bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Pediatric Persistent Asymptomatic Cervical Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Harris Jacqueline E. , Patel Neil N. , Wai Katherine , Rosbe Kristina W.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Persistent asymptomatic cervical lymphadenopathy (PACL) is a common outpatient referral diagnosis for pediatric otolaryngologists. Historically, excisional biopsy under general anesthesia has been the gold standard for diagnosis but is associated with some risks. Current literature provides little guidance on less invasive monitoring. Our hypothesis is that the majority of children who present with PACL can be safely monitored with ultrasound and avoid the risks of excisional biopsy.

Study Design

A retrospective review was performed of patients <18 years of age, referred to a tertiary care children's hospital for PACL who also underwent at least 1 neck ultrasound from 2007 to 2021. Patients with acute neck infections, congenital masses, or known rheumatologic, immunologic, or malignant conditions were excluded. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine patient and nodal factors associated with the decision for operative management.

Setting

University of California, San Francisco Pediatric Otolaryngology Department.

Results

Among the 197 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 30 (15.2%) underwent surgical biopsy. Overall, 26% underwent repeat ultrasound with a mean interval of 6.6 months, and a mean decrease in nodal size of 0.34 cm. Of the 30 surgical cases, 27 (90%) patients had benign pathology. Multivariate regression analysis revealed pain (p = .04), firmness (p < .001), and lack of a normal fatty hilum on ultrasound (p = .04) as statistically significantly correlated with decisions for surgical management.

Conclusion

The majority of pediatric PACL is benign and does not require an excisional biopsy to rule out lymphoma. Serial clinical follow‐up with neck ultrasound can be used to safely monitor patients.
A Comparative Study Using Vestibular Mapping in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss With and Without Vertigo
Authors: Hong Joon‐Pyo , Lee Jung‐Yup , Kim Min‐Beom
Published: July 2023

Objective

To investigate the impairment patterns in peripheral vestibular organs in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) with and without vertigo.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Single tertiary medical center.

Methods

Data from 165 SSNHL patients in a tertiary referral center from January 2017 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent a video head impulse test, vestibular evoked myogenic potential test, and pure‐tone audiometry. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed to investigate vestibular impairment patterns. The prognosis of the hearing was determined using American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery recommendations.

Results

After excluding patients with vestibular schwannoma and Meniere's disease, 152 patients were included in this study. A total of 73 of 152 patients were categorized as SSNHL with vertigo (SSNHL_V) and showed an independent merge of the posterior semicircular canal (PSCC) in cluster analysis. A total of 79 of 152 patients were categorized as SSNHL without vertigo (SSNHL_N) and showed an independent merge of saccule in cluster analysis. The PSCC (56.2%) and saccule (20.3%) were the most frequently impaired vestibular organs in SSNHL_V and SSNHL_N, respectively. In terms of prognosis, 106 of 152 patients had partial/no recovery and showed an independent merge of the PSCC in cluster analysis. A total of 46 of 152 patients had a complete recovery and showed an independent merge of the saccule in cluster analysis.

Conclusion

A tendency of isolated PSCC dysfunction was seen in SSNHL_V and partial/no recovery. A tendency of isolated saccular dysfunction was seen in SSNHL_N and complete recovery. Different treatments might be needed in SSNHL depending on the presence of vertigo.
Disentangling Social Determinants of Health and Rurality in Head and Neck Cancer 2‐Year Mortality
Authors: Virgen Celina , Renslo Bryan , Sawaf Tuleen , Shnayder Yelizaveta , Kakarala Kiran , Bur Andrés M. , Sykes Kevin J.
Published: July 2023

Social determinants of health (SDoH) and rurality are known factors that may influence outcomes in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Patients residing in remote locations or those with multiple SDoH may encounter barriers to initial diagnosis, adherence to multidisciplinary treatments, and posttreatment surveillance, which may impact their overall survival. However, previous studies have shown mixed results associated with rural residence. The aim of this study is to identify the impact of rurality and SDoH on 2‐year survival in HNSCC. The study was conducted using a Head and Neck Cancer Registry at a single institution from June 2018 through July 2022. Rurality, defined by US census scores, and individual measures of SDoH were used. Our results indicate that each additional adverse SDoH factor results in 1.5 times the odds of mortality at 2 years. Individualized measures of SDoH, rather than rurality alone, better reflect patient prognosis in HNSCC.
Climate change records in coversand deposits from the eastern margin of the Tarnów Plateau (southeast Poland)
Authors: Sokołowski Tadeusz , Woronko Barbara , Chmielowska‐Michalak Dorota
Published: July 2023

Coversands (CSs) are one of the most distinctive sediments within the European Sand Belt. Their extraordinary thickness, exceeding 6 m, was recorded at the Góra Motyczna site located at the edge of the Wisłoka River valley in the Tarnów Plateau (southeast Poland). The sedimentary record of the studied CSs sets their arrangement into one of two sedimentary cycles. Each consists of sandy (A1 and A2) and silty (B1 and B2) lithofacies, forming an A1 ⇒ B1 ⇒ A2 ⇒ B2 sequence that is considered to be a record of climate change during the Weichselian Late Pleniglacial. Sandy lithofacies accumulation occurred under dry and snow‐free climatic conditions, whereas silty lithofacies accumulation marks an increase in humidity as a result of the presence of snow‐cover. Sediment optical dating indicated that the studied CSs were deposited in a period from ~18–17 to ~16–15 ka. The period of accumulation was therefore short, which is confirmed by the analysis of quartz‐grain shape and surface type. Due to this brevity of aeolian processes during this period, the only change expressed is in grain‐surface microrelief; thus, the quartz grains had already inherited their shape and degree of rounding from their source environments and earlier processes. The source sediments could have been artefacts of Miocene and Quaternary deflationary sediments associated with blowouts.
Paenibacillus polymyxa YLC1: a promising antagonistic strain for biocontrol of Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae, causing kiwifruit bacterial canker
Authors: Wang Hua , Wang Nana , Tan Yunxiao , Mi Qianqian , Mao Yiru , Zhao Chao , Tian Xiangrong , Liu Wei , Huang Lili
Published: July 2023

Background

Kiwifruit bacterial canker (KBC) caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) is the main limiting factor in the kiwifruit industry. This study aimed to identify bacterial strains with antagonistic activity against Psa, analyze antagonistically active substances and provide a new basis for the biological control of KBC.

Results

A total of 142 microorganisms were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of asymptomatic kiwifruit. Among them, an antagonistic bacterial strain was identified as Paenibacillus polymyxa YLC1 by 16S rRNA sequencing. KBC control by strain YLC1 (85.4%) was comparable to copper hydroxide treatment (81.8%) under laboratory conditions and field testing. Active substances of strain YLC1 were identified by genetic sequence analysis using antiSMASH. Six biosynthetic active compound gene clusters were identified as encoding ester peptide synthesis, such as polymyxins. An active fraction was purified and identified as polymyxin B1 using chromatography, hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. In addition, polymyxin B1 also was found significantly to suppress the expression of T3SS‐related genes, but did not affect the growth of Psa at low concentrations.

Conclusion

In this study, a biocontrol strain P. polymyxa YLC1 obtained from kiwifruit rhizosphere soil exhibited excellent control effects on KBC in vitro and in field tests. Its active compound was identified as polymyxin B1, which inhibits a variety of pathogenic bacteria. We conclude that P. polymyxa YLC1 is a biocontrol strain with excellent prospects for development and application. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative study of domination parameters with the π‐electronic energy of benzenoid hydrocarbons
Authors: Khan Suliman
Published: July 2023

A graph consist of vertex set and edge set . A dominating set of a graph is a subset of , such that any vertex of is either in or has a neighbor in . The domination number of a graph is the number of vertices in a minimum dominating set. In this article, we find the values of seven important domination parameters namely, paired domination number , independent domination number , connected domination number , restrained domination number , total domination number , split domination number , and non‐split domination number for a class of molecular compounds of benzenoid hydrocarbons. Further, we perform a comparative analysis of these parameters with the ‐electronic energy of benzenoid hydrocarbons. The parameters which are highly correlated with ‐electronic energy of benzenoid hydrocarbons to be further studied for quantitative property relationship/structure‐activity.
Recent Progress of Self‐Supported Metal Oxide Nano‐Porous Arrays in Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Gao Jianhong , Wang Kun , Cao Jun , Zhang Ming , Lin Feng , Ling Min , Wang Minjun , Liang Chengdu , Chen Jun
Published: July 2023

The demand for high‐performance and cost‐effective energy storage solutions for mobile electronic devices and electric vehicles has been a driving force for technological advancements. Among the various options available, transitional metal oxides (TMOs) have emerged as a promising candidates due to their exceptional energy storage capabilities and affordability. In particular, TMO nanoporous arrays fabricated by electrochemical anodization technique demonstrate unrivaled advantages including large specific surface area, short ion transport paths, hollow structures that reduce bulk expansion of materials, and so on, which have garnered significant research attention in recent decades. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that discuss the progress of anodized TMO nanoporous arrays and their applications in energy storage. Therefore, this review aims to provide a systematic detailed overview of recent advancements in understanding the ion storage mechanisms and behavior of self‐organized anodic TMO nanoporous arrays in various energy storage devices, including alkali metal ion batteries, Mg/Al‐ion batteries, Li/Na metal batteries, and supercapacitors. This review also explores modification strategies, redox mechanisms, and outlines future prospects for TMO nanoporous arrays in energy storage.
All‐Climate Long‐Life and Fast‐Charging Sodium‐Ion Battery using Co3S4@NiS2 Heterostructures Encapsulated in Carbon Matrix as Anode
Authors: Huang Xiaofei , Wang Rui , Wu Lihui , Zhang Huigang , Liu Jinyun
Published: July 2023

Sodium‐ion (Na‐ion) battery is one of the research focuses because of high theoretical capacity and low cost. However, seeking for ideal anodes remains a big challenge. Here, a Co3S4@NiS2/C synthesized by in situ growing NiS2 on CoS spheres then converting to Co3S4@NiS2 heterostructures encapsulated by carbon matrix, is developed as a promising anode. Co3S4@NiS2/C as anode displays a high capacity of 654.1 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. Even over 2000 cycles at a high rate of 10 A g−1, capacity exceeds 143.2 mAh g−1. Heterostructures between Co3S4 and NiS2 improve electron transfer as verified by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In addition, when cycling at a high temperature of 50 °C, the Co3S4@NiS2/C anode displays 525.2 mAh g−1, while it remains 340 mAh g−1 at −15 °C, indicating all‐climate potential for using under different temperatures.
Residual behavior of reinforced concrete corbels after exposure to elevated temperatures
Authors: Amani Saeed , Yousefpour Hossein
Published: July 2023

Many precast concrete structures make use of corbels, which are small cantilevers that transfer eccentric point loads to columns or walls. When such structures experience a fire event, the residual strength of their corbels may need to be evaluated. This paper examines the residual behavior of reinforced concrete corbels exposed to elevated temperatures. Sixteen full‐scale double‐corbel specimens with two shear span‐to‐depth (a/d) ratios and different reinforcement layouts were fabricated and tested in ambient conditions or after exposure to temperatures of 550°C and 780°C. The load–displacement behavior, failure mode, and load‐carrying capacity of the specimens were investigated. Exposure to 550°C and 780°C reduced the strength of the specimens by up to 22% and 51%, respectively and increased the displacement at failure between 100% and 150%. The strut‐and‐tie method in ACI 318‐19 provided conservative estimates of the residual capacities of heat‐affected corbels if calculations are based on residual mechanical properties at the surface or average mechanical properties between surface and core of the specimens. When exposed to heat, corbels with smaller a/d ratios showed better strength retention if horizontal distributed reinforcement is used while corbels with larger a/d ratios better retained their strength if employing bidirectionally distributed reinforcement.
Effects of rice husk ash on strength and durability performance of slag‐based alkali‐activated concrete
Authors: Pradhan Shashwati Soumya , Mishra Umesh , Biswal Sushant Kumar , Pramanik Subhadip , Jangra Parveen , Aslani Farhad
Published: July 2023

Despite their low impact on the environment and excellent mechanical strength, alkali‐activated concretes (AAC) can potentially replace ordinary Portland cement based concrete (OPC). However, AAC can be eco‐friendly and more sustainable by incorporating agricultural waste such as rice husk ash (RHA). Therefore, this study investigated the impact of RHA on the strength and durability performance of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) based AAC. For this purpose, seven mixes were made, in which RHA partially substituted GGBS with an increment of 5% up to 30%. The results of the experiments show that the workability and unit weight of AAC mixes decreased as the amount of RHA in the mix increased. The compressive strength of AAC mixes lies between 39.78 and 64.80 MPa, which is adequate for structural application. The AAC showed similar trends for all the mixes in terms of water absorption, permeable voids, apparent porosity and sorptivity. Compared to other mixes, the 5% GGBS substituted with RHA yields the highest resistance against carbonation. Compared to the sulfuric acid (H2SO4) cured sample, the specimen treated with hydrochloric acid (HCl) performed better in loss in mass, strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity. From scanning electron microscope test, the dense microstructure with pore refinement was observed in GGBS based AAC mix with 10% RHA content. According to the findings, RHA content up to 10% substitution can be used as a substitute for the binder to produce sustainable AAC with greater durability and could eventually replace conventional concrete in structural applications.
Pride is a movement, not just a moment
Authors: Whitmore James
Published: July 2023

June saw the nationwide celebration of Pride Month. BVLGBT+ president James Whitmore reflects on the origins of Pride events and the reason they're still relevant in 2023.
Two days of incredible CPD returning to London Vet Show
Authors: Innes Harriet
Published: July 2023

A packed programme aimed at all members of #TeamVet awaits delegates at this year's London Vet Show, says BVA events manager Harriet Innes.
AWF 2023 Discussion Forum: looking back, moving forward
Authors: Dominguez Marine
Published: July 2023

AWF marketing and communications officer Marine Dominguez reflects on this year's event.
Functional nasal surgery in the office‐based setting
Authors: Mowery Alia J. , Razavi Christopher R.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Nasal obstruction is a very common problem often addressed by functional nasal surgery. Increasingly, these procedures are being performed in the office setting secondary to decreased down time, cost, and obviation of general anesthesia. Our goal with this review is to discuss how to appropriately select patients for office–based procedures, what procedures may be considered, and current outcomes with in–office functional nasal surgery.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar.

Methods

Research databases were searched for articles discussing techniques for performing functional nasal surgery in an office setting, and outcomes of various in–office functional nasal procedures.

Results

Studies found and included in this review discuss many aspects of office–based functional nasal surgery, including practical points on patient selection and office set–up, what procedures can safely be performed, and outcomes of different techniques to address specific problems. Broadly, procedures amenable to performance in the office address the internal and external nasal valves, the nasal septum, and the inferior turbinates.

Conclusion

A wide range of techniques to aaddress the nasal valves, septum, and inferior turbinates can be performed in a safe and effective manner without the need for an operative suite.
Theoretische Diskurse, Forschungsstand und Desiderate zu den Konzepten von Lebenswelt, Lebensbedingungen, Alltäglicher Lebensführung und alltäglicher Lebenssituation
Authors: Schlüter Saskia
Published: July 2023

Für die Auseinandersetzung mit dem Konzept von alltäglicher Lebenssituation, die in Kapitel 4 in der vorliegenden Arbeit erfolgt, erscheint es zunächst notwendig, die theoretischen Annahmen zu den Begriffen Lebenswelt, Lebensbedingungen, Alltägliche Lebensführung und alltäglicher Lebenssituation darzustellen (2.1), um eine intersubjektive Nachvollziehbarkeit der gewählten theoretischen Ausgangslage zu gewährleisten. Daran anschließend werden der Forschungsstand sowie zentrale Forschungsdesiderate aufgezeigt (2.2), um davon ausgehend die Forschungsfragen der vorliegenden Arbeit ableiten zu können (2.3).
Supersymmetric localization: 𝒩 = (2, 2) theories on S2 and AdS2
Authors: Lezcano Alfredo González , Jeon Imtak , Ray Augniva
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Application of the supersymmetric localization method to theories on anti-de Sitter spacetime has received recent interest, yet still remains as a challenging problem. In this paper, we focus on (global) Euclidean AdS2, on which we consider an Abelian 𝒩 = (2, 2) theory and implement localization computation to obtain the exact partition function. For comparison, we also revisit the theory on S2 and perform a parallel computation. We refine the notion of equivariant supersymmetry and use appropriate functional integration measure. For AdS2 we choose a supersymmetric boundary condition which is compatible with the principle of variation. To evaluate the 1-loop determinant about the localization saddle, we use index theory and fixed point formula, where we pay attention to the effect of zero modes and their superpartners. The existence of fermionic superpartner of 1-form boundary zero modes is proven. Obtaining the 1-loop determinant requires expansion of the index that presents an ambiguity, which we resolve using boundary condition. The resulting partition function reveals an overall dependence on the size of the background manifold, AdS2 as well as S2, as a sum of two types of contributions: a local one from local conformal anomaly through the index computation and a global one coming from zero modes. This overall size dependence matches with the perturbative 1-loop evaluation using heat kernel method.
Genetic associations vary across the spectrum of fasting serum insulin: results from the European IDEFICS/I.Family children’s cohort
Authors: Mehlig Kirsten , Foraita Ronja , Nagrani Rajini , Wright Marvin N. , De Henauw Stefaan , Molnár Dénes , Moreno Luis A. , Russo Paola , Tornaritis Michael , Veidebaum Toomas , Lissner Lauren , Kaprio Jaakko , Pigeot Iris ,   on behalf of the I.Family consortium
Published: July 2023

Aims/hypothesis

There is increasing evidence for the existence of shared genetic predictors of metabolic traits and neurodegenerative disease. We previously observed a U-shaped association between fasting insulin in middle-aged women and dementia up to 34 years later. In the present study, we performed genome-wide association (GWA) analyses for fasting serum insulin in European children with a focus on variants associated with the tails of the insulin distribution.

Methods

Genotyping was successful in 2825 children aged 2–14 years at the time of insulin measurement. Because insulin levels vary during childhood, GWA analyses were based on age- and sex-specific z scores. Five percentile ranks of z-insulin were selected and modelled using logistic regression, i.e. the 15th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 85th percentile ranks (P15–P85). Additive genetic models were adjusted for age, sex, BMI, survey year, survey country and principal components derived from genetic data to account for ethnic heterogeneity. Quantile regression was used to determine whether associations with variants identified by GWA analyses differed across quantiles of log-insulin.

Results

A variant in the SLC28A1 gene (rs2122859) was associated with the 85th percentile rank of the insulin z score (P85, p value=3×10−8). Two variants associated with low z-insulin (P15, p value <5×10−6) were located on the RBFOX1 and SH3RF3 genes. These genes have previously been associated with both metabolic traits and dementia phenotypes. While variants associated with P50 showed stable associations across the insulin spectrum, we found that associations with variants identified through GWA analyses of P15 and P85 varied across quantiles of log-insulin.

Conclusions/interpretation

The above results support the notion of a shared genetic architecture for dementia and metabolic traits. Our approach identified genetic variants that were associated with the tails of the insulin spectrum only. Because traditional heritability estimates assume that genetic effects are constant throughout the phenotype distribution, the new findings may have implications for understanding the discrepancy in heritability estimates from GWA and family studies and for the study of U-shaped biomarker–disease associations.

Graphical Abstract
Psychosocial risk factors of youth suicide in the Western Pacific: a scoping review
Authors: Morshidi Mohammad Izzat , Chew Peter K. H. , Suárez Lidia
Published: July 2023

Introduction

 The Western Pacific region accounts for 25% of global suicide rates globally. In the last decade, however, there is a rising concern over the rate of youth suicides in the region. In line with the regional vision of reducing the rate of non-communicable diseases by 2025, the study contributes to the literature by utilizing a scoping review approach to identify psychosocial risk factors associated with youth suicide in the region.

Method

Publications on youth suicide in the Western Pacific region between 2010 and 2021 were reviewed. A total of 43 publications met the inclusion criteria and were read in full.

Results

Psychosocial risk factors associated with suicide in each publication were identified and thematically classified into five themes: interpersonal factors, history of abuse, academic factors, work factors, and minority status.

Discussion

Findings showed discrepancies in youth suicide research across member nations in the Western Pacific. Implications for regional policies on suicide prevention and future research were discussed.
Applicability of the DPRA on mixture testing: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Marcelis Quinten , Deconinck Eric , Rogiers Vera , Vanhaecke Tamara , Desmedt Bart
Published: July 2023

The in chemico direct peptide reactivity assay (DPRA) is validated to assess protein reactivity of chemical compounds, relating to the molecular initiating event of skin sensitization induction. According to OECD TG 442C, the DPRA is technically applicable to test multi-constituent substances and mixtures of known composition, even though limited experimental data are publicly available. First, we assessed the DPRA’s predictive capability for individual substances, but at concentrations other than the recommended 100 mM, i.e., based on the LLNA EC3 concentration (Experiment A). Next, the applicability of the DPRA to test unknown mixtures was assessed (Experiment B). Here, the complexity of unknown mixtures was reduced to mixtures containing either two known skin sensitizers with varying potencies, or a combination of a skin sensitizer with a non-skin sensitizer, or multiple non-sensitizers. Experiments A and B revealed that one extremely potent sensitizer (oxazolone) was incorrectly classified as a non-sensitizer when tested at its low EC3 concentration of 0.4 mM instead of the suggested molar excess conditions of 100 mM (Experiments A). For binary mixtures tested in experiments B, the DPRA was able to distinguish all skin sensitizers and the strongest skin sensitizer in the mixture was determinant for the overall peptide depletion of a sensitizer. In conclusion, we confirmed that the DPRA test method can be used efficiently for well-known characterized mixtures. However, when deviating from the recommended testing concentration of 100 mM, caution should be taken in case of negative results, limiting the DPRA’s applicability for mixtures of unknown composition.
Proton pump inhibitor use: systematic review of global trends and practices
Authors: Shanika Lelwala Guruge Thushani , Reynolds Andrew , Pattison Sharon , Braund Rhiannon
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce acid secretion in the stomach and rank as one of the most widely used acid-suppressing medicines globally. While PPIs are safe in the short-term, emerging evidence shows risks associated with long-term use. Current evidence on global PPI use is scarce. This systematic review aims to evaluate global PPI use in the general population.

Methods

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts were systematically searched from inception to 31 March 2023 to identify observational studies on oral PPI use among individuals aged ≥ 18 years. PPI use was classified by demographics and medication factors (dose, duration, and PPI types). The absolute numbers of PPI users for each subcategory were summed and expressed as a percentage.

Results

The search identified data from 28 million PPI users in 23 countries from 65 articles. This review indicated that nearly one-quarter of adults use a PPI. Of those using PPIs, 63% were less than 65 years. 56% of PPI users were female, and “White” ethnicities accounted for 75% of users. Nearly two-thirds of users were on high doses (≥ defined daily dose (DDD)), 25% of users continued PPIs for > 1 year, and 28% of these continued for > 3 years.

Conclusion

Given the widespread use PPIs and increasing concern regarding long-term use, this review provides a catalyst to support more rational use, particularly with unnecessary prolonged continuation. Clinicians should review PPI prescriptions regularly and deprescribe when there is no appropriate ongoing indication or evidence of benefit to reduce health harm and treatment cost.
Retrospective rationalization of disparities between the concentration dependence of diffusion coefficients obtained by boundary spreading and dynamic light scattering
Authors: Winzor Donald J. , Dinu Vlad , Scott David J. , Harding Stephen E.
Published: July 2023

This study establishes the existence of substantial agreement between published results from traditional boundary spreading measurements (including synthetic boundary measurements in the analytical ultracenrifuge) on two globular proteins (bovine serum albumin, ovalbumin) and the concentration dependence of diffusion coefficient predicted for experiments conducted under the operative thermodynamic constraints of constant temperature and solvent chemical potential. Although slight negative concentration dependence of the translational diffusion coefficient is the experimentally observed as well as theoretically predicted, the extent of the concentration dependence is within the limits of experimental uncertainty inherent in diffusion coefficient measurement. Attention is then directed toward the ionic strength dependence of the concentration dependence coefficient ($${k}_{D}$$

k
D

) describing diffusion coefficients obtained by dynamic light scattering, where, in principle, the operative thermodynamic constraints of constant temperature and pressure preclude consideration of results in terms of single-solute theory. Nevertheless, good agreement between predicted and published experimental ionic strength dependencies of $${k}_{D}$$

k
D

for lysozyme and an immunoglobulin is observed by a minor adaptation of the theoretical treatment to accommodate the fact that thermodynamic activity is monitored on the molal concentration scale because of the constraint of constant pressure that pertains in dynamic light scattering experiments.
Left atrial conduction times and regional velocities in persistent atrial fibrillation patients with and without fibrotic atrial cardiomyopathy
Authors: Heil Emanuel , Gerds-Li Jin-Hong , Keznickl-Pulst Julian , Furundzija-Cabraja Vesna , Hohendanner Felix , Boldt Leif-Hendrik , Stawowy Philipp , Schoeppenthau Doreen
Published: July 2023

Despite the progress in understanding left atrial substrate and arrhythmogenesis, only little is known about conduction characteristics in atrial fibrillation patients with various stages of fibrotic atrial cardiomyopathy (FACM). This study evaluates left atrial conduction times and conduction velocities based on high-density voltage and activation maps in sinus rhythm (CARTO®3 V7) of 53 patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (LVEF 60% (55–60 IQR), LAVI 39 ml/m2 (31–47 IQR), LApa 24 ± 6 cm2). Measurements were made in low voltage areas (LVA ≤ 0.5 mV) and normal voltage areas (NVA ≥ 1.5 mV) at the left atrial anterior and posterior walls. Maps of 28 FACM and 25 no FACM patients were analyzed (19 FACM I/II, 9 FACM III/IV, LVA 14 ± 11 cm2). Left atrial conduction time averaged to 110 ± 24 ms but was shown to be prolonged in FACM (119 ms, + 17%) when compared to no FACM patients (101 ms, p = 0.005). This finding was pronounced in high-grade FACM (III/IV) (133 ms, + 31.2%, p = 0.001). In addition, the LVA extension correlated significantly with the left atrial conduction time (r = 0.56, p = 0.002). Conduction velocities were overall slower in LVA than in NVA (0.6 ± 0.3 vs. 1.3 ± 0.5 m/s, -51%, p < 0.001). Anterior conduction appeared slower than posterior, which was significant in NVA (1 vs. 1.4 m/s, -29%, p < 0.001) but not in LVA (0.6 vs. 0.8 m/s, p = 0.096). FACM has a significant influence on left atrial conduction characteristics in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. Left atrial conduction time prolongs with the grade of FACM and the quantitative expanse of LVA up to 31%. LVAs show a 51% conduction velocity reduction compared to NVA. Moreover, regional conduction velocity differences are present in the left atrium when comparing anterior to posterior walls. Our data may influence individualized ablation strategies.
Early fitting in cochlear implant surgery: preliminary results
Authors: Soncini Arianna , Franzini Sebastiano , Di Marco Francesca , Riccardi Pasquale , Bacciu Andrea , Pasanisi Enrico , Di Lella Filippo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Cochlear implants are usually activated 3–5 weeks after surgery; to date, no universal protocol exists regarding switch on and fitting of these devices. The aim of the study was to assess safety and functional results of activation and fitting of cochlear implant within 24 h following surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective case–control study, 15 adult patients who underwent cochlear implant surgery, for a total of 20 cochlear implant procedures were analyzed. In particular, clinical safety and feasibility were investigated by examinating patients at activation and at each follow-up. Values of electrodes’ impedance and most comfortable loudness (MCL) were analyzed from the time of surgery to 12 months after activation. Free-field pure tone average (PTA) was also recorded.

Results

No major or minor complications were reported and all patients could perform the early fitting. Activation modality influenced impedance values only in the short term but the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Mean MCL values in the early fitting group were lower than MCL of the late fitting in all follow-up sessions, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The mean PTA was lower in the early fitting group but the difference was not statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Early fitting of cochlear implants is safe, allows for an early rehabilitation and can have possible beneficial effects on stimulation levels and dynamic range.
The effects of water temperature on cerebral blood flow during aquatic exercise
Authors: Carter Howard H. , Pienaar Oliver , Coleman Alexander , Cheng Jem L. , MacDonald Maureen J. , Naylor Louise H. , Green Daniel J.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Recent studies suggest that episodic increases in cerebral blood flow (CBF) may contribute to the improvement in brain health associated with exercise training. Optimising CBF during exercise may enhance this benefit. Water immersion in ~ 30–32 °C augments CBF at rest and during exercise; however, the impact of water temperature on the CBF response has not been investigated. We hypothesised that cycle ergometry in water would increase CBF compared to land-based exercise, and that warm water would attenuate the CBF benefits.

Methods

Eleven young heathy participants (nine males; 23.8 ± 3.1 yrs) completed 30 min of resistance-matched cycle exercise in three separate conditions; non-immersion (Land), 32 °C and 38 °C water immersion up to the level of the waist. Middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv), blood pressure, and respiratory measures were assessed throughout the exercise bouts.

Results

Core temperature was significantly higher in the 38 °C immersion than 32 °C (+ 0.84 ± 0.24 vs + 0.04 ± 0.16, P < 0.001), whilst mean arterial pressure was lower during 38 °C exercise compared to Land (84 ± 8 vs 100 ± 14 mmHg, P < 0.001) and 32 °C (92 ± 9, P = 0.03). MCAv was higher in 32 °C immersion compared to the Land and 38 °C conditions throughout the exercise bout (68 ± 10 vs 64 ± 11 vs 62 ± 12 cm/s, P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that cycle exercise in warm water attenuates the beneficial impact of water immersion on CBF velocity due to redistribution of blood flow to subserve thermoregulatory demand. Our findings suggest that, whilst water-based exercise can have beneficial effects on cerebrovascular function, water temperature is a key determinant of this benefit.
On evolutionary problems with a-priori bounded gradients
Authors: Bulíček Miroslav , Hruška David , Málek Josef
Published: July 2023

We study a nonlinear evolutionary partial differential equation that can be viewed as a generalization of the heat equation where the temperature gradient is a priori bounded but the heat flux provides merely $$L^1$$

L
1

-coercivity. Applying higher differentiability techniques in space and time, choosing a special weighted norm (equivalent to the Euclidean norm in $$\mathbb {R}^d$$

R

d

), incorporating finer properties of integrable functions and flux truncation techniques, we prove long-time and large-data existence and uniqueness of weak solution, with an $$L^1$$

L
1

-integrable flux, to an initial spatially-periodic problem for all values of a positive model parameter. If this parameter is smaller than $$2/(d+1)$$

2
/
(
d
+
1
)

, where d denotes the spatial dimension, we obtain higher integrability of the flux. As the developed approach is not restricted to a scalar equation, we also present an analogous result for nonlinear parabolic systems in which the nonlinearity, being the gradient of a strictly convex function, gives an a-priori $$L^\infty $$

L
∞

-bound on the gradient of the unknown solution.
Triaxial Deformation of the Goldwyer Gas Shale at In Situ Stress Conditions—Part II: Viscoelastic Creep/Relaxation and Frictional Failure
Authors: Mandal Partha Pratim , Sarout Joel , Rezaee Reza
Published: July 2023

To understand the geomechanical implications of long-term creep (time-dependent deformation) response of gas shale, short-duration creep was recorded from laboratory triaxial tests on ten Goldwyer gas shale samples in the onshore Canning Basin at in situ stress conditions under constant differential axial stress. A simple power-law function captures primary creep behaviour involving elastic compliance constant B and time-dependent factor n. Experimental creep data revealed larger axial creep strain in clay and organic-rich rocks, than those dominated by carbonates. Anisotropic nature of creep was observed depending upon the direction of constant axial stress application (perpendicular or parallel to the bedding plane). Upon the application of linear viscoelastic theory on laboratory creep fitting coefficients, differential horizontal stress accumulation over a geological time scale was estimated from the viscoelastic stress relaxation concept. Further, this model was used to derive lithology-dependent least principal stress (Shmin) magnitude at depth for two vertical wells intersecting the Goldwyer gas shale formations. This newly proposed Shmin model was found to have a profound influence on designing hydraulic fracture simulation. Further, pore size distribution and specific surface area value SN2 were derived from low-pressure gas adsorption experiments. These physical properties along with weak mineral components were linked with creep constitutive parameters to understand the physical mechanisms of creep. A strong correlation was noted between SN2 and creep parameters n and B. Finally, an attempt was made to investigate how gas shale composition and failure frictional properties can influence shear fracturing.
Impact of hemicelluloses and crystal size on X-ray scattering from atomistic models of cellulose microfibrils
Authors: Zitting Aleksi , Paajanen Antti , Penttilä Paavo A.
Published: July 2023

X-ray scattering methods allow efficient characterization of cellulosic materials, but interpreting their results is challenging. By creating molecular dynamics models of cellulose microfibrils and calculating the scattering from them, we investigated how different properties of the structures affect their scattering intensities. We studied the effects of hemicelluloses and crystal size on small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, WAXS). Microfibril models with and without surface-bound hemicelluloses were built based on the chemical composition of spruce secondary cell walls. The effect of fibril size was investigated by comparing the scattering from fibrils with 14 to 40 cellulose chains. The hemicelluloses appeared in the SAXS region as an increase in the fibril radius and as a clear contribution of a shell around the fibril. The hemicelluloses also increased the crystal size as determined from the broadening of the 200 diffraction peak of cellulose $$\textrm{I}_\upbeta$$

I
β

. The SAXS and WAXS analysis provided consistent estimates for the size of the microfibrils, and their special features and challenges were discussed. In particular, the results of 18-chain microfibrils were consistent with prior experimental results. Carrying out the simulations in wet and dry environments had the most pronounced effect on fibrils with a hemicellulose coating. Twisting of the fibril had very little impact on most properties, except for a minor effect on the WAXS peaks. The results allow for more correct interpretation of experimental scattering results, leading to more accurate descriptions of microfibril structures in natural and processed cellulosic materials.
Between death and suffering: resolving the gamer’s dilemma
Authors: Coghlan Thomas , Cox Damian
Published: July 2023

The gamer’s dilemma, initially proposed by Luck (Ethics and Information Technology 11(1):31–36, 2009) posits a moral comparison between in-game acts of murder and in-game acts of paedophilia within single-player videogames. Despite each activity lacking the obvious harms of their real-world equivalents, common intuitions suggest an important difference between them. Some responses to the dilemma suggest that intuitive responses to the two cases are based on important differences between the acts themselves or their social meaning. Others challenge the fundamental assumptions of the dilemma. In this paper, we identify and explore key imaginative and emotional differences in how certain types of in-game violence are experienced by players, consider how these differences factor into the moral lives of players, and use these insights to resolve the dilemma. The view we develop is that the key moral emotion in offensive video gameplay is self-repugnance. This is not repugnance of the act one directs a game character to perform in the game, nor repugnance of the character one plays. It is repugnance of oneself in playing the game. If self-repugnance is a fitting emotional response to playing a videogame, then this is prima facie grounds for thinking it is wrong to play the videogame. Our approach to the gamer’s dilemma is to distinguish the fittingness conditions of self-repugnance from the fittingness conditions of other moral emotions as they pertain to playing videogames. We argue that because of the virtual character of the actions performed in video games, self-repugnance is a fitting response to particular kinds of offensive gameplay. On the other hand, in-game murder is not invariably a fitting ground for self-repugnance. We argue that this difference is grounded in imaginative responses to the harm of death and the harms of profound suffering. Our task is to explain and justify this difference in fittingness conditions and use this to resolve the gamer’s dilemma.
Digital Transformation Stands Alongside Inclusive Education: Lessons Learned from a Project Called “Waking Up in the Morning”
Authors: Kaimara Polyxeni
Published: July 2023

The right of people with special educational needs and disabilities to be educated alongside their typically developing peers is a fundamental human right protected by national laws and international conventions. However, education systems around the world still face the challenge of providing effective education for all children and young people. Nowadays, academic research on the implementation of inclusive education has shifted from “where” students should be educated to “what” and “how” they should be taught. Although teachers express willingness to implement inclusive education pedagogy, they nevertheless state that they lack educational materials and even encounter difficulties in creating their educational resources due to a lack of expertise. In this context and under the current research imperatives in inclusive education regarding the benefits of digital transformation, an inclusive transmedia application based on gamification techniques, called “Waking Up In the Morning” (WUIM), was designed and developed to supply an integrated educational method that can be applied in inclusive learning environments. The purpose of WUIM providing content for teaching Activities of Daily Living is to emphasize the participatory design for developing inclusive learning materials, while also using formative assessment elements that actively engage end-user. The conclusions of the formative assessment were drawn from the data collected to answer the main research question: “Can educational applications, based on transmedia learning principles, cutting-edge technology and game elements support inclusive education?“. Since for every educational innovation, it is necessary to identify teachers’ opinions about it, two parallel surveys were conducted on teachers’ attitudes towards inclusive education and digital games for learning and teaching. Based on the results, it can be concluded that teachers were hesitant in both cases, a reluctance that was not solely driven by ideological barriers but also by a lack of training in educational practices. This work highlights the lessons learned about teachers’ attitudes regarding inclusive education and digital educational games, the pedagogical foundations of game design, the power of transdisciplinary teamwork, and the affordances of virtual reality, augmented reality and digital games to support education and treatment of individuals with special educational needs and/or disabilities in inclusive settings.
LGBT+ Self-Identification Among Youth in Ireland Aged 17-18 Years: A Research Brief
Authors: Ceatha Nerilee , Gates Gary J. , Crowley Des
Published: July 2023

In 2016, for the first time, a nationally representative survey of 6216 respondents, Growing Up in Ireland (GUI), included measurement of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) among young people. Irish LGBTI+ youth and inclusion strategies identified collection of SOGI data as a policy objective, prioritizing analyses of GUI. In line with policy objectives, this research brief reports previously unpublished LGBT+ self-identification for youth in Ireland from Cohort ’98 born five years after decriminalization of homosexuality, with their coming-of-age coinciding with the marriage equality referendum, and legislation providing for greater gender recognition (2015). Ten percent of youth in Ireland, at 17-18 years, identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, asexual or describe their gender as other. Female youth are significantly more likely to identify as a sexual minority, and to be bisexual than their male peers. A quarter of LGBT+ youth are questioning their sexual orientation. This finding supports the inclusion of a ‘questioning’ response in surveys collecting SOGI data, and also suggests sexual orientation self-identification is a dynamic process. A small percentage identify as asexual (0.2%). Just over 1% of young people identify as transgender or describe their gender as other. As the first generation in Ireland to grow up in an environment with increased LGBT+ visibility and social acceptance, these findings of a relatively high proportion of sexual and gender minorities among young people likely reflect improved social and legal climates. The importance of publication of SOGI estimates is underscored. GUI are committed to ensuring visibility of LGBT+ youth populations in data collection. Suggestions for improved SOGI placement and phrasing will be considered in the questionnaire with Cohort ’08 at age 17, currently being drafted. The findings from these analyses will inform future policy and research. GUI offers rich possibilities for future comparative cross-cohort analyses.