bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of an intimately riveted Li/garnet interface with ultra-low interfacial resistance for solid-state batteries
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Saisai , Zhao Hailei , Liu Jintao , Yang Min-An , Li Zhaolin , Świerczek Konrad
Published: January 2024

An intimately riveted Li/garnet interface, where Li4.4Si particles strongly bond with garnet, is constructed for dendrite-free solid-state lithium batteries.
Highly stable semitransparent solar cell employing graphene/WS2/LaVO3 vertical-heterostructure
Authors: Kim Da Hee , Shin Dong Hee , Jung Dae Ho , Oh Si Duck , Kim Eun Ji , Lee Hosun
Published: January 2024

Semi-transparent (ST) solar cells are attracting a lot of attention among researchers as they can effectively utilize solar energy in various fields such as building-integrated solar power generation and portable solar chargers.
Self-driven broadband photodetectors on flexible silicon nanowires substrate by forming a heterojunction with reduced graphene oxide
Authors: Xin Haiyuan , Yang Shengyi , Wang Ying , Sulaman Muhammad , Zhang Zhenheng , Ge Zhenhua , Hu Jinming , Wang Shilu , Zou Bingsuo , Tang Libin
Published: January 2024

High-performance, self-driven broadband photodetectors on flexible silicon nanowires (Si-NWs) substrate, in which Si-NWs are covered with reduced graphene oxide to form heterojunctions, are presented.
Colour-tuning of multiple resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters for hyperfluorescence with long-lifetime device characteristics
Authors: Ha Tae Hoon , Yoo Jeong Yeol , Kang Seung Wan , Lee Chil Won
Published: January 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials with multiple resonance (MR) effects have been widely studied owing to their narrow full width at half maximum (FWHM) and high efficiency.
Graphene-derived composites: a new Frontier in thermoelectric energy conversion
Authors: Rathi Vaishali , Brajpuriya Ranjeet , Gupta Rajeev , Parmar K. P. S. , Kumar Ashish
Published: January 2024

Diagram depicting the internal structure of various p-type and n-type legs in thermoelectric power generators.
Validity and Reliability Study of the Turkish Version of Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six–34
Authors: Çağlar Nazmiye Atila , Erbaş Ayşın Noyan , Tığrak Arcan , Özcebe Esra
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

Speech and language disorders can negatively affect preschool children's communicative participation skills. Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six–34 (FOCUS-34) is a valid and reliable scale that evaluates communicative participation in preschool children with speech and language disorders. This study aimed to establish the Turkish version of FOCUS-34 (FOCUS-34-TR) and investigate its validity and reliability.

Method:

A total of 175 children with language disorders, speech sound disorders, and fluency disorders (aged 20–72 months) and their parents were included in the study. Parents were asked to complete the demographic information form, the FOCUS-34-TR scale, and the Ages and Stages Questionnaires: Social–Emotional (ASQ-SE) Turkish version. The construct validity, convergent and divergent validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability of the scale were investigated.

Results:

The FOCUS-34-TR had high values for internal consistency (α = .97) and test–retest reliability (
r
= .95). The correlations between the FOCUS-34-TR total score and its subscales were between .77 and .90. A moderately significant negative correlation was found between the FOCUS-34-TR scale and the ASQ-SE.

Conclusion:

The Turkish version of FOCUS-34 is a valid and reliable scale that can be used in clinics and for research purposes to evaluate the communicative participation skills of Turkish-speaking preschool children with speech and language disorders.
A Comparison of Lingual Pressure Generation Measures Using Two Devices in Community-Dwelling, Typically Aging Adults: An Important Clinical Implication
Authors: Drulia Teresa , Szynkiewicz Sarah , Griffin Lindsay , Mulheren Rachel , Murray Kelsey , Kamarunas Erin
Published: January 2024

Design:

A multisite, prospective, and randomized within-subject design study.

Setting:

Five university settings in varied geographical areas in the United States.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to compare lingual pressure generation using the Tongueometer (TO) and the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) in typically aging, community-dwelling adults during three measurement tasks: maximum isometric pressure (MIP), regular effort saliva swallow (RESS) pressure, and effortful saliva swallow pressure (ESP).

Participants:

Eighty-seven typically aging, community-dwelling adults (aged 55 years and over) with no self-reported history of swallowing or neurological disorders were recruited to complete this study.

Results:

Strong positive associations were found between the lingual pressure generation measures from the TO and IOPI in all tasks in typically aging adults, with Pearson correlations ranging from
r
= .780 to .874,
p
< .001. Agreement between the devices (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient) ranged from moderate for the MIP (ρ
c
= .78) and ESP (ρ
c
= .61) tasks to weak agreement for the RESS task (ρ
c
= .47). MIP, RESS pressure, and ESP were lower when measured by the TO compared with the IOPI,
p
< .001.

Conclusions:

The TO measures lingual pressure generation similarly to the IOPI but pressures register lower when using the TO than the IOPI in typically aging persons. This supports the need for developing normative values specific to the TO device or development of a valid and reliable conversion formula from TO to IOPI normative values. At this time, the clinical use of reference values from the TO should not be generalized to IOPI normative values.
Insulation characteristics of polyimide film used in liquid nitrogen of compact HTS transformers
Authors: Zhou Qibin , Xiao Yijie , Bian Xiaoyan , Tang Feipeng , Wang Xi
Published: January 2024

Since compact high temperature superconducting (HTS) transformer has a small size and high efficiency, it can meet the requirements of high‐voltage transformers for vehicle‐mounted mobile substation. However, due to the small internal insulation size of the compact HTS transformers, it is necessary to improve the insulation strength to ensure the insulation safety of the transformer. Reasonable main insulation structure can greatly improve the insulation level of transformer. Based on the design theory of main insulation structure, this paper designs a main insulation structure model “small liquid nitrogen gap—barrier” suitable for compact HTS transformer. The insulation withstand voltage experiment of the main insulation structure shows that when the liquid nitrogen gap distance is less than 8 mm, the insulation strength of liquid nitrogen in the structure is improved. When the liquid nitrogen gap distance is too small, the size and thickness of the barrier will affect the insulation strength of the structure. According to the insulation strength of main insulation structures with different liquid nitrogen gaps, the feasibility of “small liquid nitrogen gap—barrier” main insulation structure is verified. The small liquid nitrogen gap structure can be adopted for the main insulation of compact HTS transformer.
Coordinated restoration of inverter‐based power sources and synchronous generators for the high renewable penetrated power system considering the dynamic frequency regulation capability
Authors: Yang Chao , Liao Huanxin , Liang Gaoqi , Gao Huisheng , Xin Huanhai , Zhao Junhua
Published: January 2024

Extensive inverter‐based power sources (IPS) impose significant challenges on the restoration of high renewable penetrated power systems (HRPPS). To enhance HRPPS resilience, the proper utilization of IPSs must be implemented. Combining frequency dynamics of IPSs and synchronous generators, this paper proposes a coordinated restoration method for multi‐type power sources after a major blackout. First, interactions between synchronous generators and IPSs are systematically analyzed. Based on this, output characteristics and constraints of IPSs in the power sources restoration process are quantified. Second, the dynamic frequency regulation capability (DFRC) of restored systems is quantified based on a unified transfer function structure model. Then the maximum power disturbance that restored systems can bear is derived based on DFRC indices including the maximum frequency deviation and the rate of change of frequency. Third, considering interactions between power sources and the DFRC of restored systems, a coordinated restoration optimization model of multi‐type power sources is proposed. Finally, case studies based on a modified IEEE 39‐bus system are simulated to verify the applicability and superiority of the proposed method. Meanwhile, results show that the proposed method for quantifying DFRC is more suitable for HRPPSs than traditional inertia‐based methods.
Study of the coastal reef fishery pressure in a South Pacific Island (Bora-Bora, French Polynesia)
Authors: Gatouillat Hugo , Gairin Emma , Minier Lana , Gourlaouen Alannah , Carpentier Camille , Berthe Cécile , Teraaitepo Anatole , Maueau Tehani , Sturny Vincent , Bambridge Tamatoa , Galzin René , Lecchini David
Published: January 2024

In the context of the general overexploitation of South Pacific reef fisheries, there is a global push to precisely define fishery parameters such as fishing effort, annual landings, and exploitation levels. In Bora-Bora, several surveys were performed to define the fishing grounds and the fishing effort of the reef fishery for the first time. Maps of the fishing grounds under different fishing pressures were created for the Bora-Bora reef fishery. The average fishing effort throughout the lagoon was 40 trips week−1 km−2. Annual landings were estimated following two different methods: school participatory surveys and landing based on the catch per unit effort. These estimations were used to determine that the maximum sustainable yield of the island's fisheries was 6.5 tons km−2 year−1. the reported annual yield in 2022 was 5.35 tons km−2 year−1, under the estimated maximum sustainable yield. The level of exploitation of the fisheries was also estimated based on the catch size composition of the ten most fished species. This revealed that fishing is responsible for more than 50% of fish mortality in six of the ten studied species, and that catch length could be increased to optimize both catches and biomass. Overall, the Bora-Bora reef fishery may be experiencing growth overfishing (i.e., the catching of fish that are too small to maximise biological sustainability and economical yield), which can endanger stock recruitment in the future if no actions are taken.
Optimization of Land Area Mapping and Volume Calculations using Drone Lidar Livox Mid-40 Data with the Downsampling Method
Authors: Manggala Adhitya Surya , Ahyudanari Ervina , Cahyadi Mokhamad Nur , Raharjo Agus Budi , Harun Zambri , Lebuna Maria Lea Escantilla
Published: January 2024

One reason for the growing acceptance of 3D point cloud-based research and applications is the quick advancement of 3D scanning technologies. However, there are still a number of serious issues that have an impact on point cloud utilization performance. Among these difficulties are controlling the quantity of points, irregular point density, and a deficiency of location proximity data. In this study, we use Livox Mid-40 Drone Lidar Data and a downsampling technique to compute land area and volume. However, it can be highly challenging and time-consuming to extract usable information from enormous amounts of gathered data. Motivated by these results, this study recommends using downsampling approaches to minimize the size of the final data set while preserving data integrity, which will facilitate and expedite. The Livox Mid-40 Lidar Drone data was optimal at 00:00:30 with a flying height of 75,719 meters and a measurement diameter of 50.3 meters. By using downsampling techniques, the number of points can be reduced by up to 40 percent from the previous number of data points. Meanwhile, the data size can be 10 percent smaller than the original data. To calculate the area of land of the same size, there is a difference of 0.53 square meters. Meanwhile, for the calculation of cubic volume, there is a difference of 1.63 cubic meters.
Numerical Analysis of Mooring Buoy for Securing N219A Aircraft in The Anchorage Area
Authors: Yulfani Rosi Dwi , Rosyid Daniel M. , Nugroho Wibowo Harso , Arianti Erdina , Ghofur Abd
Published: January 2024

The development of Indonesia's N219 aircraft in recent years has been carried out on a significant scale. Likewise, developing an amphibious version known as the N219A aircraft continued. Considering that Indonesia is an archipelagic country that has potential in many sectors, such as marine tourism, the N219A aircraft is designed to be able to land on the water. Consequently, facilities are needed for the aircraft to be secured safely. The analysis of determining the configuration of the length of the anchor line on the mooring buoy to secure the N219A aircraft was carried out by varying the line length of the rope to 50 meters, 60 meters, and 70 meters by FAA recommendations. Based on the numerical calculation, the anchor line configuration with a length of 60 meters has maximum tension with allowable criteria according to API RP 2SK in intact and damaged conditions. The anchor line configuration also has a maximum offset value that is shorter than other configurations. Therefore, the result obtained from the analysis of the N219A aircraft's anchor spacing for the sea conditions of Gili Iyang, Sumenep, Madura, and East Java is 118.18 meters.
Implementation of Tourism Development Strategy After the Covid-19 Pandemic in Sibolga City
Authors: Siregar Indra , Mardi Rina Walmiaty Mardi , Sembiring Rahmat Widia
Published: January 2024

This study aims to examine the results of implementing strategies in developing tourism after the Covid-19 pandemic in Sibolga City. In previous studies, a model of tourism development strategy after the Covid-19 pandemic in the Lake Toba Region has been examined using the theory of the basic components of tourism consisting of tourist objects and attractions, accommodation, transportation / tourist transportation, tourist facilities and facilities, and tourism infrastructure (promotion, marketing and policy). Lake Toba and Sibolga are marine tourism destinations. This research applies the tourism development strategy found in previous research to Sibolga City. After the implementation, an evaluation was carried out through the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) questionnaire method, the Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) method and also interviews with tourists and tourism stakeholders involved in Sibolga City tourism. The results obtained from the calculation of the CSI value are 68.57%, in the range of 0.66% – 0.80%. The meaning of this value is that tourists are satisfied with the attributes measured by their satisfaction level. The average conformity score is 83.46%, meaning that the performance achieved and the importance of attributes according to travellers have shown excellent results. Through the FGD, it can be seen that the implementation of tourism development strategies from previous research in the Lake Toba Area is also appropriate
Integration of AWEI and Otsu Threshold Algorithms for Maritime Boundary Delimitation: A Case Study of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict in the Sea of Azov
Authors: Khomsin  , Nusantara Candida A.D.S. , Saputra Bayu
Published: January 2024

Since the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, Russia and Ukraine, newly independent, face complexities concerning the legal status and demarcation of the Sea of Azov. Spanning approximately 37,600 km2 with a maximum depth of 14 meters, this sea holds pivotal resources such as fish, gas, and oil, serving as a significant dividing point between these nations. Maritime boundary delineation, often set at 12 nautical miles from the baseline, is complex due to the sea's intricate coastline and small islands. Some coastal areas have distances less than 24 nautical miles, causing boundary overlaps. Russia and Ukraine have cited UNCLOS Article 298, exempting UNCLOS dispute resolution for the Sea of Azov's demarcation. This study aims to assess the AWEI and Otsu thresholding algorithms' efficacy in defining the maritime boundary between Russia and Ukraine in the Sea of Azov, utilizing 'LANDSAT/LC08/C02/T1_L2' data. It also aims to comprehend the geopolitical and conflict resolution implications of delineating maritime boundaries aligned with UNCLOS 1982 for both countries and wider regions. The AWEI algorithm consistently maps coastlines, while Otsu thresholding facilitates automated image segmentation, yielding 117 base points covering 13,331 km2 (Russia) and 21,749 km2 (Ukraine) within the EEZ, based on equidistant and median base point analysis.
Opportunities for Utilizing Vortex Generators on Vertical Axis Ocean Current Turbines: A Review
Authors: Rahuna Daif , Erwandi  , Satrio Dendy , Utama I. Ketut Aria Pria
Published: January 2024

Researchers have studied vertical axis turbines (VATs) for their low power efficiency, focusing on the turbine blades, selecting suitable airfoils, modifying the original airfoil shape, and adding other devices to the blades. The proposed method is to add a passive vortex generator device, which generates vortex flow to delay the separation flow at the surface, thereby increasing efficiency. Initially, VGs were used on aircraft wings to improve stability and performance efficiency; later, they were developed for other transport industries, such as cars, trucks, high-speed trains, and ships. In the renewable energy sector, VGs are used to improve turbine performance and efficiency. The research aims to obtain comprehensive information on the effect of using VG on vertical-axis ocean current turbines. To achieve this goal, we collected articles related to VG, reviewed the published articles on VG research on wind turbines and marine current turbines, then analysed the research results and determined the results based on the research methodology. At present, research has been developed to obtain the shape, dimension, and configuration of VG suitable for a vertical-axis ocean current turbine. The research is carried out in stages, which currently prioritize the shape and VG dimensions used in VAT with NACA 0021 blades, followed by the development of VG configuration research on VAT blades.
Seasonal Variation Analysis of Microplastic Distribution in the Estuary of Brantas River
Authors: Ekawati Ekawati , Surya Ari Pamungkas Martinus , Cahya Perdana Putra Sobrian , Aunurohim Aunurohim , Saptarini Dian , Bagus Saputro Triono
Published: January 2024

Every year, 0.48-1.29 million tonnes of plastic waste is estimated to enter the waters due to poor plastic waste management in Indonesia. Plastic waste has the potential to be degraded into smaller particles through ultraviolet (UV) radiation, weathering process, water currents, physical-mechanical and biodegradation. Plastics with particle sizes between >1 μm and <5 are categorized as microplastics (MP). Microplastic particles are mainly distributed in surface waters. Rivers are considered as the main route of plastic transportation from the land to the ocean. The Brantas River in Surabaya is the main downstream section of the Brantas River and plays an important role in providing clean water for Surabaya City, aquatic biota habitat, and irrigation. With extreme weather conditions such as long dry seasons and high rainfall in the rainy season distribution and abundance of microplastics in water bodies/rivers tend to vary. The study's goal is to determine the effect of seasonal water volume (dry and rainy) on the abundance and characteristics of microplastics in water and sediment samples from the downstream Brantas River (Surabaya city). Observations of the abundance of microplastics in water and sediment at three stations during the dry season revealed a trend of increasing abundance downstream. Microplastics were abundant in the water at sta 1 with an average of 0.8 particles/L, sta 2 with 1.25 particles/L, and sta 3 with 1.02 particles/L. The abundance of microplastics in the sediment at sta 1 averaged 0.2 particles/gr, sta 2 0.51 particles/gr, and sta3 0.25 particles/gr. Meanwhile, in the rainy season, the abundance of microplastics in water and sediment shows a higher abundance compared to the dry season. Abundance of microplastics in the water at sta 1 with an average of 0.9 particles/L, sta 2 1.24 particles/L, and sta3 1.17 particles/L. The abundance of microplastics in the sediment at sta 1 averaged 0.55 particles/gr, sta 2 0.56 particles/gr, and sta3 0.60 particles/gr.
Oral lichen planus pemphigoid : a case report of a rare disease treated by topical Tacrolimus mouthwash and Hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Douley Jeremy , Fricain Jean-Christophe
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Oral Lichen Planus Pemphigoid  (LPP) is the rare association of lichen planus and Mucous  Membrane  Pemphigoid  (MMP) whose therapeutic lines are poorly defined. Bilateral and symmetrical reticulated white lesions characteristic of lichen planus (LP) most often precede the painful post-bullous ulcerations of pemphigoid (P). The oral LPP is very rare and the treatment is not codified. This report described a rare case of oral LPP,  successfully treated with an original combo of topical Tacrolimus and hydroxychloroquine. Observation: A 72 yr old patient was referred to the unit of the oral mucosa pathology and oro-facial pain, of the oral surgery service of Bordeaux hospital. He has painful mouth ulcerations accompanied by reticulated and symmetrical white lesions. A biopsy to perform an anatomopathological examination and a direct immunofluorescence founds the anatomopathological characteristics of LP and P.As first line of treatment, local and general corticosteroid therapy was undertaken to reduce inflammation. The result was not totally satisfactory. As second line of treatment topical Tacrolimus and hydroxychloroquine made it possible to reduce drastically the patient's erosive and ulcerated lesions. Conclusion: The combination of topical tacrolimus and HCQ should be considerated as second line of treatment for LPP resistant to corticotherapy.
Umsetzung der Berufskrankheiten (BK)-Reform: Auswirkungen in der Praxis
Authors: Skudlik Christoph
Published: January 2024

Durch die Reform des Berufskrankheitenrechts zum 01.01.2021 mit Wegfall des Unterlassungszwangs sind die Voraussetzungen zur Anerkennung einer Berufskrankheit Nr. 5101 wesentlich erleichtert worden. Maßgebliche Anerkennungsvoraussetzung ist nunmehr v.a. das Kriterium der Schwere, welches sich insbesondere aus dem Ansprechen der beruflich verursachten oder verschlimmerten Hauterkrankung auf dermatologische Therapie und Prävention ergibt. Aus der Anerkennung einer Berufsdermatose als Berufskrankheit ergeben sich für die betroffenen Patienten und die Hautarztpraxis Vorteile im Hinblick auf Kostenübernahme und Spektrum der therapeutischen Maßnahmen. Weiterhin bleiben der Hautarztbericht und das Hautarztverfahren die zentralen Elemente hinsichtlich Meldung und dermatologischer Versorgung von Patienten mit Berufsdermatosen.
Arthralgien bei Psoriasis vulgaris – manchmal lohnt ein zweiter Blick
Authors: Schulte-Terhusen Philipp , Baraliakos Xenofon , Karagkiozidou Dimitra
Published: January 2024

Anamnese Die 71-jährige Patientin berichtete von langjährig bestehenden entzündlichen Arthralgien bei Psoriasis vulgaris. Eine Therapie mit Methotrexat hatte zu Leberwerterhöhungen geführt, unter Behandlung mit dem TNFα-Inhibitor Adalimumab persistierten die Beschwerden.

Untersuchungen Mittels Arthrosonografie und MRT konnte ein vorwiegend periartikuläres Inflammationsmuster an Handgelenken, Metakarpophalangeal-Gelenken und proximalen Interphalangeal-Gelenken ohne postentzündliche Stigmata einer Psoriasisarthritis objektiviert werden. Laborchemisch fand sich ein erhöhter anti-HCV-Titer mit hoher Viruslast im Sinne einer floriden Hepatitis C.

Diagnose Eine vorwiegend extrahepatisch manifestierte Hepatitis C mit assoziierter Periarthritis wurde diagnostiziert.

Therapie und Verlauf Unter kombinierter, interferonfreier antiviraler Therapie sistierten die Gelenkbeschwerden.

Folgerung Die Hepatitis C kann sich durch extrahepatische Manifestationen im Sinne einer periartikulären Inflammation äußern. Entzündlich suspekte Arthralgien bei Psoriasis vulgaris sind nicht gleichbedeutend mit der Diagnose einer Psoriasisarthritis und sollten fachgerecht rheumatologisch evaluiert werden.
Comparison of the efficacy of HoLEP and TURP in the treatment of elderly benign prostatic hyperplasia patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Aizezi Xierzhati , Feng Liancheng , Wang Zheng , Ma Yuan , Li Jifu , Keremu Abuduweili , Rouzi Maihemujiang , Dilixiati Ailiyaer , Wang Beiping , Shi Hanzhen , Huang Jinxing
Published: January 2024

Objective To prove that holmium laser prostatectomy (HoLEP) is safe and effective in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and is superior to transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) for elderly patients.

Methods We retrospectively studied 565 HoLEP patients and 76 TURP elderly patients. HoLEP patients were first divided into three groups according to their age(Under 65 years old group, 65–79 years old group and over 80 years old group), and their preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics were then compared. Secondly, the same characteristics of HoLEP and TURP patients over 80 years were compared. Chi-square test, one-way ANOVA and Fisher’s exact test were used in this study.

Results Firstly, we compared HoLEP patients in different age groups and found that there was statistically significant difference in diabetes, CCVD and bladder stones, among the three groups (P<0.05).

Secondlye, we compared HoLEP and TURP treatments in elderly patients (≥80 years old). The patients with HoLEP had a higher share of diabetes, CCVD and anticoagulation (P<0.05). Moreover, compared with TURP patients, HoLEP patients had shorter enucleation duration, more enucleate prostate weight, fewer hemoglobin diminutions, shorter bladder irrigation time, shorter catheter-indwelling period, and shorter hospital period (P<0.05). Although there was no difference in IPSS, Qmax and QOL between the two groups before operation (P>0.05), the difference was statistically significant, 6 months after the operation (P<0.05).

Conclusion HoLEP is safe and effective for BPH patients, and is superior to transurethral TURP for elderly patients.
Augenbeteiligung bei Graft-versus-Host-Erkrankung
Authors: Tappeiner Christoph , Heiligenhaus Arnd , Dietrich-Ntoukas Tina
Published: January 2024

Im Rahmen der okulären Graft-versus-Host-Erkrankung (GVHD) kommt es nach allogener hämatopoetischer Zelltransplantation zu einer Entzündungsreaktion an der Augenoberfläche. Verantwortlich hierfür sind insbesondere selbstreaktive T-Zellen des Spenders. Dies kann u. a. zu einer ausgeprägten Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Bindehauthyperämie, Hornhautulzerationen und -einschmelzung bis hin zur Perforation führen. Die okuläre GVHD geht mit einem hohen Leidensdruck wie Schmerzen, Photophobie und Visusminderung einher. Diese Übersichtsarbeit gibt einen Überblick über typische ophthalmologische Befunde, topische und systemische Therapieansätze, begleitende Maßnahmen (z. B. Sklerallinsen, Punctum plugs) und das entsprechende Management von Komplikationen.
Effect of Radioiodine Treatment on Quality of Life in Patients with Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: A Prospective Controlled Study
Authors: Larisch Rolf , Midgley John E. M. , Dietrich Johannes W. , Hoermann Rudolf
Published: January 2024

Radioiodine treatment (RIT) has a high success rate in both the treatment of hyperthyroidism and improving the quality of life (QoL) of symptomatic patients. In asymptomatic patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism thyroid related QoL outcomes are less well known.

Methods Study aim was to evaluate thyroid-related QoL in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism mostly due to toxic nodular goitre undergoing RIT, compared to a control group of euthyroid subjects. Study design was monocentric, prospective, controlled. Fifty control subjects were enrolled and 51 RIT patients. Most subjects were examined at least twice at an interval of 6 months, with visits immediately before and 6 months after treatment in the RIT group. QoL was estimated with the ThyPRO questionnaire, using its composite scale as primary outcome. Treatment effect was the mean adjusted difference (MAD) between groups over time, using repeated? measures mixed? effects models.

Results TSH concentrations were lower in the RIT group prior to treatment and recovered thereafter slightly above the level of the control group. Correspondingly, QoL improved significantly after 6 months from a worse level in the RIT group, compared to controls (MAD –10.3 [95% CI –14.9, –5.7], p<0.001). QoL improvements were strong for general items, but less pronounced for the hyperthyroid domain. Compared to controls, thyroid volume, thyroid functional capacity (SPINA-GT) and deiodinase activity (SPINA-GD) were significantly reduced in the RIT group.

Conclusion Patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism improve both biochemically and in their QoL after RIT, compared to controls. QoL assessment should have a wider role in clinical practice to complement biochemical tests and help with treatment decisions.
Recurrent exposure of Preserflo Microshunt implant
Authors: Borrego Sanz Lara , Méndez Hernández Carmen Dora , Ly Yang Fernado , Gómez Calleja Verónica , Sáenz-Francés San Baldomero Federico
Published: January 2024

Preserflo Microshunt is a novel trans-scleral device able to shunt aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a filtering bleb under Tenon´s capsule and conjunctiva. Although commonly results a safe and effective technique for lowering IOP in patients with open-angle glaucoma, it is not exempt from transient complications. A careful individually selection of the patients and risk factors results important before planning the surgery in order to manage postoperative ocular surface complications.
Same-session endoscopic diagnosis and symptom palliation in pancreato-biliary malignancies: Clinical impact of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE)
Authors: Vanella Giuseppe , Dell'Anna Giuseppe , Cosenza Agostino , Pedica Federica , Petrone Maria Chiara , Mariani Alberto , Archibugi Livia , Rossi Gemma , Tacelli Matteo , Zaccari Piera , Leone Roberto , Tamburrino Domenico , Belfiori Giulio , Falconi Massimo , Aldrighetti Luca , Reni Michele , Casadei Gardini Andrea , Doglioni Claudio , Capurso Gabriele , Arcidiacono Paolo Giorgio
Published: January 2024

Background and study aims Besides increasing adequacy, rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) during endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may impact choices and timing of subsequent therapeutic procedures, yet has been unexplored.

Patients and methods This was a retrospective evaluation of a prospectively maintained database of a tertiary, academic centre with availability of ROSE and hybrid EUS-ERCP suites. All consecutive patients referred for pathological confirmation of suspected malignancy and jaundice or gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) between Jan-2020 and Sep-2022 were included.

Results Of 541 patients with underlying malignancy, 323 (59.7%) required same-session pathological diagnosis (male: 54.8%; age 70 [interquartile range 63–78]; pancreatic cancer: 76.8%, biliary tract adenocarcinoma 16.1%). ROSE adequacy was 96.6%, higher for EUS versus ERCP. Among 302 patients with jaundice, ERCP-guided stenting was successful in 83.1%, but final drainage was completed in 97.4% thanks to 43 EUS-guided biliary drainage procedures. Twenty-one patients with GOO were treated with 15 EUS-gastroenterostomies and six duodenal stents. All 58 therapeutic EUS procedures occurred after adequate ROSE. With ERCP-guided placement of stents, the use of plastic stents was significantly higher among patients with inadequate ROSE (10/11; 90.9%) versus adequate sampling (14/240; 5.8%) P <0.0001; OR 161; 95%CI 19–1352). Median hospital stay for diagnosis and palliation was 3 days (range, 2–7) and median time to chemotherapy was 33 days (range, 24–47).

Conclusions Nearly two-thirds of oncological candidates for
endoscopic palliation require contemporary pathological diagnosis. ROSE adequacy allows, since
the index procedure, state-of-the-art therapeutics standardly restricted to pathologically
confirmed malignancies (e.g. uncovered SEMS or therapeutic EUS), potentially reducing
hospitalization and time to oncological treatments.
Enhancing Hospitalized Patients' Palliative Care Referrals via Machine Learning-Based Predictive Modeling within Electronic Health Record Systems
Authors: Ghoshal Arun
Published: January 2024

Access to palliative care (PC) holds significance for hospital-admitted patients grappling with the symptoms of life limiting illnesses. Nonetheless, numerous such patients who could gain from PC fail to receive it promptly or even at all.

We can leverage the prior year's historical data extracted from electronic health records of hospitalized patients to train a machine learning (ML) model. This model's purpose would be to prognosticate the requirement for PC consultation using real-time data. The model, operating as a semi-supervised system, will be integrated into institutional data pipelines, and utilized by a downstream display application overseen by the PC team. In cases where the PC team deems it suitable, a team member will communicate with the respective care team of the patient. The ML model's training efficacy will be assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) metric, employing a 20% reserved validation set. The threshold for PC consultations will be grounded in historical data. To enhance the ML model's precision, the pivotal variables within the model will be pinpointed, and any sources of biases or errors in the model will be identified for meticulous refinement. The AUC values of successive ML models will be juxtaposed with cross-validation data.

Automatizing the referral procedure through electronic health record systems has the potential to usher in a more effective and streamlined approach to healthcare delivery.
Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction
Authors: Brant Aaron , Schlegel Peter N.
Published: January 2024

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is among the most common causes of male infertility. For men with NOA seeking fertility treatment, microdissection testicular sperm extraction (microTESE) is the best option for retrieving sperm, which can be used with in vitro fertilization–intracytoplasmic sperm injection to achieve pregnancy in their partner. With the aid of the operating microscope, microTESE allows for thorough evaluation of the testis tissue and selection of seminiferous tubules that appear most capable of sperm production. Rates of success with microTESE vary depending on the underlying cause of NOA and the center at which the procedure is performed. Not all patients are candidates for microTESE, and those who are candidates should be counseled on the likelihood of sperm retrieval and the potential for changes in postoperative testis function.
The Association between Sleep and Depression during Late Pregnancy and the Early Postpartum Period
Authors: Jones Angela G. , Hadaie Bachar S. , Bennett Rachel , Kumar Nimisha , Saha Chandan K. , Haas David M.
Published: January 2024

Objective To assess and correlate sleep quality and depressed mood symptoms in the late pregnancy and early postpartum periods.

Study Design In a prospective pilot observational study, participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) questionnaires at delivery, 1, and 2 months postpartum. Pearson's correlation coefficients and PROC MIXED function estimated overall correlation for repeated measures.

Results Twenty-six women were enrolled with a mean gestational age at delivery of 38.4 (± 2.4) weeks. Sleep quality and mood data were available at the three time points for 24, 16, and 11 participants, respectively. Poor sleep scores were noted by 75.0, 87.5, and 72.7% of women at the three time points. An elevated EPDS score of 10 or higher was claimed by 20.8, 12.5, and 18.2% of women, respectively. Higher PSQI scores were positively associated with higher EPDS scores overall (r = 0.71, p < 0.001) and at each of the individual time points (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001; r = 0.52, p = 0.04; and r = 0.70, p = 0.016, respectively). None of the women reporting good sleep quality had elevated EPDS scores.

Conclusion Poor sleep is commonly reported around delivery, and at 1 and 2 months postpartum, and there is an association between poor sleep and depression symptoms.
Atypical Presentation of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Pregnancy
Authors: Wu Jenny , Dotters-Katz Sarah K. , Varvoutis Megan
Published: January 2024

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a common tick-borne disease and can have variable presentation with potentially fatal outcomes when untreated. We describe an atypical presentation of RMSF in the third trimester. A 37-year-old multiparous woman at 310/7 weeks' gestation presented normotensive with headaches and fever but no rash or significant tick exposure. She was initially treated for atypical hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome but further decompensated, requiring intensive care unit transfer, intubation, and emergent delivery. Doxycycline administration was associated with marked improvement with no significant sequalae to mother or infant. Later convalescent serologies were positive for RMSF. RMSF is a clinically challenging diagnosis in pregnancy. Given significant morbidity and mortality associated with delayed treatment, high suspicion in endemic areas is needed, and prompt antibiotic use with doxycycline should be administered.
Microenvironment of the Lower Reproductive Tract: Focus on the Cervical Mucus Plug
Authors: Ruiz-Durán Susana , Tenorio Celia M. , Vico-Zúñiga Irene , Manzanares Sebastián , Puertas-Prieto Alberto , Altmäe Signe , Vargas Eva
Published: January 2024

The female lower reproductive tract microbiota is a complex ecosystem comprising various microorganisms that play a pivotal role in maintaining women's reproductive well-being. During pregnancy, the vaginal microbiota undergoes dynamic changes that are important for a successful gestation. This review summarizes the implications of the cervical mucus plug microenvironment and its profound impact on reproductive health. Further, the symbiotic relationship between the vaginal microbiome and the cervical mucus plug is highlighted, with a special emphasis on how this natural barrier serves as a guardian against ascending infections. Understanding this complex host–microbes interplay could pave the way for innovative approaches to improve women's reproductive health and fertility.
Effect of Head Position on Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions
Authors: Ponnana SA Pancham , Winston Jim Saroj
Published: January 2024

Objectives The study aimed to explore the impact of various head positions on the distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) amplitudes, identifying the specific DPOAE frequencies showing the effect was also of interest.

Materials and Methods DPOAEs were recorded from the right ears of 50 normal-hearing individuals in six head positions, supine, and five sitting positions (head erect, roll left, roll right, pitch backward, and pitch forward). DPOAEs were averaged and measured for their overall and frequency-specific amplitudes at 1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 2 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz, 6 kHz, and 8 kHz.

Statistical Analysis To investigate the statistical significance of the observed mean differences, the data was tested using repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) following the Shapiro–Wilk normality test. The pair-wise comparison was tested using the Bonferroni post-hoc test and one-sided Bayesian paired sample t-test.

Results The results of ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of head posture only at 1 kHz. The Bonferroni post-hoc test and one-sided Bayesian paired sample t-test results showed significantly higher DPOAE amplitude in the head erect compared to the supine position. There were no significant differences between other pairs of head postures.

Conclusion Head posture is a trivial influencing factor of DPOAEs and hence, does not require consideration in interpreting DPOAEs.
An Interesting Case of Penetrating Brain Injury Due to Assault with Meat Chopper Knife
Authors: Ojha Bal Krishna , Zeeshan Qazi , Miglani Rahul
Published: January 2024

Penetrating injuries to brain are rare and mostly result from warfare injuries, suicidal/homicidal firearm injuries, or accidental injuries. In general, they are associated with poor outcome. We report the challenges faced in managing an interesting case of penetrating brain injury as a result of assault with meat chopper knife that underwent surgical intervention and had a good outcome.
Ureteroinguinal Herniation with Consecutive Ureteral Stricture in a 2-Month-Old Infant: Case Report
Authors: Delgado-Miguel Carlos , Muñoz-Serrano Antonio Jesus , Aguado Pablo , Fuentes Ennio , Díez Ricardo
Published: January 2024

Inguinal herniation of ureter is an uncommon finding among children, with scarce reported cases in the literature to date, that can potentially lead to obstructive uropathy. We report a case of ureteroinguinal herniation discovered during an inguinal hernia repair in a patient with antenatally ultrasound finding of hydronephrosis. A 2-month-old infant with antenatal left hydronephrosis presented with left inguinal mass. Preoperative ultrasound showed an anechoic tubular image producing a mass effect on the left testicle, with suspected bladder herniation and/or dilated ureter toward the inguinal canal. An open surgical inguinal exploration was performed, where the left inguinal canal revealed a peritoneal sac and sliding of the dilated left ureter behind the sac, with a significant change in diameter, corresponding to the paraperitoneal variant of ureteroinguinal herniation. Ligation of the sac and replacement of the ureter into the retroperitoneum were performed, with improvement in the hydronephrosis observed on the ultrasound 1 month after the intervention. However, 6 months later, hydronephrosis worsening as well as the obstructive pattern observed in the diuretic renogram required removal of the stenotic ureteral segment and reimplantation of the healthy proximal segment in the bladder by open approach (Cohen's reimplantation). Follow-up ultrasound of the renal tract showed no dilatation of the upper renal tract and the renal function tests were normal. Currently, the patient is 2 years old and he remains asymptomatic. In conclusion, signs of ureteral obstruction such as hydronephrosis in patients with inguinal herniation may suggest the possibility of an ureteroinguinal hernia. Preoperative diagnostic suspicion is essential.
Parametric modeling of mechanical effects on circadian oscillators
Authors: Kennedy Keith E. , Abenza Juan F. , Rossetti Leone , Trepat Xavier , Villoslada Pablo , Garcia-Ojalvo Jordi
Published: January 2024

Circadian rhythms are archetypal examples of nonlinear oscillations. While these oscillations are usually attributed to circuits of biochemical interactions among clock genes and proteins, recent experimental studies reveal that they are also affected by the cell’s mechanical environment. Here, we extend a standard biochemical model of circadian rhythmicity to include mechanical effects in a parametric manner. Using experimental observations to constrain the model, we suggest specific ways in which the mechanical signal might affect the clock. Additionally, a bifurcation analysis of the system predicts that these mechanical signals need to be within an optimal range for circadian oscillations to occur.
Intermodal effective phase matching for second harmonic generation of ultrashort pulses in high index contrast optical fibers
Authors: Tishchenko Artemii , Berghmans Francis , Baghdasaryan Tigran
Published: January 2024

Second harmonic generation (SHG) in glass optical fibers calls for creating a second order susceptibility in the fiber glass and for achieving phase matching between the pump and the second harmonic signal. The latter is very challenging when using ultrashort pulses, given that the group velocities of the pump and the second harmonic should also be matched. We have shown in previous work that it is possible to achieve simultaneous modal phase matching (MPM) and group velocity matching (GVM) when the pump and the second harmonic are propagating in the LP01 and LP02 modes, respectively, in high GeO2-content double-clad optical fibers. However, simultaneous MPM and GVM can only be obtained in optical fibers with dedicated designs and within very tight geometrical tolerances. In this paper, we show that instead of considering the matching of phase and group velocities separately, we can consider a more general or “effective” phase matching approach, in which we consider all the dispersion terms up to the second order in the expressions of the propagation constants of the pump and second harmonic signals. This allows introducing the pulse duration as a controllable parameter that helps to enforce the said effective phase matching in fibers with designs that deviate by as much as 10% from the target, while providing for temporal walk-off lengths in excess of several centimeters. The impact of this finding goes beyond SHG only and can be applied to other ultrashort laser pulse-based nonlinear optical processes in fibers and waveguides.
Hybrid finite-volume–finite-element scheme for 3D simulation of thermal plasma arc configuration
Authors: Komaizi D. , Niknam A. R.
Published: January 2024

The plasma dynamics in a three-dimensional free-burning arc configuration are studied using an iterative hybrid finite-volume–finite-element scheme. In this scheme, Navier–Stokes equations are solved with a classical finite volume approach. It is a conservative method that is suitable for solving conservation equations. In addition, a nodal finite element analysis is used to solve Maxwell’s equations for the scalar and vector potentials. The finite-volume and finite-element modules are verified against well-known simple problems. The plasma is considered an incompressible fluid in chemical and thermal equilibrium or local thermodynamic equilibrium. The profiles of fluid and electromagnetic characteristics are depicted for a total current equal to 200 A. The results of this simulation method are in agreement with experimental and numerical predictions.