bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency and Universal Principles in the Acquisition of Word-Initial Consonant Clusters in Palestinian Arabic
Authors: Watad Ola , Bat-El Foux Outi , Ben-David Avivit
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

In this article, we present the results of our study on the acquisition of word-initial consonant clusters in Palestinian Arabic. The remarkable property of word-initial clusters in Palestinian Arabic is that they often violate the Sonority Sequencing Principle, a universal constraint that disfavors sonority fall (e.g.,
lba:n
“gum”) and, to a lesser degree, sonority plateau (e.g.,
kta:b
“book”). Given the violation of the Sonority Sequencing Principle, the acquisition of word-initial consonant clusters serves as a fruitful ground for studying the interaction of universal principles and language-specific effects. The goal of the study was to shed light on the role of universal principles in language acquisition and how they interact with frequency.

Method:

We carried out picture naming and sentence completion tasks with 60 monolingual and monodialectal children aged 2;00–5;00 (years;months), equally divided into six age groups. In addition, we built a small corpus of child-directed speech (CDS) to evaluate the distribution of the three sonority profiles of word-initial consonant clusters—rise, plateau, and fall.

Results:

We found a major language-specific effect in the cluster simplification strategies, with prothesis being the most common strategy (e.g.,
lbá:n
→
ilbá:n
“gum”). However, this effect was not found in the youngest group (2;00–2;05), where the cross-linguistically favorite strategy of C-deletion was most common (e.g.,
lbá:n
→
bá:n
“gum”). We also found a major effect of the Sonority Sequencing Principle in the children's productions, contrary to insignificant differences in CDS.

Conclusions:

Our study supports the claim that language acquisition is affected by both language-specific effects and universal principles. As for the interaction of these factors, we show that the effect of universal principles emerges under two conditions: (a) in early speech (youngest age group), before children accumulate sufficient data that allow language-specific properties to override, and/or (b) when frequency does not play a role.
Logos-Rationalität und die vergessenen Dimensionen der
Homöopathie
Authors: Schmidt Josef M.
Published: September 2024

Während sich die Auseinandersetzung um die Homöopathie heute zunehmend auf
quantitative Fragen verengt, wird hier eine qualitative (Wieder-)Eröffnung der 3
die Homöopathie konstituierenden Dimensionen vorgeschlagen, die alle auf
altehrwürdigen Denktraditionen beruhen (lógos, hómoion, iásthai). Die
Betrachtung ihrer Genealogien mag sich als erhellend erweisen für eine bessere
Einschätzung der Stärken und Schwächen der Homöopathie und modernen Medizin,
aber auch von neueren Entwicklungen in Gesellschaft, Kultur und Politik.
Comparison of supine and prone mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy in obese patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Gelmis Mucahit , Caglar Ufuk , Esmeray Abdullah , Gunay Nazım Furkan , Dizdaroglu Caglar , Meric Arda , Ayranci Ali , Ozgor Faruk
Published: September 2024

Introduction To compare the safety and effectiveness of Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (m-PNL) operations performed in the supine and prone positions in obese patients.

Methods We retrospectively analysed data from obese patients (BMI ≥ 30) who underwent prone or supine mPCNL between January 2014 and June 2021 in our clinic. Kidney anomalies, coagulopathy, solitary kidney, skeletal deformity, and patients under 18 were excluded. Outcomes measures included operation time, fluoroscopy time, duration of hospitalisation, stone-free rate, and complications classified by Clavien-Dindo. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Results The study included 338 patients (100 supine, 238 prone). Supine mPCNL had a shorter mean operation time (89.6 vs. 100.3 minutes, p=0.001), fluoroscopy time, and duration of hospitalisation (60.7 vs. 112.0 hours, p=0.001). Overall complication rates were comparable, but major complications were higher in the prone group (p=0.041). Logistic regression identified stone size >25 mm and prone position as significant risk factors for major complications.

Conclusion Supine and prone mPCNL are both effective for treating kidney stones in obese patients. Supine mPCNL offers benefits, such as shorter operation time, reduced radiation exposure, and fewer major complications. Careful monitoring is recommended for patients with high CCI scores or larger stones due to increased complication risks.
meso-Hydroxylmethyl-1,3,5,7-tetramethylBODIPY: A Visible-Light Photoremovable Protective Group for Carboxyl Groups
Authors: Yang Yong-Qing , Xu Yue , Lu Zheng , Xu Ximing , Yuan Junjie , Liu Jialu , Yin Jie
Published: September 2024

A meso-BODIPY-type photoremovable protecting group for carboxyl group is developed. BODIPYs are well-known for brilliant color, favorable to reaction monitoring and purification. meso-BODIPY esters are achieved via esterification in 44–89% yields, while deprotection is fulfilled under irradiation of blue LED bulb in the presence of photocatalyst and organic hydrogen donor in 43–95% yields. This method is applicable to a variety of acids, such as aromatic, heteroaromatic, alkyl, α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids, etc. Our BODIPY-deprotective condition is almost neutral that both methyl and tert-butyl esters are compatible.
Assessing the Need for Imaging after Distal Radius Fracture Fixation
Authors: Jain Nirbhay S. , Barr Meaghan L. , Pflibsen Lacey R. , Benhaim Prosper
Published: September 2024

Background Distal radius fractures are extremely common. Patients routinely undergo early imaging (around 2 weeks) after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of distal radius fractures despite no clinical concerns. We analyzed the need for these radiographs by evaluating when imaging identifies complications after surgery.

Methods All distal radius fractures treated with ORIF via a volar approach by the senior surgeon were included. Intraoperative and postoperative images were analyzed for maintenance of reduction and complications. Demographic data, fracture characteristics, and postoperative complications were also recorded.

Results A total of 342 patients were identified. Postoperative images were obtained from 0 to 14, 15 to 90, 91 to 180, 181 to 365, or greater than 365 days after surgery. Some patients had multiple images. Measurements on postoperative images were statistically equivalent across all time points. Complications mostly occurred >90 days after surgery. Of the 26 patients with complications, 5 had a failure of reduction or plating seen on postoperative imaging. Two occurred after unrelated trauma; only three patients had unanticipated complications caught on routine imaging within 3 months after surgery. These patients had extraordinarily complex fractures in poor bone stock.

Conclusion Early postoperative imaging is not necessary after ORIF for distal radius fractures unless the patient is elderly, or the fracture is severely comminuted with ulnar column or die-punch components. Thus, we suggest that patients have imaging only in the 3- to 6-month period to determine if the union has been achieved, which could provide cost savings to both surgeon and patient.
Can Any Proximal Pole Scaphoid Fracture Nonunion be Treated with Arthroscopic Bone Grafting? A Series of Case Reports of Successes in Challenging and Unique Cases
Authors: Choudhury Muntasir Mannan
Published: September 2024

Due to the unique morphology and tenuous vascularity, proximal pole fractures of the scaphoid are prone to nonunion if neglected. The vascular anatomy and the understanding that the blood flow to the proximal pole is retrograde in nature, has supported the concept of disruption of blood flow to the proximal pole with the possibility of avascular necrosis in a nonunited proximal pole. Historically, surgical management at this stage has favored the use of a vascularized bone graft over a nonvascularized bone graft to achieve union and good outcomes. However, the current literature seems to deviate from the long-standing understanding of proximal pole nonunion and its relationship to avascular necrosis. Not only does it state that avascular necrosis is extremely rare, but it also advocates arthroscopic bone grafting of proximal pole nonunions using morselized nonvascularized bone graft which has been proven to be a highly successful operation. Here, in our paper, we present a short series of some unique but surgically challenging cases of proximal pole nonunion and our successful management by bone grafting and fixing them arthroscopically. Our experience and invariably the experience of many may indicate that arthroscopic bone grafting and fixation may be the correct choice of surgery for proximal pole nonunion of the scaphoid bone.
Catheter-Directed Glue Embolization for the Treatment of Bronchopleural Fistula with Associated Retained Microwave Ablation Needle Tip
Authors: DesRoche Chloe , Digby Geneviève , Mussari Ben , Menard Alexandre
Published: September 2024

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare but severe complication of lung tumor ablation. The mainstay treatment of BPF is surgical or bronchoscopic intervention; however, there are no current guidelines on the best practice for the management of BPF. In this case presentation, a 72-year-old woman developed a persistent and refractory BPF post-thermal microwave ablation of a lung tumor, complicated by detachment of the ceramic ablation needle tip, which resulted in recurrent tension pneumothoraces. The BPF was successfully treated with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and fluoroscopy-guided catheter-directed glue embolization, which offers a novel potential treatment option for persistent, refractory BPF.
Impact of Clinical Decision Support with Mandatory versus Voluntary Venous Thromboembolism Risk Assessment in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Bahl Vinita , Moote Marc J. , Hu Hsou Mei , Campbell Darrell A.
Published: September 2024

Background Venous thromboembolism (VTE) causes significant preventable morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Assessing VTE risk is essential to initiating appropriate prophylaxis and reducing VTE outcomes. Studies show that computerized clinical decision support (CDS) can improve VTE risk assessment (RA), prophylaxis, and outcomes but few examined the effectiveness of specific design features.

From 2008 to 2016, University of Michigan Health implemented CDS for VTE prevention in four stages, which alternated between voluntary and mandatory RA using the 2005 Caprini model and generated inpatient orders for risk-appropriate prophylaxis based on CHEST guidelines. This cross-sectional study evaluated the impact of mandatory versus voluntary RA on VTE prophylaxis and outcomes for adult medical and surgical patients admitted to the health system.

Methods Interrupted time series analysis was conducted to evaluate the trend in smart order set-recommended VTE prophylaxis by CDS stage. Logistic regression with CDS stage as the primary independent variable was used in pairwise comparisons of VTE during hospitalization and within 90 days post-discharge for mandatory versus voluntary RA. Adjusted odd ratios (ORs) were calculated for total, in-hospital, and post-discharge VTE.

Results In this study of 223,405 inpatients over 8 years, smart order set-recommended prophylaxis increased from 65 to 79%; it increased significantly when voluntary RA in Stage 1 became mandatory in Stage 2 (10.59%, p < 0.001) and decreased significantly when it returned to voluntary in Stage 3 (−11.24%, p < 0.001). The rate increased slightly when mandatory RA was reestablished in Stage 4 (0.23%, p = 0.935).

Adjusted ORs for VTE were lower for mandatory RA versus adjacent stages with voluntary RA. The adjusted OR for Stage 2 versus Stage 1 was 14% lower (p < 0.05) and versus Stage 3 was 11% lower (p < 0.05). The adjusted OR for Stage 4 versus Stage 3 was 4% lower (p = 0.60).

These results were driven by changes in in-hospital VTE. By contrast, the incidence of post-discharge VTE increased in each successive stage.

Conclusion Mandatory RA was more effective in improving smart order set-recommended prophylaxis and VTE outcomes, particularly in-hospital VTE. Post-discharge VTE increased despite high adherence to risk-appropriate prophylaxis, indicating that guidelines for extended, post-discharge prophylaxis are needed to further reduce VTE for hospitalized patients.
To turn tissue transparent, dye it yellow
Authors: Miller Johanna L.
Published: September 2024

The biomedical discovery stems from the subtle physics of how absorption and refraction are related.
N-degron pathways
Authors: Varshavsky Alexander
Published: September 2024

An N-degron is a degradation signal whose main determinant is a “destabilizing” N-terminal residue of a protein. Specific N-degrons, discovered in 1986, were the first identified degradation signals in short-lived intracellular proteins. These N-degrons are recognized by a ubiquitin-dependent proteolytic system called the Arg/N-degron pathway. Although bacteria lack the ubiquitin system, they also have N-degron pathways. Studies after 1986 have shown that all 20 amino acids of the genetic code can act, in specific sequence contexts, as destabilizing N-terminal residues. Eukaryotic proteins are targeted for the conditional or constitutive degradation by at least five N-degron systems that differ both functionally and mechanistically: the Arg/N-degron pathway, the Ac/N-degron pathway, the Pro/N-degron pathway, the fMet/N-degron pathway, and the newly named, in this perspective, GASTC/N-degron pathway (GASTC = Gly, Ala, Ser, Thr, Cys). I discuss these systems and the expanded terminology that now encompasses the entire gamut of known N-degron pathways.
Encoding innate ability through a genomic bottleneck
Authors: Shuvaev Sergey , Lachi Divyansha , Koulakov Alexei , Zador Anthony
Published: September 2024

Animals are born with extensive innate behavioral capabilities, which arise from neural circuits encoded in the genome. However, the information capacity of the genome is orders of magnitude smaller than that needed to specify the connectivity of an arbitrary brain circuit, indicating that the rules encoding circuit formation must fit through a “genomic bottleneck” as they pass from one generation to the next. Here, we formulate the problem of innate behavioral capacity in the context of artificial neural networks in terms of lossy compression of the weight matrix. We find that several standard network architectures can be compressed by several orders of magnitude, yielding pretraining performance that can approach that of the fully trained network. Interestingly, for complex but not for simple test problems, the genomic bottleneck algorithm also captures essential features of the circuit, leading to enhanced transfer learning to novel tasks and datasets. Our results suggest that compressing a neural circuit through the genomic bottleneck serves as a regularizer, enabling evolution to select simple circuits that can be readily adapted to important real-world tasks. The genomic bottleneck also suggests how innate priors can complement conventional approaches to learning in designing algorithms for AI.
Approaches in aligning language frameworks
Authors: Lin Jia , Gu Xiangdong
Published: September 2024

Research on the alignment of “Chinese Proficiency Grading Standards for International Chinese Language Education” with other mainstream language frameworks is in its early stages. To provide practical suggestions for researchers of the Grading Standards, this literature review study investigated general approaches and specific techniques used to align three influential language proficiency frameworks (i.e., the CEFR, ACTFL, and CSE) with each other and with other frameworks. Through a review of alignment studies published between 2000 and 2023, this study introduced both direct and indirect approaches in aligning language frameworks, along with data collection and data analysis techniques associated with each approach. It also highlighted the prerequisites, advantages, and disadvantages of each approach and offered recommendations for future alignment research.
Semiclassical solution of black hole information paradox
Authors: Nikolić Hrvoje
Published: September 2024

We resolve black hole information paradox within semiclassical gravity, in a manner that does not depend on details of unknown quantum gravity. Our crucial insight is that outgoing Hawking particles are physical only far from the black hole horizon, so they are created far from the horizon and entangled with degrees of freedom closer to the horizon. The latter degrees of freedom can be understood as quasi-classical coherent states, implying that Hawking radiation is accompanied with additional radiation similar to classical radiation by which the black hole loses hair during the classical gravitational collapse. The two kinds of radiation are entangled, which resolves black hole information paradox.
Spacetimes with homogeneous and isotropic expansion
Authors: Gomes L G
Published: September 2024

In this short note, we define and characterize all the spacetimes admitting observers to whom the cosmic expansion is homogeneous and isotropic and interpret their Einstein’s equations.
Automatic calibration and nonlinearity optimization for scale factor of micro-electromechanical system gyroscopes under force rebalanced operation
Authors: Shen Yaojie , Zheng Xudong , Tong Wenyuan , Fang Chen , Jin Zhonghe , Ma Zhipeng
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on automatic temperature sensitivity calibration and nonlinearity optimization of the scale factor (SF) for micro-electromechanical system gyroscopes under force rebalanced operation. The calibration of the SF temperature sensitivity is done based on stiffness modulation by injecting a cosine calibration signal to modulate the resonance frequency of the gyroscope drive mode. The parameters affecting the gyroscope SF are reciprocally proportional to the loop gain of the demodulated calibration signal, enabling a calibrated temperature insensitive SF. Implementing this real-time SF calibration algorithm in an field-programmable gate array (FPGA) platform results in a decreased SF error from 42 416 ppm to 12 141 ppm over a temperature range of 0 °C–50 °C, which is further reduced to 3526 ppm by calibrating the temperature coefficient of the gain ratio of drive and sense mode front-end excitation circuits with the experiment. Additionally, we reveal that the force misalignment angle is a major error source of SF nonlinearity, which is verified experimentally with the result that the SF residual error within the range of 0.1 deg s−1–200 deg s−1 decreases from 8550 ppm to 3963 ppm by force misalignment angle compensation with force rotation matrices. Due to the elimination of parameters affecting both the SF calibration loop and the real angular readout loop and further calibration of the gain ratio temperature sensitivity of discrete boards, the SF error over temperature is reduced by 12 times, while the maximum SF residual error is optimized by two times as a result of the force misalignment angle compensation.
A new autocollimation method for refractive index measurements
Authors: Yurin Alexander , Vishnyakov Gennady , Minaev Vladimir , Golopolosov Alexander
Published: September 2024

We present a new autocollimation method for measuring the refractive index (RI) of transparent triangular prisms. The classical autocollimation method is simple, but due to total internal reflection it is suitable only for prisms with small angles, which limits the accuracy of RI measurements. The proposed new method makes possible the autocollimation measurements of the RI for prisms with large angles designed to implement the minimum deviation method. A comparative accuracy analysis of the proposed and classical goniometric methods of RI measurements is carried out. A reference prisms set made of Schott optical glass was studied and the measurement errors were estimated. The calculated absolute error does not exceed ±1 · 10−5, which proves the prospect of using the presented method for high-precision RI measurements. The autocollimation method can be used for RI measurements and to study the dispersion characteristics of triangular prisms made of optically transparent materials and liquid optically transparent substances filling a hollow triangular prism.
Lightweight CNN architecture design for rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Jiang Lingli , Shi Changzhi , Sheng Heshan , Li Xuejun , Yang Tongguang
Published: September 2024

Rolling bearing is a key component of rotating machinery, and its fault diagnosis technology is very important to ensure the safety of equipment. With the rapid development of deep learning, the convolutional neural network (CNN) is widely used in bearing fault diagnosis, showing obvious advantages in diagnostic accuracy. However, the deep CNN model generally requires a lot of computing resources and storage space, and it is not easy to apply in practical engineering. Aiming at this problem, a lightweight CNN model for rolling bearing fault diagnosis is designed. This model is combined with a network pruning algorithm and neural architecture search, which not only ensures the accuracy of diagnosis but also reduces computing resources. By constructing the search space of the complete Cell class unit, using the multi-objective reinforcement learning search strategy, and applying the deep learning pruning method to prune and search the network, the lightweight CNN model with higher accuracy is efficiently searched. The rolling bearing fault data set is utilized to validate the use of the lightweight CNN model for diagnosing rolling bearing faults. This model significantly enhances operational efficiency without compromising accuracy, achieving a fault diagnosis accuracy of up to 98.56%.
Sensor self-diagnosis method for a nickel top-blowing furnace based on graph interactive dynamic fusion
Authors: Jiang Dongnian , Li Junkuan
Published: September 2024

As modern industry gradually advances towards greater automation and intelligence, the scale of nickel top-blowing furnace smelting systems is continuously expanding, leading to an increasing need for sensor maintenance. Traditional periodic evaluations and manual maintenance methods are no longer sufficient to meet the development needs of intelligent sensors. To address this issue, this paper proposes a sensor self-diagnosis method based on graph interactive dynamic fusion, called DLGCN-GIDF. First, a combination of knowledge-driven and data-driven approaches is introduced. By constructing a dual-layer architecture based on a functional module graph network and a sensor graph network, a sensor correlation graph model for the nickel top-blowing furnace system is established. Next, with the aid of a GIDF module, the relative weights between functional modules and sensors are integrated to perform spatiotemporal correlation-based graph fusion. This enables the prediction of spatiotemporal data for sensors from a system perspective. Finally, the goal of sensor self-diagnosis is achieved using a standardised residual testing algorithm. Taking a nickel top-blowing furnace smelting system as an example, the feasibility and effectiveness of our method of sensor fault self-diagnosis are verified.
The thermodynamic stability and phase structure of the Einstein-Euler-Heisenberg-AdS black holes*
Authors: Zhao 赵 Yinan 怡楠 , Cheng 程 Hongbo 红波
Published: September 2024

In both the canonical ensemble and grand canonical ensemble, the thermodynamic stability and phase structure of Einstein-Euler-Heisenberg-AdS black holes are studied. We derive the Hawking temperature, Helmholtz free energy, Gibbs potential, entropy and heat capacity of the black holes. We compute the minimum temperature to find that a phase transition may happen at the lowest point. The entropy-temperature diagram consists of two parts. The upper part belonging to the large black holes under the influence from the electromagnetic self-interactions keeps the positive heat capacity, leading the huge compact objects to survive. The lower curves corresponding to small black holes show that the heat capacity of the tiny black holes is negative, which means that the nonlinear-effect-corrected smaller sources will evaporate. The further discussions show that the nonlinear effect modifies the thermodynamic quantities, but the corrections limited by the nonlinear factor μ with allowed values can not change the properties and the phase structure fundamentally and thoroughly. We argue that the influence from self-interaction can not make the Einstein-Euler-Heisenberg-AdS black holes to split under the second law of thermodynamics.
Unraveling the early universe’s equation of state and primordial black hole production with PTA, BBN, and CMB observations*
Authors: Zhu 朱 Qing-Hua 庆华 , Zhao 赵 Zhi-Chao 志超 , Wang 王 Sai 賽 , Zhang 张 Xin 鑫
Published: September 2024

Pulsar timing array (PTA) data releases show strong evidence for a stochastic gravitational-wave background in the nanohertz band. When the signal is interpreted by a scenario of scalar-induced gravitational waves (SIGWs), we encounter overproduction of primordial black holes (PBHs). We wonder if varying the equation of state (EoS) of the early Universe can resolve this issue and thereby lead to a consistent interpretation of the PTA data. Analyzing a data combination of PTA, big-bang nucleosynthesis, and cosmic microwave background, we find that an epoch with EoS

between the end of inflation and the onset of radiation domination can significantly suppress the production of PBHs, leading to alleviation of the PBH-overproduction issue. With the inferred interval

at 95% confidence level, our scenario can interpret the PTA data just as well as the conventional scenario of SIGWs produced during the radiation domination.
The Nature of the Elongated Granulations and Stretched Dark Lanes in a Newly Emerging Flux Region
Authors: Wang Jincheng , Yan Xiaoli
Published: September 2024

In this study, we explore the elongated granulations and stretched dark lanes within the emerging anti-Hale active region NOAA AR 12720. Utilizing high-resolution observations from the New Vacuum Solar Telescope, we discern a prevalence of elongated granules and stretched dark lanes associated with the emergence of new magnetic flux positioned between two primary opposing magnetic polarities. These elongated granulations and stretched dark lanes exhibit an alignment of strong transverse fields and a significant inclination angle. The endpoints of these features separate from each other, with their midpoints predominantly characterized by blueshifted signals in the photosphere. This suggests a close association between elongated granules and stretched dark lanes with the newly emerging flux. Additionally, we find that the stretched dark lanes display a more pronounced correlation with strong blueshifts and photospheric transverse magnetic fields compared to the elongated granulations. The transverse magnetic field within these stretched dark lanes reaches magnitudes of approximately 300–400 G, and the inclination angle demonstrates an “arch-like” pattern along the trajectory of the stretched dark lane. Based on these observed characteristics, we infer the presence of an emerging flux tube with an “arch-like” shape situated along the stretched dark lane. Consequently, we conclude that the stretched dark lanes likely represent manifestations of the emerging flux tube, while the elongated granulations may correspond to the gaps between the emerging flux tubes.
Enhancing thermal stability and corrosion resistance of carbon-carbon composites with iridium coatings deposited by electron beam physical vapor deposition
Authors: Kumar J V Sai Prasanna , R Sundharesan , D T Arunkumar , Ghadai Ranjan Kumar
Published: September 2024

Carbon–carbon (C−C) composites are extensively used in high-temperature environments such as Combustor Liners and Turbine Blades in jet engines and Throat Inserts, Nozzle Extensions and Exit Cones in rocket engines due to their excellent thermal stability and mechanical properties. However, at temperatures exceeding 800 °C, these composites require additional protection to prevent degradation. This study aims to investigate the behavior of C−C composites when coated with high-purity metallic iridium using Electron Beam Physical Vapor Deposition (EBPVD). The research problem focuses on enhancing the high-temperature performance and corrosion resistance of C−C composites for aerospace applications. The methodology involves depositing a uniform 5.6 microns thick iridium coating on C−C substrates and characterizing the coating’s microstructure, hardness, and corrosion resistance. FESEM micrographs reveal that the iridium coating adheres uniformly to the substrate without any seepage, and XRD analysis confirms an FCC crystal structure with a densely packed grainy surface. Corrosion tests were conducted using a BIOLOGIC electrochemical workstation in a sodium chloride environment indicate a corrosion rate of 0.00307 mm year−1. The Nyquist, Bodo plots, and Taffel plots were constructed for the better understanding of the corrosion mechanism. While the OCP was constructed to understand the stability and the corrosion resistance of the C−C samples. Microhardness of the coating, measured under a normal applied load of 0.20 N, is 702 HV. The coated samples also could withstand thermal shocks between −40 °C and 1500 °C for 40 h without observable damage or color change. These findings demonstrate the potential of iridium-coated C−C composites to maintain structural integrity and performance in extreme aerospace environments, significantly impacting the field by providing a reliable protective solution for high-temperature applications.
Positivity of nonnegative solutions to a system of fractional Laplacian problems in a ball
Authors: Hollifield Elliott
Published: September 2024

We consider a cooperative system of equations involving the fractional Laplacian operator with zero Dirichlet external condition on a ball. We prove that nonnegative solutions of such problems, with semipositone nonlinearities, are positive and hence radially symmetric. We use the method of moving planes to establish our result.
No evidence of altered language laterality in people who stutter across different brain imaging studies of speech and language
Authors: Demirel Birtan , Chesters Jennifer , Connally Emily L , Gough Patricia M , Ward David , Howell Peter , Watkins Kate E
Published: September 2024

A long-standing neurobiological explanation of stuttering is the incomplete cerebral dominance theory, which refers to competition between two hemispheres for ‘dominance’ over handedness and speech, causing altered language lateralization. Renewed interest in these ideas came from brain imaging findings in people who stutter of increased activity in the right hemisphere during speech production or of shifts in activity from right to left when fluency increased. Here, we revisited this theory using functional MRI data from children and adults who stutter, and typically fluent speakers (119 participants in total) during four different speech and language tasks: overt sentence reading, overt picture description, covert sentence reading and covert auditory naming. Laterality indices were calculated for the frontal and temporal lobes using the laterality index toolbox running in Statistical Parametric Mapping. We also repeated the analyses with more specific language regions, namely the pars opercularis (Brodmann area 44) and pars triangularis (Brodmann area 45). Laterality indices in people who stutter and typically fluent speakers did not differ, and Bayesian analyses provided moderate to anecdotal levels of support for the null hypothesis (i.e. no differences in laterality in people who stutter compared with typically fluent speakers). The proportions of the people who stutter and typically fluent speakers who were left lateralized or had atypical rightward or bilateral lateralization did not differ. We found no support for the theory that language laterality is reduced or differs in people who stutter compared with typically fluent speakers.
Efficacy and safety of telitacicept, a BLyS/APRIL dual inhibitor, in the treatment of IgA nephropathy: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Wang Meng , Ma Jianfei , Yao Li , Fan Yi
Published: September 2024

Background

Telitacicept, a B lymphocyte stimulator/A proliferation-inducing ligand dual-target fusion protein, has recently been used in autoimmune diseases. We assessed the efficacy and safety of telitacicept in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) patients.

Methods

This study included 42 IgAN patients who received telitacicept treatment, forming the ‘whole telitacicept group’. Among them, 20 patients who had not previously received corticosteroid (CS) therapy or immunosuppressive (IS) agents were categorized as the ‘newly treated telitacicept subgroup’. Additionally, 28 patients who were selected to match historical controls received conventional IS therapy (CS therapy with/without IS agents) and were classified as the ‘conventional IS group’. Telitacicept was partially used in combination with conventional IS therapy, including initial CS in different doses. Various indicators were compared at 4-week intervals up to 24 weeks among the three groups.

Results

After 24 weeks of treatment, the 24-hour proteinuria decreased from 1.70 g [interquartile range (IQR) 1.05–2.58] to 0.21 g (IQR 0.39–0.13) (P = .043) in the newly treated telitacicept subgroup, from 1.78 g (IQR 0.97–2.82) to 0.44 g (IQR 1.48–0.16) (P = .001) in the conventional IS group and from 1.07 g (IQR 0.66–1.99) to 0.26 g (IQR 0.59–0.17) (P = .028) in the whole telitacicept group. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) increased from 76.58 ± 30.26 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 80.30 ± 26.76 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .016) in the newly treated telitacicept subgroup, from 72.73 ± 33.41 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 84.08 ± 26.81 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .011) in the conventional IS group and from 70.10 ± 32.88 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 71.21 ± 31.49 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .065) in the whole telitacicept group. During follow-up periods, the efficacy rates of the three groups did not show statistically significant differences and no serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Telitacicept may be a safe and effective treatment for IgAN, offering reductions in proteinuria and increases in eGFR similar to conventional IS therapy. After a 24-week follow-up, the incidence of adverse events was lower for telitacicept than for conventional IS therapy.
Longitudinal study of root resorption on incisors caused by impacted maxillary canines—a clinical and cone beam CT assessment
Authors: Dahlén Anna , Persson Cecilia , Lofthag Hansen Sara , Naoumova Julia
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate the long-term status of incisors with canine-induced root resorption (CIRR).

Materials and methods

Subjects with impacted maxillary canines (IMC) and persisting incisors with CIRR examined with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), diagnosed ≥ 5 years earlier, were recalled. The resorption grade in the horizontal and vertical plane was assessed on CBCT images at baseline (T0) and follow-up (T1). Clinical examination was done at T1 which included probing depth, gingival retraction, mobility, ankylosis, discoloration and vitality test. In addition, patients completed a questionnaire regarding symptoms from the incisors.

Results

Forty subjects (mean age 13.7 ± 2.1 years) with 43 IMC and 47 incisors with CIRR were recruited. The IMC either spontaneously erupted, were surgically exposed or surgically removed. Thirty-four of the patients were treated with a fixed appliance and six had no orthodontic treatment. The follow-up range was 5.5–14.6 years. None of the incisors were lost or endodontically treated at T1. The horizontal resorption grade was unchanged in 38, improved in 7, and worsened in 2 teeth. The corresponding results for the vertical resorption grade were unchanged in 20 and worsened in 27 teeth. Three incisors with severe horizontal resorption at T0 were significantly more obliterated at T1 (P = .01). No significant differences were found in clinical parameters or patient-reported outcomes between incisors with CIRR and non-resorbed contralateral incisors at T1.

Limitations

The extent of root resorption during active orthodontic treatment was not possible to assess as only CBCT images from T0 and T1 were available.

Conclusion

Incisors with CIRR caused by IMC have a high survival rate in a long-term perspective and do not cause more symptoms or exhibit more signs of pathology than non-resorbed contralateral incisors. Extraction of asymptomatic incisors based solely on root resorption should not be performed routinely.
Early, Robust Mucosal Secretory Immunoglobulin A but not Immunoglobulin G Response to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Spike in Oral Fluid Is Associated With Faster Viral Clearance and Coronavirus Disease 2019 Symptom Resolution
Authors: Pisanic Nora , Antar Annukka A R , Hetrich Marissa K , Demko Zoe O , Zhang Xueyan , Spicer Kristoffer , Kruczynski Kate L , Detrick Barbara , Clarke William , Knoll Maria Deloria , Thomas David L , Dawood Fatimah S , Veguilla Vic , Karron Ruth A , Manabe Yukari C , Heaney Christopher D
Published: September 2024

Background

Efforts are underway to support the development of novel mucosal coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. However, there is limited consensus about the complementary role of mucosal immunity in disease progression and how to evaluate immunogenicity of mucosal vaccines. This study investigated the role of oral mucosal antibody responses in viral clearance and COVID-19 symptom duration.

Methods

Participants with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection provided oral fluid for testing with SARS-CoV-2 antibody multiplex assays, nasal swabs for reverse-transcription PCR, and symptom information at up to 8 follow-ups from April 2020 to February 2022.

Results

High and moderate oral fluid anti-spike (S) secretory IgA (SIgA) postinfection was associated with significantly faster viral clearance and symptom resolution across age groups with effect sizes equivalent to prior COVID-19 vaccine immunity at the time of infection. Those with high and moderate anti-S SIgA cleared the virus 14 (95% confidence interval [CI], 10–18) days and recovered 9–10 (95% CI, 6–14) days earlier. Delayed and higher anti-S IgG was associated with significantly longer time to clearance and recovery. Experiencing symptoms >4 weeks was associated with lower anti–receptor-binding domain SIgA 15–30 days after infection onset (P < .001).

Conclusions

Robust mucosal SIgA early postinfection appears to support faster clearance of SARS-CoV-2 and recovery from COVID-19 symptoms. This research underscores the importance of harmonizing mucosal immune response assays to evaluate new mucosal vaccines.
Trace Element Supplementation in Burn Patients: Exploring the Relationship Between Burn Size and Mineral Needs
Authors: Kurjatko Alexander , Weigel Isaac , Suarez Justin , Wibbenmeyer Lucy
Published: September 2024

Trace element deficiency is an adverse nutritional outcome that can occur with burn injuries and can interfere with a patient’s recovery. The aim of this study was to review the efficacy of our predominately enteral trace element supplementation strategy and determine the burn size at which patients are at risk for trace element deficiency. We reviewed 53 burn patients admitted to our burn center from August 1, 2019 to May 31, 2022 who had their trace element levels and C-reactive protein monitored in 2 week increments. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated a 22.1% body surface area burned (BSAB) cutoff for zinc supplementation to prevent deficiency with 91.7% sensitivity and 92.6% specificity, and a 27.5% BSAB cutoff with 88.9% sensitivity and 81% specificity for copper. No patient in our cohort developed selenium deficiency, regardless of burn size. Patients with greater than 30% BSAB developed deficiencies in both zinc and copper within the first 2 weeks of hospitalization. Our results provide guidance for trace element replacement based on burn size.
Prospective associations of screen time at age 2 with specific behavioral subscales at age 3: a cohort study
Authors: Takahashi Ippei , Obara Taku , Ishikuro Mami , Orui Masatsugu , Noda Aoi , Shinoda Genki , Nagami Fuji , Hozawa Atsushi , Nishimura Tomoko , Tsuchiya Kenji J , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: September 2024

Background

We aim to discover which, if any, of the subscales of internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems at age 3 are still associated with screen time (ST) at age 2 after adjusting for behavioral problems scores at age 2.

Methods

This study was conducted under the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study. Information was gathered prospectively, with 7207 mother–child pairs included in the analysis. Children’s ST was categorized in hours a day at age 2 (<1, 1-<2, 2-<4, ≥4). We assessed children’s behavioral problems using the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 1½–5 (CBCL) at ages 2 and 3. ‘Having behavioral problems’ was defined by them being within a clinical range for internalizing behaviors (withdrawn, somatic complaints, anxious/depressed and emotionally reactive) and externalizing behaviors (attention problems and aggressive behaviors) at age 3. Continuous scores on each of the behavioral problem scales at age 2 were used as covariates.

Results

Greater ST for children at age 2 was associated with specific subscales for emotionally reactive and aggressive behaviors at age 3.

Conclusions

This study found that ST is prospectively associated with some behavioral scales but not others.
Opioid Sparing Anesthesia for Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery Reduces Postoperative Pain, Length of Stay, Opioid Consumption, and Opioid-Related Complications
Authors: Mathew Justin , Gum Jeffrey L. , Carreon Leah , Sampedro Benjamin C. , Harpe-Bates Jennifer , Hines Bren P. , Brown Morgan E. , Daniels Christy L. , Mkorombindo Tino , Glassman Steven D.
Published: September 2024

Study Design.

This study was a retrospective propensity-matched study of patients receiving opioid sparing anesthesia (OSA) and those who did not receive an opioid sparing anesthesia regimen.

Objectives.

To determine whether patients undergoing spine fusion for deformity fared better with an OSA regimen than those not having an OSA regimen.

Summary of Background Data.

There has been a tremendous focus on opioid overuse. Accordingly, OSA regimens are being introduced to reduce narcotic use. However, OSA has not been studied in the adult spine deformity population.

Methods.

43 patients undergoing fusion of at least five levels in the thoracolumbar spine received OSA. They were matched to 43 patients who did receive an OSA regimen. We analyzed a number of metrics including blood loss, anesthesia time, post anesthesia care unit (PACU) pain scores, postoperative pain scores, complications, length of stay, and readmissions.

Results.

The OSA group had significantly lower pain scores both before transfer to (4.6 vs. 7.6, P=0.000) and after transfer from (4.2 vs. 6.2 P=0.002) the PACU. Opioid use was significantly lower in the OSA group (454 vs. 241 MMEs by POD4, P=0.022). Fewer patients required blood transfusion in the OSA (1 vs. 28, P=0.000) group. Fewer patients in the OSA group had constipation and urinary retention (1 vs. 9, P=0.015). There was no difference in discharge home or to a facility. The lengths of hospital (4.33 vs. 6.19, P=0.009) and ICU (0.12 vs. 0.70 days, P=0.009) stay were significantly shorter in the OSA group.

Conclusion.

OSA regimens have numerous benefits in patients undergoing spinal deformity surgery including less opioid use, fewer postoperative complications, and a reduced length of stay.
Epigenetic modifications in hematopoietic ecosystem: a key tuner from homeostasis to acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Yao Shuxin , Guo Rongxia , Tian Wen , Zheng Yanbing , Hu Jin , Han Guoqiang , Yin Rong , Zhou Fuling , Zhang Haojian
Published: September 2024

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) maintain homeostasis in the hematopoietic ecosystem, which is tightly regulated at multiple layers. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a severe hematologic malignancy driven by genetic and epigenetic changes that lead to the transformation of leukemia stem cells (LSCs). Since somatic mutations in DNA methylation-related genes frequently occur in AML, DNA methylation is widely altered and functions as a starting engine for initiating AML. Additionally, RNA modifications, especially N6-methyladenosine (m6A), also play an important role in the generation and maintenance of the hematopoietic ecosystem, and AML development requires reprogramming of m6A modifications to facilitate cells with hallmarks of cancer. Given the complex pathogenesis and poor prognosis of AML, it is important to fully understand its pathogenesis. Here, we mainly focus on DNA methylation and RNA m6A modification in hematopoiesis and AML and summarize recent advances in this field.
Transforaminal Versus Lateral Interbody Fusions for Treatment of Adjacent Segment Disease in the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Rajan Prashant V. , Megerian Mark , Desai Ansh , Halkiadakis Penelope N. , Rabah Nicholas , Shost Michael D. , Butt Bilal , Showery James E. , Grabel Zachary , Pelle Dominic W. , Savage Jason W.
Published: September 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective comparative study.

Objective:

This study compared outcomes for patients managed with a lateral approach to interbody fusion [lateral (LLIF) or oblique (OLIF)] versus a posterior (PLIF) or transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) for treatment of adjacent segment disease (ASD) above or below a prior lumbar fusion construct.

Summary of Background Data:

No study has compared outcomes of lateral approaches to more traditional posterior approaches for the treatment of ASD.

Methods:

Retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent single-level lateral or posterior approaches for lumbar interbody fusion for symptomatic ASD between January 2010 and December 2021. Exclusion criteria included skeletal immaturity (age below 18 y old) and surgery indication for malignancy or infection. Patient demographics, medical comorbidities, operative details, postoperative complications, and revision surgery profiles were collected for all patients. Standard descriptive statistics were used to summarize data. Comparative statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (Version 28.0.1.0; Chicago, IL).

Results:

A total of 152 patients (65±10 y) were included in the study with a mean duration of follow-up of 1.6±1.4 years. The cohort included 123 PLIF/TLIF (81%), 18 LLIF (12%), 11 OLIF (7%). TLIF/PLIF experienced greater mean operative time (210±62 min vs. 184±80 OLIF/105±64 LLIF, P<0.001) and estimated blood loss (414±254 mL vs. 49±29 OLIF/36±33 LLIF, P<0.001). No significant difference in rate of postoperative complications. Postoperative radicular pain was significantly greater in OLIF (7, 64%) and LLIF (7, 39%) compared with PLIF/TLIF (16, 13%), P<0.001. No statistically significant difference in health care utilization was noted between the groups.

Conclusion:

Lateral fusions to treat ASD demonstrated no significantly different risk of complication compared with posterior approaches. Our study demonstrated significantly increased operative time and estimated blood loss for the posterior approach and an increased risk of radicular pain from manipulation/retraction of psoas following lateral approaches.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.