bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germline sequencing in men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer from the BARCODE2 study reveals a wide range of pathogenic variants in DNA repair genes
Authors: Benafif Sarah , Jones Ann-Britt , Merson Susan , Rageevakumar Reshma , McGrowder Eva , Tyler Matthew , Cafferty Fay , Hogben Matthew , Hussain Nafisa , Bancroft Elizabeth , Reid Alison , Wakerell Sarah , Karlsson Questa , Saunders Edward , Whitmore Ian , Sorensen Karina Dalsgaard , Dennis Nening , Black Evie , Wood Angela , Richards Kate , Lees Kathryn , Perna Carla , Falconer Alison , Mills Jamie , Hughes Robert , Kumar Shiyam , Mikropoulos Christos , Burnett Stephanie , Attard Gerhardt , Hall Emma , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Eeles Ros
Published: February 2024

Background

The presence of germline mutations plays an increasingly important role in risk assessment and treatment of prostate cancer (PrCa). Screening for high-risk mutations in subsets of patients is becoming routine. We explore the prevalence of germline genetic mutations in men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) recruited to the BARCODE2 trial.

Methods

The BARCODE2 trial is a two-part study investigating the response to carboplatin chemotherapy in mCRPC patients carrying a germline variant in a DNA repair gene (DRG). We report interim data from Part 1, in which participants are recruited for germline genetic testing using a customised next-generation sequencing panel consisting of 115 genes.

Results

These interim results (N = 220) demonstrate a similar frequency of germline DRG variants in mCRPC patients compared with previously published data (15% detection rate). No significant clinical differences were identified between all carriers and non-carriers, though BRCA2/ATM carriers were found to have a shorter time to mCRPC diagnosis.

Conclusions

Germline pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in BRCA2 and ATM genes are associated with a shorter time to progression and rarer P/LP variants in other DRG genes may play a role in mCRPC. This justifies the use of routine screening of men with advanced PrCa for germline variants and supports the need for an expanded panel test.
Piezoelectric properties of (Sr0.2Ca0.8)3TaGa3Si2O14 and Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 single crystals grown via vertical Bridgman method
Authors: Ai Lei , Sun Zhigang , Jiang Linwen , Pan Jianguo , Zheng Yanqing , Pan Shangke
Published: February 2024

(Sr0.2Ca0.8)3TaGa3Si2O14 and Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 single crystals were successfully grown using the vertical Bridgman method, and the piezoelectric properties of these crystals were studied.
Review of low-cost self-driving laboratories in chemistry and materials science: the “frugal twin” concept
Authors: Lo Stanley , Baird Sterling G. , Schrier Joshua , Blaiszik Ben , Carson Nessa , Foster Ian , Aguilar-Granda Andrés , Kalinin Sergei V. , Maruyama Benji , Politi Maria , Tran Helen , Sparks Taylor D. , Aspuru-Guzik Alán
Published: February 2024

Low-cost self-driving labs (SDLs) offer faster prototyping, low-risk hands-on experience, and a test bed for sophisticated experimental planning software which helps us develop state-of-the-art SDLs.
AF4-MALS-SP ICP-ToF-MS analysis gives insight into nature of HgSe nanoparticles formed by cetaceans
Authors: Paton Lhiam , Moro Thebny Thaíse , Lockwood Thomas , de Andrade Maranhão Tatiane , Gössler Gerhard , Clases David , Feldmann Jörg
Published: February 2024

Hg : Se atomic ratios in NPs formed in whales were constant with increasing particle size. The NPs also incorporated other metals (Cd, Sn) indicating that this process may not act exclusively as a MeHg detoxification process.
Effects of collagen hydrolysates on UV-induced photoaging mice: Gly-Pro-Hyp as a potent anti-photoaging peptide
Authors: Yang Danyin , Liu Qi , Xu Qiongyao , Zheng Lin , Zhang Silu , Lu Shan , Xiao Guoxun , Zhao Mouming
Published: February 2024

Collagen hydrolysates with a higher content of Gly-Pro-Xaa tripeptides (HCH) exhibited stronger anti-photoaging effects. Gly-Pro-Hyp, which might be one of the contributors in HCH, displayed comparable potent activities to HCH.
Decreasing the effect of soil particle size on heavy metal measurement stability using a method involving laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and solid-phase conversion
Authors: Song Changbo , Lin Peng , Ma Shixiang , Xu Fanghao , Wen Xuelin , Fu Xinglan , Dong Daming
Published: February 2024

A solid-phase method for soil treatment combined with LIBS, which has high stability and good quantitative effect.
Evaluation of two core–shell (Ag2S@- and Bi2S3@-) sensors based on a metal–organic framework (NH2-MIL-125-Ti)/polyaniline for the electroanalysis of uric acid in urine samples
Authors: Deffo Gullit , Fotsop Cyrille Ghislain , Ngaha Marcel Cédric Deussi , Fogang Sengor Gabou , Vomo Lionnel Averie , Nkuigoua Bibiane Wandji , Shella Calmette Akenmo , Somba Alex Vincent , Tene Thierry Flavien Nde , Tchummegne Ida Kouam , Njanja Evangeline , Tonlé Ignas Kenfack , Puzari Panchanan , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

Chemical sensors for the determination of uric acid (UA) in human urine samples have been developed using a composite material based on two core–shells (Ag2S@- and Bi2S3@-) coated with a metal–organic framework (NH2-MIL-125-Ti) and polyaniline (PANI).
Effect of a novel drying method based on supercritical carbon dioxide on the physicochemical properties of sorghum proteins
Authors: Sadaf Nafisa , Tuhanioglu Arda , Hettiarachchy Navam , Ubeyitogullari Ali
Published: February 2024

The aim of this research was to use supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) drying as a novel approach for generating sorghum protein concentrates/isolates with enhanced functional properties.
Preparation of high-performance anti-aging polypropylene by modified nano-TiO2 and calcium sulfate whisker grafted acrylonitrile composite PP
Authors: Cong Shanshan , Lan Tianyu , Wang Yazhen , Zu Liwu , Dong Shaobo , Zhang Zuoyuan
Published: February 2024

High-performance polypropylene was prepared by grafting acrylonitrile onto TiO2 and CSW surfaces by suspension polymerization.
Recent developments in ionophore-based potentiometric electrochemical sensors for oceanic carbonate detection
Authors: Toala Stefanny N. , Sun Zhentao , Yue Yanfeng , Gonski Stephen F. , Cai Wei-Jun
Published: February 2024

The increasing oceanic absorption of atmospheric CO2 decreases the ocean's carbonate and pH levels, harming marine life. This review covers carbonate electrochemical sensors based on ionophores for the advancement of ocean acidification research.
A comparative techno-economic assessment of blue, green, and hybrid ammonia production in the United States
Authors: Mersch Matthias , Sunny Nixon , Dejan Roghayeh , Ku Anthony Y. , Wilson Gregory , O'Reilly Sean , Soloveichik Grigorii , Wyatt John , Mac Dowell Niall
Published: February 2024

Low-carbon ammonia competitive with conventional process with policy support. Novel hybrid processes and biomethane integration can offer additional benefits.
High-power recycling: upcycling to the next generation of high-power anodes for Li-ion battery applications
Authors: Green A. J. , Driscoll E. H. , Anderson P. A. , Kendrick E. , Slater P. R.
Published: February 2024

Upcycling current high power electrodes (Li4Ti5O12) towards the next generation of titanium niobium oxide materials, while reclaiming a critical element: lithium.
Discovery of new cocrystals beyond serendipity: lessons learned from successes and failures
Authors: Wong Si Nga , Fu Minqi , Li Si , Kwok Wan Tung Candice , Chow Stephanie , Low Kam-Hung , Chow Shing Fung
Published: February 2024

A holistic understanding of reaction kinetics, the presence of catalysts, and annealing conditions can advance and accelerate the screening of elusive cocrystals, expediting the development of novel drug cocrystals for future clinical use.
Low-temperature aqueous solution growth of the acousto-optic TeO2 single crystals
Authors: Han Lu , Liu Chao , Wang Xiaoli , Li Feiyu , Fan Chuanyan , Zhang Junjie
Published: February 2024

We report for the first time the growth of high-quality single crystals of acousto-optic α-TeO2 using an aqueous solution method.
Ir(iii)/Ag(i)-catalyzed directly C–H amidation of arenes with OH-free hydroxyamides as amidating agents
Authors: Zuo Youpeng , Liu Meijun , Du Jun , Zhang Tianren , Wang Xiaoqing , Wang Cong
Published: February 2024

A versatile Ir(iii)-catalyzed C–H amidation of arenes by employing readily available and stable OH-free hydroxyamides as a novel amidation source.
Microwave-pulse synthesis of tunable 2D porous nickel-enriched LaMnxNi1−xO3 solid solution for efficient electrocatalytic urea oxidation
Authors: Wu Zhiao , Xian Jinglin , Dai Jiao , Fang Guangyu , Fan Miao , Tian Haoran , Guo Jiayue , Huang Zhenhui , Jiang Huiyu , Xu Weilin , Wan Jun
Published: February 2024

This work proposes a microwave-pulse method for rapidly synthesizing highly tunable 2D porous nickel-enriched LaMnxNi1−xO3 for a comprehensive understanding of UOR activity mechanisms.
Modality Synchronization When People With Aphasia Read With Text-to-Speech Support
Authors: Hux Karen , Knollman-Porter Kelly , Wallace Sarah E. , Bevelhimer Andrew , Singh Yutika
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology potentially benefits people with aphasia by presenting content through two modalities simultaneously; however, for this to help, eye fixations must synchronize with the auditory rendition of words. Researchers have yet to explore how often and to what extent people with aphasia achieve modality synchronization. This retrospective analysis examined the percent of words people with aphasia see and hear concurrently when reading passages presented via TTS technology.

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology potentially benefits people with aphasia by presenting content through two modalities simultaneously; however, for this to help, eye fixations must synchronize with the auditory rendition of words. Researchers have yet to explore how often and to what extent people with aphasia achieve modality synchronization. This retrospective analysis examined the percent of words people with aphasia see and hear concurrently when reading passages presented via TTS technology.

Method:

Nine adults with aphasia had their eye movements tracked while processing TTS passages at a preselected default rate of 150 words per minute. Modality synchronization occurred whenever fixation on a written word occurred during the time span beginning 300 ms before auditory presentation and ending at the next word's initiation. Correlations between standardized test scores, unsupported reading rate, and modality synchronization percentages were informative about the association of aphasia and reading impairment severity with achievement of synchronicity.

Results:

Three participants demonstrated consistent modality synchronization; average synchronicity ranged from 67% to 76% of passage words. One participant displayed inconsistent synchronization within passages and achieved an average of 58%. The remaining five participants rarely achieved synchronization, with fixations typically lagging substantially behind the auditory presentation. A significant positive correlation occurred between paragraph reading comprehension test scores and modality synchronization percentages.

Conclusions:

A default TTS presentation rate does not result in dual modality synchronization for most people with aphasia. This lack of synchronization may contribute to inconsistencies in the benefit people with aphasia experience when provided with TTS support.
Identifying Relevant Concepts for the Development of a Communicative Participation Item Bank for Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Existing Instruments
Authors: Alons Eline , Brauner Laurien , Luinge Margreet , Terwee Caroline B. , van Ewijk Lizet , Gerrits Ellen
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

This study aims to systematically identify items that measure communicative participation from measurement instruments that measure (aspects of) communication and/or participation in children and adolescents (5–18 years old) with communication disorders, for developing an item bank.

Method:

A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE and Embase to search for patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) or parent reports measuring aspects of communication and/or participation in children and adolescents. The individual items of the included measurement instruments were reviewed on whether they measure communicative participation. The items were then classified into one of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) for Children and Youth (World Health Organization, 2007) domains of activities and participation.

Results:

A total of 29 instruments were found, nine PROMs and 20 parent reports. One hundred forty-five items were identified that measure communicative participation. From these 145 items, 74 were retrieved from PROMs (51%), and 71 were retrieved from parent reports (49%). The majority of items were classified in ICF Domain 7, interpersonal interactions and relationships (73.8%), followed by Domain 8, major life areas (13.8%), and Domain 9, community, social, and civic life (8.3%). Only a few items were found in Domains 5 and 6, and none was found in Domains 1, 2, and 4.

Conclusions:

We identified 145 items potentially useful for developing an item bank addressing communicative participation in children and adolescents with communication disorders. However, item development in collaboration with the target population is needed to ensure that these items fully reflect the construct.
Autoencoder based image quality metric for modelling semantic noise in semantic communications
Authors: Samarathunga Prabath , Fernando Thanuj , Gowrisetty Vishnu , Atulugama Thisarani , Fernando Anil
Published: February 2024

Semantic communication has attracted significant attention as a key technology for emerging 6G communications. This paper proposes an autoencoder based image quality metric to quantify the semantic noise. An autoencoder is initially trained with the reference image to generate the encoder‐decoder model and calculate its Latent Vector Space (LVS) and then a semantically generated/received image is inserted into the same autoencoder to create the corresponding LVS. Finally, both LVS are used to define the Euclidean space to calculate the mean square error between two LVS. Results indicate that the proposed model has a high correlation coefficient of 88% with subjective quality assessment and commonly used conventional metrics completely failed in semantic noise modelling.
Handshake mechanism selection in MANETs with directional antennas: A new evaluation view
Authors: Xu Huiyuan , Liu Youjiang , Liu Yu , Cao Tao , Yang Dalong
Published: February 2024

Handshake mechanism plays a significant role in neighbour discovery (ND) algorithms in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) with directional antennas. In this letter, aiming at 1) the MANET scenario of uniformly‐distributed nodes and 2) the random beam‐scanning manner, the upper and lower bounds of ND time of the network are theoretically derived for both 1‐way and 2‐way. This analysis indicates that the ND time is approximately linear growth with NDT‐Mutual, where the NDT‐Mutual is defined as the expected time for a node to complete mutual discovery with its neighbours. Then the theoretical expression for NDT‐mutual is derived, which is a function of the number of nodes. The asymptotic analysis reveals that when the number of nodes is very small, the NDT‐mutual of 2‐way is lower than 1‐way, while 1‐way performs better when the number of nodes approaches infinity. The number of nodes when 1‐way and 2‐way perform as well is further presented, which can be utilized to guide the selection of handshake mechanism in MANETs with directional antennas. Simulation results demonstrate the accuracy of our modelling for ND and the effectiveness of using NDT‐mutual to approximate who performs better with 1‐way and 2‐way.
A multiple waveguide invariant estimation method based on the warping transform and variational mode decomposition
Authors: Wang Shoudong , Gao Wei , Li Xiaolei
Published: February 2024

A multiple waveguide invariant (β) estimation method based on the warping transform and variational mode decomposition (VMD) from one‐dimensional broadband interference sound intensity (BISI) is presented. Firstly, an average β is estimated based on the low‐rank property of the Hankel matrix constructed by BISI. Secondly, the warping principle is used to transform BISI into a warped one. Thirdly, the conventional VMD can be used to effectively decompose the warped BISI. Finally, multiple β can be estimated, respectively. Traditional β estimation methods are based on a two‐dimensional acoustic interference pattern, whose acquisition depends on the horizontal array. This method reduces the data dimensionality of the multivalued β estimation problem without requiring any environmental prior information and is applicable to single hydrophone scenarios. The effectiveness of the presented method is validated by numerical simulation.
A robust optimization approach for resiliency improvement in power distribution system
Authors: Abshirini Reza , Najafi Mojtaba , Pirkolachahi Naghi Moaddabi
Published: February 2024

The occurrence of natural disasters has led to an alarming increase in power interruptions, with severe impacts. Compounding this problem is the uncertain nature of data, which presents significant challenges in enhancing the resiliency of power distribution systems following such events. To tackle these issues, this paper introduces a robust optimization approach for improving the resiliency of power distribution systems. The approach encompasses crew teams for switching actions as part of the restoration process, along with demand response programs and mobile generators (MGs). By simultaneously leveraging these elements and considering the uncertainty associated with electrical load and electrical price, the resiliency of the system is enhanced. The objective function is tri‐level, comprising minimum, maximum, and minimum functions. At the first level, the approach minimizes the cost of commitment of combined heat and power plants (CHPs) by taking into account the location of MGs and the reconfiguration structure in power distribution systems. The second level aims to identify the worst‐case scenario for the uncertainty variables. Finally, the third level focuses on minimizing the total operation cost under the worst‐case scenario using demand response programs. The proposed algorithm is implemented on an IEEE 33‐bus test distribution system, with four different cases investigated.
Design of a novel neuro‐adaptive excitation control system for power systems
Authors: Sonfack Lionel Leroy , Kuate‐Fochie René , Fombu Andrew Muluh , Douanla Rostand Marc , Njomo Arnaud Flanclair Tchouani , Kenné Godpromesse
Published: February 2024

This manuscript proposes a robust excitation control strategy for synchronous generators using backstepping theory and an artificial neural network with a radial basis function to improve power system performance during disturbances and parametric uncertainties. The artificial neural network is used to estimate unmeasurable quantities and unknown internal parameters of a recursive backstepping control. Lyapunov theory is used to carry out the stability analysis and to deduce the online adaptation laws of artificial neural network parameters (weights, centres and widths). To validate the performance of this approach, simulations are performed on an IEEE 9 bus multi‐machine power system. Different test results, compared with those of an existing non‐linear adaptive controller, confirm the high robustness of the proposed method against disturbances and uncertainties.
Update of quality control tests for new PV encapsulation materials
Authors: Lust Sandra , Weber Thomas , Kuntamukkula Shiva Ram , Mordvinkin Anton , Wendt Michael
Published: February 2024

Although ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) is still the dominant PV encapsulant, polyolefins (PO) have gained market share in recent years. Like EVA, PO can be mixed with a cross-linking agent and chemically reacted during the lamination process to form polyolefin elastomers (POE). The cross-linked and therefore insoluble fraction of the encapsulation can be determined by extracting the soluble part of the material with a solvent. The degree of cross-linking, or gel content (GC), is determined from the mass ratio before and after extraction of the samples. The analytical methods for determining the GC value are described for example in IEC 62788-1-6 and the Chinese national standard GB/T29848-2018. We observe a significant difference between the test results of these two standards, with the GC values resulting from the GB standard test being significantly higher. This is particularly true in the low GC range. The main reason for this difference is the extraction time of 5 h specified in the GB standard, which is insufficient to ensure complete extraction of the non-crosslinked polymers at lower GC values. However, for certain POE materials the required minimum GC (50%-65%) is exactly in this range.
Collared versus collarless hydroxyapatite-coated stems for primary cementless total hip arthroplasty; a systematic review of comparative studies. Is there any difference in survival, functional, and radiographic outcomes?
Authors: Giovanoulis Vasileios , Kenanidis Eustathios , Aïm Florence , Gamie Zakareya , Marmor Simon , Potoupnis Michael , Lustig Sébastien , Tsiridis Eleftherios
Published: February 2024

Introduction: This systematic review aims to critically assess the literature comparative studies investigating collared and collarless Corail stem in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) to find differences in revision rates, radiographic and clinical outcomes, and postoperative complications between these two types of the same stem. Methods: Eligible studies were found by searching PubMed, Science Direct/Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from conception till May 2023. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The investigation encompassed randomized controlled trials, case series, comparative, cohort, and observational studies that assessed at least one comparative outcome or complication between collared and collarless Corail stems. Results: Twelve comparative studies with 90,626 patients undergoing primary THA were included. There were 40,441 collared and 58,543 collarless stems. The follow-up ranged from 12 to 360 months. Our study demonstrated no significant difference in stem revision relative risk (RR = 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.23, 2.02; p = 0.49), number of radiolucent lines (RR = 0.3; 95% CI, 0.06, 2.28; p = 0.29) and overall complication risk (RR = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.22, 1.76; p = 0.37) between collared and collarless stems. The collared stems demonstrated significantly lesser subsidence (mean difference: 1.01 mm; 95% CI, −1.77, −0.25; p = 0.009) and risk of periprosthetic fractures (RR = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.29, 0.92; p = 0.03). Conclusion: The comparative studies between collared and collarless stem groups showed similar survival and overall complication rates and functional outcomes. The similar revision rates between groups make the impact of higher subsidence for collarless stems uncertain. The lower risk of periprosthetic fractures in the collared stems group must be clarified further but could be related to increased rotational stability.
Virtuelle Realität bei chronischen Schmerzen in der
Physiotherapie
Authors: Lange Marina , Köllmann Alyona , van Züren Jost , Petry Jennifer , Schäfer Axel
Published: February 2024

Chronischer Schmerz (CS) betrifft weltweit bis zu 40% der Menschen und
geht mit einer hohen Krankheitslast und negativen sozioökonomischen
Folgen einher. Eine adäquate Versorgung mit Schmerztherapie ist
häufig nicht möglich oder erfolgt zu spät. Virtuelle
Realität (VR) kann als Unterstützung der kognitiven und
psychologischen Komponenten einer Schmerztherapie eingesetzt werden.

Ziel der Studie war es, die Effekte von VR auf gesundheitsbezogene Endpunkte und
das subjektive Erleben von VR unter den Bedingungen der ambulanten
Physiotherapie in Deutschland zu untersuchen. Dazu wurde eine experimentelle
Einzelfallstudie im AB-Design mit Follow-up durchgeführt.
Zusätzlich wurde ein leitfadengestütztes episodisches Interview
geführt. Qualitative und quantitative Daten wurden trianguliert.

Es wurden keine signifikanten Veränderungen der primären
Endpunkte festgestellt. Deskriptiv zeigten sich klinisch relevante
Verbesserungen in den sekundären patientenberichteten Endpunkten. Im
Interview berichtete der Proband von einer subjektiven Verbesserung des
Wohlbefindens bei einer leicht reduzierten Schmerzwahrnehmung. Mithilfe der
VR-Therapie konnte er die Einstellung zu seinem Schmerz verändern.
Ablenkungs- und Entspannungstechniken, die mittels VR geübt wurden,
wurden als besonders hilfreich empfunden. Aktivitäten wurden weniger
durch den Schmerz beeinflusst und die Medikamenteneinnahme konnte reduziert
werden.

Die Umsetzung der VR-Intervention verlief wie geplant, es wurden keine
strukturellen oder personellen Barrieren beobachtet. In der subjektiven
Wahrnehmung des Probanden wurde die VR-Intervention als vorteilhaft erlebt. Die
VR-Intervention könnte somit eine vielversprechende Ergänzung
zur physiotherapeutischen Versorgung von Menschen mit CS darstellen.
„Zuhören ist das Wichtigste“ –
Interview mit Prof. Dr. Annina Schmid
Authors: Schmid Annina , Gränicher Pascale , Bessler Johannes
Published: February 2024

Von der Schweiz nach Oxford, von der Ausbildung zur Physiotherapeutin zur
Professorin für „Pain Neurosciences” – der
Werdegang von Prof. Dr. Annina Schmid ist beeindruckend. Wir wollten wissen, wie
sich ihre tägliche Arbeit in der Forschung zu Kompressionsneuropathien
gestaltet, was sie begeistert und wo sie die Physiotherapie-Forschung in 10
Jahren sieht.
Unsere „IFOMPT 2024 Special Edition“
Authors: Schwarz Joachim
Published: February 2024

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

im Juni 2024 findet die Konferenz der IFOMPT (International Federation of Orthopaedic
Manipulative Physical Therapists) im schweizerischen Basel statt. Thieme und
insbesondere die MSK unterstützen diese Veranstaltung, die vom svomp
(Schweizerischer Verband Orthopädischer Muskuloskelettaler Physiotherapie)
organisiert wird – wir freuen uns, als Medienpartner mit an Bord zu
sein!
Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: The State-of-the-Art on Anticoagulant Treatment
Authors: Custo Scott , Tabone Emma , Aquilina Alexia , Gatt Alex , Riva Nicoletta
Published: February 2024

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a rare type of venous thromboembolism occurring within the splanchnic venous system. Portal vein thrombosis is the most common presentation, while Budd–Chiari syndrome is the least common. Liver cirrhosis and abdominal solid cancer are the main local risk factors for SVT, whereas myeloproliferative neoplasms are the predominant systemic risk factors. Signs and symptoms of SVT are nonspecific and include abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and ascites. Asymptomatic SVT is not uncommon, and the majority would be detected incidentally on routine abdominal imaging performed for the follow-up of liver diseases and tumors. The management of SVT aims to prevent thrombus progression, promote vessel recanalization, and prevent recurrent venous thromboembolism. Anticoagulation should be started early in order to increase the chances of vessel recanalization and reduce the risk of portal hypertension-related complications. Direct oral anticoagulants have been included in recent guidelines, as alternatives to vitamin K antagonists, after clinical stability has been reached; however, caution is required in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction. Treatment duration is based on the presence (or absence) and type (transient vs. permanent) of risk factors. This narrative review aims to summarize the latest evidence on SVT, with a particular focus on the anticoagulant treatment in special categories of patients (e.g., liver cirrhosis, solid cancer, myeloproliferative neoplasms, pancreatitis, incidentally detected SVT, Budd–Chiari syndrome, and chronic SVT).
Idiopathische subglottische Tracheastenose
Authors: Stoelben Erich
Published: February 2024

Die idiopathische subglottische Stenose ist eine zirkuläre narbige Einengung des Atemweges am Übergang vom Ringknorpel auf die Trachea. Die Stenose befindet sich radiologisch und endoskopisch im Niveau des Ringknorpels ohne Beteiligung des Ring- oder Tracheaknorpels selbst. Die Erkrankung befällt praktisch nur Frauen zwischen dem 20. und 60. Lebensjahr. Dasselbe Krankheitsbild tritt bei der Granulomatose mit Polyangiitis und seltener bei anderen Autoimmunerkrankungen auf und erfordert dort eine systemische Behandlung. Die Klinik beginnt i. d. R. schleichend mit Husten und Auswurf und führt im Verlauf zu Dyspnoe und zu einem eingeschränkten Hustenstoß. Da der Verlauf schleichend ist und die Patientinnen sonst gesund sind, werden die Beschwerden oft fehlgedeutet und die Diagnose wird verzögert. Die Behandlung besteht in lokalen Maßnahmen von der Dilatation über die laserchirurgische Resektion, z. T. mit lokaler Applikation von Medikamenten, die eine Proliferation von neuem
Narbengewebe hemmen sollen, bis zur laryngotrachealen Resektion verschiedenen Ausmaßes. Die Erkrankung liegt im Grenzgebiet zwischen Trachea und Larynx und die Patienten und Patientinnen werden deshalb von der HNO-Heilkunde, der Pneumologie und der Thoraxchirurgie betreut.
The Relevance of Integrating CYP2C19 Phenoconversion Effects into
Clinical Pharmacogenetics
Authors: Scherf-Clavel Maike , Weber Heike , Unterecker Stefan , Frantz Amelie , Eckert Andreas , Reif Andreas , Deckert Jürgen , Hahn Martina
Published: February 2024

Introduction CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 functional status as defined by genotype
is modulated by phenoconversion (PC) due to pharmacokinetic interactions. As of
today, there is no data on the effect size of PC for CYP2C19 functional status.
The primary aim of this study was to investigate the impact of PC on CYP2C19
functional status.

Methods Two patient cohorts (total n=316; 44.2±15.4 years)
were investigated for the functional enzyme status of CYP2C19 applying two
different correction methods (PCBousman,
PCHahn&Roll) as well as serum concentration and
metabolite-to-parent ratio of venlafaxine, amitriptyline, mirtazapine,
sertraline, escitalopram, risperidone, and quetiapine.

Results There was a decrease in the number of normal metabolizers of
CYP2C19 and an increase in the number of poor metabolizers. When controlled for
age, sex, and, in the case of amitriptyline, venlafaxine, and risperidone,
CYP2D6 functional enzyme status, an association was observed between the CYP2C19
phenotype/functional enzyme status and serum concentration of
amitriptyline, sertraline, and escitalopram.

Discussion PC of CYP2C19 changes phenotypes but does not improve
correlations with serum concentrations. However, only a limited number of
patients received perturbators of CYP2C19. Studies with large numbers of
patients are still lacking, and thus, it cannot be decided if there are minor
differences and which method of correction to use. For the time being, PC is
relevant in individual patients treated with CYP2C19-affecting drugs, for
example, esomeprazole. To ensure adequate serum concentrations in these
patients, this study suggests the use of therapeutic drug monitoring.
Die psychiatrische Rehabilitation in der DDR vor dem Hintergrund
sowjetischer Einflüsse
Authors: Krasselt Alexandra , Steinberg Holger
Published: February 2024

Die Studie trägt Entwicklungen und lokale Modelle psychiatrischer
Rehabilitation der DDR und der UdSSR zusammen. Nach dem Zweiten Weltkrieg
konzentrierte sich diese auf die Krankenhäuser selbst. Als wichtige
Anregungen erwiesen sich in der DDR die Rodewischer und die Brandenburger Thesen
sowie die „Konzeption zur Verbesserung der Betreuung psychisch Kranker
nach 1980“. Die Durchsicht der DDR-Primärliteratur zeigt, dass
oft sowjetische Konzepte rezipiert worden sind. Hier wie dort sah man Etappen-,
Kontinuitäts- und Sektorisierungsprinzipien als Voraussetzung
für den Erfolg. Übergangseinrichtungen, wie psychoneurologische
Dispensaires, arbeitstherapeutische/geschützte
Werkstätten, befürsorgte Wohnmöglichkeiten,
therapeutische Klubs, Tages- und Nachtkliniken, wurden geschaffen. Ausgelagerte
Arbeitstherapie sollte den Übergang in die Arbeitswelt erleichtern. So
wurde in der DDR während der 1970er- und 1980er-Jahre ein hoher
Beschäftigungsgrad psychisch Kranker in der Wirtschaft erreicht.
Are β-Lactones Involved in Carbon-Based Olefination Reactions?
Authors: Barbasiewicz Michał , Nowak Jan , Tryniszewski Michał
Published: February 2024

Heteroatom-based olefinating reagents (e.g., organic phosphonates, sulfonates, etc.) are used to transform carbonyl compounds into alkenes, and their mechanism of action involves aldol-type addition, cyclization, and fragmentation of four-membered ring intermediates. We have developed an analogous process using ethyl 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropyl methylmalonate, which converts electrophilic aryl aldehydes into α-methylcinnamates in up to 70% yield. The reaction plausibly proceeds through the formation of β-lactone that spontaneously decarboxylates under the reaction conditions. The results shed light on the Knoevenagel–Doebner olefination, for which decarboxylative anti-fragmentation of aldol-type adducts is usually considered.
Validation and Application of an Innovative Protective Group Concept: Enhancing Substrate Reactivity in Glycosylations by Disrupting Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Yano Kumpei , Yoshimoto Takuya , Manabe Yoshiyuki , Fukase Koichi , Tsutsui Masato
Published: February 2024

We have established an innovative protective approach that disrupts intermolecular interactions to enhance substrate reactivity. Specifically, diacetylimide protection of acetamide prevents the formation of hydrogen bonds, while the incorporation of tert-butyl groups on the aromatic protecting group disrupts π-stacking interactions, both of which culminate in heightened reactivity in glycosylations. We explored the synergistic implementation of these protective measures and applied them to the synthesis of 6-sulfo sialyl Lewis X.
Revolutionizing Dental Health Care: An In-Depth Exploration of Technological Advancements
Authors: Bharadwaj R. Sumukh , Kalgeri Sowmya Halasabalu , Shivakumar Ashwini Tumkur , Doddawad Vidya , Shankar Parinitha Mysore , B. Sunil Kumar B.
Published: February 2024

The present scenario caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic—and the recession in the dental industry—a newer approach modality is on every dentist's mind. As the future is always questionable in the present situation, we can expect remarkable changes in the dental field, which will revolutionize dental health care facilities worldwide. Several upcoming trends are introduced every year. Recent studies demonstrate that in the future dental field will be presented with exciting new technologies, improved business practices, and novel ways to optimize patient experience, and even nanorobotic dentistry will be in practice.

Future dentistry is expected to have more innovation as it is adopting the latest technologies and facilitating the growth of global dentistry. This is because the increasing frequency of the treatment of dental disorders and related risk factors, combined with the introduction of advanced technology will be some of the major factors driving technological growth over the next few years.

This article communicates the newer changes taking place in dentistry which will have an impact on the future dental field.
An Unusual Cause of Increasing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in a CPAP-treated Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patient
Authors: Martinet Valerie , Sinkunaite Laura , Bruyneel Marie
Published: February 2024

The onset of narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) occurs after 50 years of age in less than 2% of the cases. In older adults, the diagnosis is often delayed due to the presence of neurological degenerative and inflammatory comorbidities and overlapping sleep disorders.

We report the case of a 63-year-old man with a 5-year history of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and a 2-year diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), which. OSAS was confirmed by respiratory polygraphy that showed an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 71 events/hour of sleep associated with significant nocturnal hypoxemia (lowest oxygen saturation: 53%), which lead to the initiation of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. Cognitive complaints, unexplained spells of dizziness, and lack of improvement in EDS with CPAP led to further diagnostic investigation of infectious, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disorders. Low hypocretin levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) confirmed the diagnosis of NT1, and the patient's symptoms improved with the treatment with pitolisant.

Though exceptional in older adults, NT1 should be suspected in the presence of atypical EDS with neurological complaints, unexplained dizzy spells, or OSAS that resists the CPAP treatment. Low levels of hypocretin in the CSF are highly specific and rule out other neurological and sleep disorders.
An Evidence-based Preoperative Evaluation Documentation Template Improves Perioperative Communication
Authors: Piao Xin , Imdieke Brian H. , Sommerness Samantha A. , Pandita Deepti
Published: February 2024

Objectives The number of surgeries performed in the United States has increased over the past two decades, with a shift to the ambulatory setting. Perioperative complications and mortality pose significant health care burdens. Inadequate preoperative assessment and documentation contribute to communication failure and poor patient outcomes. The aim of this quality improvement project was to design and implement a preoperative evaluation documentation template that not only improved communication during the perioperative pathway but also enhanced the overall user experience.

Methods We implemented a revamped evidence-based documentation template in the electronic medical records of a health care organization across three internal medicine clinics on the downtown campus and seven satellite family medicine clinics. A pre- and postintervention design was used to assess the template utilization rate and clinician satisfaction.

Results The preoperative template utilization rate increased from 51.2% at baseline to 66.5% after the revamped template “went live” (p < 0.001). Clinician satisfaction with the preoperative documentation template also significantly increased (30.6 vs. 80.0%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion Adopting a user-friendly, evidence-based documentation template can enhance the standardization of preoperative evaluation documentation and reduce the documentation burden.
Brain Tissue Oxygenation Guided Therapy in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Raghuwanshi Babita , Florez-Perdomo William A. , Mishra Rakesh , Rafael Moscote-Salazar Luis , Cincu Rafael , Agrawal Amit
Published: February 2024

The present umbrella review aims to summarize the evidence of the efficacy and benefit of combined brain tissue oxygen monitoring and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring compared with ICP monitoring based therapy alone. In this study, we systematically searched five databases to retrieve systematic reviews (SRs) regarding the efficacy of ICP monitoring on patient outcomes following traumatic brain injury (TBI). This overview was prepared following the guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) for umbrella reviews. No restrictions were placed on the date, language, or country of publication. Three SRs and meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria for the study. The SRs and meta-analyses (SR-MAs) included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Specifically, two SRs were rated as high quality by A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2), while one was rated as moderate quality. Two of the SR-MAs reported on the mortality outcome, with two reporting on the functional outcome and one reporting on the length of hospital stay outcome. One of the SRs indicated that using combined brain tissue oxygen monitoring led to a reduction in mortality. Two of the SRs had mixed results. Two articles found that hospital length tends to be shorter with combined therapy than with ICP monitoring-based therapy alone. Our observations suggested that brain tissue oxygen combined with ICP/cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) guided therapy provides a favorable outcome in TBI patients than standard ICP-/CPP-guided therapy. The combined therapy has little effect on mortality rate, ICP, CPP, and length of stay.
Factors influencing continuance intention to use mobile banking: an extended expectation-confirmation model with moderating role of trust
Authors: Nguyen Giang-Do , Dao Thu-Hien Thi
Published: February 2024

This study explores the impacts of user adaptation and its antecedents, including perceived usefulness, self-efficacy, and subjective norm on continuance intention towards mobile banking. Based on (1) extended expectation-confirmation model, (2) adaptive structuration theory for individuals, and (3) decomposed theory of planned behavior, and by incorporating user adaptation and trust perspectives, this study proposes and validates a research model by using convenient and snowball sampling techniques, face-to-face survey with a sample of 523 consumers of large banks in Vietnam. The partial least squares structural equation modeling SmartPLS 4.0 software is employed for data analysis. The research findings reveal that (1) except for subjective norm, perceived usefulness, satisfaction, adaptation, and self-efficacy significantly impact continuance intention; (2) trust moderates the relationship between adaptation and continuance intention. Theoretical and managerial implications are provided to broaden the information technology continuance literature, suggesting how banks should sustain strong relationships with mobile banking customers.
Science’s greatest discoverers: a shift towards greater interdisciplinarity, top universities and older age
Authors: Krauss Alexander
Published: February 2024

What are the unique features and characteristics of the scientists who have made the greatest discoveries in science? To address this question, we assess all major scientific discoverers, defined as all nobel-prize and major non-nobel-prize discoverers, and their demographic, institutional and economic traits. What emerges is a general profile of the scientists who have driven over 750 of science’s greatest advances. We find that interdisciplinary scientists who completed two or more degrees in different academic fields by the time of discovery made about half—54%—of all nobel-prize discoveries and 42% of major non-nobel-prize discoveries over the same period; this enables greater interdisciplinary methodological training for making new scientific achievements. Science is also becoming increasingly elitist, with scientists at the top 25 ranked universities accounting for 30% of both all nobel-prize and non-nobel-prize discoveries. Scientists over the age of 50 made only 7% of all nobel-prize discoveries and 15% of non-nobel-prize discoveries and those over the age of 60 made only 1% and 3%, respectively. The gap in years between making nobel-prize discoveries and receiving the award is also increasing over time across scientific fields—illustrating that it is taking longer to recognise and select major breakthroughs. Overall, we find that those who make major discoveries are increasingly interdisciplinary, older and at top universities. We also assess here the role and distribution of factors like geographic location, gender, religious affiliation and country conditions of these leading scientists, and how these factors vary across time and scientific fields. The findings suggest that more discoveries could be made if science agencies and research institutions provide greater incentives for researchers to work against the common trend of narrow specialisation and instead foster interdisciplinary research that combines novel methods across fields.
Tuning of magnetosplamon coupling between graphene scatterers for the optimal design of adjustable metasurfaces
Authors: Amanatiadis Stamatios , Ohtani Tadao , Kanai Yasushi , Kantartzis Nikolaos
Published: February 2024

The resonance characteristics of magnetically-biased graphene micro-scatterers are thoroughly investigated in the present work using both eigenvalue and full-wave solvers. Initially, the graphene surface conductivity is presented in a tensor form due to the application of a magnetostatic bias field, which is perpendicular to the material’s surface. Then, the simple case of a graphene disk scatterer is examined, and a properly modified eigenvalue formulation is utilized to extract the plasmonic fundamental frequencies. The validity of the modal analysis is verified via a full-wave analysis that involves a plane-wave propagation and the extraction of the subsequent absorption cross-section utilizing the Finite-Difference Time-Domain method. Additionally, the dependence of a single disk scatterer resonances with the magnetostatic bias is evaluated, highlighting that as the bias field is increased, every edge mode degenerates into two sub-modes with an augmented difference between the resonant frequencies. Finally, the plasmonic coupling between adjacent scatterers is studied considering a periodic arrangement, similar to a metasurface, indicating the additional coupling modes as well as the adjustability of the properties with multiple degrees of freedom.
Flexibility in reproductive attributes may facilitate the invasive capacity of the Mediterranean fanworm, Sabella spallanzanii (Gmelin)
Authors: Brand Sarah C. , Jeffs Andrew G.
Published: February 2024

Context The Mediterranean fanworm arrived as a non-indigenous species in parts of Australasia, where it has established and then rapidly spread from the initial points of arrival, despite marked differences in environmental conditions compared from its natal habitat in the Mediterranean Sea. Aims To better understand the invasive capacity of this species in New Zealand. Methods Maturation, reproductive cycle, and gametogenesis were investigated, with a focus on female gamete development, for a population in Auckland, and the results were compared with those of previous studies in the Mediterranean Sea and Australia. Key results Egg sizes in female fanworms were highly variable throughout the year; however, a reduced presence of larger eggs was observed from August to November, which could indicate spawning. This Auckland fanworm population also appeared to have a female-skewed sex ratio compared with previous studies where a 1:1 sex ratio was observed. Fanworm maturation was reached at ~6 cm in length, compared with 15 cm in natal populations. Fanworms with body size smaller than 5 cm were not mature and did not produce mature gametes, in contrast to an Australian fanworm population. Conclusions The observed Mediterranean fanworm population in New Zealand demonstrates reproductive flexibility and high fecundity, contributing to its invasive capacity. Implications The reproductive biology of a species is important in determining its invasive capacity, and may also be flexible between populations, with implications for effective biosecurity management strategies.