bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How high can trumpet moths occur: documentation of mountainous leaf-mining Tischeriidae, featuring a species from record-high elevations
Authors: STONIS JONAS R. , DIŠKUS ARŪNAS , REMEIKIS ANDRIUS , ORLOVSKYTĖ SVETLANA , KATINAS LILIANA
Published: September 2024

This publication describes four new high-altitude species of Tischeriidae, all within the genus Astrotischeria Puplesis & Diškus: A. peruanica Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., A. montivaga Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., A. viscacha Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., and A. andina Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. Notably, A. andina sp. nov., is the highest-recorded Tischeriidae species, documented at an elevation of 3,600 meters, the highest altitude recorded for the family worldwide to date. The study also provides a summary of current species distribution data, indicating that species from altitudes up to 2,000 meters are predominant, with high-elevation species above 3,000 m comprising about 5% in the tropics and 2% globally. It is hypothesized that there is a high probability of discovering more high-elevation Tischeriidae within the genus Astrotischeria, particularly those feeding on Baccharis L. in the Andes, South America. Additionally, a new elevation record for the mountainous species Astrotischeria parapallens Diškus & Stonis is documented. The article is illustrated with 63 figures, including photographs of the adults, male and female genitalia, leaf mines and their habitats, a molecular topology, and graphics depicting trends in Tischeriidae occurrence across different elevations.
Two new species of Leptolaimus (Nematoda: Plectida) from Chinese sea area
Authors: GU HUIMIN , SUN LINGYUN , HUANG YONG
Published: September 2024

Two new Leptolaimus species from the Chinese sea area are described and illustrated. Leptolaimus gracilis sp. nov. is characterized by rounded labial region offset from body contour; cephalic setae 5–6 µm long; males with eight tubular and without alveolar supplements, tubular supplements sickle-shaped with pointed tips; spicules arcuated and about 18 µm long; gubernaculum with straight dorso-caudal apophysis; female without supplements, vulva midventral; tail elongate conical. The new species can be easily identified from other known species by males with eight sickle-shaped supplements with pointed tips and the spacing of adjacent supplements almost equal except that of the most anterior two supplements. Leptolaimus hamatus sp. nov. is characterized by small body size; cephalic setae 2–3 µm long; amphidial fovea located 2.6–3.3 times of head diameter from anterior end; male with six tubular and without alveolar supplements, tubular supplements hooked distally; spicules slightly curved, knife-like, 22–24 µm long; gubernaculum with straight dorso-caudal apophysis; females without supplements, vulva situated at right subventral side of body, tail conico-cylindrical.
Acceleration of the Hydrological Cycle under Global Warming for the Poyang Lake Basin in Southeast China: An Age-Weighted Regional Water Tagging Approach
Authors: Wei Jianhui , Arnault Joël , Rummler Thomas , Fersch Benjamin , Zhang Zhenyu , Olschewski Patrick , Laux Patrick , Dong Ningpeng , Yang Qianya , Xing Zikang , Li Xin , Yang Chuanguo , Zhang Xuejun , Ma Miaomiao , Gao Lu , Xu Ligang , Yu Zhongbo , Kunstmann Harald
Published: September 2024

Global warming is assumed to accelerate the global water cycle. However, quantification of the acceleration and regional analyses remain open. Accordingly, in this study, we address the fundamental hydrological question: Is the water cycle regionally accelerating/decelerating under global warming? For our investigation, we have implemented the age-weighted regional water tagging approach into the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, namely, WRF-age, to follow the atmospheric water pathways and to derive atmospheric water residence times defined as the age of tagged water since its source. We apply a three-dimensional online budget analysis of the total, tagged, and aged atmospheric water into WRF-age to provide a prognostic equation of the atmospheric water residence times and to derive atmospheric water transit times defined as the age of tagged water since its source originating from a particular physical or dynamical process. The newly developed, physics-based WRF-age model is used to regionally downscale the reanalysis of ERA-Interim and the Max Planck Institute Earth System Model (MPI-ESM) representative concentration pathway 8.5 scenario exemplarily for an East Asian monsoon region, i.e., the Poyang Lake basin (the tagged water source area), for historical (1980–89) and future (2040–49) times. In the warmer (+1.9°C for temperature and +2% for evaporation) and drier (−21% for precipitation) future, the residence time for the tagged water vapor will regionally decrease by 1.8 h (from 14.3 h) due to enhanced local evaporation contributions, but the transit time for the tagged precipitation will increase by 1.8 h (from 12.9 h) partly due to slower fallout of precipitating moisture components.

Significance Statement

Global warming is assumed to accelerate the global water cycle. However, quantification of the acceleration and regional analyses remain open. This study presents the newly developed WRF-age model that allows us to follow the atmospheric water pathways, to derive atmospheric water residence times and atmospheric water transit times. We exemplarily show for an East Asian monsoon region that global warming leads to regionally decreased residence time for the tagged water vapor in the atmosphere due to enhanced local contributions, but increased transit time for the tagged precipitation over the land surface that is partly attributed to slower fallout of precipitating moisture components in the atmosphere. These findings reveal the physical mechanisms behind dry-getting-drier at regional scales.
Navigating Open Innovation at the European Space Agency: A Strategy for Public Organizations and Their Stakeholders
Authors: Antoni Ntorina , Dolmans Sharon , Giannopapa Christina , Reymen Isabelle
Published: September 2024

Summary

Public organizations are embracing open innovation (OI) to better serve their societal mission. This study presents a “Strategy Perimeter Framework,” developed and validated at the European Space Agency, to integrate OI into their strategy development. The framework helps manage stakeholder engagement within the strategy perimeter, thereby fostering collaborative innovation. It enables the alignment of stakeholder engagement with a public organization’s adoption of OI, ensuring innovation aligns with societal objectives.
US global leadership beyond 2024: A UK and European perspective
Authors: Holdich Patrick
Published: September 2024

European governments are following the course of the 2024 US presidential race more closely than any election in recent times. Although the outcome is hard to predict, many are particularly nervous about a second Trump administration, with good reason. European governments need to plan how to react to this prospect. The future of the Transatlantic Relationship could be at stake and Europe must try to get through a potentially very difficult period ahead.
Caregivers’ depressive symptoms and eating disorder severity in adults with anorexia and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Kocsis-Bogar Krisztina , Ossege Michael , Aigner Martin , Wancata Johannes , Friedrich Fabian
Published: September 2024

Background:

Negative affectivity of caregivers has been linked to difficulties in the caregiver-patient relationship and it is assumed to contribute to the maintenance of eating disorder (ED) symptoms.

Aims:

The present study investigated the relationship of patients’ ED symptom severity to patients’ and caregivers’ depressive symptoms, and caregivers’ involvement in a mixed sample of adult inpatients with anorexia (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN), as well as their caregivers.

Method:

The Eating Disorder Examination and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were administered to 55 adult ED patients (26 AN and 29 BN), and the BDI as well as the Involvement Evaluation Questionnaire were filled in by one caregiver of each patient.

Results:

Our results showed caregivers’ depressive symptoms to be significantly related to patients’ ED symptom severity, however depressive symptoms and ED symptoms of patients were not related. No connection of involvement of caregivers and ED severity of patients was found. AN and BN patients did not significantly differ on ED severity or depressive symptoms. Caregivers of AN and BN patients did not differ significantly on depressive symptoms and involvement.

Conclusions:

Our results support the importance of mental health support for caregivers of adults with AN and BN.
Mechanical performances of unsatured polyester composite reinforced by OleaEuropea var. Sylvestris fibers: Characterization, modeling and optimization of fiber textural properties
Authors: Saidani Kamal , Nibou Djamel , Hammoudi Hadda Aya
Published: September 2024

A mechanical performance of synthesizedunsatured polyester (UP) composite reinforced by OleaEuropea var. Sylvestris fibers was studied by applying the complete 23 factorial plan of experience. The variables orientation angle (V1), length (V2) and ratio (V3) of these fibers have been investigated. The experimental design was used to evaluate these factors on the Young’s modulus and the maximum stress. The textural properties of the fibers were highlighted by XRD, SEM, EDS and FTIR. According to the experimental designresults, the V1 and V2 factors are the most influential and the V1V2/V2V1 and V1V3/V3V1 interactions are the most significant. The significance Student’s tests of all effects were found non negligible and significant and the validation of the proposed linear models was verified by using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The study of the fracture facies of specimens of various experimental configurations by SEM showed the direct dependence of factors V1, V2 and V3 and their interactions on the improvement of the mechanical properties. Five deterioration zones were detected and identified as matrix cracking, longitudinal intra fiber cracking, fiber-matrix decohesion, fiber-matrix loosening and strong fiber-matrix cohesion.
Deep learning Radiomics Based on Two-Dimensional Ultrasound for Predicting the Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Zhan , Li Xiaoqin , Zhang Heng , Duan Tongtong , Zhang Chao , Zhao Tong
Published: September 2024

We investigate the predictive value of a comprehensive model based on preoperative ultrasound radiomics, deep learning, and clinical features for pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for the breast cancer. We enrolled 155 patients with pathologically confirmed breast cancer who underwent NAC. The patients were randomly divided into the training set and the validation set in the ratio of 7:3. The deep learning and radiomics features of pre-treatment ultrasound images were extracted, and the random forest recursive elimination algorithm and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were used for feature screening and DL-Score and Rad-Score construction. According to multifactorial logistic regression, independent clinical predictors, DL-Score, and Rad-Score were selected to construct the comprehensive prediction model DLRC. The performance of the model was evaluated in terms of its predictive effect, and clinical practicability. Compared to the clinical, radiomics (Rad-Score), and deep learning (DL-Score) models, the DLRC accurately predicted the pCR status, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.937 (95%CI: 0.895–0.970) in the training set and 0.914 (95%CI: 0.838–0.973) in the validation set. Moreover, decision curve analysis confirmed that the DLRC had the highest clinical value among all models. The comprehensive model DLRC based on ultrasound radiomics, deep learning, and clinical features can effectively and accurately predict the pCR status of breast cancer after NAC, which is conducive to assisting clinical personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.
Sol-gel coating containing carbon quantum dots for effective corrosion prevention
Authors: Seifzadeh D. , Samadianfard R. , Dikici B.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) on the corrosion protection properties of sol-gel coating on AM60B alloy. CQDs were synthesised via microwave technique and characterised using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Adding 50 ppm CQDs eliminated micrometric cracks in the coating due to chemical bonding with the silica network. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images revealed that CQDs are well dispersed at 50 ppm in the coating. Also, the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) confirmed that this concentration reduces the coating's roughness. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) in sodium chloride solution revealed a significant reduction in both electrical double- layer and sol-gel layer capacitances after adding 50 ppm CQDs. This indicates reduced penetration of the corrosive electrolyte, attributed to pore blocking and the elimination of micrometric cracks. After 48 h of immersion, the polarisation resistance (Rp) increased from 0.006 to 0.353 MΩ cm2, significantly enhancing the anti-corrosion performance. However, higher concentrations (100 and 200 ppm) of CQDs negatively impacted the corrosion resistance due to the accumulation and micrometric crack formation.
Efficacy of interferential current therapy plus exercise compared to sham interferential current plus exercise for pain relief in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Varapirom Chalida , Kuptniratsaikul Vilai , Yamthed Rungsima , Srisomnuek Ananya
Published: September 2024

Objective

To compare the efficacy of interferential current (IFC) therapy combined with quadriceps strengthening exercise versus sham IFC plus exercise for pain relief and functional improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Study Design

Double-blind randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

Subjects

Knee osteoarthritis patients aged 50–85 years with a pain score ≥4/10.

Methods

One hundred forty-four participants were randomly allocated into the study and control groups. The study group received 20 min of IFC therapy (carrier frequency: 4000 Hz, beat frequency: 100 Hz) five times per week for three weeks, while the control group received sham IFC following the same protocol, followed by 10 min of exercise in both groups. Outcome measures included Numeric Rating Scale for Pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Index (WOMAC) score, gait speed, and EuroQol-Five Dimensions-Five Levels questionnaire assessed at baseline, Week 3, and Week 6. Adverse events and patient satisfaction were evaluated at Week 3.

Results

At Week 3, the study group demonstrated statistical improvement compared to the control group for Numeric Rating Scale for Pain, WOMAC Total, WOMAC Pain, and WOMAC Stiffness. The mean difference (95% confidence interval) between groups was 0.76 (0.21–1.30), 0.49 (0.03–0.95), 0.63 (0.13–1.13), and 0.62 (0.04–1.20), respectively. However, the mean differences between groups were below the Minimally Clinically Important Difference values for each outcome. Additionally, there were no significant differences between groups at Week 6 for any outcome measure.

Conclusion

IFC had no effect on pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Transient Cooling Resets Circadian Rhythms of Locomotor Activity in Lizards
Authors: Nagashima Sakimi , Yamaguchi Sho T. , Zhou Zhiwen , Norimoto Hiroaki
Published: September 2024

Animals frequently experience temperature fluctuations in their natural life cycle, including periods of low temperatures below their activity range. For example, poikilothermic animals are known to enter a hibernation-like state called brumation during transient cooling. However, the knowledge regarding the physiological responses of brumation is limited. Specifically, the impact of exposure to low-temperature conditions outside the range of temperature compensation on the subsequent circadian behavioral rhythms remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of transient cooling on the behavioral circadian rhythm in the non-avian reptile, the bearded dragon ( Pogona vitticeps). Under constant light (LL) conditions at 30 °C, the animals exhibited a free-running rhythm, and exposure to low temperatures (4 °C) caused a complete cessation of locomotion. Furthermore, we revealed that the behavioral rhythm after rewarming is determined not by the circadian phase at the onset or the duration of cooling, but by the timing of cooling cessation.
Beyond docks, below decks: Austrian seafarers’ shipboard collective protests in the age of industrial shipping
Authors: Barbano Matteo
Published: September 2024

This article explores collective resistance actions among Austrian seafarers between the late nineteenth century and First World War, shedding light on the seaborne dimension of their struggles and investigating possible connections between the developmental stages of the seafarers’ labour movement in Trieste and their engagement in collective action at sea. In doing so, the research focuses particularly on the crews of Austrian Lloyd, the most powerful shipping company in the Habsburg merchant marine, which played a leading role in shaping labour relations between Austrian seafarers and shipowners. By analysing data extracted from the Black Book, the company’s tool for blacklisting seafarers, this article identifies seaborne collective resistance as a distinctive mode of struggle found in specific phases of the industrial relations between Lloyd and its seagoing personnel, underscoring the relevance of the ship as a significant stage in maritime labour conflicts in the age of industrial shipping.
Practices and representations of gender: Autochthone women in the Portuguese State of India, 1500s–1600s
Authors: Polónia Amélia , Capelão Rosa
Published: September 2024

Interactions between Europeans and the societies and cultures of contact during the early modern process of empire-building depended on the agency of women. This seems particularly apparent in the Portuguese case. Even if many of these interactions were imposed, women were crucial elements in the dynamics and outcomes of European colonization. This affected Portuguese and autochthone women alike, even if on different scales and levels. This article focuses on the latter. Between resistance, conflict, cheating, defection, intermingling and assimilation, those women performed as intermediaries between different worlds. Their presence and agency were vital to economic flows, as they were essential in negotiation processes. They were influential in social organization, through their role in the family, and in the reconfiguration of colonial settings. The concept of intersectionality underlines this analysis by describing the ways by which systems of inequality based on gender, race, ethnicity and other forms of discrimination intersected to create unique historical dynamics.
The Amfioen Societëit (1745–1794): Opium, intra-Asian trade and the commercial world of Batavia in the eighteenth century
Authors: Richardson Noelle Nadiah
Published: September 2024

This article analyses the emergence of the Amfioen Societëit (1745–1794) and its impact on the market for opium in eighteenth-century Java. It engages with a limited body of historiography to challenge assumptions that the Societëit was a wholly colonial institution designed to serve an elite – namely, European – set of interests. In reassessing how the Societëit worked in theory and in practice, it is argued that this institution was born from the necessary collaborative engagement of a European and a local commercial class with different but vested interests in the opium trade. Moreover, the article situates the Societëit among other finance institutions that existed in eighteenth-century Java to serve the credit needs of the local commercial milieu. In doing so, it lays the foundations for a deeper and more nuanced history of the opium trade and the local economy of early modern Java in a period about which very little is known.
Breastfeeding Experiences of Mothers Staying in Temporary Shelter Areas in Disaster-Affected Provinces in the 2023 Türkiye Earthquake
Authors: Mizrak Sahin Berrak , Kabakci Esra Nur
Published: September 2024

Background:

While the basic needs of breastfeeding women are similar to those of the general population, there are some specificities that must be taken into account when responding to an emergency.

Aim:

This study examines the breastfeeding barriers faced during a large earthquake in Türkiye and aims to investigate how infant feeding practices of breastfeeding mothers staying in temporary shelters after the earthquake were affected.

Methods:

This study follows a qualitative descriptive design with an inductive approach. It included participants who were older than 18 years of age, had babies no older than 1 year, and were breastfeeding mothers when the earthquake struck.

Results:

Five main themes were identified through a content analysis of the interviews: (1) breastfeeding environment after the earthquake, (2) emotional impact, (3) change in social relationships, (4) physiological needs and problems, (5) specialized maternal and baby health services. Factors affecting mothers’ infant feeding practices were crowded breastfeeding environments, stress and fear caused by the earthquake, decreased breastfeeding support due to changes in social relationships, difficulty in reaching basic physiological needs, and lack of professional health workers in the earthquake region.

Conclusion:

The most important factor affecting breastfeeding was the lack of suitable environments in which to breastfeed. There should be local, regional, and federal policies to support the privacy needs of displaced breastfeeding mothers.
How local leaders respond to citizen input: Evidence from open administrative data in a Chinese county
Authors: Guan Yue , Göbel Christian
Published: September 2024

Nationwide datasets offer significant insights into the responsiveness of the Chinese government, but they lack details on how local leaders, who wield power in the political process, respond. Fortunately, following the open government initiative, a few regions have published leaders’ written instructions (批示) in response to citizen input online. This research note focuses on one such region, analysing all of the more than 800 written instructions from its party secretaries and county mayors that were once made public. The findings show that after acquiring hard-to-obtain information from citizens, local leaders occasionally directed their subordinates to act on that information. Moreover, they addressed long-standing issues of which they were already aware, primarily to demonstrate concern rather than to resolve them substantively. They also gave instructions on issues related to policy objectives currently being prioritized by higher authorities to aid in their fulfilment, as well as issues involving multiple government agencies to prevent buck passing. This study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of government responsiveness and highlights the research potential of diverse administrative data available across different regions. Examining regions with important but rarely disclosed administrative data sheds new light on the inner workings of the Chinese government.
Numerical analysis of major reaction affecting to nitrogen oxide formation under Okafor reaction mechanism
Authors: Kim Jonghyun , Park Jungsoo
Published: September 2024

NOx contributes to the formation of ozone, a major greenhouse gas, through photochemical reactions in the atmosphere, and also causes acid rains. Therefore, there is a growing demand for reducing nitrogen oxides. NOX is actively generated at fuel-lean and high temperatures. Therefore, combustion near the stoichiometry ratio and avoiding the peak combustion temperature are reduction methods. Moreover, NOX can be classified into fuel NOX, thermal NOX, and prompt NOX according to the cause and characteristics of their occurrence. Ongoing research is analyzing key reactions that contribute to the formation of NOX and simulating phenomena via numerical analysis research to seek reduction measures. Therefore, the significance of the detailed and consistent reaction mechanism is increasing. The Okafor mechanism simulates a granular combustion reaction of methane and ammonia and better simulates the effect of the radical-based species on the formation of NOX based on the GRI 3.0 mechanism and Tian mechanism.

The present study aims to analyze the key reactions of NOX formation through Okafor mechanism in the laminar flame of methane, to analyze the effect of oxidant concentration and pre-heating temperature on NOX formation. Numerical analysis research based on Okafor mechanism is expected to be useful to analyze the phenomenological causes of NOX formation.
Chilaiditi’s Sign: A Rare Finding in a Patient with Concurrent Liver Cirrhosis and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Adjei Prosper , Asamoah Prince Henry , Ohene Dominic Asante , Amoakohene-Yeboah Augustina , Asasu Stanley Anenyemele
Published: September 2024

Chilaiditi’s sign is a rare radiological finding characterized by colonic interposition between the liver and the right hemidiaphragm. It is a cause of pseudopneumoperitoneum which is often mistaken for true pneumoperitoneum. In this article, we present the case of a 73-year-old female with a previous history of pulmonary tuberculosis, who reported to our hospital with progressive abdominal distension associated with early satiety, bipedal swelling, generalized weakness, worsening fatigue, and weight loss. Following evaluation, she was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Her chest radiograph also incidentally showed air under the right hemidiaphragm with haustral folds consistent with Chilaiditi’s sign. Since she did not have signs of peritonitis, she was eventually treated for liver cirrhosis and chronic lymphocytic leukemia without undergoing any surgical intervention. This case report seeks to create awareness among clinicians about this rare radiological sign in order to prevent misdiagnosis leading to unnecessary surgical procedures.
Self-Induced Stretch Syncope: An Unusual Non-Epileptic Paroxysmal Event. A Case Report and Literature Mini-Review
Authors: Mercante Anna , Pizza Fabio , Pondrelli Federica , Zini Andrea , Cirillo Luigi , Tinuper Paolo , Liguori Rocco , Migliaccio Ludovica , Vandi Stefano , Gobbi Giuseppe , Plazzi Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Stretch syncope (SS) is a benign, uncommon, distinct condition described mainly in adolescent males. It is responsible for paroxysmal events started by stereotyped stretching actions with neck hyperextension, culminating in alteration of consciousness. Motor manifestations are often present and may be associated with a generalized slowing of the electroencephalographic activity, challenging the diagnosis. Despite a few cases reported in the literature, different mechanisms have been implied in the pathogenesis, involving both local and systemic hemodynamic phenomena. Here, we report on an 8-year-old girl with self-induced SS, providing new insights into the related neurophysiological profile and discussing the possible etiology. Our evidence of transient and dynamic vascular impairment supports the hypothesis of SS as a multifactorial disorder.
Electrostatic battery for emissions control (ESBEC): Further development and testing with diesel emissions
Authors: Han Taewon T. , Mainelis Gediminas
Published: September 2024

We recently developed a novel diesel emissions control device, Electrostatic Screen Battery for Emissions Control (ESBEC), where an electrostatic mechanism removes diesel exhaust particles onto metal screens. In this study, we made the following improvements to the initial ESBEC’s design: (1) used metal collection screens of different porosity for a more even distribution of captured diesel exhaust throughout ESBEC, (2) redesigned screen holders for easy assembly of ESBEC, (3) heat-resistant materials were used to build the current model, which is 3 in. in diameter and 4 in. in length. ESBEC was investigated in a laboratory to optimize the screen porosity and configuration. Then, in the field, it was challenged with diesel particulate matter (DPM) exhausted from a diesel electric power generator. The DPM mass concentrations produced by the generator varied from 38 to 187 mg/m3, and air flow rates passing through ESBEC varied from 219 to 410 L/min. The testing was intermittently performed over 49 h. In addition, ESBEC’s particle collection efficiency was compared to that of a traditional diesel particulate filter (DPF). We also explored various washing methods to effectively remove DPM captured by ESBEC. When challenged with DPM, ESBEC showed collection efficiency of ∼100% for 26 h, during which 60 g of DPM was captured. For comparison, the collection efficiency of DPF was ∼77%. After the total run time of 46 h, the collection efficiency of ESBEC decreased to CARB (California Air Resources Board) Level 3 (85%), with 102 g DPM accumulated. When ESBEC was operated beyond 46 h, its collection efficiency was <85%. However, washing screens for 5 min in isopropyl alcohol restored the collection efficiency to 86%. Future studies will examine the performance of ESBEC when it is installed in an actual diesel-powered vehicle.
Analysis of cerebral venous sinus stenosis by flat panel angiographic CT (FP-CT) to guide treatment for idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Theiss Peter , Nico Elsa , Abou-Mrad Tatiana , Tshibangu Mpuekela , Madapoosi Adrusht , McGuire Laura Stone , Alaraj Ali
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Cerebral venous sinus stenting (CVSS) is an effective treatment for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) secondary to dural venous sinus stenosis. Traditional selection of patients for CVSS has been made by microcatheter manometry, but pressure measurements are often equivocal. Here we present the results of a series of cases in which venous flat-panel CT (FP-CT) was used as an adjunct to microcatheter manometry to improve decision making and precise stent placement during CVSS.

Methods

Ten consecutive patients with IIH underwent angiography with microcatheter manometry and venous FP-CT, with CVSS if indicated by the results. Cross-sectional measurements of the narrowed sinus were obtained on FP-CT before and after stenting. After the procedure, clinical outcomes were tracked. Follow-up with quantitative MRA with sinus flow measurements was also performed, when available.

Results

There was an exponential correlation between measured pressure gradient and degree of stenosis calculated using venous FP-CT. All patients with both a high degree of stenosis measured by FP-CT and a high pressure gradient across the stenosis showed a clinical benefit from stenting.

Conclusions

True measurement of the cross-sectional area of the dural sinus, made by venous phase FP-CT, has a high degree of correlation with elevated venous pressure gradient across the point of stenosis. Even in a limited series of cases, we found an exponential decrease in flow with increasing severity of stenosis. Furthermore, patients with both an elevated venous pressure gradient and critical stenosis of the sinus on FP-CT showed symptomatic improvement after stenting.
Enhanced intentional inhibition with increased subliminal action preparation
Authors: Wang Yongchun , Li Mingxiang , Tian Yanying , Li Wanzhen , Tang Zhengqi , Cao Jinlan , Wang Yonghui
Published: September 2024

Intentional inhibition, the ability to voluntarily inhibit or suspend an action preparation, is closely related to self-control. It is widely believed that subliminal stimuli can also activate action preparation, but whether intentional inhibition is enhanced or disrupted with greater subliminal action preparation remains unclear. In this study, participants voluntarily decided whether or not to perform the action in the scenario with subliminal action preparation, and the strength of the action preparation was manipulated by a precueing procedure. The results, based on behavioural measures and drift-diffusion models, showed that intentional inhibition enhanced with increasing subliminal action preparation, suggesting that as subliminal action preparation increases, people are more inclined to make inhibitory decisions. This study provides evidence for a framework in which strong subliminal action preparation induces enhanced cognitive monitoring.
EPS mid-career prize: An integrated framework for the learning, recognition and interpretation of words
Authors: Gaskell M. Gareth
Published: September 2024

In this article, I review the evidence on the involvement of sleep and consolidation in word learning and processing during language comprehension, focusing on implications for theory. The theoretical basis for the review is a complementary systems account of word learning involving flexible (hippocampal) and stable (cortical) pathways to lexical knowledge. I argue that the accumulated data are consistent with a role for both pathways in both learning and recognition of lexical items, with sleep and consolidation supporting the transfer of recent experience between the pathways. The level of involvement of each pathway is dependent on key factors, such as consistency with prior knowledge in the case of learning, and reliance on context and/or automaticity in the case of recognition. As a consequence, the notion of a mental lexicon cannot really be restricted to just the listener’s stable knowledge about words: flexible knowledge and recent experiences are also important. Furthermore, I argue that the flexible pathway plays a critical role even in the absence of new lexical items. The available evidence suggests that this pathway encodes (and potentially consolidates) recent linguistic experiences, providing potential benefits to interpretation of subsequent language and the long-term retention of knowledge. In conclusion, I propose that a dual-pathway account incorporating both flexibility and stability is necessary to explain the learning, recognition, and interpretation of words.
Distal partial ulnectomy with ulnar styloid process excision for management of an aneurysmal bone cyst in a cat
Authors: Sanchez Villamil Carlos , Llanos Diez Cesar , Thomas Grace , Garty Rachel , Lappalainen Marianne , Klever Julius , Hardas Alexandros
Published: September 2024

Case summary

An 8-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with an acute onset of left thoracic limb lameness and a firm swelling on the lateral aspect of the left distal antebrachium. A CT scan of the left thoracic limb revealed an expansile osteolytic cystic bone lesion centred at the distal left ulnar metaphysis. Cytology from fine-needle aspiration was not consistent with neoplasia. The CT features and the cytology results were suggestive of a bone cyst. A distal partial ulnectomy with ulnar styloid process excision was performed as the biopsy method and as the treatment approach. Histopathology results were consistent with an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC). Carpal instability was not detected after distal partial ulnectomy; therefore, a stabilisation method was not required. Limb function was excellent after surgery, with no lameness and no recurrence detected by the owner at 2, 6 and 24 weeks postoperatively. The veterinary examination at 12 weeks postoperatively confirmed the owner’s outcome assessment.

Relevance and novel information

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report describing a distal partial ulnectomy with ulnar styloid process excision in a cat. Despite disrupting the short ulnar collateral ligament, this technique provided excellent short-term limb function with no need for carpal joint stabilisation. This technique allowed for the complete excision of a distal ulnar ABC and avoided cyst debridement, which could be associated with haemorrhage, recurrence and malignant transformation. Distal partial ulnectomy should be considered for distal ulnar bone lesions in cats.
Dyke-Davidoff-Masson-like syndrome in an adult cat
Authors: Thon Andrea , Gamperl-Mikula Elisa , Willmitzer Florian , Leschnik Michael , Lederer Kristina Anna
Published: September 2024

Case summary

A 4-year-old cat was presented with acute onset of lateralised neurological central nervous system (CNS) signs and seizures. Haematological and serum biochemical parameters were within normal limits. Imaging diagnostics revealed severe CT and MRI abnormalities of the right brain, similar to Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome (DDMS) in human medicine. This syndrome includes cerebral hemiatrophy with compensatory calvarial hyperostosis and ventriculomegaly. Such changes have previously been reported only once in a single feline case of approximately the same age. In humans, DDMS is described as an embryonic and perinatal developmental disturbance or an acquired injury in early childhood.

Relevance and novel information

This case report shows that without further imaging diagnostics, congenital disorders can be overlooked in some rare cases of adult cats with later onset of their first clinical signs.
AI Resume Writing: How Prompt Confidence Shapes Output and AI Literacies
Authors: Ponce Timothy M.
Published: September 2024

This study explores how confidence levels in user prompts affect AI-generated resume text. Using six varied prompts for AI models ChatGPT-3.5, Gemini, and Perplexity, it examines how AI interprets and responds to different confidence levels. The findings reveal significant differences in AI-generated resumes based on prompt confidence, highlighting the need to adapt resume pedagogy for the AI age. Emphasizing the importance of teaching genre conventions and developing critical AI literacies, the study offers practical recommendations for integrating AI tools into resume writing instruction to better prepare students for an increasingly digital world.
Medium-term clinical results in the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: does the surgical approach impact outcomes?
Authors: Samaila Elena Manuela , Auregli Ludovica , Pezzè Lorenzo , Colò Gabriele , Magnan Bruno
Published: September 2024

Background

Recent literature has found a consensus in favor of conservative treatment for type II supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHF). This retrospective observational study compares the short- to medium-term functional outcomes of conservative versus surgical treatment in 31 patients with SCHF (Gartland II and III) to assess the potential superiority of one approach over the other.

Materials and methods

Thirty-one pediatric patients treated for SCHF—19 classified as Gartland II and 12 as Gartland III—were assessed in our department. Eight patients underwent closed reduction and cast immobilization, 22 were treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, and one underwent open reduction and internal fixation with plates. Clinical and functional data were collected during follow-up, including elbow and forearm range of motion (ROM), grip strength, carrying angle, Flynn’s criteria, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score.

Results

The average follow-up was 3.3 years (± 1.4 years). All patients demonstrated good functional recovery. According to Flynn’s criteria, 85% and 81% of the patients achieved a satisfactory outcome in elbow flexion and carrying angle, respectively. No cases of nerve injuries were reported.

Four patients developed cubitus varus in the Gartland II group, which was treated with closed reduction and casting with the initial alignment maintained (without a loss of reduction during the first week). However, compared to this group that was conservatively treated, functional and clinical outcomes were significantly better in the group with SCHF Gartland II treated with reduction and pinning (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although some recent studies have demonstrated positive outcomes with conservative treatment for both Gartland IIA and IIB fractures, the short- to medium-term functional results in our study emphasize that superior outcomes were obtained with surgical treatment for Gartland II fractures when compared to those treated conservatively.

Trial registration: This study was performed in line with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethics approval was obtained from our institute’s ethics committee (registry no. 3511).

Level of evidence: Therapeutic level III
Informing future randomized controlled trials of amantadine hydrochloride in neurocritical care and post-neurocritical care stroke patients through a retrospective study
Authors: Plaitano Enzo G. , Scharf Rebecca A. , Aboutaleb Pakinam E. , Glennon Andrea L. , Melkumova Emiliya , Green-LaRoche Deborah M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Amantadine hydrochloride has been increasingly prescribed as a neurostimulant for neurocritical care stroke patients to promote wakefulness during inpatient recovery. However, a lack of guidelines makes it difficult to decide who may benefit from this pharmacotherapy and when amantadine should be initiated during the hospital stay. This study aims to determine some factors that may be associated with favorable response to amantadine to inform future randomized controlled trials of amantadine in critical care or post-critical care stroke patients.

Methods

Retrospective chart review for this study included neurocritical care and post-neurocritical care patients with acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke who were started on amantadine (N = 34) in the years 2016–2019. Patients were labeled as either responders or nonresponders of amantadine within 9 days of initiation using novel amantadine scoring criteria utilized and published in Neurocritical Care in the year 2021, which included spontaneous wakefulness and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Amantadine response status and predictive variables were analyzed using nonparametric tests and adjusted multivariable regression models.

Results

There were large but nonsignificant variations in the median total milligrams of amantadine received in the first 9 days (IQR = 700-1,450 mg, p = 0.727). GCS on the day before amantadine initiation was significantly higher for responders (median = 12, IQR = 9–14) than nonresponders (median = 9, IQR = 8–10, p = 0.009). Favorable responder status was significantly associated with initiation in the critical care unit versus the step-down unit or the general medical/surgical floor [𝛃=1.02, 95% CI (0.10, 1.93), p = 0.031], but there was no significant associations with hospital day number started [𝛃=-0.003, 95% CI (-0.02, 0.02), p = 0.772].

Conclusions

Future randomized controlled trials of amantadine in hospitalized stroke patients should possibly consider examining dose-dependent relationships to establish stroke-specific dosing guidelines, minimum GCS threshold for which amantadine is efficacious, and the impact of patients’ determined level of acuity on clinical outcomes instead of solely examining the impact of earlier amantadine initiation by hospital day number. Future research with larger sample sizes is needed to further examine these relationships and inform future clinical trials.
Incorporating equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) into the education and assessment of professionalism for healthcare professionals and trainees: a scoping review
Authors: Shah Darsh , Behravan Nima , Al-Jabouri Nujud , Sibbald Matthew
Published: September 2024

Background

Current definitions of professionalism for healthcare trainees often lack equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the expectations and assessment of professionalism. While professionalism teaching is incorporated in healthcare training, equity-deserving groups still experience discrimination. This scoping review investigates the literature to understand how EDI and associated domains of cultural humility, and advocacy can be incorporated in healthcare trainees’ education and assessment of professionalism.

Methods

The Arksey and O’Malley framework was applied to this scoping review. MEDLINE, Embase & PsychINFO were searched up to March 2023, with terms surrounding health professionals, professionalism, EDI, cultural humility, and advocacy. Titles and abstracts (n = 3870) and full-texts (n = 140) were independently screened by two reviewers. Articles were included if they focused on EDI, cultural humility, or advocacy among healthcare students/trainees, and had outcomes related to professionalism. Articles lacking discussion of professionalism as an outcome were excluded. Themes were generated by mutual discussion. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cote et al. and Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI) tools.

Results

48 articles underwent thematic analysis. Studies investigated the disciplines of medicine, nursing, social work, physiotherapy, and dentistry. Most studies were qualitative in methodology (n = 23). Three themes emerged: (1) EDI-related interventions are associated with improved professionalism of healthcare trainees/workers (n = 21). Interventions employed were either an EDI-associated educational course (n = 8) or an exchange program to promote EDI competencies among trainees (n = 13). (2) Trainee definitions and perceptions of professionalism include themes related to EDI and cultural humility (n = 12). (3) Current standards of professionalism are perceived as non-inclusive towards historically-marginalized populations (n = 15). Literature investigating advocacy as it relates to professionalism is limited.

Conclusion

This review identified that core EDI principles and its associated domains of cultural humility and advocacy are often viewed as integral to professionalism. These findings create a strong impetus to incorporate EDI principles within professionalism frameworks in healthcare education. Future research should employ standardized tools for professionalism assessment to provide more conclusive evidence. Incorporating patient perspectives of professionalism can inform actionable recommendations for fostering inclusive healthcare environments.