bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a novel bunch oscillation recorder with RFSoC technology
Authors: Nomaru R. , Mitsuka G. , Ruckman L. , Herbst R.
Published: December 2024

The SuperKEKB accelerator is designed to achieve
unprecedented luminosity levels, but this goal is currently hindered
by Sudden Beam Loss (SBL) events. These events not only obstruct
luminosity improvement but also pose a significant risk to
accelerator components, the Belle II detectors, and the
superconducting focusing system, potentially leading to severe
damage and quenching of the superconducting system. To address this
critical challenge, we have developed a novel Bunch Oscillation
Recorder (BOR) based on RFSoC technology. The BOR has demonstrated
high precision with a position resolution of 0.03 mm, making it a
powerful tool for real-time beam monitoring. In its initial
deployment, the BOR successfully recorded multiple SBL events,
providing valuable data for further analysis. By strategically
positioning BORs at the suspected points of SBL origin, we aim to
directly identify sources of beam instability. We anticipate that
this portable, high-speed BOR monitor will play a crucial role in
resolving the SBL issue, ultimately helping achieve SuperKEKB's
luminosity targets.
Characteristics of radio-frequency magnetron sputtering with Ag target operated near the electron series resonance oscillation
Authors: YE 叶 Chao 超
Published: December 2024

The discharge and plasma characteristics of Ag magnetron sputtering discharge operated near the electron series resonance (ESR) oscillation, which was excited using the driving frequency of 27.12 MHz, was investigated. The imaginary part of impedance was found to undergo a transition from capacitive to inductive on varying radio-frequency (RF) power, and the conditions for the ESR excitation were satisfied. The current–voltage (I–V) characteristic of discharge showed that the lower discharge voltage with higher current was an important feature of RF magnetron sputtering operated near the ESR oscillation, which was caused by the small impedance Z originated from the mutual compensation between the sheath capacitive reactance and the plasma inductive reactance. The higher electron temperature, ion flux density and ion energy as well as the moderate electron density were obtained. The interaction of higher energy ions on substrate surface improved the crystallographic quality of Ag films. Therefore, the27.12 MHz magnetron sputtering operated near the ESR oscillation has better deposition characteristics than that of commercial 13.56 MHz RF magnetron sputtering.
Exploring the Beneficial Effects of Green Knowledge Management on Corporate Sustainable Development: The Mediating Roles of Green Innovation and Green Human Resource Management
Authors: Zhou Xiaochao , Firdaus Hafsa Binta Rinty , Gazi Md. Abu Issa , Omer Adam Mohamed , Masud Abdullah Al , Islam Mohammad Muzahidul , Senathirajah Rahman bin S
Published: December 2024

Purpose -The current research aims to develop and test a multidimensional model of green knowledge management using second-order psychometric constructs and determine whether green innovation and green human resource management mediates the corporate sustainable development.Design/Methodology/Approach-The target population of the current study comprises manufacturing and service firms in Bangladesh. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, and 450 final samples were analyzed using structural equation modeling.Findings -The results show that corporate sustainable development is positively impacted by the green knowledge management factor. The research also discovered evidence of an interaction between green knowledge management and corporate sustainable development that is mediated by green innovation and green human resource management. Originality / value -The theoretical conclusion of the research is that this multidimensional green knowledge management model is suitable for gauging corporate sustainable development in developing nations as well as industrialized ones, and it may also be applied to other service sectors. Our primary impression is to emphasize the critical importance of incorporating "green" practices into the management system to facilitate corporate sustainable development. This study demonstrates a clear relationship between green human resource management and corporate sustainable development which will the practitioners to create efficient green knowledge management strategies.Implications - The model proposed in this study holds significant implications for Bangladesh's policymakers and management authorities, guiding their efforts in achieving sustainable development goals. The article argues that there is a strategic need for sustainable development in greening management systems, rather than only seeing it as an ethical or regulatory obligation.
Tropical cyclones in Bangladesh: retrospective analysis of storm information, disaster statistics, and preparedness
Authors: Islam Md. Rezuanul
Published: December 2024

Tropical cyclones (TCs) have historically had far-reaching impacts on livelihoods and vulnerable coastal communities in Bangladesh. Characterizing and understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of TCs is essential for identifying gaps and opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of disaster management practices. This study advances our understanding of TC dynamics in Bangladesh by conducting an integrated analysis of disaster statistics, preparedness measures, and meteorological variables for all landfalling TCs from 1979 to 2022. Our findings indicate that while the frequency of TCs, their meteorological characteristics (e.g., intensity), and related human health and economic impact trends at national scale have remained relatively constant, the spatial impact footprint induced by a single TC has increased. This rise can be attributed to increased coastal exposures including population and assets and improved reporting of smaller-scale disasters at the sub-national level. During 2000–2013, substantial funding shortfalls for addressing disaster risk were noted, with the country’s disaster management budget heavily dependent on humanitarian and foreign aid. Although there have been fewer fatalities in recent years due to improvements in soft measures, challenges remain, including deficiencies in implementing state-of-the-art impact-based early warning systems and limited disaster management funding, especially during years with major TC disaster events. These findings underscore the complex interplay between meteorological hazards, societal exposure, and vulnerabilities, highlighting the challenges of managing disaster risk in Bangladesh.
An intensified northern goshawk optimization algorithm for solving optimization problems
Authors: Wang Xiaowei
Published: December 2024

To enhance the performance of the Northern Goshawk Optimization (NGO) algorithm, which has limitations such as inadequate exploration, slow convergence rates, and susceptibility to local optima in later iterations, an Improved Northern Goshawk Optimization (INGO) algorithm has been developed. The INGO approach employs a good-point set strategy to obtain a high-quality initial population, generating evenly distributed solutions within the search domain. Incorporating an axial mapping differential variation method facilitates the creation of candidate solutions, broadening the scope for identifying optimal solutions, enhancing the algorithm’s ability to avoid local optima, and strengthening its global exploration capabilities. By implementing a Gaussian differential variation strategy, the diversity within the population is increased, which accelerates the convergence rate and improves the algorithm’s local search efficiency. For performance evaluation, the INGO algorithm was benchmarked against seven contemporary optimization algorithms using 65 test functions from the CEC2014, CEC2017, and CEC2022 suites. The outcomes indicate that INGO exhibits superior performance regarding convergence velocity, search precision, and stability when compared to the other algorithms.
An MCDM approach for selection of a biomass fuel for a natural convection dryer based on thermo-economic-environmental analysis
Authors: Deb Arnab , Mandal Sandip Kumar , Das Ghatak Manjula
Published: December 2024

Efficient selection of optimal biomass fuel for the developed natural convection dryers is essential for enhanced drying performance, ensuring environmental and economic viability. This research applies a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to analyze thermo-economic-environmental factors for fuel selection. By preparing four different biomass pellets and evaluating these based on heat generation, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness, the study aims to determine the best fuel for the dryer. The results indicate that the drying system can sustain higher temperatures for extended periods, and exhibit excellent energy and exergy efficiency. The drying system experiences reduced exergy losses of 28.82 to 31.98 W. The financial assessment reveals a payback period of 0.34 years for the dryer. The exhaust gas contains 1703–1928 ppm of CO, 32–44 ppm of NO and 5.3–7.2 ppm of SO2. The MCDM approach identifies the 80:10:10 mixture of sawdust, charcoal, and burnt engine oil as more effective blend of biomass. The study concludes that using biomass pellets with appropriate mixing ratios as fuel in the developed natural convection dryer significantly enhances its drying performance and sustainability.
Design and test of self-propelled sphaeroides globus spreading machine
Authors: Zhen Wang , Weiwei Bai , Xinran Li , Weizhong Xiao , Weili Kong , Yuting Zhang , Qin Liu , Xiao Cui
Published: December 2024

This study presented the development and testing of a self-propelled spreading machine specifically designed for Sphaeroides globus cultivation. Traditional manual spreading methods were labor-intensive, inefficient, and inconsistent, often leading to increased labor costs and variability in spreading quality. The newly designed machine aimed to address these challenges by automating the spreading process, enhancing productivity, and reducing labor dependency. The machine, comprising a power unit, material box, scraper feeding mechanism, stirring device, and feeding device, was subjected to rigorous orthogonal testing to determine the optimal operational parameters. The identified parameters—discharging port height at 147 mm, driving wheel speed at 8 r min−1, and feeding port spacing at 186 mm—were critical in achieving uniform material distribution. Field tests conducted at the Shangqiu Henan Jinlong Mushroom Planting Base demonstrated the machine’s ability to deliver high-quality, uniform spreading, effectively replacing the labor of 6–8 individuals and improving spreading efficiency by 5–10 times compared to manual methods. The results highlighted the machine’s significant economic benefits, reducing operational costs and increasing productivity. The innovative design features, including a precise adjusting plate mechanism, scraper feeding mechanism, and stirring device, contributed to its high performance and reliability. The spreading machine met the requirements for Sphaeroides globus cultivation, providing a practical and efficient solution for large-scale operations. In summary, the self-propelled spreading machine represents a substantial advancement in mechanized fungi cultivation, offering improved productivity, reduced labor costs, and significant economic benefits. Future enhancements should focus on increasing material box capacity, incorporating advanced sensors, and conducting broader field tests to further refine the design, ensuring its viability for large-scale agricultural operations.
Optimizing surface roughness in end milling of additively and conventionally manufactured components of 18Ni300 maraging steel with minimum quantity lubrication
Authors: Sohail Syed , Reddy B Chandra Mohan
Published: December 2024

This work examines the impact of Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) on the surface roughness optimization during end milling of 18Ni300 maraging steel components produced through conventional manufacturing (CM) and additive manufacturing (AM). It investigates the effects of cutting speed, feed per tooth, and cut depth on surface roughness of the components under as-printed (ASP) and direct aging heat-treated (DAT) conditions for various AM build orientations (0, 45, and 90 degree) and CM. AM components’ comparisons are drawn with the CM components in the as-cast (ASC) and DAT conditions. The results show that the lowest surface roughness of 0.125 μm occurs with 0 degree AM-DAT at a cutting speed of 50 m min−1, a feed rate of 0.01 mm per tooth, and a depth of cut of 0.1 mm. Surface roughness outcomes correlate with microstructural features and surface morphologies, evaluated using microscopic techniques. The feed marks are more closely spaced for a superior surface finish of 0.125 μm compared to other roughness values. Metallurgical studies were conducted on both the untreated group and the group that underwent heat treatment. After aging, maraging steel exhibits refined microstructure and a reduced number of defects were found in DAT-processed milled specimens. Consequently, the surface finish values are better for all the cases of AM-DAT and CM-DAT in comparison to all the cases of as-printed AM and as-cast CM. It was observed that the application of MQL, although able to achieve better surface quality, was not very effective in suppressing the growth trend of surface roughness with increasing feed conditions across all build orientations and sample conditions.
Nonessential kinetochore proteins contribute to meiotic chromosome condensation through polo-like kinase
Authors: Trakroo Deepika , Agarwal Prakhar , Alekar Anushka , Ghosh Santanu Kumar
Published: December 2024

Chromosome condensation plays a pivotal role during faithful chromosome segregation, hence, understanding the factors that drive condensation is crucial to get mechanistic insight into chromosome segregation. Previously, we showed that in budding yeast, the absence of the nonessential kinetochore proteins affects chromatin-condensin association in meiosis but not in mitosis. A differential organization of the kinetochores, that we and others observed earlier during mitosis and meiosis may contribute to the meiotic-specific role. Here, with our in-depth investigation using in vivo chromosome condensation assays in cells lacking a nonessential kinetochore protein, Ctf19, we establish that these proteins have roles in achieving a higher meiotic condensation without influencing much of the mitotic condensation. We further observed an accumulation of the polo-like kinase Cdc5 owing to its higher protein stability in ctf19Δ meiotic cells. High Cdc5 activity causes hyperphosphorylation of the condensin resulting in its reduced stability and concomitant decreased association with the chromatin. Overall, our findings highlight the role of Ctf19 in promoting meiotic chromosome condensation by influencing the activity of Cdc5 and thereby affecting the stability and association of condensin with the chromatin.
Terminal reproductive investment in male Eastern Gray Treefrogs (Dryophytes versicolor, Anura: Hylidae) is a marathon not a sprint
Authors: Leach Olivia , Lockhart Katie , Algar Adam C
Published: December 2024

The idea that greater investment in current reproductive events reduces future survival is fundamental to our understanding of life history evolution. The terminal investment hypothesis proposes that individuals with limited future reproductive opportunities will invest more time and energy into the current reproductive event. We tested this hypothesis in male Eastern Gray Treefrogs (Dryophytes versicolor LeConte 1825) predicting that larger, older males will spend more time at the breeding pond and lose a greater percentage of their body mass over the entirety of the breeding season. We found a positive correlation between male size and the number of nights males attended the breeding pond; males that attended the pond more often also lost more weight over the breeding season. Lastly, larger older males extended their breeding season by remaining at the pond later in the season, rather than arriving earlier. Moreover, males that invested more in reproduction were less likely to be recaptured the following year. These results suggest that older males invest more in reproduction than younger males and pay a cost in terms of future survival, which is consistent with the terminal investment hypothesis.
An audit of the impact of the introduction of a commercial artificial intelligence-driven auto-contouring tool into a radiotherapy department
Authors: Langmack Keith A , Alexander Gavin G , Gardiner Joshua , McKenna Angela , Shawcroft Ewan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To audit prospectively the accuracy, time saving, and utility of a commercial artificial intelligence auto-contouring tool (AIAC). To assess the reallocation of time released by AIAC.

Methods

We audited the perceived usefulness (PU), clinical acceptability, and reallocation of time during the introduction of a commercial AIAC. The time from CT to plan completion [patient planning transit time (PPTT)] was audited for several pathways.

Results

In this audit, 248 patients and 32 staff were included. PU increased with exposure to AIAC (P < .05). For 80% of sites, AIAC was timesaving and AI contours were clinically acceptable after minor edits. Edits had little impact on doses for the majority of cases. Median PPTT reduced by 5.5 (breast) and 9 (prostate) working days (P < .01). Radiographers spent more time on other tasks within planning. Oncologists improved their work-life balance and increased time spent on professional development and research by up to 2 h per week.

Conclusions

All users of AIAC found it a useful tool and it improved their productivity. The contours were high quality and needed little editing. It reduced contouring time and reduced PPTT by several days in some cases. The reallocated time was staff group dependent.

Advances in knowledge

The time released by the use of AIAC can lead to a reduction in the PPTT by up to 9 days. It also improves the work-life balance of oncologists by reducing the time spent out of hours contouring.
Designing qualitative research with value in the clinical and epidemiological context: what, why and how
Authors: Meuleman Yvette , van Westrum Eline Schade , Bos Willem Jan W , Mooijaart Simon P , van Buren Marjolijn , Tripepi Giovanni , Stel Vianda S , Jager Kitty J , Zoccali Carmine , Dekker Friedo W
Published: December 2024

Clinical and epidemiological research are indispensable for improvements in evidence-based healthcare and health outcomes, but they also leave important gaps in our understanding of health and illness. Qualitative research has been increasingly recognized as a key to address some of these gaps, using both exploratory (to gain a more complete and in-depth understanding of problems) and explanatory (to explain quantitative results) approaches. By finding out ‘what's going on’ and bringing people's stories to light, qualitative research is widely advocated as crucial in enhancing patient-centered research and healthcare. To date, most clinicians, clinical researchers and epidemiologists are relatively unfamiliar with and untrained in qualitative research – a type of research that, compared to quantitative research, requires different research skills and uses a different jargon, type of reasoning and methods. This article aims to equip them with the basic knowledge necessary to appraise and design qualitative research. Specifically, we provide a comprehensive overview of 1) what qualitative research is, including various examples of qualitative research questions and explanations of the contrasting properties of quantitative and qualitative research; 2) what constitutes the added value of qualitative research in the clinical and epidemiological context, illustrated using numerous research conducted within nephrology; and 3) practical guidelines for designing qualitative research within this context, including a self-developed checklist containing essential information to include in qualitative research protocols. In doing so, we hope to enrich clinical and epidemiological research with complementary qualitative evidence – amongst others, the invaluable insights into patients’ lived experiences and perceptions –, and hereby greatly enhance patient-centered research and evidence-based healthcare.
We are all in the same boat: Cross-border spillovers of climate shocks through international trade and supply chain
Authors: Feng Alan , Li Haishi , Wang Yulin
Published: December 2024

Are landlocked countries at risk from sea-level rise? We identify a new mechanism where natural disaster shocks influence countries’ macroeconomic performance through cross-border trade spillovers. Analyzing global data on climate disasters, infrastructure, trade, and the macroeconomy from 1970 to 2019, we find that climate disasters impacting ports, critical infrastructure for international trade, reduce imports, exports, and economic output in both the affected country and its major trade partner (both upstream and downstream) countries. The GDP effects on main upstream and downstream countries are as large as those in directly impacted countries: While directly affected countries offset climate disaster damages with increased government spending and investment, trade partners do not. Effective adaptation efforts, including building climate-resilient infrastructure and implementing disaster relief measures, must account for the cross-border spillover effects of climate disasters.
Novel Nomenclature and Functional Insights into YTH Genes in the Rosaceae Family
Authors: Wang Hanqing , Yang Huizhen , Bian Hanxiao , Wei Chunyan , Gao Ying , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2024

N 6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent and widespread post-transcriptional modification of eukaryotic messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) . Historically, YT512-B homology (YTH) domain proteins have been regarded as RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Recent studies have revealed their critical role in recognizing m6A and regulating the metabolism of m6A-modified mRNA. The identification of YTH domain proteins is essential for elucidating the regulatory mechanism of m6A. However, information concerning YTH-domain proteins in the Rosaceae family remains limited. In this study, we report the identification of a total of 185 YTH genes across twelve Rosaceae species. Cis-element analysis indicated the pivotal roles of YTH domain proteins in plant development and environmental response. Consequently, we comprehensively summarized the expression profiles of YTH genes in Fragaria vesca, Malus domestica, Prunus persica, and Rubus idaeus, revealing their tissue-specific expression patterns and involvement in plant and fruit development. Additionally, the analysis of YTH gene expression profiles in peach fruit in response to methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment suggested a potential role of YTH genes in chilling injury (CI) during low-temperature storage. Moreover, through heterologous transgenesis, we confirmed that PpYTHDFE1 regulates fruit quality by promoting the accumulation of organic acids and decreasing the sugar-to-acid ratio. We devised a novel nomenclature system for YTH genes across multiple species, providing information for further research on these genes. Our findings provide a valuable reference for future investigations into the regulatory mechanisms of YTH proteins and m6A within the Rosaceae family.
AIPPI-Q289: Asking for Harmonization of Disclosure Requirements – Analysis and Opinion from a German and European Perspective
Authors: Schüssler Andrea , Hoffmann Fabian , Dumlich Heiko , Kommer Jérôme , Gajeck Niclas , Lechner Rolf
Published: December 2024

The authors present the key responses of the German group of AIPPI to Study Question 289 and discuss under which circumstances patent applicants should be obliged to disclose prior art, the consequences of violations of an obligation to disclose under aspects of the law of damages, criminal and constitutional law, and analyse harmonization options from a practical point of view. The WIPO Treaty on Genetic Resources and associated Traditional Knowledge and its consequences for disclosure requirements is also briefly outlined.

The authors and the German national group of AIPPI propose the harmonization of patent law internationally so that it only requires limited disclosure of prior art which facilitates the understanding of the technical context and the advantages of the invention from the applicant’s point of view at the time of filing. This would reduce the burden on applicants, and particularly on smaller entities, enabling them to focus their resources on innovation instead of compliance with strict formal obligations. Patent offices should increase their international collaboration and ensure that search results are shared among them.

A patent becoming unenforceable with respect to all of its claims as a consequence of strict disclosure requirements is unlikely to meet the constitutional principles of European states, in particular Germany. An applicant’s conduct may instead be considered regarding the liability for damages. This should be sufficient to incentivize the patentee to fulfil their obligation of truthfulness as part of the disclosure requirements, without unnecessarily shifting the burden on applicants and patent offices.
‘Duplex and reciprocal’ obligation: Calvin’s Case (1608) and the development of early modern English citizenship
Authors: Commons Kathleen
Published: December 2024

Whether or not people in early modern England were citizens has often been analysed in terms of individuals’ participation in self-rule, neglecting the fact that citizenship is also a legal status. Citizenship as a legal status comprises rights, conferred through belonging to a polity, and enacted through participation. This article seeks to understand the extent to which the legal status of early modern English subjects was citizenlike through examining Calvin’s Case (1608) and its afterlife. The judgement in Calvin’s Case drew on established legal principles to construct a legal status for English subjects, wherein natural allegiance to the monarch conferred protection. This remains the basis of British citizenship today. The judgement itself was ambiguous, defining protection both as natural protection emanating from the monarch and legal protection, that is, rights enshrined in law. The use of the judgement in the debates of the 1640s and 1680s about subjects’ capacities to resist perceived monarchical overreach sheds important light on how English individuals understood their rights, the relationship of these rights to belonging and the limits of enacting these rights through participation.
Aeromonas isolation reveals this genus’s contribution to antimicrobial resistance fluxes across the wastewater–treated water–river interface
Authors: Xu Jianxin , Jensen Mia Kristine Staal , Lassen Simon Bo , Brandt Kristian Koefoed , Dechesne Arnaud , Smets Barth F
Published: December 2024

Aim

Aeromonas spp. are common members of water and wastewater microbiomes, but some are listed as opportunistic pathogens and are often reported to carry antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. We aimed to assess the performance of isolation media for capturing their distribution and their role in AMR dissemination into aquatic environments.

Methods and results

We investigated the abundance, diversity, and AMR profile of Aeromonas isolates from wastewater and receiving water bodies at five municipal wastewater treatment plants in Denmark using three isolation media. This was then compared with the diversity estimated from community-wide 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and resistance patterns inferred from high-throughput qPCR of resistance genes. Isolates from ampicillin sheep blood agar were the most phylogenetically diverse, but the overall Aeromonas recovery on the three media was similarly good and matched the dominant amplicon sequence variants. While the dominant phylotypes were ubiquitous, some types were only detected in treated wastewater and the receiving rivers. The resistance prevalence was moderate and mostly to beta-lactams and tetracyclines. Isolates resistant to piperacilin–tazobactam, cefepime, and tetracycline downstream of the plants were linked to wastewater origin.

Conclusion

Overall, our work demonstrates Aeromonas and Aeromonas-mediated AMR fluxes at the wastewater/environment interfaces and provides methodological bases for monitoring aeromonads in wastewater and surface waters.
Actinide signatures in low electron fraction kilonova ejecta
Authors: Pognan Quentin , Wu Meng-Ru , Martínez-Pinedo Gabriel , da Silva Ricardo Ferreira , Jerkstrand Anders , Grumer Jon , Flörs Andreas
Published: December 2024

Neutron star (NS) mergers are known to produce heavy elements through rapid neutron capture (r-process) nucleosynthesis. Actinides are expected to be created solely by the r-process in the most neutron-rich environments. Confirming if NS mergers provide the requisite conditions for actinide creation is therefore central to determining their origin in the Universe. Actinide signatures in kilonova (KN) spectra may yield an answer, provided adequate models are available in order to interpret observational data. In this study, we investigate actinide signatures in neutron-rich merger ejecta. We use three ejecta models with different compositions and radioactive power, generated by nucleosynthesis calculations using the same initial electron fraction ($Y_e = 0.15$) but with different nuclear physics inputs and thermodynamic expansion history. These are evolved from 10 to 100 d after merger using the sumo non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (NLTE) radiative transfer code. We highlight how uncertainties in nuclear properties, as well as choices in thermodynamic trajectory, may yield entirely different outputs for equal values of $Y_e$. We consider an actinide-free model and two actinide-rich models, and find that the emergent spectra and light-curve evolution are significantly different depending on the amount of actinides present, and the overall decay properties of the models. We also present potential key actinide spectral signatures, of which doubly ionized $_{89}$Ac and $_{90}$Th may be particularly interesting as spectral indicators of actinide presence in KN ejecta.
Unravelling the orbits of cluster galaxy populations according to their dominant gas ionization source
Authors: Valk Greique A , Rembold Sandro B
Published: December 2024

We investigate the kinematical and dynamical properties of cluster galaxy populations classified according to their dominant source of gas ionization, namely: star-forming (SF) galaxies, optical active galactic nuclei (AGNs), mixed SF plus AGN ionization (transition objects, T), and quiescent (Q) galaxies. We stack 8892 member galaxies from 336 relaxed galaxy clusters to build an ensemble cluster and estimate the observed projected profiles of numerical density and velocity dispersion, $\sigma _P(R)$, of each galaxy population. The MAMPOSSt code and the Jeans equations inversion technique are used to constrain the velocity anisotropy profiles of the galaxy populations in both parametric and non-parametric ways. We find that Q (SF) galaxies display the lowest (highest) typical cluster-centric distances and velocity dispersion values. Transition galaxies are more concentrated and tend to exhibit lower velocity dispersion values than SF galaxies. Galaxies that host an optical AGN are as concentrated as Q galaxies but display velocity dispersion values similar to those of the SF population. MAMPOSSt is able to find equilibrium solutions that successfully recover the observed $\sigma _P(R)$ profile only for the Q, T, and AGN populations. We find that the orbits of all populations are consistent with isotropy in the inner regions, becoming increasingly radial with the distance from the cluster centre. These results suggest that Q galaxies are in equilibrium within their clusters, while SF galaxies have more recently arrived in the cluster environment. Finally, the T and AGN populations appear to be in an intermediate dynamical state between those of the SF and Q populations.
Post-intrathecal chemotherapy-related paraplegia syndrome in hematological cancer patients: A systematic review
Authors: Monnikhof Matthijs , Hamming Gabriella , Crnko Sandra , Brandsma Rick , van Rhenen Anna , Monnikhof Thomas , Bovenschen Niels , Kaspers Gertjan , Flinsenberg Thijs W H
Published: December 2024

Background

Intrathecal (IT) chemotherapy is essential in treating hematological malignancies, but it can lead to ascending paraplegia, a condition that currently lacks clear management guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review, analyzing 1219 studies and 116 patients, adhering to PRISMA guidelines for individual patient data. The study, registered under PROSPERO (CRD42022362121), focused on the onset, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic interventions associated with this complication, and management strategies to tackle the ascending paraplegia.

Results

Paraplegia typically manifests approximately 10 days after chemotherapy, irrespective of injection frequency. In 95% of cases, paralysis stabilizes around the umbilical region, although some patients progress to upper limb involvement and respiratory compromise. Despite various diagnostic methods, consistent inflammatory markers in blood or cerebrospinal fluid are lacking, with approximately 60% of patients showing normal magnetic resonance imaging results at presentation. Misdiagnoses often include transverse myelitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and autoimmune radiculitis. Common treatments such as corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins show limited effectiveness.

Conclusion

Our review delineates the clinical entity of ascending paraplegia following IT chemotherapy, aiming to increase clinician awareness and provide prognostic insight. We introduce the term post-IT paraplegia syndrome to facilitate accurate diagnosis and optimize treatment strategies for affected patients.
State Building in a Diverse Society
Authors: Carlitz Ruth , Morjaria Ameet , Mueller Joris , Osafo-Kwaako Philip
Published: December 2024

Diversity can pose fundamental challenges to state building and development. The Tanzanian Ujamaa policy—one of post-colonial Africa’s largest state-building experiments—addressed these challenges by resettling a diverse population in planned villages, where children received political education. We combine differences in exposure to Ujamaa across space and age to identify long-term impacts of the policy. Analysis of contemporary surveys shows persistent, positive effects on national identity and perceived state legitimacy. Our preferred interpretation, supported by evidence that considers alternative hypotheses, is that changes to educational content drive our results. Our findings also point to trade-offs associated with state building: while the policy contributed to establishing the new state as a legitimate central authority, exposure to Ujamaa lowered demands for democratic accountability and did not increase generalized inter-ethnic trust.
Tailoring the treatment of type-2 related chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps: a comparative analysis of medical and surgical approaches
Authors: Giombi Francesco , Mercante Giuseppe , Nappi Emanuele , Marzio Valentina , Malvezzi Luca
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

Advances in understanding the molecular pathways underlying nasal epithelial inflammation have ushered in the era of personalized medicine for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Research progress has led to the approval of several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for severe CRSwNP, demonstrating promising outcomes in both clinical trials and real-world settings. Similarly, evolution in surgical techniques has enhanced progression-free survival due to the development of novel approaches. This narrative review summarizes current evidence comparing medical and surgical options for CRSwNP.

Recent findings

There is general consensus that surgery is most effective in reducing nasal polyp size (NPS), while mAbs appears to provide greater benefits in terms of quality-of-life measures and olfactory function. Overall, surgery has shown higher long-term cost-effectiveness, although this could change with the upcoming patent expirations of mAbs. Additionally, head-to-head trials will allow for a direct comparison of the effectiveness of different mAbs in disease-specific outcomes.

The high heterogeneity among studies has limited the ability to draw definitive conclusions through meta-analyses. To date, endoscopic sinus surgery remains the preferred option for surgery-naive patients, while individuals with recalcitrant CRSwNP and confirmed type-2 inflammation should be considered for mAb treatment.
Physicians' Values as Motivators for Continuing Professional Development: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gavarkovs Adam G. , McCauley William
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

According to Self-Determination Theory, when health professionals see their continuing professional development (CPD) efforts as aligned with their intrinsic values (eg, helping others), they may develop a more desirable motivational orientation toward CPD. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the effect of physicians' values on their CPD motivation.

Methods:

Practicing physicians in a single Canadian providence were administered an online survey that assessed their motivation for engaging in CPD, the importance they ascribe to three intrinsic and three extrinsic values, and the extent to which engaging in CPD activities is aligned with intrinsic and extrinsic values.

Results:

A total of 122 physicians completed the survey. Seeing CPD activities as contributing to helping others was positively associated with intrinsic regulation, identified regulation, and introjected regulation. Seeing CPD activities as contributing to personal growth was positively associated with identified regulation.

Discussion:

As predicted by the Self-Determination Theory, physicians who perceived CPD as aligned with intrinsic values tended to report a more desirable motivational orientation toward CPD. CPD providers can support health professionals' motivation by highlighting connections between CPD activities and intrinsic values in promotional materials.
Finite Element Analysis of the Stress Changes Associated With the Growth of Acne Keloids
Authors: Ishii Nobuaki , Akaishi Satoshi , Akimoto Masataka , Ichinose Shizuko , Usami Satoshi , Dohi Teruyuki , Ogawa Rei
Published: December 2024

Background:

Almost half of all spontaneously occurring keloids are acne keloids on the anterior chest. These keloids often grow in a crab-claw shape due to predominant tractional stresses on the scar; such stresses are risk factors for keloid growth/progression. To understand the relationship between acne keloid growth and mechanical stress, we conducted finite element analysis (FEA), measured the long/short dimensions of photographed acne keloids, and subjected acne keloids to microscopy.

Methods:

FEA was conducted on 10 identically shaped ellipsoidal keloids whose long-axis length rose from 5 to 50 mm in 5-mm increments. They were embedded in the skin and subjected to traction. The stress on the keloid and its surrounding tissues was determined. Dimensions of 220 acne keloids were measured. Electron/light microscopy was conducted on the center, margins, and surrounding tissues of chest acne keloids.

Results:

FEA showed that as the keloid “grew,” the tractional stress centered on its core, then became evenly distributed, and then focused increasingly on the tractioned keloid margin, especially its shallow dermis. This is associated with increasing stress in the surrounding tissues at the keloid margin. Clinical dimension measurements showed that acne keloids remained round until 4–5 mm, after which they elongated rapidly. Electron microscopy showed that in the surrounding skin, fragments of keratinocyte, fibrin, and numerous cell fragments were observed just below the epidermal basement membrane.

Conclusions:

Keloid-prone acne should be treated with steroid tape or other keloid therapy when it reaches 4–5 mm in diameter.
Scleral fixated intraocular lens techniques for the vitreoretinal surgeon: an update
Authors: Khan M. Ali
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

To describe recent evidence regarding surgical techniques for secondary scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs), with attention to information most relevant to the surgical practice of vitreoretinal surgeons.

Recent findings

Recent studies have reported favorable outcomes in patients treated with scleral fixation of IOLs using Gore-Tex suture and flanged intrascleral haptic fixation (ISHF). ISHF can be achieved using trocar-cannulas or double needle-based techniques. Recent data has focused on refractive outcomes data, as well as postoperative complications related to specific IOL choices, including haptic breakage, rotation/ tilt, and opacification. Studies directly comparing Gore-Tex sutured and ISHF techniques offer additional insights.

Favorable refractive and surgical outcomes can be achieved using both sutured and sutureless scleral fixation techniques. These techniques can be combined effectively with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and are thus well suited for the skillset of a vitreoretinal surgeon. Future studies on iris-based fixation techniques and IOL types not yet available in the United States will be of interest. As these techniques are more widely used, prospective data as well as longer term outcomes will continue to clarify their risk/benefit profile.
The Orbitomalar Ligament: A Cleavage Plane in Oculofacial Trauma
Authors: Kryshtalskyj Michael T. , Mina Mina , Schell Carson D. , Madjedi Kian M. , Nugent Ryan , Kikkawa Don O. , Ashenhurst Michael E. , Punja Karim G.
Published: December 2024

We describe an oculofacial injury phenotype manifesting as a cleavage plane following the orbitomalar ligament in 5 cases. Across these cases, curvilinear wounds followed the course of the orbitomalar ligament, running clean planes through orbicularis oculi down to the infraorbital rim and arcus marginalis. One case involved bilateral orbitomalar ligaments, and 1 case involved the inferior canaliculus. Associated craniofacial injuries included orbital floor fracture, orbital hemorrhage, and zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures. Moderate-to-severe globe injuries were encountered, including hyphema, commotio retinae, retinal hemorrhages, cyclodialysis cleft, lens dislocation, and globe rupture. Wound closure included deep polyglactin sutures to recreate mid-facial support from the disrupted orbitomalar ligament; 1 case that did not receive deep, layered closure was associated with lower eyelid ectropion. These cases illustrate how orbitofacial ligaments may influence trauma phenotypes and inform subsequent repair.
Ketamine's Altered States Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tavares Vagner Deuel de O. , da Costa Gonçalves Kaike Thiê , de Morais Barros Maria Luiza , de Brito Aldielyson Jorge Cavalcante , Cavalcanti-Ribeiro Patrícia , Palhano-Fontes Fernanda , Falchi-Carvalho Marcelo , Nunes Emerson Arcoverde , Sarris Jerome , Perkins Daniel , Fernandes-Osterhold Gisele , de Araujo Draulio Barros , Galvão-Coelho Nicole Leite
Published: December 2024

Background

In recent years, there has been a significant focus on exploring the potential therapeutic impact of altered states of consciousness on treatment outcomes for mental illness, with the goal of enhancing therapeutic strategies and patient results.

Methods

This meta-analysis was designed to investigate the potential link between the psychomimetic effects of ketamine and clinical outcomes in mental health, which adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

Eleven studies were selected for meta-analysis, and the main result did not find a significant correlation between the psychoactive effects of ketamine and clinical outcomes either in mental illness (n = 11; n's = 27; r = 0.06 [−0.05, 0.17]; P = 0.268) or depression exclusively (n = 10; n's = 25; r = 0.03 [−0.07, 0.13]; P = 0.561). High heterogeneity was found for general analysis (I
2 = 80.78). Egger's regression did not indicate publication bias (intercept = 1.57; SE = 1.49, P = 0.30). No significant Kendall's rank correlation coefficient was observed (τ = 0.02, P = 0.88) indicating funnel plot symmetry. The sub-analyses, aimed at minimizing study variability by specifically examining factors such as patient disorders (limited to depression), methods of administration (exclusively intravenous), types of assessment instruments, and the timing of evaluations, also yielded no significant findings.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that the altered states of consciousness experienced during ketamine sessions are not directly linked to clinical outcomes. However, it is important to acknowledge that the limited number of studies and their heterogeneity render this conclusion preliminary, warranting further investigation over time.
Optimizing psoriasis treatment for elderly patients: a spotlight on biologics and small molecules
Authors: McKernan Margaret , Schempp Anne
Published: December 2024

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated, chronic, complex skin disease that can affect people of all ages, but has an increasing prevalence in the elderly as the world population ages. It is the responsibility of the dermatology clinician to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with psoriasis, which includes understanding how to manage treatment for elderly psoriasis patients. Treatment for any moderate to severe psoriasis patient can be complex, with over 15 options to choose from when selecting treatment. In addition, treatment can be complicated by many factors, including those that come with age. The aging population is leading to an increased demand for individualized psoriasis treatment tailored to patient goals and expectations in this group. Key factors for consideration in the elderly include concomitant comorbidities, area of involvement, impact on quality of life, barriers to care, and drug-to-drug interactions. Further, the clinician must consider the safety and efficacy of the drugs available on the market. The newer systemic agents, including biologics and oral small molecules, have demonstrated superior safety and efficacy as compared with traditional systemic treatments for psoriasis. Despite the data that supports the use of biologics and oral small molecules for the elderly, they are still prescribed at a much lower rate to the elderly than their younger counterparts. These newer treatments should be considered for moderate to severe elderly psoriasis patients to improve quality of life and symptom control as well as avoid undertreatment of these patients.