bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of dexmedetomidine pharmacology in pediatric patients
Authors: O'Kane Aislinn , Quinney Sara K. , Kinney Emily , Bergstrom Richard F. , Tillman Emma M.
Published: December 2024

Dexmedetomidine is a centrally acting alpha‐2 agonist used for initiation and maintenance of procedural sedation and mechanical ventilation in adult and pediatric settings. It is commonly used in both pediatric and neonatal intensive care units. Dexmedetomidine requires extensive titration, and patients can be over or under‐sedated during titration, leading to adverse events such as hypotension and bradycardia, or inadequate sedation, which can result in self‐extubation. There is a critical need to identify factors that contribute to variation in metabolism, clearance, and downstream targets of dexmedetomidine so that individualized pediatric dosing regimens can be developed. This review is focused on dexmedetomidine pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the pediatric population and dexmedetomidine‐related pharmacogenes in both adults and children. We found that the strongest predictors of dexmedetomidine pharmacokinetics were age and size. Multiple pharmacogenes of significance have been identified, including ADRA2A, UGT2B10, UGT1A4, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, and CYP2D6. Evidence is weak for the correlation of these individual polymorphic genes with dexmedetomidine pharmacokinetics/dynamics, though there may be a polygenetic influence on pharmacologic response. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the genomic data gathered to date. We aim to summarize current pharmacologic studies regarding dexmedetomidine use and pharmacology in pediatric patients.
Radiomic‐based biomarkers: Transforming age and body composition metrics into personalized age‐informed indices
Authors: Alikhani Radin , Horbal Steven R. , Rothberg Amy E. , Pai Manjunath P.
Published: December 2024

Chronological age has been the standard for quantifying the aging process. While it is simple to quantify it cannot fully discern the biological variability of aging between individuals. The growing body of interest in this variability of human aging has led to the introduction of new biomarkers to operationalize biological age. The inclusion of body composition may provide additional value to biological aging as a prediction and estimation factor of individual health outcomes. Diagnostic images based on radiomic techniques such as Computed Tomography contain an untapped wealth of patient‐specific data that remain inaccessible to healthcare providers. These images are beneficial for collecting information from body composition that adds precision and granularity when compared to traditional measures. This information can subsequently be aggregated to construct models for changes in the human body associated with aging. In addition, aging leads to a natural decline in the best parameter of drug dosing in older adults, glomerular filtration rate. Since the conventional models of kidney function are correlated with age and body composition, the radiomic biomarkers representing age‐related changes in body composition may also serve as potential new imaging biomarkers of kidney function for personalized dosing. Our review introduces potential radiomic biomarkers as measures of body composition change targeting the aging processes. As a functional example, we have hypothesized an age‐related model of radiomics as a covariate of kidney function to improve personalized dosing. Future research focusing on evaluating this hypothesis in human subject studies is acknowledged.
Clinical utility of liver function tests for resolution of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease after weight loss in the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial
Authors: Zhyzhneuskaya S. V. , Al‐Mrabeh A. H. , Peters C. , Barnes A. C. , Hollingsworth K. G. , Welsh P. , Sattar N. , Lean M. E. J. , Taylor R.
Published: December 2024

Aims

Ectopic fat is reduced by effective weight management, but difficult to assess clinically.

Methods

We evaluated paired data on 42 participants in the intervention group of the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT) at baseline, 12 and 24 months after weight loss as indicators of liver fat content measured by 3‐point Dixon MRI.

Results

Baseline liver fat was elevated at 13.0 [7.8–23.3]% with fasting plasma glucose 7.9 [7.1–10.1] mmol/L. Prevalence of baseline MASLD was 86.4%. After weight loss of 11.9 ± 1.2 kg (0–37 kg) at 12 months, remission of MASLD occurred in 74% and liver fat normalised for many (1.8 [1.2–5.2]%; p < 0.0001) as did fasting glucose (5.9 [5.5–7.2] mmol/L; p < 0.0001). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) decreased at 12 months by 38 [19–60]% (p < 0·0001) and 38 [16–53]% (p < 0.0001) respectively. The positive predictive value for decrease in liver fat, with baseline values of >40 IU/L, was 100% for ALT and 87.5% for GGT. As expected, change in liver fat correlated with change in ALT (r = 0.64; p < 0.0001), GGT (r = 0.38; p = 0.013), AST (r = 0.36; p = 0.018), fatty liver index (r = 0.50; p < 0.0001) and hepatic steatosis index (r = 0.44; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease, an important marker of ill‐health is improved by intentional weight loss. If enzyme levels are raised at baseline, following weight loss, changes in ALT and GGT usefully reflect change in liver fat content, with high positive predictive value. Monitoring liver enzymes can provide a simple way to assess change in liver fat following weight loss in day‐to‐day clinical practice.
Fear of hypoglycemia relates to glycemic levels during and after real‐world physical activity in adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Patton Susana R. , Bergford Simon , Gal Robin L. , Calhoun Peter , Clements Mark A. , Sherr Jennifer L. , Riddell Michael C.
Published: December 2024

Background

We explore the association between hypoglycaemia fear (FH) and glycaemia during and after exercise sessions in a large sample of physically active youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

We used data from the Type 1 Diabetes Exercise Initiative Paediatric (T1DEXIP) Study. Youth self‐reported on FH using the Hypoglycaemia Fear Survey‐Child (HFS‐C). They used a smart phone application to self‐report food intake and insulin dosing (multiple daily injection only). We collected pump and continuous glucose monitoring data directly from the device.

Results

Our sample included n = 251 youth (mean age: 14 ± 2 years, 55% closed loop pump; 42% women). Youth reporting higher HFS‐C Total and Helplessness/Worry scores (HFS‐C subscale) had slightly fewer competitive and fewer high intensity exercise events compared to youth with lower HFS‐C Total and Helplessness/Worry scores. Youth reporting the highest Maintain High Blood Glucose scores (HFS‐C subscale) had the lowest percent glucose time in range, higher mean glucose levels, and higher percent time above range during exercise. Youth reporting the highest Maintain High Blood Glucose scores also tended to have higher mean glucose levels post‐exercise and a smaller drop in glucose during exercise.

Conclusion

FH relates to glycaemia during and after exercise in adolescents with T1D and may signal an inclination for some youth to engage in avoidance behaviours to reduce their vulnerability to exercise‐induced hypoglycaemia.
Review on the Fatigue Strength of Additively Manufactured Metal Materials Under the Very High Cycle Fatigue
Authors: Lopes J. Henrique , da Costa Pedro R. , Freitas Manuel , Reis Luís
Published: December 2024

The primary goal of this systematic literature review is to identify, characterize, and make a comprehensive analysis of the available research on the fatigue strength of additively manufactured (AMed) metal materials when subjected to loading cycles that exceed the preconceptualized fatigue limit (
cycles) and the very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) regime. Considering the inherent complexity and magnitude of influential variables present in AM metal processes, this paper explores in‐depth the relevant conclusions taken by theoretical/experimental studies and their respective results of several AMed materials in the VHCF regime. The present review focuses on key research topics of metal AM fatigue strength, such as crack initiation and failure mechanisms, examining the influence of microstructure and defects, the effect of the input process parameters, postprocessing methods, and the influence of testing conditions on fatigue strength.
Endothelial KDM5B Regulated by Piezo1 Contributes to Disturbed Flow Induced Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation
Authors: Wu Lili , Jiang Shanshan , Zhou Xiao , Li Wei , Ke Jiaqi , Liu Ziting , Ren Lijie , Lu Qiongyu , Li Fengchan , Tang Chaojun , Zhu Li
Published: December 2024

Epigenetic modifications play an important role in disturbed flow (d‐flow) induced atherosclerotic plaque formation. By analysing a scRNA‐seq dataset of the left carotid artery (LCA) under d‐flow conditions, we found that Jarid1b (KDM5B) was upregulated primarily in a subcluster of endothelial cells in response to d‐flow stimulation. We therefore investigated the mechanism of KDM5B expression and the role of KDM5B in endothelial cell. Intriguingly, activation of Piezo1, a major endothelial mechanosensor, was found to promote KDM5B expression, which was reversed by Piezo1 inhibition in HUVECs. Downstream of Piezo1, ETS1 expression and c‐JUN phosphorylation were enhanced by d‐flow or Piezo1 activation, leading to an increase in KDM5B expression. Furthermore, knockdown of either KDM5B or Piezo1 was found to prevent d‐flow induced H3K4me3 demethylation, which was supported by the pharmacological inhibition of Piezo1 in HUVECs. RNA sequencing on shKdm5b HUVECs implied that KDM5B is associated with endothelial inflammation and atherosclerosis. Using partial carotid ligation surgery on Kdm5bf/f Cdh5cre mice with mAAV‐PCSK9D377Y infected, we showed that endothelial KDM5B deficiency reduced atherosclerotic lesions in hypercholesterolemic mice. Our findings indicate that endothelial KDM5B expression induced by d‐flow via the Piezo1 pathway promotes atherosclerotic plaque formation, providing targets for the prevention or therapeutic intervention of atherosclerosis.
Association of changes in the number of teeth on psychological distress among community‐dwelling older adults in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Yi‐Chang , Cheng Feng‐Shiang , Weng Shih‐Han , Hu Hsiao‐Yun
Published: December 2024

Background

Aging populations worldwide face a substantial burden of psychological distress that affects their quality of life and overall health. Oral health is associated with psychological distress; however, the effect of changes in the number of teeth on psychological distress remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the association of changes in the number of teeth with the development of psychological distress among community‐dwelling older adults in Taipei City.

Methods

From 2005 to 2013, 62,119 community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older participated in the physical examination program in Taipei. We collected data on the number of teeth during each examination. Psychological distress was defined as a score of ≥6 on the Brief Symptoms Rating Scale. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to examine the longitudinal relationship between changes in the number of teeth and the development of psychological distress.

Results

The participants lost an average of 6.6 teeth during the follow‐up, with 9.9% of oral examination records showing the loss of ≥5 teeth compared with the previous examination. After GEE analysis with adjustment for multiple covariates, participants were at higher risk of developing psychological distress if they lost 1–4 teeth, 5–9 teeth, or ≥10 teeth compared to that at their previous oral examination. Subgroup analysis revealed that participants with ≥20 teeth at baseline and those who used dentures to compensate for the tooth loss had a lower risk of developing psychological distress than those who experienced tooth loss and did not use dentures.

Conclusion

A rapid decrease in the number of teeth is associated with an increased risk of psychological distress in older adults. Regular dental checkups, nutritional counseling, and the use of dentures are critical in mitigating the adverse psychological effects of the tooth loss.
Memory screening in the community: Facilitating earlier dementia diagnosis and care—Preliminary data
Authors: Yang Kao Lee , Kelble Laura , Felten Kristen , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Clark Lindsay R.
Published: December 2024

Background

This program evaluation was conducted to assess the effectiveness of a community memory screening initiative across 25 Aging and Disability Resource Centers, spanning 39 counties and 5 tribal communities in the state of Wisconsin.

Methods

We evaluated the screened individuals' characteristics and reasons for screening, the screen results and topics addressed during screening, the rate of sending positive screens to primary care providers, and the incidence of subsequent dementia diagnosis as well as health behavior changes.

Results

Program evaluation results showed 791 completed surveys from individuals, indicating the program's accessibility and potential to reach populations in both urban and rural counties across Wisconsin. Evaluation results also showed that brain health was the most frequently discussed topic during memory screens (discussed during 689 screens, 87.1%), along with other topics such as potential causes of dementia symptoms (670 screens, 84.5%), dementia warning signs (656, 83%), the importance of early detection (605 screens, 76.5%), and caregiver support (106 screens, 13.4%). Of all 791, a total of 273 (34.5%) individuals had screen results sent to a primary care provider. Follow‐up surveys completed with a subset of individuals (n = 49) who had their results sent to a primary care provider indicated that 10 (20%) received a diagnosis of dementia and over half made a health behavior change to improve brain health.

Conclusions

The evaluation results presented herein highlight the program's success in addressing the critical need for accessible dementia‐related services. Overall, our evaluation results underscore the importance of community‐based initiatives in promoting early dementia detection and intervention, which are crucial for disease management.
The Role of World Beliefs in Loneliness: Implications for Daily Social Interaction and Persistence of Loneliness Over Time
Authors: Lemay Edward P. , Cutri Jennifer N. , Or Ronald T. , Davis Alexander J. , Xiao Zizhong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Lonely people often crave social connection, but their social interactions fall short of fulfilling their needs. Although loneliness has been associated with negative views of the world, it is not clear whether these world beliefs contribute to the unfulfilling social interaction patterns that sustain loneliness. This research examined the role of world beliefs in explaining the effects of loneliness on daily frequency and quality of interaction, and the implications for sustained loneliness over time.

Methods

Both members of romantic couples (N = 472) completed measures of loneliness, world beliefs, and daily social interactions with weak and strong ties over 2 weeks (daily N = 6411) and completed a follow‐up assessment of loneliness a year later.

Results

Relative to those who felt connected, lonely people believed the world was worse, dangerous, dull, and did not need them. Loneliness also indirectly predicted reduced quality and quantity of social interaction via negative, dull, and not needed world beliefs. In turn, the quality of interactions with strong ties predicted maintained loneliness a year later. However, dangerous world beliefs predicted better interactions with close relationship partners.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that the negative subjective worlds inhabited by lonely people may partially explain why lonely people have unfulfilling social interactions that tend to sustain their loneliness.
Water beads: Expanding toy and ‘new’ problem for paediatric surgeons and community
Authors: Bollettini Taisia , Mogiatti Mirella , Benigna Alice , Finelli Angelica , Ferrara Francesco , Pardi Veronica , Macchiarelli Raffaele , Messina Mario , Gentilino Valerio , Molinaro Francesco , Angotti Rossella
Published: December 2024

Background and Study Aims

Water beads made from superabsorbent polymers can lead to bowel obstruction, which can sometimes be fatal. This article aims to highlight the dangers of such toys and to propose an innovative, safe and effective approach to diagnostic and therapeutic management.

Patients and Methods

We report two cases of children with intestinal obstruction following the ingestion of products based on superabsorbent polymers. They were diagnosed and treated in two different centres using varying techniques.

Results

We compare our experiences with the few cases reported in the literature. Since water beads are radiolucent, ultrasound or CT scans are crucial for diagnosis. As in one of our cases, radiography of the upper gastrointestinal tract with contrast can be very helpful. Laparotomy with enterotomy is the main surgical approach reported in literature to extract the water spheres. We report two cases managed using a minimally invasive approach, and one of them is the second one described in the literature, treated endoscopically.

Conclusions

Water beads pose a potential danger to children, making it necessary to limit the sale of this type of toy. We offer a management flowchart based on our experience and evidence from the literature.
Peaceful (But Not Passive) Resistance to Empire: Maximus the Confessor and the Politeia of Jesus Christ
Authors: Blowers Paul M.
Published: December 2024

During the Monothelete Controversy, the last phase of the ancient Christological controversies engaging Eastern and Western churches in the seventh century, the Byzantine monastic theologian Maximus the Confessor not only developed a crucial defense of the dual (divine and human) wills in Jesus Christ, he also mounted a broad monastic and ecclesiastical dissent from the doctrinal positions of the imperial establishment. Establishing the cultural and theological context of his career, this essay explores the extent to which Maximus's Christocentric cosmology and eschatology, combined with his own activism and networks of relationships, rose to the level of a serious “political” challenge to Byzantine imperial aspirations. The ultimate focus is on Maximus's principle of the politeia of Jesus Christ, the new way of life inaugurated by Christ, to which all rational creatures are called to conform precisely as a cruciform allegiance to the ruler of the universe whose government may intersect with earthly regimes but ultimately transcends and outlasts them.
The Newborn Infant Parasympathetic Evaluation Index for Assessment of Procedural Pain and Discomfort in Mechanically Ventilated Pediatric Intensive Care Patients: A Prospective, Exploratory, Observational Study
Authors: Weber Frank , Langen Emma , Kerbusch Thomas , Bokhorst Eric
Published: December 2024

Background

The heart rate variability–based Newborn Infant Parasympathetic Evaluation (NIPE) Index is a continuous noninvasive tool for the assessment of pain and discomfort in infants. Little is known about its performance in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) setting, where assessment of pain/discomfort is usually based on discontinuous observational scoring systems or personal experience of medical staff.

Aim

Evaluation of the performance of NIPE as an indicator of procedural pain and/or discomfort in conscious mechanically ventilated PICU patients.

Methods

Procedural pain/discomfort was simultaneously assessed during pain‐ or stressful procedures by two validated discontinuous clinical scoring systems (FLACC and COMFORT‐B scale) and the NIPE.

Results

NIPE values, FLACC‐ and COMFORT‐B scores were recorded in 17 infants with a mean age of 1.2 (range 0.8–5.9) months. NIPE values associated with positive FLACC‐ (≥ 4; indicative of pain) and/or COMFORT‐B (≥ 17, indicative of discomfort) scores were lower (p < 0.001) than when associated with negative FLACC (< 4) and/or COMFORT‐B (< 17) scores with 95% CI's of a difference of −14 to −11 (FLACC), −13 to −11 (COMFORT‐B) and −14 to −11 (FLACC and COMFORT‐B), with significant interindividual variability in NIPE values. Logistic regression analyses revealed odds ratios between 0.84 and 0.85; the adjacent receiver operating curve analyses showed areas under the curve between 0.83 and 0.88. NIPE data recording failure occurred during 49.3% of the periods with a FLACC ≥ 4% and 40.7% with a COMFORT‐B ≥ 17.

Conclusions

The NIPE detects procedural pain and discomfort in conscious mechanically ventilated infants with an accuracy comparable to established clinical scoring systems. However, because of significant interindividual variability of NIPE values and frequent data recording failure associated with patient movement, we believe it is premature to recommend its use in conscious infants.
Differences in clinical, radiological and laboratory parameters between elderly and young patients with newly diagnosed smear‐positive pulmonary tuberculosis in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Khanh Linh , Bui Duc Manh , Dang Khanh Linh , Nguyen Manh Cuong , Pham Thi Huong Quynh , Tran Thi Huyen Trang , Vo Thi Thuy , Du Pham Van , Doan Van Duc , Hoang Nang Trong , Tran Thi Van Anh , Tran Xuan Thuy , Nguyen Thi Hanh , Nguyen Trung Kien , Bui Thi Han , Gautret Philippe , Hoang Van Thuan , Dao Thi Loi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To investigate the differences in clinical, radiological and laboratory parameters between elderly and young patients with newly diagnosed smear‐positive pulmonary tuberculosis in Vietnam.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included all patients hospitalised with newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis with acid‐fast bacilli‐positive smear. Clinical symptoms, laboratory results and chest X‐ray findings were collected using a standardised questionnaire. Elderly was defined as those patients aged 65 years and older.

Results

A total of 183 patients diagnosed with new acid‐fast bacilli‐positive pulmonary tuberculosis were included in this study, with a mean age of 56.2 ± 16.3 years (minimum = 18 and maximum = 87 years). Seventy‐seven participants were aged ≥65 years, accounting for 42.1% of participants. A total of 147 (80.3%) patients were male, and the sex ratio of male/female was 4.1.

Night sweats were statistically more frequent among younger patients (34.9% vs. 20.8%, p = 0.04), whereas muscle and joint pain were more predominant among the elderly (7.6% vs. 22.1%, p = 0.01). A proportion of 67.0% of younger patients and 63.6% of the elderly group were bilaterally affected. Cavitation lesions were significantly more frequent in the younger group (55.7% vs. 39.0%, p = 0.03), whereas pulmonary fibrosis occurred more frequently in elderly patients (29.3% vs. 45.4%, p = 0.02). No other significant differences in clinical symptoms, laboratory results and chest X‐ray findings were observed.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the importance of considering age‐related variations in the clinical and radiological presentation of tuberculosis, which can guide tailored approaches in diagnosis, management and treatment strategies for different age groups.
Review of the Impact of Hydrogen-Containing Fuels on Gas Turbine Hot-Section Materials
Authors: O'Connor Jacqueline , Noble David R. , Bridges Alex , Shingledecker John , Scheibel John , Gagliano Michael
Published: December 2024

In an effort to achieve worldwide decarbonization goals, a range of low-carbon fuels is being proposed for use in power-generation gas turbines. Two promising fuels are hydrogen and ammonia, which do not produce any CO2 upon combustion. While the use cases of these fuels differ, each has the potential to reduce the carbon intensity of power generation as compared to the current use of natural gas and fuel oil. Many studies have considered the impact that these fuels will have on combustion stability and emissions, as well as other practical considerations like balance of plant. However, potential challenges for the material systems in these engines, particularly high-temperature metal alloys and coatings, have not been sufficiently considered in preparation for the introduction of these fuels. The goal of this paper is to provide a review of the potential material issues associated with implementation of these hydrogen-containing fuels, with a focus on materials in the hot section of existing power-generation gas turbines. To date, relatively little research has considered these material issues at realistic gas turbine conditions, resulting in a need for new research. This paper provides a review of the literature, first-order analyses of the magnitude of potential issues, and avenues for research to facilitate the safe and reliable introduction of these fuels in power-generation gas turbines.
Dynamic Response of a Pivot-Mounted Squeeze Film Damper: Measurements and Predictions
Authors: Kasprzyk Marie , Delgado Adolfo
Published: December 2024

Squeeze film dampers (SFDs) are widely used to reduce vibration levels in rotating equipment. These devices are installed in series with bearings and are subjected to precessional motions with the inner and outer damper surfaces remaining parallel. Alternatively, this paper evaluates the dynamic performance of a damper describing angular motions. This paper includes the design and development of a test rig, and the experimental dynamic response of the pivot-mounted journal benchmarked with a predictive finite element code. The experimental setup uses a housing with two different radial clearances—3 mils (76.2 μm) for the lower land and 12 mils (304.8 μm) for the upper land—which is open to atmosphere. This work also includes developing a pivot-mounted SFD computer code, capable of predicting the dynamic performance of unpressurized 2π and segmented dampers. The numerical tool can predict the dynamic performance of a damper that has multiple land diameters with different clearances. The experimental results identify stiffness, damping, and added mass for both the SFD and its structure, showing a close correlation with the numerical calculations using three different fluid viscosities.
Shape Optimization of an Industrial Aeroengine Combustor to Reduce Thermoacoustic Instability
Authors: Ekici Ekrem , Juniper Matthew P.
Published: December 2024

We parameterize the geometry of an industrial aeroengine combustor using free-form deformation (FFD). We then define the thermoacoustic system parameters and impose the acoustic boundary conditions to calculate the thermoacoustic eigenmode of the model using an open source parallelized Helmholtz solver. We then use adjoint methods to calculate the shape derivatives of the unstable eigenvalue with respect to the shape parameters. First, we calculate the sensitivities with respect to surface movements. Second, we calculate the sensitivities with respect to the FFD control points. We modify the FFD control point positions in order to reduce the thermoacoustic growth rate until the mode considered is stable. These findings show how, when combined with other constraints, this method could be used to reduce combustion instability in industrial annular combustors through geometric modifications.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations in Nanoscale Heat Transfer: A Mini Review
Authors: Kim Jiyoung , Liu Yuhan , Luo Tengfei , Tian Zhiting
Published: December 2024

As device miniaturization advances, managing heat at the nanoscale becomes increasingly critical. Nanoscale heat transfer presents unique challenges, including size effect, ballistic transport, and complex phonon interactions, which conventional macroscopic theories cannot fully address. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been a powerful tool for directly modeling atomistic motion and interactions, offering valuable insights into thermal phenomena. This article provides an overview of MD methods and their contributions to understanding thermal transport in inorganic crystals, amorphous solids, polymers, and interfaces. Additionally, we offer our perspective on the emerging trends and future research directions in MD simulations, emphasizing their potential to unravel complex thermal phenomena and guide the design of next-generation thermal materials and devices.
Measuring Relative Motion to Develop an Interface That Off-Loads the Lower Limb
Authors: Johnson W. Brett , Pesquera Sarah , Childress Joshua D. , Villanueva Jacqueline R. , Shiels Stefanie M. , Lee Childers W.
Published: December 2024

This investigation seeks to understand how the interfaces between fracture orthoses and the body affect the relative motion between the user and device. Excessive relative motion can inadvertently load the fracture and prevent healing. Identifying interfaces that minimize relative motion will inform the designs of future fracture orthoses. Three types of interfaces are used to off-load the injured limb: a thigh corset, a sling that loaded the ischium, and a sling that loaded the patellar tendon. However, little is known how these interfaces interact or with one another. Eighteen able-bodied participants were fitted with an adjustable interface testing system (ITS) that redirected loads away from the foot and lower leg to more proximal parts of the body using different combinations of the three interfaces. A video motion capture system measured the relative motion between the ITS and the participants while varying the type of interface, load through the ITS, and tightness of the thigh corset. Average relative motion varied from 1.6 to 6.5 cm across all conditions. The thigh corset combined with either the ischial sling or patellar tendon-bearing sling allowed the least relative motion of the interface conditions tested. However, the combinations differ in the sagittal profile they create for the user as well as the breadth of injuries they can treat. All these factors need to be considered in the design of future fracture orthoses.
An Adaptive Sliding-Mode Observer-Based Fuzzy Proportional Integral Control Method for Temperature Control of Laser Soldering Process
Authors: Tan Haopeng , Chen Zhihua , Bao Yunan
Published: December 2024

In the process of electronic packaging, laser soldering exhibits advantages such as noncontact, minimal thermal affected zone, and rapid soldering process. Additionally, the precision of temperature control in laser soldering process is crucial as it determines the quality of the solder joints. However, the uncertain time-variant parameters and the unknown time-varying bounded disturbances make it challenging for high-precision temperature control to achieve high-quality solder joints. To address parametric uncertainties and disturbances, an adaptive sliding-mode observer-based fuzzy PI (ASMFPI) control method is proposed. In ASMFPI, an adaptive sliding-mode algorithm-based observer is designed to estimate temperature variations caused by uncertainties and disturbances, aiming to improve the accuracy of the temperature model. An observer-based compensation is employed to enhance the temperature control precision. Then, a fuzzy proportional integral (PI) control algorithm is adopted to guarantee the track performance and robustness of the closed-loop system. Experiments and comparisons are conducted on a laser soldering machine to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results demonstrate that the designed observer significantly improves the accuracy of the thermodynamic model. Furthermore, comparisons of ASMFPI, well-tuned PI, and feed-forward PI methods indicate that ASMFPI exhibits superior temperature tracking performance compared to the other two methods.
A Multi-Objective Optimization Framework for Offshore Wind Farm Design in Deep Water Seas
Authors: Barnabei Valerio F. , Ancora Tullio C. M. , Conti Michela , Castorrini Alessio , Delibra Giovanni , Corsini Alessandro , Rispoli Franco
Published: December 2024

Floating offshore wind energy will play a key role in the clean energy transition. The number of large-scale wind farm projects is growing in regions like Northern Europe, the East Coast of the U.S., and the Mediterranean Sea. Offshore wind farms face fewer layout constraints, as they can be situated in vast, open sea areas. Turbines are often arranged in simple layouts, such as grid patterns, but this can cause significant annual energy production (AEP) losses due to wake–rotor interaction. Increasing spacing can mitigate this effect, but it may not always be feasible due to marine space limitations or higher costs for cabling and maintenance. This paper introduces a multi-objective wind farm optimization framework using a non sorted genetic algorithm (NSGA II) to minimize costs and maximize AEP. The method is applied to two case studies in the Mediterranean Sea, assuming 15 MW wind turbines. Case A is located off the coast of Civitavecchia, and case B in the Gulf of Squillace. AEP evaluation is performed with the open-source library FLOw Redirection and Induction in Steady-State (floris), while optimization is done using pymoo. In case A, the layout characterized by the lowest levelized cost of energy (LCOE) features 16 turbines, achieving an AEP of 709 GWh, an LCOE of 112.06 €/MWh, and wake losses of 2.6%. Meanwhile, in case B, the layout with the lowest LCOE consists of 19 turbines, achieving an AEP of 1140 GWh, an LCOE of 80.82 €/MWh, and wake losses of 4%.
Models and Structures in the Electrophysics of High-Entropy Alloys with Laser-Induced Fractal Surface Objects
Authors: Aleshin M. P. , Tumarkina D. D. , Oparin E. S. , Bukharov D. N. , Butkovsky O. Ya. , Arakelyan S. M.
Published: December 2024

The possibility of controlled synthesis of nanodendritic structures of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) is considered. The fundamental results on the electrical conductivity depending on the topological structure for iron-containing alloys and compounds in dendritic HEAs are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical and experimental studies of the structural features on the surfaces of HEAs with objects of fractal dimension. The influence of localized cluster inhomogeneities on the solid surface on the electrophysical parameters of samples has been determined taking into account the entropy of mixing in the surface topological structures of dendritic type. The fractal structures of dendrites are analyzed as prototypes of nanoantennas. It is shown that the main reason for the formation of the functional characteristics of such structures is the occurrence of a phase transition with the parameters of the emerging topological fractal structures (dendrites), which can serve as standard thermodynamic parameters, such as temperature and pressure. They will determine the phase states of the medium, including possible trends towards superconductivity. At the same time, the technology of obtaining such surface nanoscale topological objects, based on laser ablation, is quite simple and universal with controllable characteristics of the parameters of the resulting (emerging) structures of various configurations.
Proton Fluxes of Solar-Type Stars with Planetary Systems
Authors: Savanov I. S.
Published: December 2024

The previously developed method for estimating of the parameters of proton fluxes from flare energies for the Sun has been applied to data on the flare activity of solar-type stars. The obtained results will be used to estimate the radiation situation in a stellar system containing exoplanets. In our analysis, we have used catalog data on flares of solar-type stars obtained from observations with Kepler telescope. The empirical relations between the energy of X-ray flares and the proton flux for the Sun have been extended to the case of stellar flares, similar to what has been done previously in the case of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The used method has had limitations caused by the extension of the solar analogy to other stars as well as the uncertainties that have arisen when applying scaling methods. It has been found that the characteristic values of the proton flux for solar-type stars can be one order of magnitude higher than the estimates for the Sun. Prospects for the development of alternative methods for estimating proton fluxes in the vicinity of stars of late spectral types have been discussed (for example, by studying the behavior of Si IV and He II emission lines in the far ultraviolet range).
Investigating precise control pathway for haemostatic clip usage in laparoscopic cholecystectomy based on patient clinical variations: an exploratory retrospective observational study
Authors: Yu Xiru , Wang Xiaodong , Li Ang , Su Jiao , Du Wei , Liu Yu , Zeng Wenqi , Yan Ling , Zhao Ying
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To explore a precise control pathway based on patient clinical variations for haemostatic clip usage in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) through on-site research data from a teaching hospital. Specifically, the study aimed to: (1) to calculate the optimal haemostatic clip consumption in LC based on diagnostic grouping and surgical combinations, and (2) to provide evidence for cost containment of high-value medical consumables used in LC.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Hospital in southwest China.

Participants

The inclusion criteria were set as inpatients whose medical records included International Classification of Diseases codes 1–3 with code 51.2300 (corresponding to LC surgery) and who were discharged on medical advice. A dataset containing 1001 patients without any haematological diagnoses was collected.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Two ordered multinomial logit models were established to identify factors affecting haemostatic clip use in LC. Two-step clustering was used to form subgroups. The premodel included preoperative variables (acute cholecystitis and scarring/fibrotic atrophy), while the full model added intraoperative variables (anatomical variation and severe adhesions). Both models met application prerequisites.

Results

Key factors influencing haemostatic clip usage were identified, including acute cholecystitis, scarring/fibrotic atrophy, anatomical variation and severe adhesions. Consumption references for haemostatic clips were established for LC patients with good prognoses on discharge. The ordered multinomial logit model revealed that acute cholecystitis decreased the odds of using four or more clips (p<0.001), while anatomical variation, scarring/fibrotic atrophy and severe adhesions increased the odds (p<0.001 for all). The model suggested using no more than three clips in 17.30% of cases, precisely four clips in 81.72% of cases and five or more clips in 0.98% of cases, depending on the co-occurring factors. Model-predicted clip usage was consistent with actual usage (consistency=0.56).

Conclusions

This study provides a framework for evidence-based consumable management in LC, demonstrating the potential for extrapolation to other consumables and surgical combinations. Continuous monitoring and timely adjustment will be imperative as medical products and practices evolve.
AI and Big Data approaches to addressing the opioid crisis: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Amjad Maaz , Graham Scott , McCormick Katie , Claborn Kasey
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This paper outlines the steps necessary to assess the latest developments in artificial intelligence (AI) as well as Big Data technologies and their relevance to the opioid crisis. Fatal opioid overdoses have risen to over 82 998 annually in the USA. This highlights the need for urgent and effective data-driven solutions. AI approaches, such as machine learning, deep learning and natural language processing, have been employed to analyse patterns and trends in overdose data and facilitate timely interventions. However, a comprehensive scoping review on the effectiveness of AI-driven technologies to detect, treat, prevent or respond to the opioid crisis remains absent. Thus, it is important to identify recent advancements in AI and Big Data technologies in addressing the opioid crisis.

Methods and analysis

We will electronically search four scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Engineering Village and PsycInfo), including finding reference lists and grey literature from 2013 to 2023. Covidence will be used for screening and selecting papers. We will extract information such as citation details, study context, data used, AI/Big Data technologies, features, algorithms and evaluation metrics. This data will be synthesised, analysed and summarised to draw meaningful conclusions and identify future directions to tackle the opioid crisis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required. Results will be disseminated via conference presentations and peer-reviewed publication.
10-year outcome trajectories of people with mental illness and their families who receive services from multidisciplinary case management and outreach teams: protocol of a multisite longitudinal study
Authors: Yamaguchi Sosei , Usui Kaori , Iwanaga Mai , Kawaguchi Takayuki , Hada Ayako , Yoshida Koji , Nishio Masaaki , Yanata Hidemaro , Watanabe Mariko , Taniguchi Kenichirou , Aoki Hirofumi , Hisajima Yuichiro , Sato Sayaka , Fujii Chiyo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Individuals with mental illness and their families often undergo their recovery process in their communities. This study explored the long-term outcome trajectories of individuals and families who received case management services provided by multidisciplinary outreach teams in a community setting. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether trajectories of subjective quality of life (QoL) related to personal recovery were linked to those clinical and societal outcomes and changes in outreach service frequency.

Methods and analysis

The protocol of this 10-year multisite cohort study was collaboratively developed with individuals with lived experience of psychiatric disorders who had received services from participating outreach teams, and with family members in Japanese family associations. The participants in the study include patients and their key family members who receive services from 23 participating multidisciplinary outreach teams. The participant recruitment period is set from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2025. If necessary, the recruitment period may be extended and the number of participating teams may be increased. The study will annually evaluate the following outcomes after participants’ initial utilisation of services from each team: QoL related to personal recovery, personal agency, feelings of loneliness, well-being and symptom and functional assessments. The family outcomes encompass QoL, well-being, care burden and family relationships. Several meetings will be held to monitor progress and manage issues during the study. Multivariate analyses with repeated measures will be performed to investigate factors influencing changes in the patients’ QoL scores as the dependent variable.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the ethical committee of the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (no. A2023-065). The study findings will be reported in peer-reviewed publications and presented at relevant scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

UMIN-CTR, No. UMIN000052275.
Quintessential inflation in logarithmic Cartan F(R) gravity
Authors: Inagaki Tomohiro , Taniguchi Masahiko
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate the quintessential inflation in the logarithmic Cartan [Formula: see text] gravity associated with local Lorenz symmetry. A small logarithmic modification of general relativity has the potential to introduce both inflation and dark energy. We evaluate the time evolution of the Universe such as inflation, reheating, and dark energy. The parameters in the model are fixed to introduce the inflation and the dark energy scales. We show that the CMB fluctuations induced by the inflation are consistent with the current observations. In the reheating process, it is possible to achieve the reheating temperature required for nucleosynthesis in the Big Bang scenario. It can be seen that by choosing an appropriate value for the scalaron field after reheating, the scalaron field again dominates the energy of the Universe and causes the current accelerating expansion as dark energy.
From Loewner-captive Hermitian diffusions to risk-captive efficient frontiers
Authors: Mengütürk Levent Ali , Mengütürk Murat Cahit
Published: December 2024

We address the following problem: Can we construct a class of stochastic covariance processes that are bounded to evolve “between” a given pair of covariance-valued trajectories? We ask this question to solve a class of quadratic optimization problems that can compute what we call risk-captive efficient-frontiers encapsulated by a pair of efficient-frontier-valued boundaries, which allow for covariance-controlled optimal strategies and decisions. We first introduce a family of Hermitian matrix-valued stochastic processes on a partially-ordered convex cone restricted by a pair of time-dependent positive semi-definite matrices under the Loewner order. These captive matrices follow reflection or absorption attributes at their matrix-valued boundaries; never to break outside from their respective subspaces, albeit by retaining their stochastic fundamentals. We construct a Markovian subclass of these processes as solutions to stochastic differential equations by using spectral decompositions, where the eigenvalues are captive diffusions. We study various mathematical properties of these processes, apply them in solving the aforementioned class of optimization problems and provide the computational algorithm.
Finite groups with sσ-quasinormal subgroups
Authors: Zhong Xuecheng , Li Youxin , Meng Wei
Published: December 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group and [Formula: see text] be some partition of the set [Formula: see text] of all primes. A set [Formula: see text] of subgroups of [Formula: see text] is said to be a complete Hall [Formula: see text]-set of [Formula: see text] if every member [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is a Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] contains exactly one Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for every [Formula: see text]. A group [Formula: see text] is said to be a [Formula: see text]-full group if [Formula: see text] possesses a complete Hall [Formula: see text]-set. A subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is said to be [Formula: see text]-quasinormal in [Formula: see text] if there exists a [Formula: see text]-full subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and for all [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] permutes with every Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we main investigate finite groups all of whose cyclic subgroups of order [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] are [Formula: see text]-quasinormal subgroups. Some new criteria for [Formula: see text]-nilpotency and supersolubilities are established.
Effects of Copper Ferrite Nanoparticles on the Dielectric Properties of Cotton and Cotton–Polyester Mixture
Authors: Mukherjee Prabir Kumar
Published: December 2024

The experiment investigated the dielectric properties of copper ferrite nanoparticle-doped cotton and cotton–polyester mixture and observed the higher dielectric permittivity of cotton–copper ferrite nanoparticles mixture than the cotton–polyester–copper ferrite nanoparticles mixture. This work describes the effects of copper ferrite nanoparticles on the dielectric properties of cotton and cotton–polyester mixture theoretically. The real and imaginary parts of the complex dielectric permittivity as function of temperature and concentration of copper ferrite nanoparticles are calculated. The decrease of dielectric permittivity of cotton–copper ferrite nanoparticles mixture and cotton–polyester–copper ferrite nanoparticles mixture with the increase of frequency has been observed. The comparison between theoretical and experimental results has been presented.