bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of physiological pacing rate in cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Spaggiari Caio V. , de Siqueira Sergio F. , de Oliveira Camila Parente , Guiarão Gomes Cinthya I. , Alves Maria Janieire de N. N. , Filho Martino Martinelli
Published: June 2023

Aims

Although cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves functional capacity in heart failure patients, a blunted heart rate (HR) response remains after treatment. So we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of the physiological pacing rate (PPR) in CRT patients.

Methods

A cohort of 30 clinical mildly symptomatic CRT patients underwent the six‐minute walk test (6MWT). During the 6MWT, HR, blood pressure, and maximum walking distance were assessed. The measurements were obtained in a pre to post manner, with CRT at nominal settings and with the physiological phase (CRT PPR), in which HR was increased by 10% above the maximum HR achieved previously. The CRT cohort also comprised a matched control group (CRT CG). In the CRT CG, the 6MWT was repeated after the standard evaluation with no PPR. The evaluations were blinded for patients and for the 6MWT evaluator.

Results

During the 6MWT, CRT PPR led to an increase in walking distance of 40.5 m (9.2%; P < 0.0001) when compared with baseline trial. Additionally, CRT PPR increased the maximum walking distance compared with CRT CG 479.3 ± 68.9 m vs. 420.3 ± 44.8 m, respectively, P = 0.001. In the CRT CG, CRT PPR increased the variation in walking distance, compared with baseline trials, respectively 2.40 ± 3.8% vs. 9.25 ± 7.0%, P = 0.007.

Conclusions

In mildly symptomatic CRT patients PPR is feasible, leading to improvements in functional capacity. In this regard, the efficacy of PPR must be confirmed by controlled randomized trials.
Photochemical Bromination of 2,5‐Dimethylbenzoic Acid as Key Step of an Improved Alkyne‐Functionalized Blue Box Synthesis**
Authors: Bachir Ahmad , Ciocchetti Fabiana , Couto Daniel P. , Di Noja Simone , Pezzato Cristian , Ragazzon Giulio
Published: June 2023

Cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene), also known as “blue box”, is a highly electron‐deficient macrocycle, widely used as a molecular receptor for small electron‐rich molecules. Inserting a reactive functional group onto the molecular structure of this cyclophane is paramount for its inclusion into complex architectures. To this aim, including an alkyne moiety would be ideal, because it can participate in click reactions. However, the synthesis of such alkyne‐functionalized cyclophane suffers from several drawbacks: the use of toxic and expensive CCl4, the need for high‐pressure reactors, and overall low yield. We have revised the existing synthesis of this cyclophane derivative bearing an alkyne moiety, to overcome all these limitations. In particular, photochemical radical bromination is adopted to obtain a sensitive intermediate. We demonstrated that the synthesized host molecule can be functionalized via click reactions and take part in radical‐radical interactions. Our work makes a key functionalized paraquat macrocycle more accessible, facilitating the development of novel redox‐responsive systems.
Comparison between pupillometry and numeric pain rating scale for pain assessments in communicating adult patients in the emergency department
Authors: Gregoire Charles , Charier David , de Bergeyck Romane , Mouraux André , Van Ouytsel Floor , Lambert Romain , Zhou Nicole , Lavand'homme Patricia , Penaloza Andrea , Pickering Gisele
Published: June 2023

Objective

The adequate assessment of pain in the emergency department (ED) can be challenging. Two dynamic pupillary measures used in conscious subjects after a surgical procedure were previously shown to correlate to the magnitude of ongoing pain. The objective of this study was to test the ability of dynamic measures derived from pupillometry to evaluate pain intensity in conscious adult patients admitted to the ED.

Methods

This prospective, interventional, single‐centre study was performed between August 2021 and January 2022 (NCT05019898). An assessment of self‐reported pain intensity was performed on ED admission by the triage nurse using a numeric rating scale (NRS). This was followed by two dynamic measures derived from pupillometry that were previously correlated with pain perception: the pupillary unrest under ambient light (PUAL) and the pupillary light reflex (PLR).

Results

Among the 313 analysed patients, the median age was 41 years, and 52% were women. No correlation was found between self‐reported pain ratings and PUAL (r = 0.007) or PLR (baseline diameter r = −0.048; decrease r = 0.024; latency r = 0.019; slope = −0.051). Similarly, the pupillometry measures could not discriminate patients with moderate to severe pain (defined as NRS ≥4).

Conclusions

Pupillometry does not appear to be an effective tool to evaluate pain in the ED environment. Indeed, too many factors influencing the sympathetic system—and thus the dynamic pupillary measures—are not controllable in the ED.

Significance

Pupillometry does not appear to be an effective tool to evaluate pain in the ED environment.

There are several possible explanations for these negative results. The factors influencing the sympathetic system—and thus the PD fluctuations—are controllable in the postoperative period but not in the ED (e.g. full bladder, hypothermia). In addition, numerous psychological phenomena can impact pupillometry measurements such as emotional reactions or cognitive tasks. These phenomena are particularly difficult to control in the ED environment.
Geostatistical analysis for spatial distribution of anemia (Hb level) among women of reproductive age and determinant factors
Authors: Abbas Ghulam , Hussain Azhar , Hussain Abid , Ahmed Zahoor , Abbas Yasir , Nemat Arash
Published: June 2023

The study was designed to assess the geostatistical spatial distribution of anemia and determinant factors among the women of reproductive age group (RAG) in Gilgit district, Pakistan. The Hb levels for 15–25 RAG, 26–35 RAG, and 36–45 group showed 10.22 g/dL, 10.41 g/dL, and 9.90 g/dL levels, respectively, while the Hb level showed a nugget/sill ratio of 0.21 inferring strong for the 15–25 group, weak for the 26–36, and moderate for 36–45 spatial dependence. Furthermore, 15–25 RAG showed 8% severe and 33.34% sufficient cases and 26–35 showed 12% severe and 29.33% sufficient results in their Hb level, whereas 36–45 had 9.34% severe and 29.33% sufficient.
The association between depression and non‐compliance with COVID‐19 preventive behaviors in South Korean older adults stratified by sex
Authors: Lee Jae Jun , Kim Namhee , Park Min Kyung , Ji Hyunju , Kim Gwang Suk
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study evaluated the association between depression and non‐compliance with COVID‐19 preventive behaviors among community‐dwelling South Korean older adults.

Methods

We utilized the 2020 Korean Community Health Survey—a community‐based nationwide survey. A score of 10 points or higher on the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 was defined as depression. Non‐compliance with COVID‐19 preventive behaviors was assessed on the following three behaviors: washing hands, wearing masks, and watching distance. We also included socio‐demographic characteristics, health behaviors, and COVID‐19‐related characteristics as covariates. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed, and all statistical analyses were stratified by sex.

Results

The 70,693 participants included 29,736 men and 40,957 women. Notably, 2.3% of men and 4.2% of women had depression. Non‐compliance with washing hands was significantly higher in men than women (1.3% vs. 0.9%), whereas no significant differences were observed in wearing masks and watching distance. The adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that depression was positively associated with non‐compliance with washing hands and watching distance in both sexes. The association between depression and non‐compliance with wearing masks was significant only in women.

Conclusions

There was an association between depression and non‐compliance with COVID‐19 preventive behaviors in South Korean older adults. This signifies that health providers need to reduce depression to improve compliance with preventive behaviors in older adults.
Comparison of the short‐ and long‐term prognosis of early‐onset colorectal cancer compared with later‐onset colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jin Taojun , Li Xinxing , Ji Jianmei , Li Jue , Yin Xiaomao , Xu Kai , Wang Wenqiang , Zhang Wei , Xu Xiaowen , Hu Zhiqian , Gong Biao
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

The annual incidence of early‐onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is increasing at an alarming rate. The prognosis of EOCRC remains controversial, and whether the early onset is a risk factor for colorectal cancer remains unclear.

Methods

We searched four electronic bibliographic databases from database inception to April 25, 2022 for studies that included both early‐ and later‐onset patients and performed a prognostic analysis. Random‐effects models were used to summarize the prognostic information extracted by the investigators, including overall survival (OS), cancer‐special survival (CSS), and disease‐free survival (DFS). Network meta‐analysis (NMA) was used to compare patients' long‐term prognoses in different age subgroups.

Results

After 694 reports were screened, 13 studies were included in the final analysis, with a total of 448,781 CRC cases. In the meta‐analysis of the 5‐year OS, EOCRC had a better prognosis compared to LOCRC (hazard ratio [HR] 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74–0.99; relative risk [RR] 0.83, 95% CI, 0.78–0.89). No difference in prognosis was found between the two groups in terms of 5‐year CSS (RR 0.99, 95% CI, 0.93–1.05), 5‐year DFS (RR 0.90, 95% CI, 0.74–1.09), and short‐term OS. In the NMA, patients aged <30 years had the worst outcome (surface under the cumulative ranking curve [SUCRA], 15.8%) in 5‐year OS; consistent results were observed in the analysis of 5‐year CSS (<30 years, SUCRA 4.5%), but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Although patients with early‐onset CRC had better OS than those with later‐onset CRC, there was no difference in the CSS. Meanwhile, the trend for survival was worse in younger patients, especially in those ages 18–29 years. Thus, more attention should be paid to early diagnosis and treatment of EOCRC.

Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Registration

The systematic review and Meta‐analysis protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022334697).
Plasma total cholesterol concentration and risk of higher‐grade prostate cancer: A nested case‐control study and a dose‐response meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Hui , Shui Irene M. , Keum NaNa , Shen Xudan , Wu Kana , Clinton Steven K. , Cao Yin , Song Mingyang , Zhang Xuehong , Platz Elizabeth A. , Giovannucci Edward L.
Published: June 2023

Our previous publication found an increased risk of higher‐grade (Gleason sum ≥7) prostate cancer for men with high total cholesterol concentration (≥200 mg/dl) in the Health Professionals Follow‐up Study (HPFS). With additional 568 prostate cancer cases, we are now able to investigate this association in more detail. For the nested case‐control study, we included 1260 men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1993 and 2004, and 1328 controls. For the meta‐analyses, 23 articles studied the relationship between total cholesterol level and prostate cancer incidence were included. Logistic regression models and dose‐response meta‐analysis were performed. An increased risk of higher‐grade (Gleason sum ≥4 + 3) prostate cancer for high vs low quartile of total cholesterol level was observed in the HPFS (ORmultivariable = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.01‐2.40). This finding was compatible with the association noted in the meta‐analysis of highest vs lowest group of total cholesterol level, which suggested a moderately increased risk of higher‐grade prostate cancer (Pooled RR =1.21; 95%CI: 1.11‐1.32). Moreover, the dose‐response meta‐analysis indicated that an increased risk of higher‐grade prostate cancer occurred primarily at total cholesterol levels ≥200 mg/dl, where the RR was 1.04 (95%CI: 1.01‐1.08) per 20 mg/dl increase in total cholesterol level. However, total cholesterol concentration was not associated with the risk of prostate cancer overall either in the HPFS or in the meta‐analysis. Our primary finding, as well as the result of the meta‐analysis suggested a modest increased risk of higher‐grade prostate cancer, at total cholesterol concentrations exceeding 200 mg/dl.
Training and capacity building in obstetric fistula repair: A scoping review
Authors: Chin Esther Anne , Arrowsmith Steven
Published: June 2023

Background

An ongoing barrier to sustainable obstetric fistula (OF) care is the lack of trained fistula surgeons. Despite a standardized training curriculum, data regarding OF repair training remain limited.

Objectives

To assess the availability of literature on the case numbers or training duration required for OF repair competency and whether these data are stratified by trainee background or repair complexity.

Search strategy

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and OVID Global Health electronic databases and gray literature.

Selection criteria

All English sources from all years from low‐ and middle‐income and high‐income countries were eligible. Identified titles and abstracts were screened and full‐text articles were reviewed.

Data collection and analysis

Data collection and analysis included a descriptive summary organized by training case numbers, training duration, trainee background, and repair complexity.

Results

Of the 405 sources retrieved, 24 were included in the study. The only concrete recommendations were in the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics 2022 Fistula Surgery Training Manual, which proposes 50 to 100 repairs (Level 1), 200 to 300 repairs (Level 2), and trainer discretion for Level 3 competency.

Conclusions

More case‐ or time‐based data, particularly if stratified by trainee background and repair complexity, would be useful at the individual, institutional, and policy level for fistula care implementation or expansion.
A regulatory framework review of Schedule I psychedelics in the United States
Authors: Herkenham Kevin
Published: June 2023

Psychoactive substances such as psilocybin and 3,4‐methylenedioxy‐methamphetamine (MDMA) are currently being investigated for a variety of psychiatric indications including major depressive disorder and post‐traumatic stress disorder. It is critical that clinicians working in the mental health field understand the regulatory framework that balances access and control for such substances. While both psilocybin and MDMA are designated as “Breakthrough Therapy” by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they remain classified as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970. There are programs such as Expanded Access (EA) and federal Right‐to‐Try (RTT) legislation that can accommodate patient access to investigational drugs under certain circumstances, but these programs are not without their limits—particularly for Schedule I substances that do not currently have an accepted medical use per the CSA. It is in the clinical community's best interest to understand the administrative procedures, key court cases, and federal legislative initiatives related to these substances in order to make well‐informed decisions for themselves and their patients. Furthermore, understanding the administrative proceedings related to controlled substances will also allow subject matter experts to participate in and shape the policies governing such substances.
Pre‐exposure prophylaxis in real life: experience from a prospective, observational and demonstration project among men who have sex with men in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Diabaté Souleymane , Béhanzin Luc , Guédou Fernand A. , Goma‐Matsétsé Ella , Olodo Marius , Aza‐Gnandji Marlène , Dossouvo Alban , Akpaka Axel , Chagas Elyote , Gangbo Flore , Zannou Djimon Marcel , Alary Michel
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Since many countries in sub‐Saharan Africa are willing to implement HIV oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men (MSM), data are needed to assess its feasibility and relevance in real life. The study objectives were to assess drug uptake, adherence, condom use and number of sexual partners, HIV incidence and trends in the prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia.

Methods

In this oral PrEP demonstration study conducted prospectively in Benin, a combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate‐TDF 300 mg and emtricitabine‐FTC 200 mg (TDF‐FTC) was offered daily or on‐demand to MSM. Participants were recruited from 24 August to 24 November 2020 and followed over 12 months. At enrolment, month‐6 and month‐12, participants answered to a face‐to‐face questionnaire, underwent a physical examination and provided blood samples for HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.

Results

Overall, 204 HIV‐negative men initiated PrEP. The majority of them (80%) started with daily PrEP. Retention rates at month‐3, 6, 9 and 12 were 96%, 88%, 86% and 85%, respectively. At month‐6 and month‐12, respectively, 49% and 51% of the men on daily PrEP achieved perfect adherence (self‐reported), that is seven pills taken during the last week. For event‐driven PrEP, the corresponding proportions for perfect adherence (last seven at‐risk sexual episodes covered) were 81% and 80%, respectively. The mean number (standard deviation) of male sexual partners over the last 6 months was 2.1 (1.70) at baseline and 1.5 (1.27) at month‐12 (p‐value for trend <0.001). Consistent condom use during the last 6 months was 34% (enrolment), 37% (month‐6) and 36% (month‐12). Three HIV seroconversions (2‐daily and 1‐event‐driven) were recorded. Crude HIV incidence (95% confidence interval) was 1.53 (0.31−4.50)/100 person‐years. Neisseria gonorrhoeae and/or Chlamydia trachomatis prevalence at the anal and/or pharyngeal and/or urethral sites was 28% at baseline and 18% at month‐12 (p‐value = 0.017).

Conclusions

In West Africa, oral PrEP introduction in routine practice as a component of a holistic HIV prevention package is feasible and may not result in a significant increase in condomless sex among MSM. Since HIV incidence was still higher, additional interventions, such as culturally tailored adherence counselling, may be needed to optimize the benefits of PrEP.
Field‐applying an inexpensive, 13C‐depleted, labile carbon source to study in situ fate and short‐term effects on soils
Authors: Potter Stephen W. , Kin Christar , Hall Steven J. , Sawyer John E. , McDaniel Marshall D.
Published: June 2023

Background

Labile carbon (Clabile) limits soil microbial growth and is critical for soil functions like nitrogen (N) immobilization. Most experiments evaluating Clabile additions use laboratory incubations. We need to field‐apply Clabile to fully understand its fate and effects on soils, especially at depth, but high cost and logistical difficulties hinder this approach.

Aims

Here, we evaluated the impact of adding an in situ pulse of an inexpensive and 13C‐depleted source of Clabile—crude glycerol carbon (Cglyc), a by‐product from biodiesel production—to agricultural soils under typical crop rotations in Iowa, USA.

Methods

We broadcast‐applied Cglyc at three rates (0, 216, and 866 kg C ha−1) in autumn after soybean harvest, tracked its fate, and measured its impact on soil C and N dynamics to four depths (0–5, 5–15, 15–30, and 30–45 cm). Nineteen days later, we measured Cglyc in microbial biomass carbon (MBC), salt‐extractable organic C, and potentially mineralizable C pools. We paired these measurements with nitrate N (NO3−–N) and potential net N mineralization to examine short‐term effects on N cycling.

Results

Cglyc was found to at least 45‐cm depth with the majority in MBC (18%–23% of total Cglyc added). The δ13C values of the other measured C pools were too variable to accurately track the Clabile fate. NO3−–N was decreased by 13%–57% with the 216 and 866 kg C ha−1 rates, respectively, and was strongly related to greater microbial uptake of Cglyc (i.e., immobilization via microbial biomass). Crude glycerol application had minor effects on soil pH—the greatest rate decreased pH 0.18 units compared to the control.

Conclusions

Overall, glycerol is an inexpensive and effective way to measure in situ, Clabile dynamics with soil depth—analogous to how mobile, dissolved organic C might behave in soils—and can be applied to rapidly immobilize NO3−–N.
The Role of Ultrasonographic Inferior Vena Cava Measurement in the Volume‐Based Classification of Patients With Hyponatremia
Authors: Şirin İlker , Çığşar Gülşen , Sönmez Bedriye Müge
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To demonstrate the role of inferior vena cava (IVC) collapsibility in the assessment of volume status in hyponatremic critically ill patients in the emergency department (ED) with bedside IVC imaging and to predict volume status with response to fluid therapy.

Methods

A prospective 110 hypotonic hyponatremic patients aged >18 years with a serum sodium level under 125 mEq/L and at least one symptom of hyponatremia, who presented or referred to the ED was conducted. Demographical, clinical, and laboratory characteristics with bedside measurement of IVC diameter of patients were recorded. Volume status was divided into 3 subgroups: hypovolemic‐G1, euvolemic‐G2, and hypervolemic‐G3. An ED trainee with a certification to perform basic and advanced ultrasonography (USG) training carried out the USG examinations. A diagnostic algorithm approach was made according to the results.

Results

Symptom severity was significantly greater in the hypervolemic group than the other groups (P = .009 and P = .034, respectively). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were significantly lower in the hypovolemic group compared with the other groups (P < .001 and P = .003, respectively). There was a significant difference between the ultrasonographically measured IVC min, IVC max, and mean IVC values across the three volume‐based groups (P < .001).

Conclusion

Considering the diversity of physical examination (PE) findings, with the highly heterogenous nature of hyponatremia, a new measurable algorithm can be developed on the basis of contemporary hyponatremic patient management guidelines.
Comparison of Low‐Level to High‐Level Disinfection in Eliminating Microorganisms From Ultrasound Transducers Used on Skin: A Noninferiority Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Peters Nathan , Williamson Frances , Bauer Michelle J. , Llewellyn Stacey , Snelling Peter J. , Marsh Nicole , Harris Patrick N. A. , Stewart Adam G. , Rickard Claire M.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

There is a lack of international consensus as to whether high‐ or low‐level disinfection (HLD or LLD) is required for ultrasound (US) transducers used during percutaneous procedures. This study compared the effectiveness of LLD to HLD on US transducers contaminated with microorganisms from skin.

Methods

Two identical linear US transducers repeatedly underwent either LLD or HLD during the study. Randomization determined which of these transducers was applied to left and right forearms of each participant. Swabs taken from transducers before and after reprocessing were plated then incubated for 4–5 days, after which colony forming units (CFU) were counted and identified. The primary hypothesis was the difference in the proportion of US transducers having no CFUs remaining after LLD and HLD would be less than or equal to the noninferiority margin of −5%.

Results

Of the 654 recruited participants 73% (n = 478) had microbial growth from both transducers applied to their left and right forearms before reprocessing. These were included in the paired noninferiority statistical analysis where, after disinfection, all CFUs were eliminated in 100% (95% CI: 99.4–100.0%) of HLD transducer samples (n = 478) and 99.0% (95% CI: 97.6–99.7%) of LLD transducer samples (n = 473). The paired difference in the proportion of transducers having all CFUs eliminated between LLD and HLD was −1.0% (95% CI: −2.4 to −0.2%, P‐value <.001).

Conclusions

Disinfection with LLD is noninferior to HLD when microorganisms from skin have contaminated the transducer. Therefore, using LLD for US transducers involved in percutaneous procedures would present no higher infection risk compared with HLD.
Second Harmonic Imaging of Nasal, Auricular, and Costal Cartilage
Authors: Dilley Katelyn K. , Lal Akarsh , Nguyen Theodore V. , Wong Brian J. F.
Published: June 2023

Objective

There is little knowledge about the histological organization of facial and costal cartilages in terms of matrix structure and cell morphology. Second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging is a nonlinear imaging technique that capitalizes on signal generation from highly ordered macromolecules such as collagen fibers. The purpose of this study was to use SHG microscopy to image collagen extracellular matrix (ECM) structure, chondrocyte size, and density of these cartilages.

Study Design

Experimental.

Methods

Surgical remnants of septal, lower lateral, rib, and auricular cartilages were collected following surgery, sectioned into 0.5–1 mm thick samples and fixed to facilitate batch process imaging. A Leica TCS SP8 MP Microscope and multiphoton laser were used to image the specimens. Images were analyzed for cell size, cell density, and collagen fiber directionality patterns using ImageJ.

Results

SHG images of septal specimens show mesh‐like structure of the ECM. There appears to be a superficial layer, characterized by flattened lacunae and middle zone, marked by circular lacunae clusters, similar to what is observed in articular cartilage. The structure of the ECM depicts a visible orientation perpendicular to the surface of the perichondrium. Cell size and density analysis through ImageJ suggests variety across cartilage types. Directionality analysis indicates that the collagen in the ECM displays preferred direction.

Conclusion

This study establishes clear extracellular models of facial and costal cartilages. Limitations include heterogeneous cartilage thickness due to processing difficulties. Further studies include automating the cutting process to increase uniformity of tissue thickness and increasing sample size to further validate results.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 133:3370–3377, 2023
Can Patients with Wilson's Disease Develop Copper Deficiency?
Authors: Chevalier Kevin , Obadia Mickaël Alexandre , Djebrani‐Oussedik Nouzha , Poujois Aurélia
Published: June 2023

Background

Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare genetic condition characterized by a copper overload in organs secondary to mutation in ATP7B gene. Lifelong decoppering treatments are the keystone of the treatment but must be regularly adapted to obtain a correct copper balance and could lead to copper deficiency (CD).

Objectives

Study the characteristics of CD in WD patients.

Methods

CD cases from our cohort of 338 WD patients have been investigated. CD was defined by the association of serum copper, exchangeable copper and urinary copper excretion assays less than two standard deviations from the mean with cytopenia and/or neurological damage of spinal cord origin. A systematic review of literature about cases of CD in WD patient was performed in PubMed database according to PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Three WD patients were diagnosed with CD in our cohort. Review of the literature found 17 other patients. Most of the patients had anemia and neutropenia associated with neurological symptoms (especially progressive posterior cord syndrome). All the patients were treated with Zinc salts and the symptoms occurred more than a decade after the initiation of treatment. The adaptation of the treatment allowed a correction of the cytopenia but only a partial improvement of the neurological symptoms.

Conclusions

WD patients can develop CD after many years of zinc therapy. Anemia and neutropenia are red flags that should evoke CD.
Sparsier2Sparse: Self‐supervised convolutional neural network‐based streak artifacts reduction in sparse‐view CT images
Authors: Kim Seongjun , Kim Byeongjoon , Lee Jooho , Baek Jongduk
Published: June 2023

Background

Sparse‐view computed tomography (CT) has attracted a lot of attention for reducing both scanning time and radiation dose. However, sparsely‐sampled projection data generate severe streak artifacts in the reconstructed images. In recent decades, many sparse‐view CT reconstruction techniques based on fully‐supervised learning have been proposed and have shown promising results. However, it is not feasible to acquire pairs of full‐view and sparse‐view CT images in real clinical practice.

Purpose

In this study, we propose a novel self‐supervised convolutional neural network (CNN) method to reduce streak artifacts in sparse‐view CT images.

Methods

We generate the training dataset using only sparse‐view CT data and train CNN based on self‐supervised learning. Since the streak artifacts can be estimated using prior images under the same CT geometry system, we acquire prior images by iteratively applying the trained network to given sparse‐view CT images. We then subtract the estimated steak artifacts from given sparse‐view CT images to produce the final results.

Results

We validated the imaging performance of the proposed method using extended cardiac‐torso (XCAT) and the 2016 AAPM Low‐Dose CT Grand Challenge dataset from Mayo Clinic. From the results of visual inspection and modulation transfer function (MTF), the proposed method preserved the anatomical structures effectively and showed higher image resolution compared to the various streak artifacts reduction methods for all projection views.

Conclusions

We propose a new framework for streak artifacts reduction when only the sparse‐view CT data are given. Although we do not use any information of full‐view CT data for CNN training, the proposed method achieved the highest performance in preserving fine details. By overcoming the limitation of dataset requirements on fully‐supervised‐based methods, we expect that our framework can be utilized in the medical imaging field.
Efficacy of different wet feeds on the growth performance of mud crab Scylla serrata during fattening in cages
Authors: Nivas Naveen , Kaippilly Dinesh , Gopalakrishnan Ayyaru
Published: June 2023

Objective

Mud crab culture/fattening is a lucrative business with high profit margins because they have high economic and export value. Compared with shrimp culture, crab fattening has many advantages such as a short production cycle, high tolerance to poor water quality, rapid growth rates in captivity, etc. Currently, cheap commercial feed for crabs is unavailable, so raw feeds such as low-value fishes have been used for rearing mud crabs. The current study was conducted to determine the growth performance of mud crab Scylla serrata that were fed with different processed wet feeds.

Methods

Crabs weighing 250–300 g were stocked in individual cages, and the experiment was conducted with three different feed treatments including processed chicken intestine, processed shrimp head waste, oyster meat, and the control feed was processed small-sized low-value fish.

Result

Of all the feeds, mud crabs that were fed with chicken intestine showed better performance, followed by oyster meat, shrimp head waste, and low-value fish.

Conclusion

The present study concludes that fattening mud crabs with chicken intestine as feed showed better growth and economic performance.
Propagation algorithm for hybrid uncertainty parameters based on polynomial chaos expansion
Authors: Wang Zong‐fan , Wang Li‐qun , Wang Xiu‐ye , Sun Qin‐qin , Yang Guo‐lai
Published: June 2023

This article presents an uncertainty analysis method for systems with hybrid stochastic and fuzzy uncertainty parameters based on polynomial chaos expansion (PCE). Parameters in the system are described by probability boxes, interval numbers, and fuzzy sets, respectively, based on the differences in their limited stochastic knowledge. First, this method transforms the uncertain parameters into standard normal distribution and interval variables through equal probability transformation or ‐cut operations. Second, the Legendre and Hermite polynomials are used as the PCE model's primary functions, and the expansion coefficients are calculated by the Galerkin projection method based on sparse grid numerical integration. Then, the system response bounds under the pre‐defined confidence level can be obtained using a genetic algorithm to solve the optimization problem constructed based on PCE models. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the method are illustrated by taking the tank bi‐directional stabilized system and the double‐pendulum‐controlled system as examples. The numerical results show that the system response bounds obtained by the PCE model optimization algorithm are consistent with the Monte Carlo simulation. Still, the computational efficiency is much higher. The proposed method effectively combines fuzzy sets and probability boxes and dramatically simplifies the analysis process of uncertain systems. The method exhibits fine precision even in high‐dimensional uncertainty analysis problems.
Rationalising the retro‐Diels‐Alder fragmentation pattern of viscutins using electrospray interface‐tandem mass spectrometry coupled to theoretical modelling
Authors: Moyo Babra , Novokoza Yolanda , Tavengwa Nikita Tawanda , Kuhnert Nikolai , Lobb Kevin , Madala Ntakadzeni Edwin
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Although mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool in structural elucidation of unknown flavonoids based on their unique fragmentation patterns, proposing the correct fragmentation mechanism is still a challenge from tandem mass spectrometry data only. In recent years, computational tools such as molecular networking and MS2LDA have played a major role in the identification of structurally related compounds through an in‐depth survey of their fragmentation patterns.

Methods

Therefore, in this study, three viscutin molecules in Viscum combreticola Engl. crude extracts were characterised using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry and MS2LDA, a computational tool. Ion‐trap mass spectrometry and density functional theoretical modelling were used as confirmatory tools to rationalise the unique fragmentation patterns observed for these molecules.

Results

Here, MS2LDA revealed the presence of a unique Mass2Motif in all the three viscutin molecules at m/z 137, which was confirmed to be a 1,3A− RDA (retro‐Diels‐Alder) fragmentation product using liquid chromatography‐ion‐trap mass spectrometry and density functional theoretical modelling. Moreover, MS2LDA proved to be useful in differentiating this spectral feature that was specific to viscutin molecules in the presence of other isobaric ions at m/z 137 occurring in compounds in other molecular families.

Conclusion

Therefore, the results of the current study showed that computational tools such as MS2LDA are essential in uncovering some gas‐phase fragmentation reactions of molecules in MS and that theoretical modelling is a powerful tool in rationalising these reactions in metabolite identification.
Cobalt‐Free LiNiO2 with a Selenium Coating as a High‐Energy Layered Cathode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chu Yuhang , Zhou Jinwei , Liu Wenxin , Chu Fulu , Li Jinhui , Wu Feixiang
Published: June 2023

Considering the high cost of cobalt, cobalt‐free lithium nickel oxide (LiNiO2), which has an extremely high theoretical specific capacity, has become attractive. However, its application is hampered by continuous irreversible phase changes, unstable interfaces, and particle pulverization. Herein, an ≈35 nm‐thick selenium (Se) coating is applied to modify LiNiO2 using a combination of solid‐phase mixing and low‐temperature sintering. After 300 cycles, the selenium‐coated LiNiO2 (Se–LNO) cathode exhibits unusually high capacity retention of 82.09% at a charge cutoff voltage of 4.3 V. Furthermore, the coating modification improves the rate performance of the cathode materials, which exhibit considerable specific capacities of 168.7 and 149.6 mAh g−1 at current densities of 2 and 5 C, respectively. The significantly enhanced electrochemical performance can be attributed to the ability of the Se coating to enhance the structural stability of the cathode materials by suppressing phase transitions, stabilizing the interface, enhancing the kinetic behavior of the electrode, and reducing particle pulverization. According to the findings of this study, manipulating the Se coating in cathodes may provide a viable path for lower‐cost and higher‐energy‐density Co‐free lithium‐ion batteries.
A Multiscale Deep‐Learning Model for Atom Identification from Low‐Signal‐to‐Noise‐Ratio Transmission Electron Microscopy Images
Authors: Lin Yanyu , Yan Zhangyuan , Tsang Chi Shing , Wong Lok Wing , Zheng Xiaodong , Zheng Fangyuan , Zhao Jiong , Chen Ke
Published: June 2023

Recent advancements in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have enabled the study of atomic structures of materials at unprecedented scales as small as tens of picometers (pm). However, accurately detecting atomic positions from TEM images remains a challenging task. Traditional Gaussian fitting and peak‐finding algorithms are effective under ideal conditions but perform poorly on images with strong background noise or contamination areas (shown as ultrabright or ultradark contrasts). Moreover, these traditional algorithms require parameter tuning for different magnifications. To overcome these challenges, AtomID‐Net is presented, a deep neural network model for atomic detection from multiscale low‐SNR experimental images of scanning TEM (scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM)). The model is trained on real images, which allows the robust and efficient detection of atomic positions, even in the presence of background noise and contamination. The evaluation on a test set of 50 images with a resolution of 800 × 800 yields an average F1‐Score of 0.964, which demonstrates significant improvements over existing peak‐finding algorithms.
Change in mean postoperative pain in patients undergoing tonsillectomy with cold water versus usual practice: A pragmatic trial
Authors: Iftikhar Haissan , Zahid Nida , Zubair Adan , Wasif Mohammad , Baig Nabeel N. , Abid Khadijah , Awan Muhammad Ozair , Awan Muhammad Sohail
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common procedures performed in otolaryngology. There are various methods to perform tonsillectomies (cold and hot). Thermal damage and inflammation of the surrounding tissue using monopolar cautery is said to point to increased pain whereas immediate cooling of the burnt area is thought to reduce pain owing to heat dissipation. Our objective was to determine the difference in mean post‐tonsillectomy pain scores among patients irrigated with cold water (4°C) and in patients not irrigated with cold water.

Material and Methods

A quasi‐experimental trial was conducted from January 2016 to December 2017 at a tertiary care hospital. All tonsillectomies were carried out with monopolar cautery at a power of 20 W. Patients either received cold water irrigation post tonsillectomy of the tonsillar bed (intervention arm) or no irrigation (control arm). The pain score was measured on Days 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7. Pain scores were charted on a visual analog scale on the respective days.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were included in the study. The mean age of our patients was 10.26 (4.24) years old in the intervention arm, and 11.95 (4.19) years old in the control arm. It was observed that the pain was significantly lower in patients with cold water irrigation of the tonsillar fossa on Days 1, 3, 5, and 7 (p = 0.001). There were no readmissions postprocedure and none of our patients developed any complications postsurgery.

Conclusions

In this trial, we report a reduced pain score at all days of observation in the intervention group. Irrigation of the tonsillar fossa is a safe, cost‐effective, and less technically demanding technique that could be employed to reduce postoperative pain. Further studies with randomization, blinding and a larger sample size could further improve on our results.
Home-Making in 17th Century Amsterdam: A 3D Reconstruction to Investigate Visual Cues in the Entrance Hall of Pieter de Graeff (1638–1707)
Authors: Piccoli Chiara
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the role of 3D modelling in enhancing our understanding of the spatial arrangement and representational character of a room in a 17th century Dutch home. The case study presented here is the entrance hall (“voorhuis” in Dutch) of the house of Pieter de Graeff and Jacoba Bicker located at Herengracht 573 in Amsterdam. This research draws upon a heterogenous dataset which includes the surviving architecture, the probate inventory of De Graeff’s properties that was drawn up after his death, and the almanacs in which he recorded some of the construction works in the house. This paper shows how the “materialization” of the inventoried objects in a 3D model suggests otherwise unnoticeable intentions and visual cues underlying their disposition within the room. In addition, this approach offers a non-intrusive and non-destructive way of visualizing past building phases and a room’s forgotten function which prompts a more dialogical engagement with architectural heritage in comparison to permanent physical reconstructions.
Correction to: Representation Learning for Natural Language Processing
Authors: Liu Zhiyuan , Lin Yankai , Sun Maosong
Published: June 2023

In the original version of the book, the following belated correction has been incorporated in both Preface and Chapter 8. In the Preface, a new reference citation has been added in Chapter 8.

The original version of Chapter 8 was revised with a new paragraph replacing the first paragraph in section 8.3.

The chapter and the book have been updated with the changes.
The loom for general fishnet CFTs
Authors: Kazakov Vladimir , Olivucci Enrico
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We propose a broad class of d-dimensional conformal field theories of SU(N) adjoint scalar fields generalising the 4d Fishnet CFT (FCFT) discovered by Ö. Gürdogan and one of the authors as a special limit of γ-deformed $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory. In the planar N → ∞ limit the FCFTs are dominated by the “fishnet” planar Feynman graphs. These graphs are explicitly integrable, as was shown long ago by A. Zamolodchikov. The Zamolodchikov’s construction, based on the dual Baxter lattice (straight lines on the plane intersecting at arbitrary slopes) and the star-triangle identities, can serve as a “loom” for “weaving” the Feynman graphs of these FCFTs, with certain types of propagators, at any d. The Baxter lattice with M different slopes and any number of lines parallel to those, generates an FCFT consisting of M (M – 1) fields and a certain number of chiral vertices of different valences with distinguished couplings. These non-unitary, logarithmic CFTs enjoy certain reality properties for their spectrum due to a symmetry similar to the PT-invariance of non-hermitian hamiltonians proposed by C. Bender and S. Boettcher. We discuss in more detail the theories generated by a loom with M = 2, 3, 4, and the generalisation of the loom FCFTs for spinning fields in 4d.
Update Telenotfallmedizin
Authors: Schröder Hanna , Beckers Stefan K. , Borgs Christina , Rossaint Rolf , Felzen Marc
Published: June 2023

Aktueller Stand der Notfallmedizin in Deutschland

In den letzten Jahren kommt es bei steigendem Einsatzaufkommen zu zunehmendem Mangel von nichtärztlichem, aber auch ärztlichem Personal im Rettungsdienst, sodass eine optimierte Nutzung der vorhandenen Ressourcen erforderlich ist. Eine Möglichkeit stellt die Einführung des Telenotarztes (TNA) dar, welcher in Aachen bereits seit 2014 in den Regelrettungsdienst eingebunden ist.

Einführung von Telenotfallmedizin

Neben Pilotprojekten führen Beschlüsse der politischen Entscheidungsträger zur Einführung von Telenotfallmedizin. Der Ausbau schreitet aktuell in unterschiedlichen Bundesländern voran; für Nordrhein-Westfalen und Bayern ist eine flächendeckende Einführung beschlossen. Essenziell für die indikationsgerechte Einbindung von Telenotfallmedizin ist die Anpassung des Notarztindikationskatalogs.

Status quo von Telenotfallmedizin

Der Telenotarzt bietet das Potenzial, (not‑)ärztliche Expertise langfristig und flächendeckend standortunabhängig im Rettungsdienst zu verankern und damit ärztlichen Ressourcenmangel teilweise zu kompensieren. Weiterhin kann er die Leitstelle beratend unterstützen sowie beispielsweise Sekundärtransporte abklären. Ein einheitliches Qualifikationscurriculum für Telenotärzte wurde von den Ärztekammern Nordrhein und Westfalen-Lippe eingeführt.

Ausblick

Neben der Konsultation aus Primär- und Sekundäreinsätzen kann Telenotfallmedizin in weiteren Bereichen eingesetzt werden, beispielsweise zur Supervision von ärztlichem Personal oder Teilen der Rezertifizierung von Rettungsdienstpersonal. Eine Kompensation eines Mangels an Rettungswagen könnte durch den Gemeindenotfallsanitäter erfolgen, welcher ebenfalls an den Telenotarzt angeschlossen werden kann.
Spectral Analysis of the Quantum Random Energy Model
Authors: Manai Chokri , Warzel Simone
Published: June 2023

The quantum random energy model (QREM) is a random matrix of Anderson-type which describes effects of a transversal magnetic field on Derrida’s spin glass. The model exhibits a glass phase as well as a classical and a quantum paramagnetic phase. We analyze in detail the low-energy spectrum and establish a localization-delocalization transition for the corresponding eigenvectors of the QREM. Based on a combination of random matrix and operator techniques as well as insights in the random geometry, we derive next-to-leading order asymptotics for the ground-state energy and eigenvectors in all regimes of the parameter space. Based on this, we also deduce the next-to-leading order of the free energy, which turns out to be deterministic and on order one in the system size in all phases of the QREM. As a result, we determine the nature of the fluctuations of the free energy in the spin glass regime.
Tool-use training in augmented reality: plasticity of forearm body schema does not predict sense of ownership or agency in older adults
Authors: Jahanian Najafabadi Amir , Küster Dennis , Putze Felix , Godde Ben
Published: June 2023

In young adults (YA) who practised controlling a virtual tool in augmented reality (AR), the emergence of a sense of body ownership over the tool was associated with the integration of the virtual tool into the body schema (BS). Agency emerged independent of BS plasticity. Here we aimed to replicate these findings in older adults (OA). Although they are still able to learn new motor tasks, brain plasticity and learning capacity are reduced in OA. We predicted that OA would be able to gain control over the virtual tool indicated by the emergence of agency but would show less BS plasticity as compared to YA. Still, an association between BS plasticity and body ownership was expected. OA were trained in AR to control a virtual gripper to enclose and touch a virtual object. In the visuo-tactile (VT) but not the vision-only (V) condition, vibro-tactile feedback was applied through a CyberTouch II glove when the tool touched the object. BS plasticity was assessed with a tactile distance judgement task where participants judged distances between two tactile stimuli applied to their right forearm. Participants further rated their perceived ownership and agency after training. As expected, agency emerged during the use of the tool. However, results did not indicate any changes in the BS of the forearm after virtual tool-use training. Also, an association between BS plasticity and the emergence of body ownership could not be confirmed for OA. Similar to YA, the practice effect was stronger in the visuo-tactile feedback condition compared with the vision-only condition. We conclude that a sense of agency may strongly relate to improvement in tool-use in OA independent of alterations in the BS, while ownership did not emerge due to a lack of BS plasticity.