bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germline BRCA1‐Mutated Synchronous and Metachronous Pancreatic Acinar Cell Carcinoma With Long‐Term Survival
Authors: Kubo Tomohiro , Ikeda Yuki , Muramatu Joji , Ishikawa Kazuma , Yoshida Makoto , Kukita Kazuharu , Imamura Masafumi , Sugita Shintaro , Sakurai Akihiro , Takada Kohichi
Published: August 2024

Background

Pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (PACC) is a rare pancreatic neoplasm. Recently, molecular analysis revealed that PACC shows a high frequency of the BRCA1/2 mutation and is likely to be considered a cancer associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). Hereditary cancers, including HBOC, are characterized by multifocal and/or metachronous tumors. However, no case reports exist of germline BRCA1‐mutated synchronous and metachronous PACC.

Case

A 58‐year‐old man was diagnosed with synchronous and metachronous PACC at the age of 56 and underwent two surgeries. Ten months after the second surgery, the patient developed multiple liver metastases. Gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel therapy was administered as first‐line chemotherapy. After seven cycles, computed tomography examination revealed progressive disease (PD). Therefore, modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) was administered as second‐ line chemotherapy. After 19 cycles of mFFX, comprehensive cancer genomic profiling (CGP) identified a BRCA1 pathogenic variant that was confirmed to be germline origin. Accordingly, we treated the patient with olaparib; however, he was diagnosed with PD after 4 months. He subsequently died 5 years and 9 months after the initial surgery, and 3 years and 10 months after chemotherapy. Based on the genetic data of the patients, his family members received genetic counseling followed by cascade testing. Consequently, the same gBRCA1 pathogenic variant was detected in the son and his surveillance for HBOC‐related cancers was initiated.

Conclusion

We diagnosed a 58‐year‐old man with a synchronous and metachronous PACC with germline BRCA1 pathogenic variant. Considering that PACC is likely to have BRCA1/2 mutations responsible for HBOC, we need to be aware of the possible presence of multifocal and/or metachronous tumors in patients with PACC. Additionally, patients with PACC should undergo genetic examinations, which would be beneficial in determining treatment strategies and health care for blood relatives.
Unveiling the Obscure Potential of O‐Carborane Based IFLPs for CO2 Sequestration
Authors: Faizan Mohmmad , Behera Debendra , Chakraborty Madhumita , Pawar Ravinder
Published: August 2024

Sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere is necessary to achieve a sustainable environment. However, the thermodynamic stability of the CO2 molecule poses a significant challenge to its capture, necessitating catalysts that can overcome this stability. The emergence of frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) has opened a new dimension in the development of organocatalysts for CO2 capture and utilization. To date, various FLPs have been developed for CO2 sequestration, yet the quest for robust FLPs continues. Based on the intriguing electronic effects of the carborane polyhedral, o‐carboranes can be projected as a versatile bridging unit for intramolecular FLPs (IFLPs). In the present work, o‐carborane based IFLPs i. e., 1‐Al(CH3)2–2‐P(CH3)2–1,2‐C2B10H10, 1‐B(CH3)2–2‐P(CH3)2–1,2‐C2B10H10, 1‐Al(CH3)2–2‐N(CH3)2–1,2‐C2B10H10, 1‐P(CH3)2–2‐B(CH3)2–1,2‐C2B10H10 abbreviated as AlP, BP, AlN and BN have been proposed for the activation of CO2 molecule. The density functional theory (DFT) based calculations and thorough orbital analysis have been carried out to extensively study the electronic structure of the o‐carborane unit. The proposed IFLPs were systematically compared with their corresponding phenyl bridged analogues to assess the effect of o‐carborane bridging unit on the reactivity of the acidic and basic sites. The results show that the o‐carborane supported IFLPs are more reactive towards CO2 than the phenyl bridged IFLPs. Also, placing the basic site on the B atom at the 4th position of the o‐carborane bridge rather than the C atom at the 2nd position results in more reactive IFLPs.
Deep learning‐based spectrum sharing in next generation multi‐operator cellular networks
Authors: Mehmood Mughal Danish , Mahboob Tahira , Tariq Shah Syed , Kim Sang‐Hyo , Young Chung Min
Published: August 2024

Owing to the exponential increase in wireless network services and bandwidth requirements, sharing the radio spectrum among multiple network operators seems inevitable. In wireless networks, enabling efficient spectrum sharing for resource allocation is quite challenging due to several random factors, especially in multi‐operator spectrum sharing. While spectrum sensing can be useful in spectrum‐sharing networks, the chance of collision exists due to the inherent unreliability of wireless networks, making operators reluctant to use sensing‐based mechanisms for spectrum sharing. To circumvent these issues, we utilize an alternative approach, whereby we propose an efficient spectrum‐sharing mechanism leveraging a spectrum coordinator (SC) in a multi‐operator spectrum‐sharing scenario assisted by deep learning (DL). In our proposed scheme, before the beginning of each timeslot, the base station of each operator transmits the number of required resources based on the number of packets in the base station's queue to SC. In addition, base stations also transmit the list of available channels to SC. After gathering information from all base stations, SC distributes this collected information to all the base stations. Each base station then utilizes the DL‐based spectrum‐sharing algorithm and computes the number of resources it can use based on the number of packets in its queue and the number of packets in the queues of other operators. Furthermore, by leveraging DL, each operator also computes the cost it must pay to other operators for using their resources. We evaluate the performance of the proposed network through extensive simulations. It is shown that the proposed DL‐based spectrum‐sharing mechanism outperforms the conventional spectrum allocation scheme, thus paving the way for more dynamic and efficient multi‐operator spectrum sharing.
Heart failure risk assessment in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy based on the H2FPEF score
Authors: Laenens Dorien , Zegkos Thomas , Kamperidis Vasileios , Wong Raymond C.C. , Li Tony Yi‐Wei , Sia Ching‐Hui , Kong William K.F. , Efthimiadis Georgios , Poh Kian Keong , Ziakas Antonios , Bax Jeroen J. , Ajmone Marsan Nina
Published: August 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the H2FPEF score, which was developed to improve the diagnosis of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction, is associated with HF outcomes in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Methods and results

Patients with HCM and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥50%) were included from a multicentre registry and the H2FPEF score was calculated. Patients were divided into three groups: low (0–1), intermediate (2–5) and high (6–9) H2FPEF score. The primary combined endpoint was a composite of all‐cause death and HF admissions, while the secondary endpoints were all‐cause death and HF admissions separately. A total of 955 patients were included (age 51 ± 17 years, 310 [32.5%] female). Patients with a high H2FPEF score (n = 105) were more often female, and presented with more symptoms and comorbidities. On echocardiography, patients with a high H2FPEF score had lower LVEF, more impaired diastolic function and more frequently left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. During follow‐up (median 90 months [interquartile range 49–176]), 103 (11%) patients died and 57 (6%) patients had a first HF hospitalization. Event‐free survival rate for the primary combined and secondary endpoints was lower for patients with an intermediate and high H2FPEF score. On multivariate Cox regression analysis, female sex (hazard ratio [HR] 1.670, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.157–2.410; p = 0.006), Asian ethnicity (HR 6.711, 95% CI 4.076–11.048; p < 0.001), ischaemic heart disease (HR 1.732, 95% CI 1.133–2.650; p =  0.011), left atrial diameter (HR 1.028, 95% CI 1.005–1.051; p = 0.016) and intermediate (HR 2.757, 95% CI 1.612–4.713; p < 0.001) or high H2FPEF score (HR 3.689, 95% CI 1.908–7.134; p < 0.001) were independently associated with the primary combined endpoint.

Conclusion

The H2FPEF score is independently associated with HF outcome in patients with HCM and may be considered for risk stratification.
Expanding our understanding of Guillain–Barré syndrome: Recent advances and clinical implications
Authors: Ripellino Paolo , Schreiner Bettina , Latorre Daniela
Published: August 2024

Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare yet potentially life‐threatening disorder of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), characterized by substantial clinical heterogeneity. Although classified as an autoimmune disease, the immune mechanisms underpinning distinct GBS subtypes remain largely elusive. Traditionally considered primarily antibody‐mediated, the pathophysiology of GBS lacks clarity, posing challenges in the development of targeted and effective treatments. Nevertheless, recent investigations have substantially expanded our understanding of the disease, revealing an involvement of autoreactive T cell immunity in a major subtype of GBS patients and opening new biomedical perspectives. This review highlights these discoveries and offers a comprehensive overview of current knowledge about GBS, including ongoing challenges in disease management.
Hydrogen Storage Using Platinum‐Supported Ceria Dispersed on Activated Carbon
Authors: Wahby Anass , Abdelouahab‐Reddam Zinab , El Mail Rachad , Silvestre‐Albero Joaquín , Sepúlveda‐Escribano Antonio
Published: August 2024

In the current work, carbon materials were used in the hydrogen adsorption process, specifically as carbons doped with platinum dispersed on ceria. The textural characterization results of the prepared samples and the starting carbon showed the presence of both micro‐ and mesopores. On the other hand, it has been observed that the specific areas were inversely proportional to the CeO2 loading. In addition, the amount of adsorbed hydrogen increased after doping the carbon with platinum and, even more, when the carbon was doped with Pt dispersed on ceria (2.2 mg/g at 25°C and 30 bar). However, there was a ceria optimum from which the adsorption capacity decreased (10% wt). The results of temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD) of hydrogen indicated a high affinity between Pt and H2 that enhanced H2 adsorption process by establishing chemical bonds between the metal particles and H2. Precisely, the presence of metallic Pt particles dispersed on ceria considerably promotes the spillover process of hydrogen on carbon. This can be confirmed by hydrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, that showed that complete desorption of chemisorbed hydrogen required an increase of temperature.
A comparative study between point‐of‐care hemoglobin (capillary samples) and laboratory hemoglobin result (venous samples)
Authors: Yu Chun Hiu , Lam Shing Kit Tommy
Published: August 2024

Objective

Point‐of‐care tests (POCTs) are commonly utilized in emergency departments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate accuracy and clinical utility of capillary POCT Hemocue (POCT Hcue) in emergency department setting.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Accident and emergency department attendances ≥18 years old with a capillary POCT Hcue result and a paired venous hemoglobin (Hb) result were eligible. Statistical analyses including Pearson coefficient and Bland–Altman plot were performed to assess the relationship and agreement between capillary POCT Hcue and venous Hb.

Results

One hundred and seven patients were included in the analysis. 59% were female. 67% of the patients were from triage category 3. Scatter plot revealed a linear relationship between capillary POCT Hcue and venous Hb, with a correlation coefficient calculated to be 0.95. The mean difference was −0.30 on the Bland–Altman plot with the limits of agreement from −1.83 to +1.22.

Conclusion

Capillary POCT Hcue had acceptable agreement with venous Hb in emergency department setting.
A cross‐sectional study assessing modifications to the delivery of a multi‐component implementation strategy (the Get Outside, Get Active program) to improve child physical activity in early childhood education and care services
Authors: Giles Luke , Pearson Nicole , Lamont Hannah , Grady Alice , Yoong Sze Lin
Published: August 2024

Issue Addressed

The Get Outside, Get Active (GOGA) program is a randomised controlled trial which tested the impact of a multi‐component implementation strategy to support early childhood education and care (ECEC) services to replace indoor‐only free play with indoor–outdoor‐free play. This cross‐sectional study aims to describe the extent and nature of modifications made to implementation strategies and Behaviour Change Techniques (BCTs) using the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence‐based Implementation Strategies (FRAME‐IS) and to describe the fidelity of BCT delivery throughout GOGA.

Methods

An audit of records was undertaken throughout the intervention delivery period in the intervention arm. GOGA included 14 standard BCTs within six implementation strategies. Modifications and BCT delivery were recorded by Health Promotion Officers via project records. Modifications were categorised according to the FRAME‐IS. BCT delivery was recorded using a checklist.

Results

Forty‐four ECEC services received the GOGA program. Overall, 60 modifications were recorded. According to FRAME‐IS categories, most modifications related to: content; format; pragmatic or practical considerations; tailoring/tweaking/refining in nature; fidelity was inconsistent; the goal was to increase the acceptability, appropriateness, or feasibility of the implementation effort; the rationale was at the practitioner level; and were unplanned/reactive. Overall, 96.4% of standard BCTs were delivered as intended.

Conclusions

GOGA was delivered with high fidelity to protocol as indicated by the level of BCT delivery. This article details a thorough approach to documenting modifications and provides guidance for future studies.

So What?

This article contributes to the emerging evidence regarding documentation of adaptations and modifications to public health implementation interventions.
The experiences of minority language users in health and social care research: A systematic review
Authors: Spencer Llinos Haf , Cooledge Beryl Ann , Hoare Zoe
Published: August 2024

Background

The planning and management of health policy is directly linked to evidence‐based research. To obtain the most rigorous results in research it is important to have a representative sample. However, ethnic minorities are often not accounted for in research. Migration, equality, and diversity issues are important priorities which need to be considered by researchers. The aim of this systematic review (SR) is to explore the literature examining the experiences of minority language users in Health and Social Care Research (HSCR).

Method

A SR of the literature was conducted. SPIDER framework and Cochrane principles were utilised to conduct the review. Five databases were searched, yielding 5311 papers initially. A SR protocol was developed and published in PROSPERO: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42020225114analysis.

Results

Following the title and abstract review by two reviewers, 74 papers were included, and a narrative account was provided. Six themes were identified: 1. Disparities in healthcare; 2. Maternal health; 3. Mental health; 4. Methodology in health research; 5. Migrant and minority healthcare; 6. Racial and ethnic gaps in healthcare. Results showed that language barriers (including language proficiency) and cultural barriers still exist in terms of recruitment, possibly effecting the validity of the results. Several papers acknowledged language barriers but did not act to reduce them.

Conclusion

Despite research highlighting cultures over the past 40 years, there is a need for this to be acknowledged and embedded in the research process. We propose that future research should include details of languages spoken so readers can understand the sample composition to be able to interpret the results in the best way, recognising the significance of culture and language. If language is not considered as a significant aspect of research, the findings of the research cannot be rigorous and therefore the validity is compromised.
Experimental investigation on an innovative serpentine channel‐based nanofluid cooling technology for modular lithium‐ion battery thermal management
Authors: Wankhede Sagar , Kore Abhijeet , Kamble Laxman , Kale Pravin
Published: August 2024

Many nations have committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 as a means of addressing the global warming challenge. To achieve carbon neutrality, transportation is one of the most essential and important tasks. Energy‐efficient pure electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) with green energy power are being developed in response to the worldwide energy and environmental crises, as the potential replacements for the current generation of combustion‐engine automobiles. EVs require batteries more than ever before. In this perspective, lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) stand out as remarkable energy storage technologies and have been widely used due to their numerous impressive benefits. Owing to LIBs sensitivity to temperature, EVs typically use the battery thermal management system (BTMS). The working temperature span of a lithium‐ion battery in an electric car is 15°C–35°C, which is achieved by the use of a BTMS. The production of internal heat during charging and discharging also affects how well lithium‐ion batteries work. A battery heat control system is therefore required. The temperature of the LIB pack might be efficiently controlled by liquid‐cooled systems in discharge and charge scenarios. Based on Al2O3 nanofluid (NF), the current experimental study suggests a novel active cooling technology for regulating the heat produced by the 18650‐format lithium‐ion batteries. A thorough analysis is conducted on the impact of charge/discharge C‐rates, Al2O3 nanoparticle (NP) volume fractions, inflow coolant velocity, and intake liquid temperature on the thermal efficiency of the LIB pack. By incorporating aluminum oxide NPs into the water at varying volume fractions of 0.3%, 0.5%, and 1%, the LIB pack's maximum temperature was significantly reduced by 7.9%, 18.09%, and 19.56%, respectively. With increase in mass flow rate of coolant from 0.0290 to 0.5810 kg/s, the maximum temperature has been substantially reduced by 3.7%–8.6%. Results show that using higher fluid inflow temperature significantly increased both the highest experienced temperature and temperature diversity throughout the discharge operation by about, 6°C and 5°C, respectively. The outcomes of the study indicate that NFs exhibit superior cooling performance compared to conventional coolants such as water and ethylene glycol.
Characterizing hydro‐geotechnical processes of slopes implemented with bioretention cells
Authors: Chen Boji , Chui Ting Fong May
Published: August 2024

Low impact development (LID) practices are rarely implemented on slopes due to concerns about their poor hydrological performance and the potential impact on slope stability. Implementing LIDs on slopes, involving alterations to surface topography and subsurface hydrology (specifically, the formation of a groundwater mound), can pose challenges in maintaining slope stability. However, sloping areas often require LIDs for sustainable development. It is imperative to supplement the conventional design standard to address these challenges. Before proposing specific solutions, the impact of LIDs on slope stability should be understood first. This includes quantifying the extent of changes in slope stability before and after LID implementation, as well as identifying the key factors that influence stability. To address these, we developed a numerical model in HYDRUS‐2D to simulate the hydrological and geotechnical processes of slopes implemented with a two‐stepped bioretention cell (BC) system. The numerical model was calibrated and validated using monitoring data from a stepped BC in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. Simulation scenarios encompassed three generic slope angles (15°, 20°, and 25°) with and without BCs, two initial groundwater table positions and two inflow volumes. The hydrological process was characterized by the evolution of the groundwater mound, and the geotechnical process was quantified using the factor of safety (FoS). Our findings indicated slope cutting and filling was likely to enhance stability with an increase in the FoS of 0.1. However, the formation of groundwater mounds, resulting from exfiltration, led to an approximate 0.1–0.2 reduction in the FoS, depending on the inflow volume. The subsequent groundwater mound evolution had no further impact on stability. Ultimately, the FoS was slightly reduced by around 0–0.1 due to the combined effect of cutting and filling operations and groundwater mounds. It was generally safe to implement LIDs on 15° slopes. For steeper slopes, special design considerations are necessary, such as reducing the drainage area to strike a balance between hydrological performance and slope safety.
The moderating role of governance on the nexus of financial crime and sustainable development
Authors: Achim Monica Violeta , Văidean Viorela Ligia , Mirza Nawazish
Published: August 2024

This study aims to highlight the connection between good governance and financial crime to achieve optimal sustainable development for society. Governance issues are integral to a sustainable economy, as sustainability cannot be considered without strong measures to combat financial crime. The theoretical foundation of this relationship posits that enhanced institutional quality and laws reduce opportunities to circumvent environmental regulations, thereby improving the ecological footprint. This paper examines the moderating role of governance on the impact of four types of crime—corruption, shadow economy, money laundering, and cybercrime—on sustainable development indicators such as the Human Development Index, Environmental Performance Index, carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gas emissions. The sample includes 185 countries, analysed over the period from 2015 to 2022. Methodologies used range from the Pooled OLS method for panel data with interactions to panel threshold regression modelling. Our findings provide strong evidence of the mediating role of good governance in mitigating the negative impact of financial crime on sustainable development, potentially reducing it by up to half. This study offers insights into how improving governance can manage the environmental effects of financial crimes, thereby enhancing sustainable development and reducing financial and economic crime.
Medical history and lifestyle factors have limited impact on time‐to‐first‐treatment in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Glimelius Ingrid , Kleinstern Geffen , Robinson Dennis P. , Mansouri Larry , Rostgaard Klaus , Hjalgrim Henrik , Niemann Carsten Utoft , Mattsson Mattias , Rabe Kari G. , Hampel Paul J. , Parikh Sameer A. , Rosenquist Richard , Cerhan James R. , Slager Susan L. , Smedby Karin E.
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease. Whereas some patients have an indolent disease, others experience an aggressive course and early death. Our aim was to investigate if modifiable and non‐modifiable medical history and lifestyle factors prior to diagnosis had an impact on the natural course of the disease.

Method

In 1154 CLL patients, we assessed if the weight, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption or non‐modifiable characteristics including family history of lymphoid malignancy and medical history were associated with time‐to‐first‐treatment (TTFT) and adjusted all results for the CLL‐International Prognostic Index (CLL‐IPI).

Results

TTFT was shorter for patients with high/very high‐risk CLL‐IPI than those with low/intermediate risk CLL‐IPI. In the adjusted analysis we did not find additional impact on TTFT besides CLL‐IPI from any environmental characteristics assessed.

Conclusions

We found limited impact of environmental factors on the natural course of CLL (measured as the TTFT in treatment naïve patients) providing valuable knowledge, and potential relief, to share with patients at the time of diagnosis.
Evaluation of fluorous affinity using fluoroalkyl‐modified silica gel and selective separation of poly‐fluoroalkyl substances in organic solvents
Authors: Tadano Atsuya , Watabe Yoshiyuki , Tanigawa Tetsuya , Konishi‐Yamada Sayaka , Kubo Takuya
Published: August 2024

In this study, we focused on the fluorous affinity acting among fluorine compounds, and then developed a new separation medium and evaluated their performance. We prepared the stationary phases for a column using silica gel‐modified alkyl fluoride and investigated the characteristics of fluorous affinity by comparing them with a typical stationary phase, which does not contain fluorine, using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In HPLC measurements, we confirmed that while all non‐fluorine compounds were not retained, retention of fluorine compounds increased as the number of fluorine increased with the stationary phase. It also revealed that the strength of fluorous affinity changes depending on the types of the organic solvent; the more polar the solvent, the stronger the effect. Additionally, the stationary phase was employed to compare the efficiency of our column with that of a commercially available column, Fluofix‐II. The retention selectivity was almost the same, but the absolute retention strength was slightly higher on our column, indicating that the column is available for practical use.
Research progress on pretreatment technology for the analysis of amphetamine biological samples
Authors: Cao Zebin , Zhou Jianping
Published: August 2024

Sample pretreatment technology is crucial for drug analysis and detection, because the effect of sample pretreatment directly determinates the final analysis results. In recent years, with the continuous innovation of microextraction and other technologies like material preparation technologies and assistant technologies for extraction, the sample pretreatment techniques in the process of drug analysis have become more and more mature and diverse. This article takes amphetamine (AM) or methamphetamine as an example to review the recent development of pretreatment methods for AM‐containing biological samples from the perspectives of extraction techniques, extraction media and auxiliary technologies. Extraction techniques are summarized with the categories of contact microextraction, separate microextraction and membrane‐based microextraction for better guidance of application according to their features. Prevailing and innovative extraction media including carbon‐based material, silicon‐based material, metal organic framework, molecularly selective materials, supramolecular solvents and ionic liquids are reviewed. Auxiliary technologies like magnetic field, electric field, microwave, ultrasound and so on which can enhance extraction efficiency and accuracy are also reviewed. In the last, prospects of the future development of pretreatment technology for the analysis of AM biological samples are provided.
Reduced retear rates yet similar clinical outcomes following arthroscopic partial repair of large and massive irreparable rotator cuff tears with biceps augmentation compared to repairs without biceps augmentation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thamrongskulsiri Napatpong , Limskul Danaithep , Tanpowpong Thanathep , Kuptniratsaikul Somsak , Itthipanichpong Thun
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes between arthroscopic partial rotator cuff repair with biceps augmentation (BA) and partial repair (PR) without BA.

Methods

This systematic review included studies comparing outcomes of arthroscopic repair for large to massive irreparable rotator cuff tears with and without the BA. The focus was on postoperative clinical results and retear rates. Mean differences were used to express continuous outcomes, while odds ratios (ORs) were employed for dichotomous outcomes.

Results

Ten studies (733 shoulders, all level 3 evidence) were included. The BA group showed a significant reduction in retear rates (OR = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.20–0.77, P = 0.007) and comparable postoperative outcomes across various measures: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, visual analogue scale for pain, University of California‐Los Angeles shoulder score, active forward flexion motion and active external rotation at the arm‐at‐side position compared to the PR group. Subgroup analysis of two BA techniques—rerouting and supplementation following supraglenoid tenotomy—showed no significant differences in ASES score for either technique versus PR. However, rerouting significantly lowered retear rates (OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.12–0.36, p < 0.001), while supplementation showed similar retear rates to PR (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.37–2.02, n.s.).

Conclusion

Arthroscopic partial rotator cuff repair with BA for large to massive irreparable rotator cuff tears is a reliable technique, resulting in improved postoperative outcomes. BA using supplementation following supraglenoid tenotomy showed similar clinical outcomes and range of motion but with lower retear rates compared to the PR group.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Long‐term Results of Endoscopic Percutaneous Suture Lateralization for Newborns with Bilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis
Authors: Chen Yong‐Chao , Wang Xin , Teng Yi‐Shu , Yan Shang , Jia De‐Sheng , Pan Hong‐Guang
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Bilateral vocal fold paralysis (BVFP) is a critical condition in newborns, which may present with significant airway distress necessitating tracheostomy. The purpose of this study is to report the safety and effectiveness of endoscopic percutaneous suture lateralization (EPSL) for newborns with BVFP, and evaluated the long‐term results and the stability of the lateralization.

Methods

A review of patients undergoing EPSL for BVFP at our institutions was performed between October 2018 and June 2023. Preoperative and postoperative clinical information was collected. The functional outcomes of the surgery in terms of breathing, voice, and swallowing were evaluated and recorded.

Results

Twenty seven patients were included, with a median age at diagnosis of 12 days (range, 1–33 days). The maximum follow‐up is for 5 years. EPSL was successful in 77.8% of cases, effectively avoiding the need for tracheostomy. Dyspnea was relieved within a month after surgery, enabling patients to tolerate oral feeds within 2 months after surgery. Notably, some patients experienced a return of vocal fold function, particularly in successful EPSL cases, underlining the procedure's efficacy. Minor complications, including granulation tissue and wound infection, were observed but were manageable. Major complications were notably absent. The results are durable and stable at long‐term follow‐up.

Conclusion

EPSL for BVFP is a relatively simple, minimally invasive, non‐destructive, safe, and effective procedure in newborns, which may avoid the need for a tracheostomy, preserves the laryngeal framework, and does not affect the natural recovery of vocal cords.

Level of Evidence

Level 3: retrospective case series Laryngoscope, 2024
The Importance of the Knowledge of Errors in the Measurements in the Determination of Copolymer Reactivity Ratios from Composition Data
Authors: van Herk Alexander Maria , Liu Quan
Published: August 2024

Often the errors in the measurement of copolymerizations are not accurately determined or included in the calculation of reactivity ratios. Some knowledge of the errors in the initial monomer ratio, conversion, and copolymer composition is however essential to obtain reliable (unbiased) reactivity ratios with a realistic uncertainty. It is shown that the errors serve a trifold purpose; they can serve as weighing factors in the fit, they can be compared with the fit residues to decide whether the chosen model is adequate for the data and they can be used to construct a realistic joint confidence interval for the reactivity ratios. The best approach is to have an estimate of the individual errors in the copolymer composition, either from a thorough error propagation exercise or from replicate measurements. With these errors, the χ2‐joint confidence intervals can then be constructed which gives a realistic estimate of the errors in the reactivity ratios. Utilizing the Errors in Variables Method (EVM) is correct and useful, but only if the individual errors in all the variables in each experiment are more or less known.
Does Delaying Levodopa Prevent Motor Complications in Parkinson's Disease? A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ramanzini Luis Guilherme , Frare Julia M. , Camargo Luís F.M. , Silveira Juliana O.F. , Jankovic Joseph
Published: August 2024

Background

There has been a long debate whether delaying treatment with levodopa prevents motor complications in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

We performed a meta‐analysis on randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that compared early‐ versus delayed‐start treatment with levodopa in PD.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases from inception to July 1, 2023. Only RCTs that compared early and delayed levodopa treatment in PD were included. Non‐randomized comparisons from follow‐up studies were included as well. Our primary outcomes were occurrence of overall motor complications, motor fluctuations, and dyskinesias.

Results

Seven studies with a total of 1149 patients (636 in the early‐start group and 513 in the delayed‐start) were included in our analysis. There was no difference between groups regarding motor complications (OR 1.39; 95% CI: 0.68–1.72; P = 0.37) or dyskinesias (OR 1.52; 95% CI: 0.90–2.57; P = 0.11). Motor fluctuations occurred less frequently in the early‐start group (OR 0.70; 95% CI: 0.52–0.95; P = 0.02). Nonetheless, on subgroup analysis of dopamine agonists, rate of dyskinesias was smaller in the delayed‐start group (OR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.08–3.07; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Delaying treatment with levodopa does not seem to prevent levodopa‐related motor complications in PD. Adjunct treatment with dopamine agonists may reduce the need for higher doses of levodopa and thus reduce the risk for dyskinesias but this practice is often associated with a higher frequency of adverse effects related to dopamine agonists.
Alzheimer's Disease‐Related Analytes Amyloid‐β and Tau in Perilymph: Correlation With Patient Age and Cognitive Score
Authors: Walia Amit , Shew Matthew A. , Durakovic Nedim , Herzog Jacques A. , Cirrito John R. , Yuede Carla M. , Wick Cameron C. , Manis Melissa , Holtzman David M. , Buchman Craig A. , Rutherford Mark A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe the collection methods for perilymph fluid biopsy during cochlear implantation, detect levels of amyloid β 42 and 40 (Aβ42 and Aβ40), and total tau (tTau) analytes with a high‐precision assay, to compare these levels with patient age and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, and explore potential mechanisms and relationships with otic pathology.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Methods

Perilymph was collected from 25 patients using polyimide tubing to avoid amyloid adherence to glass, and analyzed with a single‐molecule array advanced digital enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay platform for Aβ40, Aβ42, and tTau. Cognition was assessed by MoCA.

Results

Perilymph volumes ranged from ∼1 to 13 µL, with analyte concentrations spanning 2.67 to 1088.26 pg/mL. All samples had detectable levels of tTau, Aβ40, and Aβ42, with a significant positive correlation between Aβ42 and Aβ40 levels. Levels of Aβ42, Aβ40, and tTau were positively correlated with age, while MoCA scores were inversely correlated with age. tTau and Aβ42/Aβ40‐ratios were significantly correlated with MoCA scores.

Conclusion

Alzheimer's disease‐associated peptides Aβ42, Aβ40, and tau analytes are detectable in human perilymph at levels approximately 10‐fold lower than those found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). These species increase with age and correlate with cognitive impairment indicators, suggesting their potential utility as biomarkers for cognitive impairment in patients undergoing cochlear implantation. Future research should investigate the origin of these analytes in the perilymph and their potential links to inner ear pathologies and hearing loss, as well as their relationships to CSF and plasma levels in individuals.
On the tail of two species: The changing place of the peregrine falcon in society
Authors: Mak Brandon
Published: August 2024

Wildlife conservation can become contentious when human interests are impinged. For peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) in the United Kingdom, their iconic status as a protected species is contested by pigeon racers and falconers restrained by strict wildlife policies. However, even entrenched conservation policies can shift, sparking controversy.

This paper seeks to understand the conditions leading to recent conservation policy shifts and conflicts. Through archival research and discourse analysis of falconry and pigeon racers' rhetoric, I review the development of 150 years of UK wildlife legislation and politics surrounding peregrines, situating present‐day conflict within long‐standing tensions between competing interests.

In doing so, I demonstrate how contrasting ideologies of the raptors existed simultaneously between groups. Each vied for dominance and influenced policies over time, with the ideologies of ‘winners’ suppressing that of the ‘losers’ to become the norm.

This historical approach highlights the key role global events like war played in overpowering the dominance of protective ideologies towards peregrines domestically, allowing peregrine culls and capture to become socially permissible. Conversely, post‐War environmental movements originating in the United States suppressed falconry's extractive relationships with peregrines in the United Kingdom, entrenching ecological priorities as a norm still conventional today.

I argue that wildlife protection is contested because cultural extinction of falconry and pigeon racing were imminent, brought on by policymakers' focus on preventing the biological extinction of peregrines. However, recent policy shifts highlight the acceptance of anthropocentric interests within conservation practices.

Policy implications: Animals can play multiple roles in society, but the public may not be accustomed to anthropocentric interests overtly displayed within contemporary conservation practices. Policy needs to be more sensitive towards accommodating or communicating human interests, but to also reflect on the social and ecological implications of their own ideologies towards conservation.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Opportunities for meaningful climate change engagement in vulnerable nature settings
Authors: Waters Yolanda L. , Losciale Riccardo , Wilson Kerrie A. , Dean Angela J.
Published: August 2024

Nature‐based tourism has a unique opportunity, and arguably responsibility, to promote widespread action on climate change. However, research suggests an aversion to providing information that might appear divisive or ‘ruin’ peoples day, particularly in places that are vulnerable to degradation.

We explore how exposure to climate change information in vulnerable nature settings influences indicators of (i) the visitor experience and (ii) climate change engagement. Using a quasi‐experimental approach, we provided climate information on tourist boats operating on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia and compared visitor experiences with a control condition where climate information was not provided. Visitor surveys (n = 656) assessed perceptions and experiences.

Overall, visitors on trips where climate information was provided were more likely to report that the reef experience exceeded their expectations and did not report any reduction in subjective trip satisfaction.

However, we detected minimal effects of climate information on indicators of climate engagement (threat awareness, action awareness, or information seeking), suggesting room for improvement in interpretation approach and design. Indeed, visitors reported high levels of acceptability for incorporating more information about climate change, particularly about actions.

Synthesis and applications: These results suggest that providing climate information does not undermine visitor experiences and while further research is required to determine the most effective approach for influencing climate change engagement, an appetite for more information exists. It is possible that what tourism operators are fearful of, may be an opportunity to improve outcomes aligned with both industry and environmental objectives.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Paediatric oncology physiotherapy in Africa: International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Global Mapping Programme
Authors: Anieto Ebuka Miracle , Madzimbe Precious , Potterton Joanne , Delano Pia , Makupe Prince , Geel Jennifer , Ranasinghe Neil , Challinor Julia , Sidhanee Abu
Published: August 2024

Childhood cancer treatment in Africa has a dramatically increasing patient population resulting in greater rehabilitation needs. The International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) mapped childhood cancer services in Africa including access to physiotherapy. Irrespective of income classification, just over two‐thirds of countries in Africa reported having access to physiotherapy services in paediatric oncology sites. There is a lack of knowledge about African childhood physiotherapy services. Research is needed to understand the rehabilitation needs of these children/adolescents and how to meet their needs in a globally equitable and sustainable way.
Preparation of biodegradable poly(lactic acid)/poly[(butylene diglycolate)‐co‐furandicarboxylate] blends with excellent toughness and gas barrier performance
Authors: Yang Yong , Shen Jing , Hu Erxun , Fang Yajin , Xu Zhibo , Li Juan
Published: August 2024

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is known as one of the most promising biodegradable polyesters, while inherent brittleness and insufficient gas barrier performance limit its potential application as a film material. Herein, poly[(butylene diglycolate)‐co‐furandicarboxylate] (PBDF) with excellent flexibility and good gas barrier properties was synthesized and then melt‐blended with PLA. Compared with neat PLA, the elongation at break of the PLA/PBDF20 blend increased more than 40 times and reached over 176.7%. In addition, its O2, CO2 and H2O permeability coefficients decreased by 21.3%, 50.8% and 46.3%, respectively. Moreover, the PLA/PBDF20 blend also exhibited better biodegradability, with a weight loss rate increasing from 2.7% of neat PLA to 19.0% after 5 weeks of composting. Notably, incorporation of a multifunctional epoxy compatibilizer (Joncryl ADR®‐4368) into the PLA/PBDF blends further enhanced their toughness and gas barrier performance, which could be attributed to the improvement of the miscibility between PLA and PBDF. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Physiological effects of field concentrations and sublethal concentrations of sulfoxaflor on Apis mellifera
Authors: Wang Shuang , Fan Wenyan , Ji Wenna , Wang Kang , Gull Sadia , Li Jitong , Chen Lin , Ji Ting , Liu Jinglan
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Bees (Apis mellifera), as important pollinators of agricultural crops, are at risk when pesticides are used. Sulfoxaflor is a new insecticide which acts on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in a similar way to neonicotinoids. The goal of this study is to evaluate the toxicity of sulfoxaflor and its effect on the A. mellifera exposure.

RESULTS

Initially, developmental indicators such as larval survival, pupation, and eclosion were inhibited by 5.0 mg/L (field concentration) sulfoxaflor. In the pupal stage, fat content was significantly increased, while the glycogen content decreased. In addition, A. mellifera heads were treated with 2.0 mg/L (sublethal concentration) of sulfoxaflor and analyzed by RNA sequencing. The transcriptome results indicated that 2.0 mg/L amounts of sulfoxaflor have adverse effects on the immune, digestive, and nervous systems. Sulfoxaflor down‐regulated the expression of many genes involved in immunity, detoxification, the myosin cytoskeleton, sensory neurons, and odor‐binding proteins.

CONCLUSION

Field concentration and sublethal concentration were used for the combined analysis of honeybees. The effect of sublethal concentration of sulfoxaflor on honeybees was studied for the first time from the perspective of transcriptome sequencing of honeybee head. A preliminary study was carried out on the stress of sulfoxaflor at sublethal concentration on honeybee workers, which has certain research significance and can provide theoretical basis for the use of sulfoxaflor in the field environment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Practical time‐varying formation cooperative control for high‐order nonlinear multi‐agent systems avoiding spatial resource conflict via safety constraints
Authors: Ma Xiaoshan , Chou Tawei
Published: August 2024

The operation of multi‐agent systems (MAS) in space necessitates considerations for obstacle avoidance, collision prevention, and connectivity among agents. This coupling conflict, stemming from spatial resource utilization, poses a significant and non‐negligible threat to the safe operation of MAS. This article proposes a consensus control scheme for the time‐varying formation of MAS, incorporating functions for maintaining connectivity, collision avoidance, and obstacle dodging. This scheme effectively constrains the time‐varying formation tracking error within an arbitrarily small range. The considered system model takes a high‐order nonlinear form, with uncertainties and disturbances present in each order. This grants the control scheme with high generality and practicability. By employing barrier Lyapunov function to delineate the safe operational space of MAS, conflicts in spatial resource utilization are avoided. This approach simultaneously fulfills the requirements for connectivity maintenance, collision avoidance, and obstacle dodging in the safe operation of MAS. An additional rotation operator is integrated into the controller to smoothly address the “minima” problem, eliminating the need for external intervention. Gaussian radial basis function is used to estimate the nonlinear terms, uncertainties, and unknown perturbation online in the system. The stability of the MAS under the proposed control scheme is analyzed through Lyapunov function. Finally, numerical simulation results are demonstrated to explain the effectiveness of the control scheme.