria , Sundaram S. John , Dhas S. A. Martin Britto , Wadaan Mohammad Ahmad , Kumar Jothi Vinoth , Mythili R.
Published: December 2024

Spherical‐shaped nickel cobaltite (NC) nanoparticles were synthesized via a simple sol–gel technique and calcined at 600°C. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed significant changes in crystallite size, with an average of 23 nm for the control sample and variations observed after 50 shockwaves. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed metal‐oxygen stretching, indicating structural integrity. UV–visible absorption studies showed changes in the optical band gap, which increased after shock treatments, suggesting bandgap tunability for optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications. The material exhibited good optical absorption up to 600 nm, making it suitable for light‐harvesting devices. Vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) detected shifts in dipole moments and magnetic saturation, with all samples displaying paramagnetic behavior. The shock‐treated samples showed enhanced magnetic properties, which could be useful in magnetic storage devices. The combined tunability of bandgap and magnetic properties via shock wave treatment underscores the potential of these nanoparticles for applications in photovoltaics, spintronics, and energy storage systems.
An Exploration of Risk Factors for Further Police Contact Among Females Known for Online Child Sexual Exploitation Offenses
Authors: Fortunato Erika , Slikboer Reneta , Henshaw Marie , Meyer Denny , Ogloff James R. P.
Published: December 2024

Despite increases in online child sexual exploitation (OCSE) internationally, no study has examined risk factors for re‐offending among females who perpetrate OCSE, resulting in limited knowledge regarding the idiosyncratic needs of this cohort. This study explored factors predictive of further police contact among 116 females known to police for OCSE offenses in Victoria, Australia. Four binary regressions were run for each of Any, Violent, and Non‐Violent re‐offending, with one regression each focusing on characteristics related to offending history, index offending, co‐offending, and victimization. Predicted probabilities from each model were then input as predictors into a final binary regression for each recidivism type. Offending history emerged as the most robust predictor across re‐offending types, even when controlling for other domains. Victimization and index offending also predicted Non‐Violent re‐offending, while co‐offending was not predictive across any analysis. These preliminary findings have implications for the unique management needs of females who perpetrate OCSE.
The anatomical basis for surgical intervention in myositis ossificans—A systematic review
Authors: Stammer Adam , Ashwood Neil , Amara Veda , Suryawanshi Suraj , Wilson Paul , Dekker Andrew
Published: December 2024

Myositis ossificans (MO) is a benign condition characterized by heterotrophic bone formation, most commonly within muscle tissue. Multiple types have been described, the most predominant being myositis ossificans circumscripta, which occurs in response to trauma. Myositis ossificans cases reported in the literature were reviewed systematically. The aim of the review was to examine how the condition and its management are influenced by the anatomical structures involved. The Medline and Ovid Embase online databases were searched for all papers relevant to MO between Jan 1972 and Dec 2020. Duplicate and unobtainable records were removed. The remaining records were manually assessed for relevance by three independent reviewers, initially by abstract and then by full‐text screening, to ensure that all papers were suitable. Acceptance of articles was not limited by case features or study design. In total, 77 papers from the literature search were included. They contained information on 89 patients diagnosed with MO. The average age of the patients was 26.17 years (range 13 weeks to 72 years, a 71.75 year range) and 65.17% were male. The lower limb was affected more than the upper limb or spine, the most common site being the thigh. Muscle was the most commonly affected tissue, the quadricep femoris being most often involved. Diagnostic imaging varied widely among cases; X‐ray alone was the most common method, followed by a combination of X‐ray and MRI. Lesions in the lower limb had larger diameters than those in the upper limb or spine. More cases in the upper limb (47.83%) than in the lower limb (33.33%) required surgery. All instances of MO in the jaw, hand, and foot were symptomatic, and all required surgical management. The findings were consistent with previous research showing MO to be a predominantly male disease, with most patients being under 30 years of age. Trauma was involved in 52.81%, lower than previously reported. In this study, the vastus lateralis of the quadriceps was most often affected. MO lesions were less common and smaller in the upper limb but more required surgery. Anatomically confined sites such as the hand and foot always required surgery, probably because of earlier onset or more severe functional effects of symptoms. Further work is needed to review the anatomical predilection of MO to help identify patients who could benefit from earlier consideration of surgery. A national registry of MO cases could contribute to further research on this disease.
Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement Following Tricuspid Edge‐To‐Edge‐Repair
Authors: Goldschmied Andreas , Droppa Michal , Gawaz Meinrad , Geisler Tobias
Published: December 2024

Significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is seen as a relevant contributor of cardiac morbidity and mortality. Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) is a novel technique to treat this condition. We present the case of an 82‐year‐old lady who was admitted for recurrent right heart decompensation despite having undergone treatment with tricuspid edge‐to‐edge repair (TEER). The patient underwent transfemoral implantation of a 48 mm EVOQUE valve. Since the implanted Clip was not in the central part of the valve, it was pushed toward the valvular anulus by the expanded prothesis. Echocardiography showed a good result with no residual TR. Options for residual TR after T‐TEER are very limited. TTVR might be suitable in selected patients with non‐central Clip placement.
From lectures to co‐constructively developed inservice teacher training with the DiKoLAN framework
Authors: Henne Anna , Syskowski Sabrina , Möhrke Philipp , Thoms Lars‐Jochen , Becker‐Genschow Sebastian , Huwer Johannes
Published: December 2024

Im Rahmen der Initiative lernen:digital entstehen deutschlandweit neue Fortbildungsangebote für Lehrkräfte. In diesem Artikel wird ein Ansatz zur ko‐konstruktiven Entwicklung von Fortbildungen basierend auf Konzepten der partizipativen Aktionsforschung vorgestellt. Zur Entwicklung des Aufbaus und der Inhalte der Fortbildung werden Erkenntnisse aus der fachdidaktischen Literatur, Lernziele aus den Bildungsplänen und die Expertise von Forschenden, Lehrpersonen und Fachleiterinnen und Fachleitern an staatlichen Seminaren für Aus‐ und Weiterbildung zusammengeführt, um eine Fortbildung zu entwickeln, die die Bedürfnisse aller Beteiligten berücksichtigt.
Ten years of experience with ruxolitinib since approval for polycythemia vera: A review of clinical efficacy and safety
Authors: Masarova Lucia , Mascarenhas John , Rampal Raajit , Hu Wilson , Livingston Robert A. , Pemmaraju Naveen
Published: December 2024

The oral Janus kinase (JAK) 1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2014 for treatment of patients with polycythemia vera (PV) who have an inadequate response to or intolerance of hydroxyurea (HU). PV is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm defined by primary absolute erythrocytosis, bone marrow hypercellularity, and JAK mutations such as JAK2V617F. Patients with PV experience burdensome symptoms and are at risk of thromboembolic events, in particular those with resistance to or intolerance of initial treatments such as HU. Other risks for patients with PV include progression of disease to more aggressive forms with worse prognoses, such as myelofibrosis or blast‐phase myeloproliferative neoplasms. This review summarizes the efficacy and safety of ruxolitinib from key phase 2 and 3 trials (MAJIC‐PV, RESPONSE, RESPONSE‐2, RELIEF, and Ruxo‐BEAT), large real‐world studies, and a decade of postmarketing surveillance safety data. The authors focus on improved blood count control, rates of thromboembolic events, symptom improvement, and markers of disease modification such as reduction of JAK2V617F allele burden in patients treated with ruxolitinib. They also discuss the well‐characterized safety profile of ruxolitinib regarding hematologic and other adverse events of interest. In the 10 years since its approval, ruxolitinib remains a safe and effective standard‐of‐care treatment for PV. As the treatment landscape for PV continues to evolve in the coming years, the efficacy and safety profiles of ruxolitinib suggest it will remain a preferred treatment as monotherapy and as a potential backbone of future combination regimens.
Comparison of Salivary Opiorphin in Burning Mouth Syndrome and Healthy Subjects and Its Correlation With Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Dalirsani Zohreh , Amirchaghmaghi Maryam , Semnani Mahshid Malakuti , Talebi Mahdi , Hashemy Seyed Isaac , Shakeri Mohammad Taghi , Taghizadeh Ava
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic disease in which the patient experiences a burning sensation in the oral mucosa without any pathological cause. Opiorphin is a pentapeptide that prevents pain and can have an antidepressant effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate salivary opiorphin concentration in BMS and healthy subjects. In addition, opiorphin concentration in BMS patients before and after psychiatric treatment was compared and the association between burning severity and psychiatric scores with salivary opiorphin concentration was examined.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 28 BMS patients and 40 healthy individuals referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad, from September 2018 to August 2019. Patients with proven disease based on clinical and psychiatric examinations were included in the study. Unstimulated salivary opiorphin levels were assessed by ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.

Results

Salivary opiorphin levels were significantly higher in BMS patients (2.16 ± 0.30 ng/mL) than in healthy subjects (1.80 ± 0.36 ng/mL) (p < 0.001). Opiorphin levels in BMS patients increased insignificantly after psychiatric therapy (p = 0.212). In addition, there was no significant association between opiorphin levels and age, gender, menopause, burning severity, anxiety, and depression status.

Conclusions

The opiorphin concentration in saliva is higher in BMS patients than in healthy subjects. Most BMS patients also suffer from anxiety and depression.
The effect of trimetazidine on cardiac haemodynamics and mitochondrial function in wild‐type transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Ladefoged Bertil Thyrsted , Pedersen Anders Lehmann Dahl , Dybro Anne Mette , Clemmensen Tor Skibsted , Gillmore Julian , Poulsen Steen Hvitfeldt
Published: December 2024

Aims

Wild‐type transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTRwt) is a cardiomyopathy causing myocardial hypoperfusion and impaired cardiac mitochondrial function. Trimetazidine is an antianginal agent used in patients with stable angina pectoris, which improves cardiac contractility and mitochondrial function. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of trimetazidine on invasive haemodynamics and cardiac mitochondrial function in ATTRwt.

Methods

In a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial, 22 patients with ATTRwt received 4 weeks of trimetazidine and placebo in randomized order. After each treatment period followed examinations with endomyocardial biopsies taken for high‐resolution respirometry and right heart catheterization at rest and during a cardiopulmonary exercise test. The primary endpoint was mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure (mPAWP) during peak exercise. The secondary endpoint was cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity. Exploratory endpoints were echocardiographic parameters, cardiac biomarker levels and quality of life.

Results

Trimetazidine did not significantly reduce mPAWP during peak exercise (31 ± 12 vs. 31 ± 13 mmHg, P = 0.61) or improve the cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity (73.4 ± 7.7 vs. 75.3 ± 7.7 pmol O2/(mg*s), P = 0.81) compared with placebo, nor did treatment with trimetazidine improve ejection fraction (P = 0.93), global longitudinal strain (P = 0.23), N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels (P = 0.92) or the patients' quality of life (P = 0.98).

Conclusions

In ATTRwt, treatment with trimetazidine did not improve mPAWP or cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity compared with placebo.
Identification of Fracture Extension Modes During Hydraulic Fracturing in Coalbed Methane Vertical Wells: A Case Study From the Southern Shizhuang Area of the Qinshui Basin, China
Authors: Yan Jin , Ni Xiaoming , Zhang Yafei , Wang Wensheng , Niu Ruize
Published: December 2024

The accurate identification of fracture extension patterns in hydraulic fracturing can provide important guidance for the optimisation of fracturing parameters. In this paper, factors such as effective hole friction and wellbore flow friction during fracturing are fully considered, and a calculation model of net bottom‐hole pressure of fracturing is constructed. By introducing the change rate of net bottom‐hole pressure and the changing characteristics of the fracturing curve, seven fracture extension modes during hydraulic fracturing in coalbed methane vertical wells are established. The accuracy of the identification method is verified by the fracture monitoring and production results in Shizhuang South Block. The results show that fracture elongation is mainly controlled by in situ stress difference, angle between natural fracture and maximum principal stress, coal tensile strength, fracturing time, proppant and angle between other factors. When the fracture construction parameters are fixed, the smaller the difference between maximum and minimum horizontal principal stresses and the smaller the natural fractures and maximum horizontal principal stresses. When the reservoir potential is similar, the effective extension index is positively correlated with the gas production effect, and the effective extension index can effectively judge the fracturing effect. The higher the proportion of effective extension mode, the longer the extension time and the higher the stable daily gas production. The research results provide a method and reference for clearly identifying the fracture extension and the occurrence conditions of different extension modes in the hydraulic fracturing process.
Mediating Role of Financialization and Intellectual Capital in the Relationship Between Ownership Structure and Firms’ Financial Performance
Authors: Amoughin Ramin Zamani , Rostamy Ali Asghar Anvary , Araghi Maryam Khalili , Saeidi Ali
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates how intellectual capital (IC) and financialization mediate the relationship between ownership structure (OS) and the financial performance (FP) of manufacturing companies listed on the Iranian stock exchange from 2016 to 2022. OS is analyzed through three variables: institutional ownership (IO), ownership concentration (OC), and managerial ownership (MO). IC and financialization are considered as mediating variables, with firms’ FP as the dependent variable. This research was conducted due to a sample of 112 listed companies and employs artial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) for data evaluation. The results reveal that both IO and OC positively impact FP, whereas MO negatively affects FP. Furthermore, IC and financialization mediate the relationships between OC and MO with FP. However, these mediating factors do not affect the relationship between IO and FP.
Volatilome Study of Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora) Using a Hydrophilic Microporous Cartridge with Direct Immersion Solid Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography System With a Hybrid Quadrupole Time‐Of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: de Oliveira Jhonatan Bispo , Rodrigues Samantha Christina , Menezes Helvécio Costa , de Souza Patterson Patrício , Cardeal Zenilda de Lourdes
Published: December 2024

Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora) is a typical subtropical Brazilian fruit with unique organoleptic properties and a high nutritional value. This study shows a qualitative analysis of jabuticaba peels with volatile and semi‐volatile components harvested from Minas Gerais, Brazil. A new device, the hydrophilic microporous cartridge, was developed to extract jabuticaba peels' volatile/semi‐volatile components using a solid‐phase microextraction method by direct immersion. This cartridge protected the polymer phase fiber, preventing its breakage and impregnation of the material. The developed method is simple, using a few steps to prepare jabuticaba peel samples. The fiber selected for analysis was a divinylbenzene/carboxene/polydimethylsiloxane of 30/50 µm. A comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry system was used to analyze natural products in jabuticaba peels. The method was optimized by a factorial design and could detect 213 organic compounds. Of particular note is the detection of terpenes (33.27%), fatty acids (29.60%), and ethyl esters (9.23%), which are mainly responsible for the nutritional properties and odor of the fruit. This study presents an improved method for extracting volatile compounds, offering enhanced insights into the phytochemical composition, aroma, flavor, and bioactivity of jabuticaba.
Capillary Electrophoresis‐Frontal Analysis (CE‐FA) and Molecular Docking Studies on the Albumin‐Binding Properties of Dopamine and Serotonin
Authors: Kalaycıoğlu Zeynep , Bilen Defne
Published: December 2024

Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters that are crucial for numerous physiological processes, including mood regulation, reward, and motor function. Dysregulation of these neurotransmitters is associated with various neuropsychiatric disorders. Albumin in plasma modulates the bioavailability of drugs and free concentrations of bioactive constituents. This study aimed to characterize the interactions of dopamine and serotonin with bovine serum albumin. Capillary electrophoresis in the frontal analysis mode was utilized as an effective method to assess dopamine–bovine serum albumin and serotonin–bovine serum albumin affinity. The free neurotransmitter plateaus were distinctly separated from the bovine serum albumin–neurotransmitter complex plateaus. Free dopamine and serotonin concentrations were determined by monitoring the heights of their respective plateaus. In contrast, the bound concentrations were calculated from the difference between the total and free plateau heights. Dopamine and serotonin were found to bind to bovine serum albumin at independent sites with binding constant values of 1.90 × 103 and 2.90 × 103 L/mol, respectively. Additionally, an in silico molecular docking approach revealed the binding sites for dopamine and serotonin near the glutamic acid‐291 and serine‐428 residues of bovine serum albumin, respectively.
Pivotal Role of Mass Spectrometry for the Assessment of Exposure to Reactive Chemical Contaminants: From the Exposome to the Adductome
Authors: Debrauwer Laurent , Mervant Loic , Laprevote Olivier , Jamin Emilien L.
Published: December 2024

A large part of the Human chemical exposome is now well characterized, and its health effects has been widely documented, although precise causal links remain difficult to establish. In parallel, genetic factors only were shown to contribute less than 30% to various pathologies. Therefore, environmental factors may represent the predominant cause of chronic diseases. Mass Spectrometry has been established for many years as a main “gold standard” in this field due to its performances both in sensitivity and selectivity. However, some unstable or highly reactive compounds may escape their detection in the biological samples because of their short half‐life although some of their stable metabolites, if any, can be used for the exposure assessment. These electrophilic molecules are known to bind covalently to nucleophilic molecules in the body to form what are commonly called adducts. The study of adducts formed with DNA, proteins or with glutathione, nowadays called adductomics, can provide additional toxicologically relevant information in biomonitoring studies. This review describes this particular part of the reactive exposome and the related mass spectrometric methods developed therein. Three dedicated parts of this review are devoted to the contribution of mass spectrometry respectively to the assessment of DNA modifications, protein modifications, and reaction with glutathione.
Indications and Outcomes for Tracheostomies in Pediatric Oncology Patients—A Single Center Study
Authors: Pan Jonathan , Lucas Bryony , Okcu M. Fatih , Foster Jennifer , Pinto Venessa , Chelius Daniel , Roy Kevin , Marcet‐Gonzalez Jessie , Bhar Saleh
Published: December 2024

Background

Children with cancer face a high risk of complications including prolonged mechanical ventilation requiring tracheostomies. While tracheostomies have been demonstrated to be a generally safe procedure, there remain significant rare complications and a paucity of literature addressing outcomes specifically for pediatric patients with cancer. The objective of this study was to characterize pediatric patients with cancer who underwent tracheostomies and describe their indications and outcomes for length of stay, decannulation, and complications.

Procedures

At a single large volume children's hospital, retrospective medical record analysis was performed in all pediatric patients with cancer who received tracheostomies from 2004 to 2023.

Results

Sixty‐five patients were identified with a median follow‐up time of 763 days (interquartile range 302–1687). Twenty‐one (32%) patients had a tracheostomy placed due to complications from mass effect of the tumor, 16 (25%) due to complications from cancer treatment, and 14 (22%) had a tracheostomy placed for nononcologic reasons. Additionally, a distinct subgroup of 14 (22%) patients underwent tracheostomy perioperatively for elective airway management during surgical resection of their tumors. Twenty‐nine (45%) were decannulated and 17 (26%) patients had a tracheostomy‐associated complication, including tracheitis and tracheocutaneous fistula, and no patients had a tracheostomy‐associated mortality.

Conclusions

The incidence of tracheostomy‐associated complications and decannulation rates in pediatric patients with cancer was comparable with the general pediatric tracheostomy population. This study establishes a reference point for clinicians regarding the anticipated outcomes among pediatric patients with cancer requiring or having undergone a tracheostomy.
Association Between Socioeconomic Factors and Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment‐ and Survival‐Related Outcomes in Canada
Authors: Jibb Lindsay , Laverty Meghan , Johnston Donna L. , Rayar Meera , Truong Tony H. , Kulkarni Ketan , Renzi Samuele , Alvi Saima , Kaur Jaskiran , Winch Nicole , Gupta Sumit , Marjerrison Stacey
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Studies examing the impact of socioeconomic factors on outcomes in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have yielded inconsistent findings. We aimed to determine whether socioeconomic status (SES) or healthcare access are associated with the presence of potentially time‐sensitive high‐risk features at diagnosis, times to diagnosis or treatment, or survival among children with ALL in Canada.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all children aged less than 15 years diagnosed with first primary ALL between 2001 and 2019 using the Cancer in Young People in Canada national Data Tool, which is population‐based. SES was measured using neighborhood income quintiles, and healthcare access proxy measured as distance to treating center. We used logistic regression to examine the associations between income quintile and distance and two potentially time‐sensitive indicators of high‐risk ALL at diagnosis, white blood cell count (WBC) ≥50 × 109/L, and central nervous system (CNS) disease. We used Cox proportional hazards to examine associations with time‐to‐event outcomes (times to diagnosis and treatment, event‐free survival [EFS], and overall survival [OS]).

Results

We included 4189 patients. In multivariable analyses, no associations were found between income quintile and potentially time‐sensitive high‐risk features at diagnosis, time to diagnosis or treatment, or OS. The only significant SES measure in multivariable survival analysis was superior EFS among those in income quintile 4 as compared to those in the lowest income quintile with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.70 (confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.91). Living at increased distance from treating center was not associated with high WBC at diagnosis, time to diagnosis, EFS, or OS. Associations were seen between distance to treating center and CNS disease at diagnosis and time to treatment, but without a clear pattern across distance quartiles.

Conclusions

Children diagnosed with ALL and treated within Canada's universal healthcare system experience similar treatment and survival outcomes regardless of SES and distance to treatment center. Further work is required using individual‐level SES and demographic data to determine if any associations exist, and qualitative assessments to understand barriers to care.
Analysis of the Impact of Extraction Processes on the Quality of Traditional Chinese Medicine Granules
Authors: Zhang Cong , Zhang Chungang , Liu Meng , Wang Ti
Published: December 2024

Objective

This review aims to summarize and elucidate the extraction processes of traditional Chinese medicine granules, examining their connection to quality control, with the aim of establishing a foundation for superior extraction methodologies.

Methodology

This article systematically collects and analyzes relevant literature from the past two decades through databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and CNKI, focusing on the extraction processes of traditional Chinese medicine granules and the factors affecting extraction efficiency.

Results

This article provides a comprehensive account of the extraction and granulation processes of traditional Chinese medicine granules. Beginning with the physicochemical properties and chemical components of herbal slices, it explores ways to improve extraction efficiency while also examining the relationship between component structure and biological activity. Rooted in the fundamental theories of traditional Chinese medicine and harmonized with contemporary extraction technologies, it follows the principle that “quality originates from design,” ensuring stringent control over the extraction process.

Conclusion

This article analyzes extraction technologies, factors influencing extraction efficiency, and quality control measures, establishing a theoretical basis for achieving high‐quality and high‐yield extraction processes.
Necrotizing pneumonia‐a rare but complex complication in bronchiectasis patients
Authors: Tran‐Le Quoc‐Khanh , Vu‐Hoai Nam , Nguyen‐Ho Lam , Duong‐Minh Ngoc , Nguyen‐Thi Phung
Published: December 2024

Pneumonia occurs commonly in bronchiectasis patients with exacerbation, though necrotizing pneumonia remains rare. This report presents two cases of bronchiectasis complicated by necrotizing pneumonia. The first case involves a 39‐year‐old female with bronchiectasis due to primary ciliary dyskinesia. She presented with severe chest pain and persistent fever unresponsive to oral antibiotics. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed necrotizing pneumonia with associated empyema, necessitating prolonged antibiotic therapy, pleural drainage and ultimately surgical decortication. The second case is a 39‐year‐old male with bronchiectasis following ammonia inhalation injury, presenting with pleuritic chest pain and productive cough, with a CT scan showing consolidation with low attenuation areas. Intensive antibiotic treatment was required, alongside corticosteroids and inhaled antibiotics afterward. These cases demonstrate the importance of identifying risk factors for necrotizing pneumonia in bronchiectasis patients. Tailoring treatment strategies, including extending antibiotic regimens, using inhaled antibiotics, and administering corticosteroids, is essential to mitigate poor outcomes.
Localization of micro bronchial stump fistulas via guidewire exploration: A case report
Authors: Wang Jieqiong , Hang Yan , He Zhongliang , Xin Shunxin , Peng Congbin , Mo Guohong , Xu Weihua
Published: December 2024

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF), a common complication of lobectomy, is a pathological communication between the bronchus and the pleural space. The bronchial stump fistula (BSF), which is located on the bronchial stump, is a specific type of BPF. BSF can be directly diagnosed via bronchoscopy. However, identification becomes difficult when the BSF is very small (less than 1 mm), referred to as micro BSF in this study because it cannot be found during bronchoscopic exploration. This clinical dilemma easily leads to misdiagnosis of BSF. In this paper, a new procedure for locating micro BSFs using guidewire exploration was reported. This innovative approach involves the use of a guidewire to detect suspected micro BSFs. If the guidewire successfully penetrates the bronchial stump, it indicates the presence of a micro BSF; otherwise, there is none. After precise localization of three micro BSFs, submucosal injection of lauromacrogol around them was performed followed by thoracic fenestration.
Pandemic‐Related Stress Increases PTSD and Depression Risk in Traumatic Injury Patients: A Comparative Study of Pre‐ and Peri‐Pandemic Trauma Cases
Authors: Zapata Juan Pablo , Tomas Carissa W. , Timmer‐Murillo Sydney , deRoon Cassini Terri A. , Larson Christine , Torres Lucas , Brandolino Amber , Geier Timothy , Khan Hason , Schramm Andrew T.
Published: December 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly impacted the psychological well‐being of the general population. However, there are limited studies that examine its mental health effects on patients who have experienced traumatic injuries and tracked their recovery over time. This study aimed to: (1) compare the rates and severity of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression between patients who sustained traumatic injuries before the COVID‐19 pandemic (pre‐pandemic) and those injured during the pandemic (peri‐pandemic); and (2) assess whether the degree of pandemic‐related stress (e.g., worry about infection, social isolation, loss of home/job) predicted the severity of PTSD or depression symptoms. Participants (N = 198) were recruited from a Level 1 Trauma Centre in Southeastern Wisconsin following admission for a single‐incident traumatic injury. Symptoms of PTSD and depression were assessed during hospitalisation and at three additional points within the subsequent 6 months. Self‐report measures were used to evaluate PTSD and depression severity among patients injured before (pre‐pandemic; n = 126) and during (peri‐pandemic; n = 73) the pandemic. Peri‐pandemic participants also completed a modified version of the COVID‐19 Family Stress Screener to measure pandemic‐related stress. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to identify the dimensions of pandemic‐related stress in our sample. The findings indicated that participants injured during the pandemic exhibited higher symptoms of PTSD and depression compared to those injured before the pandemic. Additionally, greater pandemic‐related stress correlated with elevated levels of depression and PTSD at baseline. Our results highlight that the broader context in which patients recover from injuries can intensify the negative mental health consequences of traumatic injury. This underscores the need for enhanced access to psychological services for trauma patients, particularly during major societal stressors like a global pandemic.
Creep Fracture Life Prediction of 9%Cr Heat‐Resistant Steel Based on the Back‐Propagation Artificial Neural Network Considering Microstructure Characteristics
Authors: Zhao Liwei , Shen Junjie , Li Bo , Xue Ziyu , Shao Yuqing , Ren He
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a creep‐life prediction model based on a back‐propagation artificial neural network (BP‐ANN). The model predicted the minimum creep rate by optimizing microstructure characteristics, including martensite lath width, sub‐grain, precipitates (M23C6 and Laves phases), and dislocation density. The BP‐ANN‐based predicted creep life of 9%Cr heat‐resistant steel is compared with the traditional time‐temperature life prediction method and the machine learning support vector regression model. The results show that the BP‐ANN model has better accuracy and performance. The % error between the predicted and the experimental creep life is 5% to 10%, primarily distributed in the two‐factor band line (2% to 5%). The BP‐ANN model gives the lowest mean absolute error (0.9926), root mean square error (29.411), average absolute relative error (4.7%), and multiple coefficient of determination (R2 0.96693). The results show that the BP‐ANN model improved the creep fracture life prediction of 9%Cr heat‐resistant steel.
Effect of Mold Electromagnetic Stirring Position on Flow Field and Solidification Behavior of Four‐Hole Nozzle Arc Continuous Casting Large Round Bloom
Authors: Yang Yongkun , Ge Ziyi , Zhu Jiayu , Wang Weian , Wang Jianli , Li Xiaoming
Published: December 2024

For the special casting environment of large round bloom mold with four‐hole nozzle, the reasonable choice of mold electromagnetic stirring (M‐EMS) location is of great significance to the quality control of bloom. In this study, the four‐hole nozzle arc continuous casting of φ600 mm‐large round bloom is taken as an example, a 3D mathematical model of liquid steel flow is built, and the solidification and heat transfer under M‐EMS is established. The optimum M‐EMS position was obtained as Z = 600 mm, which is enhanced flow rates, shell uniformity, and brittle interval width, and offers valuable insights for improving casting quality.
Overall Comparison Between Germany and Japan in Relation to Social Impact of Connected and Automated Driving
Authors: Takashi Oguchi , Shoichi Suzuki , Eisenmann Christine , Fleischer Torsten
Published: December 2024

The chapter “Setting the Scene for Automated Mobility: A Comparative Introduction to the Mobility Systems in Germany and Japan” provides an overview of the framework conditions characterizing the transport systems in Germany and Japan. Following two chapters investigate relation of the governance style to regulatory changes and resource allocation in the new technology development in Japan, and a business analysis and prognosis of the ride hailing market in Germany. The chapter 5 discusses the social acceptance of CAD based on the common survey conducted both in Japan and Germany. Following two chapters include the investigations on various parameters of the German transport system applying three consecutive transport models and scenario analyses, and the effects of the diffusion of CAD on the Japanese transport system applying a model developed by the authors in charge. Based on the discussions above, this chapter discuses several points relating to public expectations, touching on the similarities and differences between Germany and Japan; such as public acceptance affecting CAD diffusion, common expectations of groups and individuals, attitude of car industry, mobility services expected to be realized, differences in forms of residence, decision-making toward diffusion, expectations for the type of CAD initially introduced, forming a correct understanding of CAD by citizens, and risks that may affect expectations.
Herschel Observing Time Proposals
Authors: Pilbratt Göran , García-Lario Pedro , Parmar Arvind
Published: December 2024

After an introduction to the ESA Herschel Space Observatory including a mission overview, science objectives, results and productivity we examine the process and outcomes of the announcements of observing opportunities (AOs). For Herschel, in common with other ESA observatories, there were no rules, quotas, or guidelines for the allocation of observing time based on the geographical location of the lead proposer’s institute, gender, or seniority (“academic age”); scientific excellence was the most important single factor. We investigate whether and how success rates vary with these (“other”) parameters. Due to the relatively short operational duration of Herschel—compared to XMM-Newton and INTEGRAL—in addition to the pre-launch AO in 2007 there was just two further AOs, in 2010 and 2011. In order to extend the time-frame we compare results with those from the ESA Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) whose time allocation took place approximately 15 years earlier.
Dark Night of the Universal: transition (1927–1938) as Region of the Modern
Authors: Watten Barrett
Published: December 2024

In taking up the international modernist journal transition (1927–1938), edited by Eugene Jolas, I begin with the editorial project of constructing a space between and among the literatures of three world languages: English, French, and German (coinciding, in fact, with the editor’s trilingual background as an emigrant from Alsace-Lorraine to the United States), on the way to a global universal. The disparity between the basic presuppositions of these literatures—for instance, between American objectivism and French surrealism—demands a higher level of interpretation, which I compare to a geographical “region” of the modern. As Jolas’s project continues through the decade of the 1930s and into the War, I see an attempt to construct aesthetic/ethical universals from the juxtaposition of global literatures that anticipates the postwar demand for ethical/political universals, in which Jolas himself participated as a journalistic reformer in Germany and as a reporter for the Nuremberg Trials.
The Role of the Court of Justice in Shaping the Right to Maintain Family Unity for Beneficiaries of International Protection
Authors: Voinich Alessia
Published: December 2024

The right to maintain family unity is one of the inherent guarantees of the content of international protection provided for in Chapter VII of the Qualifications Directive. This right extends to both refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection, safeguarding the integrity of family units already present within the member state offering protection.

This inclusion of family unity within the framework of international protection reflects a more specific application of broader principles enshrined in instruments like the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (Art. 7 and 24) and the European Convention on Human Rights (Art. 8). Notably, the Geneva Convention itself lacks an analogous provision, though the Final Act of the UN Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Status of Refugees and Stateless Persons emphasizes family unity as an ‘essential right’ for refugees and urges the States to protect it.

However, ensuring the practical application of this right presents significant challenges. The Qualifications Directive (Directive 2011/95/EU) mandates member states to uphold family unity yet setting specific conditions and delegating aspects to national laws (para. II). This has resulted in a complex body of case law from the Court of Justice, which has navigated this tension and developed innovative legal solutions within asylum law.

This Chapter delves into this landscape and examines how the Court has addressed issues such as the flexibility of member states in establishing more favorable national regimes (para. III), the complex link between family member rights and the asylum right of their relative who is a beneficiary of international protection (para. IV), and situations where responsibility for international protection and for ensuring family unity falls on different member states (para. V).

Finally, the Chapter will examine the impact of recent reforms within the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) on this evolving legal landscape (para. VI) and some concluding remarks will be drawn (para. VII).
Guardianship of Children in the Context of Migration in Hungary
Authors: Szeibert Orsolya
Published: December 2024

This chapter explains the legal framework on guardianship for unaccompanied minor refugees in Hungary and deals with the real-life experiences of being an unaccompanied minor. The legal framework is fragmented and has continuously been such in the last decade. The situation of these children in Hungary was severely altered in the mid-2010s by several legal acts that contained special provisions for the “crisis situation caused by mass immigration”, and the (negative) effects of these provisions on minors are clearly pointed out in the chapter. These effects have been seen in the field of guardianship and other child protection measures and the prolongation of the crisis situation caused by mass immigration influences all legal sources which determine children’s rights. The chapter highlights the amendment of the child protection law and the implementation of children’s rights in case of unaccompanied minors. Some special legal protections of refugees from Ukraine are analysed as well. The chapter can be considered as a snapshot of how the situation of unaccompanied children is developing, and to which legal and temporal changes they and children’s rights are exposed to.
A European Approach to Cross-Border Guardianship
Authors: Heiderhoff Bettina
Published: December 2024

This chapter considers whether the practice of appointing guardians could be improved by regulation at European level. It takes a pessimistic view of the future in the light of the New Pact on Migration and Asylum.
An Employment and Social Inclusion Approach
Authors: Carrera Sergio , Colombi Davide
Published: December 2024

Under the 2019–2024 VDL Commission, the employment and social inclusion approach mirrored the mandate of the Commissioner for ‘Jobs and Social Rights’, Nicolas Schmit.
A Criminalisation Approach
Authors: Carrera Sergio , Colombi Davide
Published: December 2024

The existing EU legal and policy framework gives precedence to the criminalisation of persons in a situation of irregularity.
Advancing 3D Mesh Analysis: A Graph Learning Approach for Intersecting 3D Geometry Classification
Authors: Böhm Stefan Andreas , Neumayer Martin , Zagar Bare Luka , Riß Fabian , Kortüm Christian , Knoll Alois
Published: December 2024

Driven by increasing customer demands, manufacturing processes now encompass increasingly intricate workflows. The industry uses computer-aided process planning to manage these complex manufacturing processes effectively. A crucial task here is to analyze product data and determine the required machining features, represented as 3D mesh geometries. However, a notable challenge arises, particularly with custom products, where the interpretation of the 3D mesh geometry varies significantly depending on the available machinery and expert preferences. This study introduces a configurable automated feature recognition framework based on expert knowledge. Experts can use a configurable synthetic data generator to encode their requirements within this framework via the training data. A machine-learning graph classification approach is used to recognize the 3D geometries of machining features in the generated data, based on to the user requirements. The system accomplishes this without requiring for data conversion into alternative formats, such as voxel or pixel representations, like other approaches are forced to.
Dense Road Surface Grip Map Prediction from Multimodal Image Data
Authors: Maanpää Jyri , Pesonen Julius , Hyyti Heikki , Melekhov Iaroslav , Kannala Juho , Manninen Petri , Kukko Antero , Hyyppä Juha
Published: December 2024

Slippery road weather conditions are prevalent in many regions and cause a regular risk for traffic. Still, there has been less research on how autonomous vehicles could detect slippery driving conditions on the road to drive safely. In this work, we propose a method to predict a dense grip map from the area in front of the car, based on postprocessed multimodal sensor data. We trained a convolutional neural network to predict pixelwise grip values from fused RGB camera, thermal camera, and LiDAR reflectance images, based on weakly supervised ground truth from an optical road weather sensor.

The experiments show that it is possible to predict dense grip values with good accuracy from the used data modalities as the produced grip map follows both ground truth measurements and local weather conditions, such as snowy areas on the road. The model using only the RGB camera or LiDAR reflectance modality provided good baseline results for grip prediction accuracy while using models fusing the RGB camera, thermal camera, and LiDAR modalities improved the grip predictions significantly.
Oxyresveratrol and/or Dapagliflozin Attenuate Doxorubicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity via Modulation of PPAR-γ/Nrf-2/HO-1, NF-κB/TNF-α/Keap-1, and Bcl-2/Caspase-3/ATG-5 signaling pathways in rats
Authors: El-Sawy Waleed S M , Khalaf Marwa M , El-Bahrawy Ali H , Messiha Basim A S , Hemeida Ramadan A M
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Among the most undesirable effects that lead to the restriction of doxorubicin (DOX) use in chemotherapy is kidney damage. This research aimed to assess the possible defenses against DOX-induced nephrotoxicity offered by oxyresveratrol (ORES) and/or dapagliflozin (DAPA).

Methods

Five groups of eight male Swiss albino rats each were created from a total of sixty-four. One intravenous injection of DOX (10 mg/kg) was given into the tail vein on the fourteenth day of the experiment; in the meantime, ORES (80 mg/kg) and DAPA (10 mg/kg) were given orally 14 days prior to the DOX injection and 2 days following the DOX injection.

Results

In rats given DOX, ORES and/or DAPA both successfully reduced the kidney weight, kidney/bodyweight ratio, and blood levels of creatinine, uric acid, and urea. They also increased final body weight and albumin serum levels. Additionally, lower serum concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6 were noted, along with a lower kidney content of caspase-3. Furthermore, the expression of the Bcl-2 gene was upregulated, as were the Nrf-2, PPAR-γ, and HO-1 proteins, and there was a downregulation of the ATG-5, Keap-1, and NF-κB renal gene expression. These findings support a decrease in oxidative stress and relief of histopathological alterations.

Conclusion

The current study’s findings suggest that ORES and/or DAPA pretreatment could be a viable therapeutic approach to ameliorate DOX-induced nephrotoxicity.