bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical atomic momentum spectroscopy of diatomic, triatomic and polyatomic molecules
Authors: Kanaya Satoru , Onitsuka Yuuki , Watanabe Noboru , Kono Hirohiko , Takahashi Masahiko
Published: December 2024

Development of a general theory of atomic momentum spectroscopy, which predicts Compton profiles due to motions of individual atoms in molecules.
Phosphate modulated nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide/carbon nitride heterogeneous photocatalysts with efficient O2 activation for ametryn degradation
Authors: Feng Xingyang , Zhao Changmei , Zhou Junjie , Shi Fangzhu , Yan Rui , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: December 2024

4P-5NT/CN nanocomposites with high O2 activation and charge separation properties were synthesized via wet chemistry and calcination for photocatalytic degradation of ametryn (AME).
Platinum(ii/iv) complexes with N-substituted carboxylate ethylenediamine/propylenediamine ligands: preparation, characterization and in vitro activity
Authors: Richter Stefan , Lönnecke Peter , Bovan Dijana , Andrian Nicoleta , Stoean Bianca , Lehene Maria , Silaghi-Dumitrescu Radu , Gaina Luiza , Mijatović Sanja , Maksimović-Ivanić Danijela , Kaluđerović Goran N. , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: December 2024

The synthesis and characterization of novel platinum(ii) and platinum(iv) complexes derived from unsymmetrical ethylene or propylenediamine derivatives are presented.
Synergistic impact of rice husk biomass derived carbon supports on the performance of biogenic Fe0-catalyzed advanced oxidation processes for oxytetracycline remediation
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Kaur Parminder , Rani Jyoti , Singh Janpreet , Kaushal Sandeep , Babu J. Nagendra , Mittal Sunil
Published: December 2024

This study investigates rice husk biomass and its derived carbon materials—hydrochar and biochar—as supports for biogenic zerovalent iron nanocomposites (ZVI@RH, ZVI@HC, and ZVI@BC) in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) to degrade oxytetracycline.
Fusion of polymer-coated liposomes and centrifugally spun microfibers as hybrid materials to enhance sustained release
Authors: Agiba Ahmed M. , Rodríguez Huerta Luis Gerardo , Ulloa-Castillo Nicolás A. , Sierra-Valdez Francisco J. , Beigi-Boroujeni Saeed , Lozano Omar , Aguirre-Soto Alan
Published: December 2024

We present the fabrication of hybrid materials for the sustained release of molecular cargo through the fusion of polymer-coated liposomes and PCL microfibers. This enables molecular release for over 120 hours instead of the previous burst dose.
An overview of the use of non-titanium MXenes for photothermal therapy and their combinatorial approaches for cancer treatment
Authors: Rahim Fathima Abdul , Niyas K. , Vivek Raju , Pathan Soyeb , Rasheed P. Abdul
Published: December 2024

This comprehensive review provides a concise overview of the current research patterns, properties, and biomedical applications of non-Ti MXenes, particularly in photothermal therapy and its combinatorial approaches.
Development of redox-active polycaprolactone and its electrochemical redox behavior in aqueous media
Authors: Lim Taeho , Hong Seeun , Kim Soeun , Kim Soobin , Chung Kyeongsu , Park Hyemin , Jeong Youngdo , Jeon Ju-Won , Chang Jinho , Cho Sangho
Published: December 2024

Redox-active polymers have garnered significant attention for their potential in organic radical batteries (ORB) due to their unique redox capabilities.
Unlocking the power of multi‐modal fusion in 3D object tracking
Authors: Hu Yue
Published: December 2024

3D Single Object Tracking plays a vital role in autonomous driving and robotics, yet traditional approaches have predominantly focused on using pure LiDAR‐based point cloud data, often neglecting the benefits of integrating image modalities. To address this gap, we propose a novel Multi‐modal Image‐LiDAR Tracker (MILT) designed to overcome the limitations of single‐modality methods by effectively combining RGB and point cloud data. Our key contribution is a dual‐branch architecture that separately extracts geometric features from LiDAR and texture features from images. These features are then fused in a BEV perspective to achieve a comprehensive representation of the tracked object. A significant innovation in our approach is the Image‐to‐LiDAR Adapter module, which transfers the rich feature representation capabilities of the image modality to the 3D tracking task, and the BEV‐Fusion module, which facilitates the interactive fusion of geometry and texture features. By validating MILT on public datasets, we demonstrate substantial performance improvements over traditional methods, effectively showcasing the advantages of our multi‐modal fusion strategy. This work advances the state‐of‐the‐art in SOT by integrating complementary information from RGB and LiDAR modalities, resulting in enhanced tracking accuracy and robustness.
Reduced component cascaded switched capacitor multilevel inverter for renewable energy applications
Authors: Seifi Ali , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Hagh Mehrdad Tarafdar , Hosseinpour Majid
Published: December 2024

Multi‐level inverters (MLIs) have a wide range of applications that try to minimize power electronics such as switches, diodes, and DC sources. Switched‐capacitor inverters are offered with reduced sources that reduce the number of sources and switches. This paper presents a switched capacitor‐based MLI with fewer components for grid‐connected applications. The basic topology can inherently charge and stabilize the capacitor voltage without additional circuits, sensors, or initial charges. This topology is generalized as a cascaded structure and produces higher voltage levels. The proposed cascaded topology is improved regarding the number of switches and components and the voltage stress on switches. This topology is compared with several similar topologies to evaluate the advantage of the proposed topology. For this purpose, a comprehensive comparison is performed by defining the cost function. The proposed topology under dynamic operating conditions is examined and validated. The phase‐shifted pulse width modulation is used to perform the switching of the proposed topology. Grid‐connected results for the proposed basic topology are also presented. The simulation results in MATLAB software and the laboratory results from a prototype made in the laboratory demonstrate the correctness and capability of the proposed converter.
Experimental verification of coverage control of multi‐agent systems with obstacle avoidance
Authors: Siri Fidelia Chaitra , Song Jie , Svinin Mikhail
Published: December 2024

Multi‐agent systems are a significant and popular area of study in robotics, focusing on efficient and safe coordination among multiple agents. This paper presents algorithms for safe coverage control in multi‐agent systems, addressing key challenges such as coverage control and obstacle avoidance. The coverage control problem is tackled using centroidal Voronoi tessellation with a time‐varying density function, which optimally distributes agents based on the spatial density of the area of interest. To ensure collision‐free manoeuvres, a control barrier function based controller is developed for obstacle avoidance. The proposed controller's effectiveness is validated through a custom Python simulator and experimental tests conducted in the robot operating system–Gazebo environment. The results demonstrate the efficacy of the centroidal Voronoi tessellation and control barrier function approaches in achieving both optimal agent distribution and robust obstacle avoidance.
Venous Sinus Stenting for Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Setting of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension—An Institutional Series and Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Lim Jaims , Jaikumar Vinay , Okai Bernard K. , Malueg Megan D. , Khan Hamid Sharif , Liu Collin , Fritz Alexander , Ghannam Moleca , Levy Elad I. , Siddiqui Adnan H. , Vakharia Kunal
Published: December 2024

Introduction Chronic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) can erode the skull base and cause CSF leaks, necessitating surgical repair or other interventions. Venous sinus stenting (VSS) may restore normal CSF reabsorption and flow, reducing elevated pressures and warranting further investigation as a treatment for IIH-related CSF leaks.

Methods We retrospectively reviewed charts of IIH patients who underwent VSS for CSF leak repair, analyzing clinical presentation, imaging, treatment, and follow-up. A systematic review of PubMed and Embase was conducted, with continuous variables reported as medians and interquartile ranges (IQRs).

Results We included two institutional cases and seven cases from the systematic review. Median age was 51 years (35–53), with eight female and six obese patients. Among six patients with prior confirmed IIH, four of five treated with acetazolamide were refractory. All presented with CSF rhinorrhea, six had a history of leaks, and four were recurrences. Seven had bony dehiscence. All had bilateral venous stenosis with a pressure gradient of 6 mmHg (3–8.25) and underwent unilateral VSS, with one patient also undergoing angioplasty. Over a 12-month follow-up (11–27), leaks resolved in all patients but one within 3 months (0.875–3). Four had recurrences by 7.15 months (4.8–9); one resolved spontaneously, another after angioplasty, and two required ventriculoperitoneal shunting. One patient underwent additional dural grafting for new sphenoid dehiscence, achieving resolution.

Conclusion VSS can be an effective initial treatment for IIH-related CSF leaks; but if VSS does not adequately address underlying intracranial pressures, additional medical and surgical interventions are warranted to prevent recurrent leaks.
Spectroscopic determination of the orientation of the antiferromagnetism vector of MnF2 in the spin-flop phase
Authors: Eremenko V. V. , Kaner N. É. , Litvinenko Yu. G. , Mil’ner A. A. , Shapiro V. V.
Published: December 2024

Using optical spectroscopy we have determined the orientation of the antiferromagnetism vector 1 in the basal plane of antiferromagnetic MnF2 in the spin-flop phase with H oriented exactly along C4. This direction is a C2 axis. The magnitude of the anisotropy field is found to be HA′ ≃6.5·10−3 T, and the sign of the fourth order anisotropy parameter in the basal plane is also determined.
Experimental investigation of the temperature dependence of the density of the normal component of helium II in narrow pores
Authors: Gamtsemlidze G. A. , Mirzoeva M. I.
Published: December 2024

The total density of helium II in narrow pores has been found to remain constant to within 0.5% between 1.4 K and Tλ. This allows the temperature dependence of the normal-component density to be calculated from the temperature dependence of the superfluid component, which was established in Ref. 4.
Dynamic analog of the proximity effect in superconductors
Authors: Seminozhenko V. P. , Shafranyuk S. E.
Published: December 2024

It is shown that a high frequency field applied to a symmetric tunnel junction may lead to an enhancement of the critical parameters for superconducting films. This phenomenon is caused basically not by nonequilibrium effects but rather by the direct influence of the oscillating field on the virtual tunneling processes (dynamic enhancement of the superconductivity).
Energy spectrum of the Fe2+ ion in fluorosilicate
Authors: Zavadskii É. A. , Todris B. M. , Zavorotnev Yu. D. , Asadov S. K.
Published: December 2024

We propose a means for determining the energy spectrum of the Fe2+ ion in fluorosilicate based on the measurement of the magnetic characteristics over a wide range of magnetic fields at low temperatures.
The effect on T
c of niobium from defects induced by low-temperature strain
Authors: Aksenov V. K. , Gindin I. A. , Sokolenko V. I. , Starodubov Ya. D.
Published: December 2024

On the basis of experiments to separate the contributions of various strain-induced defects to an increase in the Tc of niobium the authors conclude that the increase is due to the localization of the plastic strain and the formation of the most metastable defects, interstitial atoms, that cause softening of the phonon spectrum.
Study of quantum decays of metastable current states in rf SQUIDs
Authors: Dmitrenko I. M. , Khlus V. A. , Tsoĭ G. M. , Shnyrkov V. I.
Published: December 2024

The mechanisms of the decay of metastable current states in the superconducting loop of an rf SQUID in the hysteresis state are studied. Clamped point contacts are used as the Josephson weak link. The first derivative of the radio-frequency IVC dVT/dIRF, which gives the dependence of the decay probability density on the amplitude of the oscillations of the magnetic flux in the ring, was measured experimentally. Studies of the temperature dependence of the width of the probability distribution in the interval from 4.2 to 0.5 K show that for most high-resistance Nb–Nb, Nb–Ag–Nb contacts the quantum mechanisms of decay become dominant at a temperature of the order of 2 K. The experimentally measured parameters of the decay probability distribution in the quantum limit are compared with the theoretical values calculated based on the theory of macroscopic quantum tunneling in the limit of strong and weak dissipation. The experimental magnitude of the width of the probability density as well as the characteristic quantum temperature exceed the theoretical values, which can be explained by the deviation of the current-phase dependence of the contact from a sinusoidal dependence. In addition, some contacts apparently correspond to the case of an intermediate magnitude of dissipation. When the frequency of the rf oscillations changed from 30 to 6 MHz, the width of the distribution remained unchanged, which follows from the theory of quantum tunneling decay of the metastable current state in the loop in the limit of strong damping. At low temperatures (T ∼ 50 K) and for a sufficiently small damping coefficient, anomalous peaks were observed in the probability density with an amplitude of the rf oscillations significantly smaller than the critical magnitude of the magnetic flux in the loop.
Spectrum of hydrodynamic fluctuations of hole–electron imbalance and thermomagnetic phenomena in pure superconductors
Authors: Valeev V. G. , Kukharenko Yu. A.
Published: December 2024

On the basis of the kinetic equation for the one-electron density matrix with the collision integral, conserving the number of particles, we formulate a consistent hydrodynamic scheme for the description of pure superconductors (vi ≪ Tc, where vi is the frequency of elastic collisions). Within the framework of this treatment we investigate the space-time behavior and find the spectrum of hydrodynamic fluctuations of the difference of the populations of the branches of the excitation spectrum; we also calculate the Josephson radiation line width. The chemical potential shift that occurs in the current state of a superconductor under the action of a temperature gradient for 2pFυs < Δ is studied. The thermomagnetic effect in superconductors is considered and the kinetic Leduc–Righi coefficient is found in the clean limit.
Possible physical mechanisms of stochastic oscillations in rf SQUID’s
Authors: Dmitrenko I. M. , Konotop D. A. , Tsoi G. M. , Shnyrkov V. I.
Published: December 2024

The processes of giant noise generation in rf SQUID’s are studied experimentally. It is shown that the appearance of stochastic oscillations is due to different retardation mechanisms in a dynamic system, depending on the characteristics of the Josephson junctions and the external excitation. The retardation times in the SQUID’s studied were determined by the recharging of the Josephson-junction capacitance (τRC), by quasiparticle relaxation processes (τε), and by the relaxation time of thermal processes in the junction (τT).
Weakly damped Reuter–Sondheimer waves in anisotropic conductors
Authors: Peschanskiĭ V. G. , Dassanaeka M. , Tsybulina E. V.
Published: December 2024

It is shown that under the conditions of the anomalous skin effect in metals with an anisotropic Fermi surface, aside from the weakly damped waves predicted by Reuter and Sondheimer, weakly damped waves associated with the singularities of the Jacobian of the transformation from momentum space to the velocity space of the charge carriers also appear. The role of Fermi-liquid effects in the damping of these waves is analyzed.
Comparative study of interpretable and black-box machine learning for modeling mechanical and tribological properties of 3D-printed PLA/date pits composites
Authors: Asker Ahmed , Fouly Ahmed , Atia Mohamed G. B. , Abdo Hany S. , Salah Omar
Published: December 2024

3D-printed polymers have been applied in various fields. Machine learning (ML) has revolutionized material science by providing powerful tools for modeling complex properties. This study investigates the comparative performance of interpretable and black-box ML techniques in modeling the mechanical and tribological properties of 3D-printed PLA composites blended with varying amounts of date pit particles. While neural networks (NNs) can model complex input–output relationships with high accuracy, they function as black-box models, limiting the understanding of their predictions. To address this limitation, we propose Sequential-thresholded Least-squares Sparse Regression (SLSSR), an interpretable modeling approach. SLSSR constructs models using no more than five basis functions and achieves a mean absolute error of less than 2%, ensuring both accuracy and model transparency. Moreover, SLSSR outperforms NN, delivering better accuracy and a reduced standard deviation in predictions, particularly with smaller training datasets. These results demonstrate SLSSR’s effectiveness and potential as a reliable tool for material science applications, especially in data-limited scenarios.
A deep learning-based method of acoustic holographic lens generation for transcranial focused ultrasound
Authors: Bu Mengxu , Gu Wenting , Li Boyi , Zhu Qiuchen , Jiang Xue , Ta Dean , Liu Xin
Published: December 2024

Acoustic holographic lenses provide the potential for transcranial focusing because they enable one to accurately and economically overcome distortion caused by the skull on ultrasonic waves. However, challenges remain in the design of acoustic holographic lenses for transcranial focusing. The time inversion method, which is the standard method for generating acoustic holographic lenses for transcranial focusing, is laborious. To overcome this limitation, we propose a U-Net-based transcranial focusing method that can effectively produce acoustic holographic lenses. The simulation results demonstrate that compared to traditional time-reversal methods, the proposed U-net-based approach can produce acoustic holographic lenses for transcranial focusing hundreds of times faster with comparable reconstruction quality. The experimental results show that the performance of the acoustic holograms produced by this methodology is comparable to that of the holograms produced by the traditional time-reversal method. However, the holograms are generated at a pace that is faster by a factor of more than 4000. The results demonstrate that the technique can quickly and accurately produce acoustic holographic lenses for transcranial focusing, opening the door to potential real-time transcranial focusing applications based on these lenses.
Green 3D printing: Portable, wearable, and antibacterial photosynthetic material for the crowded world
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Wu Ranhao , Wang Jun , Huang Juan
Published: December 2024

A specialized green 3D printing protocol for moss was developed by integrating aerogel and hydrogel with a mild in situ hydrothermal nano-modification process. The method combines the lightweight and insulating properties of aerogel with the moisturizing and biocompatible characteristics of hydrogel, resulting in a robust and efficient platform for moss growth. These products offer significant space-saving advantages and are designed to be both durable and convenient. By enhancing photosynthesis, they contribute to improving air quality and promoting environmental health in various crowded spaces, making them a practical solution for urban environments and other high-density areas.
Waterbird assemblages of Australia’s largest east-coast wetland complex: environmental determinants of spatial and temporal distribution
Authors: Pearson Richard G. , Zunker-Mellick Belinda , Nolen Jacqui A.
Published: December 2024

Context The extensive Burdekin–Townsville seasonal freshwater wetlands in the Queensland tropics (adjacent to an intertidal Ramsar site) support important waterbird assemblages within and downstream of the Burdekin–Haughton irrigation area. Little evidence is available of the environmental drivers of these assemblages, possibly including the extensive development of irrigated agriculture. Aims We described the composition and dynamics of freshwater waterbird assemblages to identify their environmental determinants and underpin conservation management. Methods We used up to four decades’ worth of records of waterbird assemblages, and collected biophysical data from 57 sites and water quality data for 32 sites. We predicted that these measured variables would determine assemblage composition, thereby elucidating the environmental drivers of the assemblages. Key results In total, 100 waterbird and shorebird species were recorded. Individual samples were strongly nested. Species richness increased with area but density decreased. Richness had a humped relationship with water depth. Linear modelling identified mostly weak relationships between species, assemblages and environmental variables (e.g. nutrients). Abundances mostly increased during the dry season but irrigation tailwater reduced seasonal variation in some wetlands. No apparent change in common species’ assemblages was evident over four decades. Conclusions The wetlands provide extensive, diverse habitats for rich waterbird assemblages, despite impacts of agricultural development. Impacts on waterbirds appear to be buffered by the extent and complexity of the wetland mosaic that includes modified wetlands. Implications Holistic, active management is required to ensure the long-term conservation of habitats for waterbirds and other biota in the Burdekin–Townsville seasonal freshwater wetlands. Inclusion of these freshwater wetlands in the Ramsar site would be beneficial.
Synthesis and characterization of alkali metal salts bearing a phenalenyl-based tridentate ligand
Authors: Kodama Takuya , Noguchi Hikaru , Tsurugi Hayato , Tobisu Mamoru
Published: December 2024

A series of alkali metal salts bearing a phenalenyl-based N,N,N-tridentate ligand was systematically characterized by spectroscopic and computational methods. The electronic absorption spectra of alkali metal salts exhibited bathochromic shift compared to that of the corresponding free ligand. TD-DFT calculations suggest that alkali metal salts possess narrower HOMO-LUMO gaps than the free ligand. In addition, the natural charges for the alkaline metal cations are increased from lithium to heavier alkali metals, resulting in an increase in the negative charge within the phenalenyl ligand, leading to a destabilizing of the energies of occupied molecular orbitals involved in the bathochromic shift.
Chest pain after elective percutaneous coronary intervention as trigger of takotsubo syndrome—a case report
Authors: Castiglione Vincenzo , Arzilli Chiara , Ciardetti Marco , Emdin Michele , Coceani Michele
Published: December 2024

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction, often triggered by emotional or physical stress. It usually presents with clinical features similar to acute coronary syndrome, making its occurrence following elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) challenging to diagnose and treat.

Case summary

A 67-year-old man with ischaemic heart disease and recurrent angina underwent elective PCI of the right coronary artery. The procedure, although technically challenging, was completed without immediate complications. However, shortly after the intervention, the patient experienced acute chest pain, initially thought to be due to subocclusion of a postero-lateral branch, which was treated with balloon angioplasty. Despite this intervention, the patient developed severe ventricular arrhythmias and exhibited dynamic electrocardiographic changes and echocardiographic features consistent with TTS. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging confirmed the diagnosis, revealing classic apical ballooning and left ventricular dysfunction. With comprehensive medical management and haemodynamic support, the patient gradually recovered. He was discharged after stabilization, with follow-up showing complete resolution of the left ventricular dysfunction.

Discussion

This case highlights the importance of recognizing TTS as a potential complication following PCI, particularly in patients with a heightened stress response. It emphasizes the need for increased awareness and the use of advanced diagnostic tools, such as CMR imaging, to accurately identify TTS. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving outcomes, especially in complex PCI cases where TTS can mimic more common coronary complications.
Wait and trust: conservative management of bradyarrhythmias due to dengue infection: a case report
Authors: Cortez Maicol , López Bryam , Angulo Bryan , Palomino Milagros , Mancha Carlos
Published: December 2024

Background

This case report highlights the conduction disorder anomalies associated with dengue infection, particularly bradyarrhythmias due to dysfunction of the sinus node and atrioventricular node, which may require cardiac stimulation such as pacemaker implantation. This case emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and the use of additional diagnostic techniques to detect complications in a timely manner.

Case summary

A 31-year-old male patient was admitted to our institution with symptoms of dyspnoea, orthopnoea, and severe bradycardia. During hospital admission, atrial fibrillation with a low ventricular response was evident. A 24-h Holter examination revealed additional electrical conduction abnormalities, including first-, second-, and third-degree atrioventricular block, 3.8 s pauses, and migrating atrial rhythm. Since the patient remained asymptomatic and did not present circulatory compromise, conservative management was chosen, with gradual recovery observed during the 30-day follow-up.

Discussion

Dengue can significantly affect the cardiovascular system, presenting a variety of abnormalities in cardiac conduction. This case highlights electrical abnormalities and the importance of proper evaluation and management. It was decided to avoid temporary or permanent pacemaker implantation. This case underscores the need for continuous monitoring and the use of alternative diagnostic tools demonstrating that arrhythmias in this context can be successfully managed conservatively.
Bacterial Growth Temperature as a Horizontally Acquired Polygenic Trait
Authors: Farrell Anne A , Nesbø Camilla L , Zhaxybayeva Olga
Published: December 2024

Evolutionary events leading to organismal preference for a specific growth temperature, as well as genes whose products are needed for a proper function at that temperature, are poorly understood. Using 64 bacteria from phylum Thermotogota as a model system, we examined how optimal growth temperature changed throughout Thermotogota history. We inferred that Thermotogota's last common ancestor was a thermophile and that some Thermotogota evolved the mesophilic and hyperthermophilic lifestyles secondarily. By modeling gain and loss of genes throughout Thermotogota history and by reconstructing their phylogenies, we demonstrated that adaptations to lower and higher growth temperature involve both the acquisition of necessary genes and loss of unnecessary genes. Via a pangenome-wide association study, we correlated presence/absence of 68 genes with specific optimal growth temperature intervals. While some of these genes are poorly characterized, most are involved in metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, carbohydrates, and lipids, as well as in signal transduction and regulation of transcription. Most of the 68 genes have a history of horizontal gene transfer with other bacteria and archaea that often grow at similar temperatures, suggesting that parallel acquisitions of genes likely promote independent adaptations of different Thermotogota species to specific growth temperatures.
Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome caused by a cervical rib: a combined thoracoscopic and supraclavicular approach for ‘en bloc’-resection
Authors: Lutz Jon Andri , Psathas Emmanouil , Rouiller Benoît , Azenha Luis Filipe
Published: December 2024

A cervical rib is the cause of ∼5% of thoracic outlet syndromes (TOS). We report the case of a patient with arterial TOS due to the presence of a cervical rib, managed by combined thoracoscopic and supraclavicular approach. An 18-year-old female patient presented with symptoms of arterial TOS. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography angiography scans showed a tortuous subclavian artery due to a fused cervical and 1st rib. Three-port thoracoscopy was performed, which allowed to mobilize the ventral part of the 1st rib. Supraclavicular access allowed mobilization as well as central division of the ribs. After removal of the ribs, the subclavian artery presented a normal calibre and aspect. In recent years, there has been a trend towards minimally invasive approach to TOS, either by thoracoscopy or by robotic-assisted surgery. The advantages of this approach are the ‘enbloc’-resection of both ribs and the possibility to evaluate the subclavian artery during the same procedure and perform repair if necessary.
The BnamiR827–BnaA09.NLA1–BnaPHT1 module regulates phosphate homeostasis, pollen viability, and seed yield in Brassica napus
Authors: Wu Tao , Han Bei , Wang Yajie , Zhang Bingbing , Wang Chuang , Wang Sheliang , Cai Hongmei , Liu Zhu , Hammond John P , Kant Surya , Ding Guangda , Xu Fangsen , Shi Lei
Published: December 2024

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for the growth and yield of crops. However, there is limited understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of phosphate (Pi) homeostasis, and its impact on growth, development, and yield-related traits in Brassica napus. Here, we identified four NITROGEN LIMITATION ADAPTATION1 (BnaNLA1) genes in B. napus; their expression was predominant in roots and suppressed by Pi starvation-induced BnamiR827. All the BnaNLA1 proteins have similar sequences, subcellular localizations, and abilities to rescue the growth defects of the atnla1 mutant. One of the genes, BnaA09.NLA1, is expressed abundantly in roots, and also in old leaves, anthers, and pollen. Knocking out BnaNLA1 genes or overexpressing BnamiR827 resulted in increased concentrations of Pi in leaves and stamens and reduced pollen viability, thereby negatively impacting seed yield. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and split-ubiquitin yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) analyses demonstrated that BnaA09.NLA1 interacted with seven Pi transporters highly expressed in roots and/or anthers (i.e. BnaPT8/10/11/27/35/37/42) to regulate Pi uptake and Pi allocation in anthers. Taken together, this study demonstrates that the BnamiR827–BnaA09.NLA1–BnaPHT1 module is involved in the regulation of Pi uptake and Pi allocation in floral organs, which is vital for the growth, pollen viability, and seed yield of B. napus.
Receptor kinase LecRK-I.9 regulates cell wall remodelling during lateral root formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bellande Kevin , Roujol David , Chourré Josiane , Le Gall Sophie , Martinez Yves , Jauneau Alain , Arico Denise , Mithöfer Axel , Burlat Vincent , Jamet Elisabeth , Canut Hervé
Published: December 2024

Assembling and remodelling the cell wall is essential for plant development. Cell wall dynamics are controlled by cell wall proteins, polysaccharide biosynthesis, and a variety of sensor and receptor systems. LecRK-I.9, an Arabidopsis thaliana plasma membrane-localized lectin receptor kinase, was previously shown to be involved in cell wall–plasma membrane contacts and to play roles in plant–pathogen interactions, but until now its role in development was not known. LecRK-I.9 is transcribed at a high level in root tissues including the pericycle. Comparative transcript profiling of a loss-of-function mutant versus the wild type identified LecRK-I.9 as a regulator of cell wall metabolism. Consistently, lecrk-I.9 mutants displayed an increased pectin methylesterification level correlated with decreased pectin methylesterase and increased polygalacturonase activities. Also, LecRK-I.9 negatively impacted lateral root development through the direct or indirect regulation of genes encoding (i) cell wall remodelling proteins during early events of lateral root initiation, and (ii) cell wall signalling peptides (CLE2 and CLE4) repressing lateral root emergence and growth. Furthermore, low nitrate reduced LecRK-I.9 expression in roots, particularly in the lateral root emergence zone: even in these conditions, the control of CLE2 and CLE4 expression is maintained. Altogether, the results show that LecRK-I.9 is a key player in negatively regulating both pre-branch site formation and lateral root emergence.
Harnessing deliberative regulation to address inequities in accessing healthcare services in England
Authors: Germain Sabrina , Veronesi Gianluca
Published: December 2024

System-level decisions around the commissioning and provision of healthcare services in England have contributed to barriers in accessing the National Health Service. In this article, we ask how to better regulate resource allocation to ensure greater equity in access to healthcare services. First, we focus on the Health and Care Act 2022, which, drawing on principles of deliberative regulation to address health inequalities, initiates a shift away from previous regulatory approaches towards a collaborative decision-making model. We then shed light on the systemic factors creating and maintaining access barriers by considering shortcomings in previous regulatory approaches. With these in mind, we consider whether deliberative regulation—providing communities with resources to create normative solutions to intrinsic issues—could help address these systemic challenges. To assess the potential of laws or policies to achieve greater equity in healthcare, we also introduce an evaluative framework based on deliberative principles. We apply this framework to a case study of an Integrated Care System to gauge the extent to which the Health and Care Act 2022 has indeed been effectively adopting a deliberative approach by intentionally engaging marginalized communities in decision-making and devising accountability mechanisms for the allocation of healthcare resources.
Tunable piezoelectric PLLA nanofiber membranes for enhanced mandibular repair with optimal self-powering stimulation
Authors: Chen Shuo , Wang Xinqing , Zhang Dong , Huang Zhenhua , Xie Yina , Chen Fangping , Liu Changsheng
Published: December 2024

Poly (l-lactic acid) (PLLA) is a biocompatible, biodegradable material with piezoelectric properties, making it a promising candidate for providing self-powered stimulation to accelerate tissue repair. Repairs to various tissues, such as bone, cartilage and nerve, necessitate distinct piezoelectric characteristics even from the same material. However, the extensive utilization of PLLA piezoelectric scaffolds in various tissue is hindered by their low and single piezoelectric constants. In this study, PLLA nanofiber membranes with enhanced and adjustable piezoelectric constants (d33) were fabricated through oriented electrospinning. By carefully controlling the parameters of the spinning solution, a steady increase in d33 values from 0 to 30 pC/N was achieved. This advancement allows tailoring of PLLA nanofiber membranes to meet various piezoelectric requirements of different tissues. As an example of tailoring the optimal piezoelectric constants, we developed PLLA-2-0, PLLA-2-10, PLLA-2-15 and PLLA-2-20 nanofiber membranes with d33 values of 0, 5, 10 and 15 pC/N, respectively. The impact of varying piezoelectric constants of PLLA nanofiber membranes on cellular behavior and repair efficacy were validated through in vitro cellular experiments and in vivo mandibular critical defect repair. The results indicated that PLLA-2-20 demonstrated superior cell proliferation rate up to 130% and an osteogenic differentiation level approximately twice of the control. In addition, PLLA-2-20 significantly promoted cell adhesion and migration, and the cell aspect ratio was about five times higher than that of the control group. In vivo, PLLA-2-20 optimal restorative effects on rat mandibles via endogenous mechanical force-mediated piezoelectric stimulation, leading to complete histological restoration within 8 weeks. These findings highlight the potential of the PLLA membranes with high and adjustable d33 by a straightforward process. This study provides a novel approach for the development of highly electroactive membranes tailored to specific tissue repair needs.
Early Life Stress, DNA Methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, and Oral Feeding Skill Development in Preterm Infants
Authors: Griffith Thao , Tell Dina , Green Stefan J. , Ford Ashley , Bohan Adam , Grunwaldt Jennifer , Amin Sachin , White-Traut Rosemary , Janusek Linda
Published: December 2024

Background:

Early life stress exposure in preterm infants may alter DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, disrupting neurobehaviors needed for oral feeding (PO) skill development.

Purpose:

To (1) examine the feasibility of the study protocol; (2) describe early life stress, DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, and PO skill development; and (3) explore the association between DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2 and infant characteristics, early life stress, and PO skill development.

Method:

We employed a longitudinal descriptive pilot study (N = 10). Infant characteristics were collected from the infant’s electronic medical record. Early life stress was assessed via the modified Neonatal Infant Stressor Scale. DNA methylation of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 promoter regions was analyzed from the infant’s buccal samples. PO skill development was evaluated using the Early Feeding Skills Assessment.

Results:

Infants who experienced more acute and chronic stress during their neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization demonstrated higher DNA methylation at CpG 17 and 31 of the NR3C1 exon 1F and at CpG 4 and 28 of the HSD11B2 promoter regions. Infants with higher DNA methylation at these CpG sites also exhibited less optimal PO skill development and experienced longer transition from first to full PO.

Implications for Practice and Research:

Our findings revealed relationships among early life stress, DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, and PO skill development in preterm infants. Future research is warranted to examine the multiomics pathways whereby early life stress influences the phenotypes of infant outcomes.
Resuscitation in Paediatric Septic Shock Using Vitamin C and Hydrocortisone (RESPOND): The RESPOND Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol
Authors: Raman Sainath , Gibbons Kristen S. , Jayashree Muralidharan , Lalitha AV , Bellomo Rinaldo , Blythe Robin , Buckley David , Butt Warwick , Cho Hwa Jin , Cree Michele , de Souza Daniela C. , Erickson Simon , Festa Marino , Ganu Subodh , George Shane , James Ebor Jacob , Johnson Kerry , Le Marsney Renate , Lister Paula , Pham Trang M. T. , Singh Puneet , Venkatesh Balasubramanian , Wall Renee , Long Debbie A. , Schlapbach Luregn J. ,   on behalf of the Resuscitation in Paediatric Septic Shock using Vitamin C and Hydrocortisone (RESPOND) Study Group and the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Paediatric Study Group (ANZICS PSG)
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

Pediatric sepsis results in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is an urgent need to investigate adjunctive therapies that can be administered early. We hypothesize that using vitamin C combined with hydrocortisone increases survival free of inotropes/vasopressors support until day 7 compared with standard care. Here we describe the Resuscitation in Paediatric Septic Shock using Vitamin C and Hydrocortisone (RESPOND) trial protocol, which aims to address this hypothesis.

Design:

Randomized, open label, controlled, parallel-group, three-arm trial with integrated economic evaluation.

Setting:

Nine Australia and New Zealand PICUs, with interest from additional international sites.

Patients:

Children between 7 days and younger than 18 years old who are treated for suspected or confirmed sepsis and receiving inotropes/vasopressors for greater than 1 hour.

Interventions:

IV vitamin C (100 mg/kg [maximum 5 g] every 6 hr) and hydrocortisone (1 mg/kg [maximum 50 mg] every 6 hr), or IV hydrocortisone alone (1 mg/kg [maximum 50 mg] every 6 hr) or standard care.

Measurements and Main Results:

Three hundred eighty-four children will be randomly assigned to receive the interventions, or standard care in a 1:1:1 ratio with stratification by steroid administration pre-randomization and hospital site. The primary outcome is time alive and free of inotropes/vasopressors, censored at 7 days. Secondary outcomes include 28-day mortality, survival free of organ support, PICU length of stay, quality of life, functional status and neurodevelopmental vulnerability at 6 months post-enrollment, and hospitalization-related costs. Statistical analysis will be based on an intention-to-treat principle. The study has ethical approval (HREC/20/QCHQ/69922, dated December 21, 2020), is registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621000247875), commenced recruitment on December 8, 2021, and is expected to finish recruitment by mid-2026.

Conclusions:

Dissemination of the results will occur through publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at international conferences, and additional consumer-informed pathways.
Hemostatic Outcome Definitions in Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Challenges in Cohorts From Rotterdam (2019–2023) and Melbourne (2016–2022)
Authors: Drop Joppe , Van Den Helm Suelyn , Letunica Natasha , Wildschut Enno , de Hoog Matthijs , de Boode Willem , Barton Rebecca , Yaw Hui Ping , Newall Fiona , Horton Stephen , Chiletti Roberto , Johansen Amy , Best Derek , McKittrick Joanne , Butt Warwick , d’Udekem Yves , MacLaren Graeme , Ignjatovic Vera , Attard Chantal , van Ommen C. Heleen , Monagle Paul
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

To determine if a priori standardization of outcome hemostatic definitions alone was adequate to enable useful comparison between two cohorts of pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients, managed according to local practice and protocol.

Design:

Comparison of two separate prospective cohort studies performed at different centers with standardized outcome definitions agreed upon a priori.

Setting:

General and cardiac PICUs at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne, Australia, and the Sophia Children’s Hospital (SCH) in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Patients:

Children (0–18 yr old) undergoing ECMO.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Although outcome definitions were standardized a priori, the interpretation of surgical interventions varied. The SCH study included 47 ECMO runs (September 2019 to April 2023), and the RCH study included 97 ECMO runs (September 2016 to Jan 2022). Significant differences in patient populations were noted. RCH patients biased toward frequent cardiac ECMO indications, central cannulation, and cardiopulmonary bypass before ECMO. The frequency of outcome ascertainment was not standardized.

Conclusions:

This international comparison shows that standardizing hemostatic outcome definitions alone is insufficient for sensible comparison. Uniform interpretation of definitions, consistent frequency of outcome ascertainment, and stratification based on patient populations and ECMO practices are required. Our results highlight the granularity of detail needed for cross-center comparison of hemostatic outcomes in pediatric ECMO. Further work is needed as we move toward potential multicenter trials of pediatric ECMO.
Enhancing Clinical Trial Efficiency: The Impact of a Dual Digital Alert System on Quantitative Imaging Report Turnaround Time
Authors: Bhalde Rucha , Taslicay Ceylan Altintas , Virarkar Mayur , Sun Jia , Burke Sean Michael , Nayak Anish , Rao Sujaya , Mayuresh Sadhale , Morani Ajaykumar , Bhosale Priya
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a dual digital alert system and automatic radiologist reassignment in improving the efficiency of quantitative imaging report delivery for clinical trials.

Materials and Methods

Assessing tumor metrics is critical to oncologic disease management, informed treatment planning, and for monitoring therapeutic response and even more so in cancer clinical research trials. A collaborative effort with the Institutional Research Information Systems division led to developing a web-based system with a Java backend, tested using Agile methodology to improve patient care with improved turnaround time (TAT) of quantitative reports. The system sent dual digital alerts including a page and an email notification to the radiologist based on the last submitted date and time for each QIAC report and autoreassigned radiologists till report finalization. Data was extracted from the Quantitative Imaging Analysis Core database for comparing the TAT, calculated as time difference between the submission of preliminary reports by Imaging Research Specialists and the finalization by radiologists before and after the digital alert system implementation.

Results

Implementing the dual digital alert system significantly increased the number of cases finalized within 6 hours to 50%. For nonexpedited cases, the mean TAT decreased by 57.2% from 85.9 hours to 36.8 hours (P < 0.001). Expedited cases saw a reduction in mean TAT by 63.7% from 44.9 hours to 16.3 hours (P = 0.022). Baseline and follow-up cases also showed significantly reduced mean and median TAT after deployment (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The dual digital alert system and automatic radiologist reassignment significantly improved the TAT for quantitative imaging reports in clinical trials. This enhancement in report delivery efficiency led to better therapeutic decision making and increased patient satisfaction in clinical settings.