bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic progression for local invasion of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma from the superficial to the deep portion
Authors: Hwang Hye Won , Shin Hyun‐Tae , An Hye Young , Byun Ji Won
Published: May 2024

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer. While many treatments exist, our understanding of its genomic progression, especially from the epidermis to the deep dermis, remains limited. This study aims to identify genetic mutations associated with the progression of cSCC into the deep dermis, providing insights into its aggressive behavior and high‐risk features. We performed high‐depth whole‐exome sequencing on 12 cSCC tissues, along with paired normal tissues from six patients, using microdissection techniques. The mutational analysis focused on identifying alterations enriched during cSCC progression. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, immunohistochemical assays, and external single‐cell RNA data were utilized for validation. A total of 8863 non‐synonymous somatic mutations were identified in 4092 genes across the superficial and deep portions of cSCCs. Analysis of deep portion mutations revealed a significant correlation with gene ontology biological processes, particularly cell junction organization, and cell–cell adhesion. Clonal mutations in these processes were more prevalent in the deep portions, indicating their impact on the cSCC mutation landscape. Genetic evolution analysis identified 29 causal genes associated with dermal invasion in cSCC. We highlight somatic mutations in cSCC, revealing heterogeneity between superficial and deep regions. Altered genes in cell junction organization and cell–cell adhesion emerged as pivotal in dermal invasion. We identified 29 causal genes primarily in deep tumor regions. Our findings emphasize analyzing multiple tumor regions to capture varied mutational landscapes. These insights advance our understanding of cSCC progression, emphasizing genetic and cellular changes during tumor evolution.
Cumulative sum learning curve for cordocentesis among maternal‐fetal medicine fellows in a low‐cost simulation model
Authors: Perez‐Estrada Bibiana A. , Acevedo‐Gallegos Sandra , Lumbreras‐Marquez Mario I. , Gardner Roxane , Gallardo‐Gaona Juan M.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the individual learning curves for cordocentesis in a low‐cost simulator for maternal‐fetal medicine (MFM) fellows.

Methods

This observational, descriptive, educational, and prospective study was performed from July through November 2022. After an introductory course based on a standardized technique for cordocentesis, each second‐year MFM fellow who accepted to participate in the study performed this procedure using a low‐cost simulation model, and experienced operators supervised the cordocenteses. Learning curves were then created using cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM).

Results

Seven second‐year MFM fellows with no previous experience in cordocentesis accepted to participate in the study. A total of 2676 procedures were assessed. On average, residents performed 382 ± 70 procedures. The mean number of procedures to achieve proficiency was 369 ± 70, the overall success rate was 84.16%, and the corresponding failure rate was 15.84%. At the end of the study, all fellows were considered competent in cordocentesis. One fellow required 466 attempts to achieve competency, performing a total of 478 procedures, but the resident with the fewest attempts to reach competency required 219 procedures, completing 232 procedures. Some of the most frequent reasons for failed attempts included not reaching the indicated point for vascular access (20.99%) and being unable to retrieve the sample (69.10%).

Conclusion

CUSUM analysis to assess learning curves, in addition to using low‐cost simulation models, helped to appraise individualized learning, allowing an objective demonstration of competency for cordocentesis among MFM fellows.
Delivery of AKT1 phospho‐forms to human cells reveals differential substrate selectivity
Authors: Siddika Tarana , Shao Richard , Heinemann Ilka U. , O'Donoghue Patrick
Published: May 2024

Protein kinase B (AKT1) is a serine/threonine kinase that regulates fundamental cellular processes, including cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism. AKT1 activity is controlled by two regulatory phosphorylation sites (Thr308, Ser473) that stimulate a downstream signaling cascade through phosphorylation of many target proteins. At either or both regulatory sites, hyperphosphorylation is associated with poor survival outcomes in many human cancers. Our previous biochemical and chemoproteomic studies showed that the phosphorylated forms of AKT1 have differential selectivity toward peptide substrates. Here, we investigated AKT1‐dependent activity in human cells, using a cell‐penetrating peptide (transactivator of transcription, TAT) to deliver inactive AKT1 or active phospho‐variants to cells. We used enzyme engineering and genetic code expansion relying on a phosphoseryl‐transfer RNA (tRNA) synthetase (SepRS) and tRNASep pair to produce TAT‐tagged AKT1 with programmed phosphorylation at one or both key regulatory sites. We found that all TAT‐tagged AKT1 variants were efficiently delivered into human embryonic kidney (HEK 293T) cells and that only the phosphorylated AKT1 (pAKT1) variants stimulated downstream signaling. All TAT‐pAKT1 variants induced glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)‐3α phosphorylation, as well as phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 at Ser240/244, demonstrating stimulation of downstream AKT1 signaling. Fascinatingly, only the AKT1 variants phosphorylated at S473 (TAT‐pAKT1S473 or TAT‐pAKT1T308,S473) were able to increase phospho‐GSK‐3β levels. Although each TAT‐pAKT1 variant significantly stimulated cell proliferation, cells transduced with TAT‐pAKT1T308 grew significantly faster than with the other pAKT1 variants. The data demonstrate differential activity of the AKT1 phospho‐forms in modulating downstream signaling and proliferation in human cells.
Firm risk associated with environmental and corporate social disclosure: The moderating role of board gender diversity
Authors: Ali Furman , Shah Syed Sumair
Published: May 2024

This study examines the relationship among corporate social and environmental disclosures, firm risk, and board gender diversity. This paper offers fresh insights into the relationship between corporate social and environmental disclosures and gender diversity and firm risk., Using panel data of Chinese nonfinancial A‐share‐listed companies from 2008 to 2020, we discover that the correlation between gender diversity on the board and corporate social and environmental disclosures has a significant negative influence on firm risk. The findings also revealed that the impact of gender diversity and corporate social and environmental disclosures is more pronounced to mitigate firm risk in nonstate‐owned enterprises than in state‐owned enterprises. For robustness, we used the generalized method of moments to control for reverse causality and endogenous variables' existence; the findings are similar to the main results. The study contributes to the literature by offering a contingency approach to examine the relationship between corporate social and environmental disclosures and firm risk and sheds light on the relationship in the context of a developing economy.
Transfer of the Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonist Daridorexant into Breast Milk of Healthy Lactating Women
Authors: Kaufmann Priska , Muehlan Clemens , Anliker‐Ort Marion , Sabattini Giancarlo , Siebers Nicholas , Dingemanse Jasper
Published: May 2024

The novel dual orexin receptor antagonist daridorexant was approved in 2022 for the treatment of adult patients with insomnia. The aim of this post‐marketing study was to measure daridorexant and its major metabolites in breast milk and plasma of 10 healthy lactating subjects.

This single‐center, open‐label study evaluated the transfer of the analytes into breast milk. A single dose of 50 mg was orally administered in the morning. Milk and blood samples were collected pre‐dose and over a period of 72 h after dosing. The pharmacokinetics of daridorexant in milk and plasma were assessed including the cumulative amount and fraction of dose excreted, daily infant dose, and relative infant dose. Safety and tolerability were also investigated.

All subjects completed the study. Daridorexant was rapidly absorbed into and distributed from plasma. Daridorexant and its major metabolites were measurable in breast milk. The cumulative total amount of daridorexant excreted over 72 h was 0.010 mg, which corresponds to 0.02% of the maternal dose. This corresponds to a mean daily infant dose of 0.009 mg/day and a relative infant dose of less than 0.22% over 24 h. The maternal safety profile was similar to that observed in previous studies.

Low amounts of daridorexant and its metabolites were detected in the breast milk of healthy lactating women. Since the exposure and potential effects on the breastfed infant are unknown, a risk of somnolence or other depressant effects cannot be excluded.
Bone mineral density changes around the stem correlate with stress changes after total hip arthroplasty: A study using thermoelastic stress analysis
Authors: Watanabe Ryunosuke , Mishima Hajime , Takehashi Hironori , Wada Hiroshi , Totsuka Sho , Nishino Tomofumi , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Thermoelastic stress analysis (TSA) was used to evaluate stress changes over the entire surface of a specimen. This study aimed to assess the relationship between femoral stress distribution, analysed using TSA and changes in bone mineral density (BMD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

Stress changes in the simulated bone before and after taper‐wedge stem insertion were measured using the TSA. Stress changes were compared with BMD changes around the stem 1 year after surgery in a THA patient (58 hips) with the same taper‐wedge stem. Subsequently, we compared the correlation between stress changes and BMD changes.

Results

TSA revealed significant stress changes before and after stem insertion, with prominent alterations in the proximal medial region. The BMD changes at 1 year post‐THA exhibited a 15%–25% decrease in the proximal zones, while Zones 2–6 showed a −6% to 3% change. Notably, a strong positive correlation (0.886) was found between the stress change rate and BMD change rate.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated a high correlation between femoral stress distribution assessed using TSA and subsequent BMD changes after THA. The TSA method offers the potential to predict stress distribution and BMD alterations postsurgery, aiding in implant development and clinical assessment. Combining TSA with finite element analysis could provide even more detailed insights into stress distribution.

Level of Evidence

Case series (with or without comparison).
Diagnostic markers of acute encephalitis syndrome and COVID‐associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children from Southern India
Authors: Damodar Tina , Dunai Cordelia , Prabhu Namratha , Jose Maria , Akhila L. , Kinhal Uddhava V. , Anusha Raj K. , Marate Srilatha , Lalitha A. V. , Dsouza Fulton Sebastian , Sajjan Sushma Veeranna , Gowda Vykuntaraju K. , Basavaraja G. V. , Singh Bhagteshwar , Prathyusha P. V. , Tharmaratnam Kukatharmini , Ravi Vasanthapuram , Kolamunnage‐Dona Ruwanthi , Solomon Tom , Turtle Lance , Yadav Ravi , Michael Benedict D. , Mani Reeta S.
Published: May 2024

Acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) in children poses a significant public health challenge in India. This study aims to explore the utility of host inflammatory mediators and neurofilament (NfL) levels in distinguishing etiologies, assessing disease severity, and predicting outcomes in AES. We assessed 12 mediators in serum (n = 58) and 11 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (n = 42) from 62 children with AES due to scrub typhus, viral etiologies, and COVID‐associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS‐C) in Southern India. Additionally, NfL levels in serum (n = 20) and CSF (n = 18) were examined. Clinical data, including Glasgow coma scale (GCS) and Liverpool outcome scores, were recorded. Examining serum and CSF markers in the three AES etiology groups revealed notable distinctions, with scrub typhus differing significantly from viral and MIS‐C causes. Viral causes had elevated serum CCL11 and CCL2 compared with scrub typhus, while MIS‐C cases showed higher HGF levels than scrub typhus. However, CSF analysis showed a distinct pattern with the scrub typhus group exhibiting elevated levels of IL‐1RA, IL‐1β, and TNF compared with MIS‐C, and lower CCL2 levels compared with the viral group. Modeling the characteristic features, we identified that age ≥3 years with serum CCL11 < 180 pg/mL effectively distinguished scrub typhus from other AES causes. Elevated serum CCL11, HGF, and IL‐6:IL‐10 ratio were associated with poor outcomes (p = 0.038, 0.005, 0.02). Positive CSF and serum NfL correlation, and negative GCS and serum NfL correlation were observed. Median NfL levels were higher in children with abnormal admission GCS and poor outcomes. Measuring immune mediators and brain injury markers in AES provides valuable diagnostic insights, with the potential to facilitate rapid diagnosis and prognosis. The correlation between CSF and serum NfL, along with distinctive serum cytokine profiles across various etiologies, indicates the adequacy of blood samples alone for assessment and monitoring. The association of elevated levels of CCL11, HGF, and an increased IL‐6:IL‐10 ratio with adverse outcomes suggests promising avenues for therapeutic exploration, warranting further investigation.
Association between isolated or combined malnutrition and sarcopenia and quality of life in heart failure outpatients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Knobloch Ingrid da Silveira , Souza Gabriela Corrêa , Vale Marla Darlene Machado , Ribeiro Édina Caroline Ternus , Silva Flávia Moraes
Published: May 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition with symptoms linked to worse quality of life. Malnutrition and sarcopenia are conditions frequently found in patients with HF. This study aims to evaluate the association between isolated or combined malnutrition and sarcopenia and quality of life in outpatients with HF.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study with a sample of outpatients with HF aged ≥18 years. Malnutrition was assessed according to the criteria of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition, and sarcopenia was evaluated by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. Quality of life was assessed using the Minnesota Living with HF questionnaire (MLHFQ). Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐one patients were included in this study, with a median (interquartile range) age of 58 (48–65) years, 58.9% were adults, and 68.9% were male. A total of 29.5% of the patients were malnourished, and 28.5% and 2.6% were identified with probable sarcopenia and sarcopenia, respectively. Of the total, 15.9% of patients were identified with both conditions. Sarcopenia was associated with higher odds of increase in the MLHFQ total score, indicating worse quality of life (odds ratio [OR] = 3.61; 95% CI, 1.65–7.89). The same was found in the presence of two conditions (OR 3.97; 95% CI, 1.32–11.54), whereas isolated malnutrition was not related to life quality (OR = 1.62; 95% CI, 0.73–3.60).

Conclusion

The presence of malnutrition and sarcopenia simultaneously were associated with worse quality of life scores when compared with these isolated conditions.
Osteotomy around the painful degenerative varus knee has broader indications than conventionally described but must follow a strict planning process: ESSKA Formal Consensus Part I
Authors: Dawson Matthew , Elson David , Claes Steven , Predescu Vlad , Khakha Raghbir , Espejo‐Reina Alejandro , Schröter Steffen , van Heerwarden Ronald , Menetrey Jacques , Beaufils Philippe , Seil Roman , Beker Roland , Mabrouk Ahmed , Ollivier Matthieu
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The European consensus was designed with the objective of combining science and expertise to produce recommendations that would educate and provide guidance in the treatment of the painful degenerative varus knee. Part I focused on indications and planning.

Methods

Ninety‐four orthopaedic surgeons from 24 European countries were involved in the consensus, which focused on the most common indications for osteotomy around the knee. The consensus was performed according to an established ESSKA methodology. The questions and recommendations made were initially designed by the consensus steering group. And ‘best possible’ answers were provided based upon the scientific evidence available and the experience of the experts. The statements produced were further evaluated by ratings and peer review groups before a final consensus was reached.

Results

There is no reliable evidence to exclude patients based on age, gender or body weight. An individualised approach is advised; however, cessation of smoking is recommended. The same applies to lesser degrees of patellofemoral and lateral compartment arthritis, which may be accepted in certain situations. Good‐quality limb alignment and knee radiographs are a mandatory requirement for planning of osteotomies, and Paley's angles and normal ranges are recommended when undertaking deformity analysis. Emphasis is placed upon the correct level at which correction of varus malalignment is performed, which may involve double‐level osteotomy. This includes recognition of the importance of individual bone morphology and the maintenance of a physiologically appropriate joint line orientation.

Conclusion

The indications of knee osteotomies for painful degenerative varus knees are broad. Part I of the consensus highlights the versatility of the procedure to address multiple scenarios with bespoke planning for each case. Deformity analysis is mandatory for defining the bone morphology, the site of the deformity and planning the correct procedure.

Level of Evidence

Level II, consensus.
Intractable Aspiration Treated With Laryngectomy After SLAD‐R Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Acree Lillian , Compton Evan C. , Byrd J. Kenneth , Johnson Christopher , Postma Gregory N.
Published: May 2024

A variety of surgical treatment options exist for adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD) with selective adductor recurrent laryngeal nerve denervation and reinnervation (SLAD‐R) being one of the more popular. We present a case of bilateral vocal fold paralysis (BVFP) for SLAD‐R resulting in the need for total laryngectomy. We suggest BVFP is more common than reported and that we all must insure optimal long term follow up of our surgical patients. Laryngoscope, 134:4582–4584, 2024
Synergetic Improvement of Flexoelectric Coefficient in Liquid Crystal Embedded Flexible PVDF Polymer Composite for Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Bora Kaustav Jit , Sinha Aloka
Published: May 2024

Flexoelectricity is the universal electric polarization of dielectrics upon exertion of a non‐uniform strain gradient. With the advancement of nano‐technology and miniaturization of electronic devices, flexoelectricity holds the promise to address the power requirements for such device operation. The direct flexoelectric effect in liquid crystal (LC) embedded poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) polymer films is examined for the first time by the application of external strain on the films. Physical characterizations such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), dielectric spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) are carried out to study the composite films’ intrinsic and extrinsic properties like dielectric, crystallinity, and morphologies. The value of the flexoelectric coefficient (μ12) increases with the concentration of LC incorporation. At 3 wt%, μ12 attains a maximum value of 68 nC m−1, which is more than a threefold increase compared to that of the pure PVDF film. The role of Maxwell–Wagner–Sillars (MWS) polarization in determining flexoelectric polarization in polymer composites is also discussed. Moreover, the influence of the microstructure and domain size formation in determining the flexoelectric response are discussed in detail to infer the behavior of the flexoelectric coefficients of the films. Potential device applications based on this phenomenon have been proposed for future research in sensing and actuation.
Short report: Twins with 20p13 duplication. Case report and comprehensive literature review
Authors: Kennedy Benjamin J. , Savage Sarah K. , Kaler Stephen G.
Published: May 2024

Background

Trisomy 20p is a rare genetic condition caused by a duplication of the short arm of chromosome 20.

Methods

We employed clinical observation and molecular genetic testing (SNP microarray), to study identical twin males with an unknown dysmorphic syndrome. We conducted a literature review of trisomy 20p and collated the clinical and molecular genetic findings on 20 affected subjects reported since 2000.

Results

Identical twin males, whose prenatal course was complicated by a twin‐to‐twin transfusion, manifested profound language and neurocognitive delays as well as distinctive facial dysmorphisms when evaluated at 2 years of age. SNP microarray identified identical duplications of 20p13 with no other chromosomal aberrations. A literature survey of 20p trisomy syndrome identified 20 other examples of this condition reported since 2000, which we collated with 33 summarized by Sidwell et al. (2000). Within the combined total of 55 affected individuals, we found a distinctive clinical phenotype that provides insight on the effects of abnormal dosage of genes in 20p13. These loci include FAM110A (OMIM 611393), ANGPT4 (OMIM 603705), RSPO4 (OMIM 610573), PSMF1 (OMIM 617858), SNPH (OMIM 604942), SDCBP2 (OMIM 617358), FKBP1A (OMIM 186945), TMEM74B, C20orf202, and RAD21L1 (OMIM 619533). Gene profiling highlighted that syntaphilin (SNPH) is highly expressed in mammalian brain, where it is considered critical for mitochondrial transport in neuronal axons, and to directly influence axonal morphogenesis and function.

Conclusion

We propose that abnormal activity of syntaphilin engendered by the trisomy is primarily responsible for the language, neurocognitive, and gross motor delays reported in individuals with 20p trisomy. Additional studies, for example, characterization of cerebral organoids generated from affected patients may help to better understand this condition, and potentially suggest rational remedies to improve the lives of affected individuals and their families.
Language impairment in sporadic and familial (type 8) amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A comparative study
Authors: de Araújo Caroline M. , de Alcântara Cássia , Alencar Mariana A. , da Gama Natália A. S. , Cruzeiro Marcelo M. , França Marcondes C. , Jaeger Antônio , Camargos Sarah T. , Machado Thais H. , de Souza Leonardo Cruz
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Aims

Language is frequently affected in patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS), with reduced performance in naming, syntactic comprehension, grammatical expression, and orthographic processing. However, the language profile of patients with familial type 8 ALS (ALS8), linked to p.P56S VAPB mutation, remains unclear. We investigated language in patients with ALS8 by examining their auditory comprehension and verbal production.

Methods

We included three groups of participants: (1) patients with sALS (n = 20), (2) patients with familial ALS8 (n = 22), and (3) healthy controls (n = 21). The groups were matched for age, sex, and education level. All participants underwent a comprehensive language battery, including the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination, the reduced Token test, letter fluency, categorical fluency (animals), word definition from the Cambridge Semantic Memory Research Battery, and a narrative discourse analysis. Participants also were evaluated using Addenbrooke's Cognitive Exam‐Revised Version, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the ALS Functional Rating Scale‐Revised.

Results

Compared to controls, sALS and ALS8 patients had impaired performance on oral (syntactic and phonological processing) comprehension and inappropriate discourse cohesion. sALS and ALS8 did not differ in any language measure. There was no correlation between language scores and functional and psychiatric scales.

Discussion

ALS8 patients exhibit language deficits that are independent of motor features. These findings are consistent with the current evidence suggesting that ALS8 has prominent non‐motor features.
Ion solvation in atomic baths: From snowballs to polarons
Authors: Chowdhury Saajid , Perez‐Ríos Jesús
Published: May 2024

Solvation, the result of the complicated interplay between solvent–solute and solvent–internal interactions, is one of the most important chemical processes. Consequently, a complete theoretical understanding of solvation seems like a heroic task. However, it is possible to elucidate fundamental solvation mechanisms by looking into simpler systems, such as ion solvation in atomic baths. In this work, we study ion solvation by calculating the ground state properties of a single ion in a neutral bath from the high‐density to the low‐density regimes, finding common ground for these two, in principle, disparate regimes. Our results indicate that a single 174Yb+ ion in a bath of 7Li atoms forms a coordination complex at high densities with a coordination number of 8, with strong electrostriction characteristic of the snowball effect. On the contrary, treating the atomic bath as a dilute quantum gas at low densities, we find that the ion‐atom interaction's short‐range plays a significant role in the physics of many‐body‐bound states and polarons. Furthermore, in this regime, we explore the role of an ion trap necessary to experimentally realize this system, which drastically affects the binding mechanism of the ion and atoms from a quantum gas. Therefore, our results give a novel insight into the universality of ion‐neutral systems in the ultracold regime and the possibilities of observing exotic many‐body effects.

Keypoints

A global study of ion solvation in atomic baths from the high‐ to the low‐density regimes.

The ion–atom short‐range interaction is critical to understanding the presence of many‐body‐bound states and polarons.

The ion‐trapping potential drastically impacts many‐body‐bound states and polaron formation.
Hearing Loss and Reduced Income Growth: A Longitudinal Socioeconomic Analysis
Authors: Denham Michael W. , Tucker Lauren H. , Gorroochurn Prakash , Golub Justin S.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Hearing loss (HL) has been linked to negative socioeconomic states, including low income. This study examines the relationship between HL and income growth.

Study Design

Longitudinal observational study.

Setting

Multicentered US epidemiologic study (Hispanic Community Health Study, HCHS).

Methods

Using data from 2 waves of the HCHS, we analyzed the association between HL and income growth in adults ages 18 to 74 years using generalized estimating equations. The exposure was HL, measured by 4‐frequency pure‐tone average (PTA). The outcome was yearly household income growth, with income graded on a 10‐bracket scale from <$10,000 to >$100,000. Models controlled for demographics, hearing aid use, and vascular risk.

Results

A total of 1342 participants met inclusion criteria. At visit 1, average age was 47.6 years (SD = 12.2), and average PTA was 13.9 decibels (dB, SD = 9.5). Average follow‐up was 5.9 years (SD = 0.6). There was a significant time × HL interaction: with each 10 dB worsening in HL, the odds of belonging to a higher versus a lower income bracket changed by a factor of 0.979 (P < .001) between waves 1 and 2. In other words, the odds of belonging to a higher income group decreased with worsening HL. At 38.6 dB, the odds for income growth became <1, indicating income loss rather than growth.

Conclusion

Increased HL is associated with reduced income growth, including the possibility of negative growth (ie, income decline). This study emphasizes the value of including socioeconomic measures in randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of HL treatment and the importance of extended follow‐up for study participants.
A Comparison of Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy Findings in Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Ma Alison C. , Rosi‐Schumacher Mattie , DiNardo Lauren A. , Corbin Alexandra F. , Carr Michele M.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare patterns of obstruction in infants and toddlers with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by analyzing drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) examinations.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

An academic tertiary care pediatric hospital at a single institution.

Methods

Children aged ≤3 years who underwent DISE with propofol titration from 2020 to 2022 were included in the study. Data extracted included age, body mass index, comorbidities, and polysomnography parameters. The sites of anatomic obstruction during DISE were recorded using a validated 10‐site scoring system.

Results

A total of 86 children underwent DISE, including 15 infants (<1 year) and 71 toddlers (>1≤3 years). Sixty‐two percent were male and 37% were female. The mean age of the infant group was 9.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.92, 11.28 months), and the mean age of the toddler group was 2.3 years (95% CI: 2.06, 2.50 years). The mean total number of sites of obstruction was not significantly different between infants (N = 2.5) and toddlers (N = 3.2, P = .086). The most common subsite of significant obstruction in both infants and toddlers was the aryepiglottic folds (46.7% and 36.8%, respectively; P = .578). The sites of obstruction and frequency of their occurrence were not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Multisite airway obstruction is common among children with OSA, especially at the epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, and tongue base. There is no difference in sites of obstruction and their frequency between toddlers and infants.
Mechanical recycling process: An alternative for a viable disposal of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic waste
Authors: de Oliveira Ingrid Christiny Lima , Montagna Larissa Stieven , dos Anjos Erick Gabriel Ribeiro , Marini Juliano , Passador Fabio Roberto
Published: May 2024

Concern for the environment has increased the interest of the automotive and aerospace industries in evaluating the feasibility of mechanical recycling of waste carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) and waste from protective films used during the transport and storage of thermosetting composites, which are removed and discarded during manufacturing. Therefore, this work aimed to develop a recyclable composite from protective film waste by incorporating carbon fiber/poly(aryl ether ketone) (CF/PAEK) composite particles obtained through grinding in knife mills, followed by an analysis of the particle size distribution. Protective film residues (PEres) were cut to facilitate processing. A mixture of low‐density polyethylene and PEres (50/50) was used as the composite matrix, and 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% CF/PAEK composite particles were added as the reinforcing agents. Then, these recycled composites were prepared by melt mixing using a twin‐screw extruder and injection molding to obtain standardized samples. Mechanical, thermal, electrical, and electromagnetic properties were evaluated. It was possible to observe that the increase in the addition of CF/PAEK composite particles contributed to a 290% increase in elastic modulus values and a 9.1% increase in Shore D hardness, electrical conductivity, and attenuation of the electromagnetic wave. Furthermore, satisfactory adhesion between filler and matrix contributed to a good interface and reinforcement of the final material.

Highlights

Mechanical recycling by extrusion of waste from the automotive and aerospace sectors

Grinding of carbon fiber/poly(aryl ether ketone) composite waste to be used as filler

Protective film waste used as matrix

Composites developed with waste with good electrical and electromagnetic properties

The addition of thermoplastic composite residues does not affect thermal and mechanical properties
Thermal‐mechanical properties of bamboo charcoal/recycled low‐density polyethylene composites
Authors: Liew Fui Kiew , Tan Cindy Soo Yun , Liew Yit Lian , Chang Robin Yee Hui , Phang Tze Shing , Hamdan Sinin
Published: May 2024

Bamboo fiber has garnered considerable attention owing to its high specific strength and renewability. However, the hydrophilic nature of the material must be carefully managed to create a bamboo composite with usable thermal‐mechanical properties. Herein, the NaOH‐treated bamboo fiber (particle size ≤200 μm) was used to produce bamboo charcoal (BC). Then, recycled low‐density polyethylene containing BC composites was fabricated by varying the BC composition (between 2 and 8 wt%). Effects of different BC wt% in the BC/recycled low‐density polyethylene composites (denoted as xBCPE, where x indicates BC wt% in the composites) were analyzed for tensile strength, morphology, and thermal properties. In addition, the water absorption capacities of the BCPE composites were compared. These xBCPE composites showed excellent thermal stability and low water absorption properties. Therefore, they are potential candidate materials for electrical device packaging with partial degradability.

Highlights

Bamboo charcoal (BC) was prepared via low‐temperature pyrolysis of alkaline‐treated bamboo fiber.

BC displayed strong interfacial interaction with recycled low‐density polyethylene.

Proportion of BC on the composite properties was investigated and furnished.

The xBCPE composites demonstrate low water absorption and excellent thermal stability.

The reinforced composite (4BCPE) shows great promise as a functional material.
Learning Lyapunov terminal costs from data for complexity reduction in nonlinear model predictive control
Authors: Abdufattokhov Shokhjakhon , Zanon Mario , Bemporad Alberto
Published: May 2024

A classic way to design a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) scheme with guaranteed stability is to incorporate a terminal cost and a terminal constraint into the problem formulation. While a long prediction horizon is often desirable to obtain a large domain of attraction and good closed‐loop performance, the related computational burden can hinder its real‐time deployment. In this article, we propose an NMPC scheme with prediction horizon and no terminal constraint to drastically decrease the numerical complexity without significantly impacting closed‐loop stability and performance. This is attained by constructing a suitable terminal cost from data that estimates the cost‐to‐go of a given NMPC scheme with long prediction horizon. We demonstrate the advantages of the proposed control scheme in two benchmark control problems.
Six‐Month Outdoor Performance Study of Stable Perovskite Solar Cells Under Real Operating Conditions
Authors: Chakar Joseph , Oswald Frédéric , Dubois Anne Migan , Stéphan Emma , Narbey Stéphanie , Parra Johan , Puel Jean‐Baptiste , Bonnassieux Yvan
Published: May 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have sparked great excitement in the photovoltaics community due to their remarkable efficiency, flexibility, and ability to be synthesized at low cost. However, their instability poses a major roadblock to their widespread adoption. Recognizing this challenge, this work describes the performance of stable PSCs operating under real‐life conditions in the Paris area. Two state‐of‐the‐art 2D/3D (HOOC(CH2)4NH3)2PbI4/CH3NH3PbI3 encapsulated cells are considered—one with maximum power point tracking and hourly current–voltage curve measurements, and another connected to a fixed resistive load. Their performance is compared over six months, and a detailed analysis is conducted on the cells’ hysteresis and electrical response to varying weather conditions. Although the first cell starts to degrade after a few months of operation, the second one remains remarkably stable, highlighting critical issues with outdoor tracking. Given that the stability of this PSC architecture has already been established under controlled standard conditions for over one year, these exciting findings pave the way for the commercialization of perovskite‐based photovoltaic devices.
Seismic vulnerability analysis of a high‐rise steel frame structure equipped with novel displacement‐amplified viscoelastic dampers
Authors: Ye Mao , Yang Linyi , He Yinghou , Li Weihao
Published: May 2024

The energy dissipation capacity of conventional viscoelastic dampers (VEDs) cannot be fully exerted due to the relatively small inter‐story displacement of building structures. Thus, a novel VED with a displacement amplification mechanism based on the lever principle is developed in this study to achieve small displacement but high energy dissipation ability. First, the structural layout of an amplified viscoelastic damper (AVED) system is briefly introduced, and then the displacement amplification effect is described in detail. According to the working principle of the AVED and the relationship of force and geometric displacement in an actual frame structure, the restoring force theoretical formula of the corresponding amplified damper is derived. Based on the restoring force of the AVED and in combination with the secondary development function of the ABAQUS unit, a VUEL subroutine suitable for the explicit algorithm is programmed with the FORTRAN language. Then, the correctness of the subroutine is verified through a comparative analysis of the ABAQUS simulation and theoretically calculated results. Consequently, the vulnerability analysis of a high‐rise steel frame structure is conducted by using the incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) method, and the influence of the AVED on the seismic performance of the steel frame structure is quantitatively analyzed from the perspective of probability statistics. The analysis results show that compared with the VED structure, the failure probability of the AVED‐2 and AVED‐3 structures reaching the ultimate failure state at all levels is reduced by approximately 43% and 57%, respectively, and the collapse margin ratio (CMR) of structures under large earthquakes is increased by approximately 35% and 68%, respectively. This indicates that the AVED structures with displacement‐amplified dampers have a better effect on the seismic stability of tall steel frame structures under random seismic excitations. This study aims to provide comprehensive information for the seismic‐resistant design of tall buildings in earthquake‐prone regions.
Expanding Horizons: Fostering Creativity and Curiosity through Spherical Video‐Based Virtual Reality in Project‐Based Language Learning
Authors: Sun Joo Chung , Lee Jin Choi
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to explore how the creation of spherical video‐based virtual reality (SVVR) influences students' creativity and curiosity in project‐based language learning (PBLL). Technology is widely used in various instructional contexts, and due to increasing interest in VR technologies, the current study investigated how SVVR technology in PBLL might influence students' self‐assessment of creativity and curiosity. Twenty‐seven students participated in an SVVR‐enhanced PBL course and were asked to complete two questionnaires on creativity and curiosity. Data from students' reflective journals and teacher notes were also analyzed to investigate implementations for using SVVR in language learning. The findings showed that students' self‐assessment of their levels of creativity and curiosity demonstrated statistically significant development. The findings from qualitative data analysis identified English language competence as a factor that could have influenced students' performance during the course. The findings support the potential for SVVR in PBLL for motivating students to embrace new ideas and perspectives while participating in authentic problem‐solving activities.
English Desires at an English‐Medium Instruction University: The Journeys of First‐Year Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Jarvis Andrew
Published: May 2024

This study used the concept of desire in language learning to explore the first‐year English journeys of undergraduates at an English‐medium instruction (EMI) university in Hong Kong. Desire in language learning is an underexplored area in EMI research but a relevant concept for gaining a multilayered picture of the incentives and pressures of English. Using a collaborative research design, the study offers an account of 10 first‐year students with an IELTS band of approximately 5.5, lower than the institution's average. Thirty written reflections and 30 semi‐structured interviews formed the main data collection, gathered over the academic year. Thematic analysis showed that the learners desired more connection and confidence with English so that they could access academic and professional opportunities and identities. They desired a new English experience in which they could interact authentically and gain acceptance of their English skills. They encountered pressure and frustration with the EMI experience, ultimately making compromises in their imagined trajectories with English. Their strong desires for English, however, remained intact. The study shows the need for a well‐architected English experience for universities to fulfill the promises of EMI, especially for learners in the lower bands of English proficiency expected for EMI study.
PUM2 promoted osteoarthritis progression through PTEN‐mediated chondrocyte ferroptosis by facilitating NEDD4 mRNA degradation
Authors: Meng Yu , Chen Li , Chai Yuxia , Meng Weili , Yang Guohui , Ren Jia , Li Hongshuai , Qi Peiyi , Chen Juwu , Wang Nan
Published: May 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease with a lack of effective therapeutic. Chondrocyte ferroptosis contributes to the progression of OA. PUM2 is shown to exacerbate ischemia–reperfusion‐induced neuroinflammation by promoting ferroptosis, but its role in OA remains unexplored. Here, primary mouse chondrocytes were stimulated with IL‐1β to mimic OA chondrocyte injury in vitro. And PUM2 was upregulated in OA cartilage tissues and IL‐1β‐induced chondrocytes. Silencing PUM2 alleviated IL‐1β‐induced chondrocyte inflammation and ECM degradation. Mechanistically, PUM2 facilitated the degradation of NEDD4 mRNA by binding to the 3′UTR of NEDD4 mRNA, which in turn inhibited NEDD4 induced PTEN ubiquitination and degradation. Consistently, NEDD4 silencing reversed the ameliorative effect of PUM2 knockdown on chondrocyte injury, and overexpression of PTEN abolished the improved role of NEDD4 in chondrocyte injury. Moreover, PTEN aggravated IL‐1β‐induced ferroptosis in chondrocytes through the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway by increasing the levels of Fe2+, ROS, MDA, and ACSL4 protein, decreasing the activity of SOD and the levels of GSH and GPX4 protein, and aggravating mitochondrial damage. Additionally, destabilized medial meniscus (DMM) were conducted to establish the OA mouse model, and adenovirus‐mediated PUM2 shRNA was administered intra‐articularly. Silencing PUM2 attenuated OA‐induced cartilage damage in vivo. In conclusion, PUM2 promoted OA progression through PTEN‐mediated chondrocyte ferroptosis by facilitating NEDD4 mRNA degradation.
Criminal Law and Children’s Access to Barnahus Services
Authors: Andersson Malou , Kaldal Anna
Published: May 2024

The aim of Barnahus is to provide children who are victims of violence and abuse with support, protection, and access to justice. In the Swedish Barnahus model, the target group is defined by what constitutes a criminal act. In this chapter, we explore the significance of this definition in relation to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN-CRC), using Sweden as an example. We argue that the close link between the definition of the target group and criminal law may exclude children who have been subjected to violence and abuse from gaining access to Barnahus’s services, which might conflict with children’s rights according to the UN-CRC. We apply a children’s rights perspective in this study, based on the standpoint that Barnahus is an outflow of a child’s rights to protection from all forms of violence and abuse, according to the UN-CRC.
Institutional Barriers to Medical Examinations in Barnahus
Authors: Stefansen Kari , Bakketeig Elisiv , Johansson Susanna
Published: May 2024

Although ensuring that victimised children receive timely medical health assessments is among the key aims of Barnahus, this goal has proven difficult to achieve in Norway, the empirical case examined in this chapter. Few children are offered a medical examination, and most examinations that are performed primarily serve a role in the “penal track” of the Barnahus model. Based on data from two national evaluation studies, we identify three types of institutional barriers that hamper the role of medical examinations in the “welfare track” of the model: established routines, regulatory issues, and a lack of resources. The concept of institutional inertia is helpful in understanding the institutional resistance towards change that often characterises the present situation.
Enabling and Preserving Situational Social Work in Barnahus: A Vulnerable Jurisdiction Caught in the Crossfire Between Juridification and Psychologisation
Authors: Andersen Lotte C.
Published: May 2024

This chapter examines the situational social work practice of “interstitial work” that is observable within the Norwegian Barnahus model. Interstitial work provides children and families with interventions that are customised to their particular situations and needs. This chapter examines which structural conditions have enabled this practice to emerge, what factors could threaten the practice’s future existence, and how the practice may be sustained over time. Based on interview data with ten Barnahus staff members and a leader, this chapter notes that a high degree of professional autonomy through an absence of detailed regulation may be crucial in the formative years of situational practices. Once a situational practice is established, however, increased but not overly detailed regulation seems necessary for the practice’s preservation over time.
Included on Paper, Excluded in Practice: Or Vice Versa? Formal and Actual Target Groups of Barnahus Across Jurisdictions
Authors: Johansson Susanna , Stefansen Kari
Published: May 2024

The ongoing diffusion and European standardisation of the Barnahus model has involved a general expansion of the Barnahus target group, and variations in terms of inclusion and exclusion of different groups of children, such as those who have experienced domestic violence and those who have exhibited sexually harmful behaviour. Based on policy documents, reports, standards, and regulations from Sweden, Norway, and the European policy level, this chapter analyses how the positioning of children—as aggrieved parties, vulnerable individuals, and family members—is manifested in Barnahus regulations and case processing across jurisdictions, using Sweden and Norway as in-depth cases. The chapter shows how the positioning of children affects who is granted access to Barnahus (and to which services) during the different stages of case processing.