bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specialization of amygdala subregions in emotion processing
Authors: Labuschagne Izelle , Dominguez Juan F. , Grace Sally , Mizzi Simone , Henry Julie D. , Peters Craig , Rabinak Christine A. , Sinclair Erin , Lorenzetti Valentina , Terrett Gill , Rendell Peter G. , Pedersen Mangor , Hocking Darren R. , Heinrichs Markus
Published: April 2024

The amygdala is important for human fear processing. However, recent research has failed to reveal specificity, with evidence that the amygdala also responds to other emotions. A more nuanced understanding of the amygdala's role in emotion processing, particularly relating to fear, is needed given the importance of effective emotional functioning for everyday function and mental health. We studied 86 healthy participants (44 females), aged 18–49 (mean 26.12 ± 6.6) years, who underwent multiband functional magnetic resonance imaging. We specifically examined the reactivity of four amygdala subregions (using regions of interest analysis) and related brain connectivity networks (using generalized psycho‐physiological interaction) to fear, angry, and happy facial stimuli using an emotional face‐matching task. All amygdala subregions responded to all stimuli (p‐FDR < .05), with this reactivity strongly driven by the superficial and centromedial amygdala (p‐FDR < .001). Yet amygdala subregions selectively showed strong functional connectivity with other occipitotemporal and inferior frontal brain regions with particular sensitivity to fear recognition and strongly driven by the basolateral amygdala (p‐FDR < .05). These findings suggest that amygdala specialization to fear may not be reflected in its local activity but in its connectivity with other brain regions within a specific face‐processing network.
Whole brain pattern of iron accumulation in REM sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Varga Zsoka , Keller Jiri , Robinson Simon Daniel , Serranova Tereza , Nepozitek Jiri , Zogala David , Trnka Jiri , Ruzicka Evzen , Sonka Karel , Dusek Petr
Published: April 2024

Isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) is an early stage of synucleinopathy with most patients progressing to Parkinson's disease (PD) or related conditions. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) in PD has identified pathological iron accumulation in the substantia nigra (SN) and variably also in basal ganglia and cortex. Analyzing whole‐brain QSM across iRBD, PD, and healthy controls (HC) may help to ascertain the extent of neurodegeneration in prodromal synucleinopathy. 70 de novo PD patients, 70 iRBD patients, and 60 HCs underwent 3 T MRI. T1 and susceptibility‐weighted images were acquired and processed to space standardized QSM. Voxel‐based analyses of grey matter magnetic susceptibility differences comparing all groups were performed on the whole brain and upper brainstem levels with the statistical threshold set at family‐wise error‐corrected p‐values <.05. Whole‐brain analysis showed increased susceptibility in the bilateral fronto‐parietal cortex of iRBD patients compared to both PD and HC. This was not associated with cortical thinning according to the cortical thickness analysis. Compared to iRBD, PD patients had increased susceptibility in the left amygdala and hippocampal region. Upper brainstem analysis revealed increased susceptibility within the bilateral SN for both PD and iRBD compared to HC; changes were located predominantly in nigrosome 1 in the former and nigrosome 2 in the latter group. In the iRBD group, abnormal dopamine transporter SPECT was associated with increased susceptibility in nigrosome 1. iRBD patients display greater fronto‐parietal cortex involvement than incidental early‐stage PD cohort indicating more widespread subclinical neuropathology. Dopaminergic degeneration in the substantia nigra is paralleled by susceptibility increase, mainly in nigrosome 1.
Novel monoclonal antibodies: A really specific therapy for light chain amyloidosis
Authors: Del Giudice Maria Livia , Galimberti Sara , Buda Gabriele
Published: April 2024

Light chain amyloidosis is a rare disease caused by clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow generating an excessive amount of immunoglobulin light chains. These chains misfold and produce insoluble fibrils that deposit in various organs, including the heart, kidneys, liver, nervous system, and digestive tract. Life expectancy and symptoms during the course of the disease vary depending on which and how many organs are affected. Targeted plasma cell therapy has significantly advanced the clinical management of amyloidosis, with ongoing progress. However, current clinical studies are investigating innovative targets, drug combinations and treatment strategies to improve therapeutic outcomes by minimizing adverse effects and refining patient prognosis in these challenging hematological conditions. In this paper, we review the state of the art regarding the use of anti‐amyloid antibodies, as a revolutionary and innovative approach in the current scenario of amyloid treatment.
Durable response to nivolumab rechallenge in a patient with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Fujiwara Motohiro , Shimada Wataru , Yokoyama Minato , Koyanagi Anri , Shintaku Hiroshi , Fukuda Shohei , Waseda Yuma , Tanaka Hajime , Yoshida Soichiro , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: April 2024

Introduction

While immune checkpoint inhibitors represent the mainstream treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma, a standardized approach following immune checkpoint inhibitors remains unclear. We report a case of metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab rechallenge.

Case presentation

A 60‐year‐old male with metastatic melanoma was referred to the urology division due to right renal cancer. He was undergoing nivolumab treatment for metastatic melanoma. Radical nephrectomy revealed clear cell renal cell carcinoma, pT3a. Two months post‐surgery, multiple metastases were identified. Despite subsequent administration of interferon‐α, axitinib, and temsirolimus, the metastases progressed. Consequently, nivolumab rechallenge and palliative radiotherapy were initiated, resulting in a durable response for 20 months. However, disease progression occurred, and he died of cancer 4 years after nephrectomy.

Conclusion

This is the first report of nivolumab rechallenge in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Although the utility remains unclear, this case suggests that some patients may benefit from nivolumab rechallenge.
The impact of cohort relationships on BIPOC genetic counseling students: Results from a longitudinal qualitative study
Authors: Carmichael Nikkola , Zayhowski Kimberly , Diaz Joselyn Saenz
Published: April 2024

The transition to graduate school is marked by stress, with academic demands and interpersonal interactions being primary concerns for genetic counseling students. For Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) graduate students, additional stressors caused by the “minority tax” and microaggressions impact their sense of belonging and inclusion. This prospective longitudinal study employed a constructivist grounded theory approach to investigate the experiences of first‐year BIPOC genetic counseling students as they transitioned into the first year of their graduate training. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 26 first‐year genetic counseling students at three key time points during their first year and analyzed them using reflexive thematic analysis. Here, we report themes related to stressors when transitioning into the genetic counseling training environment, the role of relationships as a source of support in navigating these challenges, and the impact of cohort dynamics on the training experience. Stressors included managing academic rigor and time demands, navigating microaggressions, reactions to discussions about diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ), and managing mental health. Peer relationships emerge as pivotal source of support, but challenging dynamics within the cohort negatively impacted participants, highlighting the importance of fostering an inclusive training environment. Since programs have less control over the composition of each cohort with the advent of the Match system in 2018, we recommend the use of community‐building and debriefing activities to strengthen healthy relationships and address problematic dynamics. We recommend that training programs be proactive in creating mentoring relationships between faculty and students rather than waiting until students ask for help. Ultimately, we advocate for a holistic approach to genetic counseling training that maintains academic rigor but also prioritizes the creation of supportive, inclusive, and culturally sensitive learning environments for all students.
Local solvability and stability for the inverse Sturm‐Liouville problem with polynomials in the boundary conditions
Authors: Chitorkin Egor E. , Bondarenko Natalia P.
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we for the first time prove local solvability and stability of the inverse Sturm‐Liouville problem with complex‐valued singular potential and with polynomials of the spectral parameter in the boundary conditions. The proof method is constructive. It is based on the reduction of the inverse problem to a linear equation in the Banach space of bounded infinite sequences. We prove that, under a small perturbation of the spectral data, the main equation of the inverse problem remains uniquely solvable. Furthermore, we derive new reconstruction formulas for obtaining the problem coefficients from the solution of the main equation and get stability estimates for the recovered coefficients.
Invariant analysis, approximate solutions, and conservation laws for the time fractional higher order Boussinesq–Burgers system
Authors: Rahioui Mohamed , El Kinani El Hassan , Ouhadan Abdelaziz
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we employ the time fractional higher order nonlinear Boussinesq–Burgers system to investigate shallow water waves based on the Riemann–Liouville and Caputo fractional partial derivatives. The Lie algebra of infinitesimal generators associated with the symmetry groups that leave the studied system invariant is systematically constructed, and the similarity reductions are established. Furthermore, conserved quantities of the system under consideration are formulated. Next, the power series solution, including the convergence analysis, is obtained. Based on the fractional Sumudu–Adomian decomposition method, some approximate solutions are derived. Finally, in order to show the efficiency of the considered methods, the effect of the fractional order, as well as the dynamical behavior of solutions, numerical validation and graphical representations are designed.
Linear canonical Stockwell transform and the associated multiresolution analysis
Authors: Gupta Bivek , Verma Amit K.
Published: April 2024

In this article, we propose a new class of transform called linear canonical Stockwell transform (LCST) and obtain its basic properties along with the inner product relation and reconstruction formula. We characterize the range of the transform and show that its range is the reproducing kernel Hilbert space. We also develop a multiresolution analysis (MRA) associated with the proposed transform together with the construction of the orthonormal basis for
.
Existence and asymptotic stability of mild solution to fractional Keller‐Segel‐Navier‐Stokes system
Authors: Jiang Ziwen , Wang Lizhen
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the Cauchy problem for time‐space fractional Keller‐Segel‐Navier‐Stokes model in
, which can describe the memory effect and anomalous diffusion of the considered system. The local and global existence and uniqueness in weak
space are obtained by means of abstract fixed point theorem. Moreover, we explore the asymptotic stability of solutions as time goes to infinity.
Registration of ‘FL16045‐25’: An early‐maturing, high‐yielding, disease‐resistant soft red facultative wheat cultivar for the southern United States
Authors: Babar Md Ali , Khan Naeem , Blount Ann , Barnett Ronald D. , Harrison Stephen A. , DeWitt Noah , Johnson Jerry , Mergoum Mohamed , Boyles Rick , Murphy Paul , Mason Esten , Shakiba Ehsan , Ibrahim Amir M. H. , Sutton Russell , Brown‐Guedira Gina , Marshall David , Cowger Christina , Baik Byung‐Kee , Santantonio Nicholas , Cambron Sue , Jin Yue , Mailhot Daniel
Published: April 2024

‘FL16045‐25’ (Reg. no. CV‐1207, PI 704484), a soft red, facultative doubled‐haploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar, was developed and tested as FL16045DH‐25 by the University of Florida and released in October 2022. FL16045‐25 was derived from the cross MD07W478‐14‐5/GA06112‐13EE16. It is well adapted from Texas to Virginia and provides producers with an early‐season, facultative (Vrn‐A1_short), medium‐height, awned, semi‐dwarf (Rht2) cultivar that has high yield potential, good straw strength, good grain volume weight, and good end‐use quality. It expresses moderate‐to‐high levels of resistance to most diseases prevalent in the southern United States. Molecular marker analysis confirms the presence of Sbm1, Yr17/Lr37/Sr38, Lr18, Sr36/Pm6, Pm54, and Pm1a‐linked disease‐resistant genes. The yield average of FL16045‐25 from 41 environments during 2020–2022 ranged from 4211 to 5782 kg ha−1, which is competitive with check cultivars that are widely used in the southern part of the United States. The grain volume weight of FL16045‐25 ranged from 749 to 785 kg m−3 (32 environments), which was higher than most of the checks. FL16045‐25 has soft grain texture with softness equivalence varying from 51.3% to 59.3% and sodium carbonate solvent retention capacity (SRC) ranging from 66.8% to 68.5%. Flour yields on a Quadrumat Senior milling system varied from 68.7% to 69.5%. Flour protein content varied from 8.9% to 9.1%. Cookie spread diameter varied from 19.4 to 19.5 cm. The presence of TaSus2‐2B, Sucrose Synthase2 gene on 2B or 2G:2B, was confirmed by marker analysis.
Recycling of urban glass waste in ceramic floor tiles toward sustainability
Authors: Hamid Eman Mohamed Abdel , Maher Ramez Rafik , Ahmed Ahmed Sherif , Yousif Yousif Mohamed , Fatah Mohamed Samir Abdel , Wahab Abdel Wahab Mohamed Abdel , Ali Shady Sami
Published: April 2024

Around 21.7 million tons of urban solid waste are produced in North Africa and the Middle East. The amount of glass waste produced is 0.87 million tons. The amount of urban glass waste (UGW) produced in Egypt was 2280.8 tons per day. This paper aims to study the effect of partial replacement of UGW in the production of ceramic floor tiles to save the production cost and raw materials. The characteristics of the basic raw mixture of floor tiles and UGW were studied. The waste was collected, crushed and ground to be blended with the basic mixture in different percentages that ranged from 0 to 35%. The specimens were molded under uniaxial pressure followed by drying and firing at temperatures ranging from 1050 to 1120 °C. The characteristics of the fired specimens have been determined and compared with the International Standard Limits. The results showed that specimens containing waste ranging from 25% to 35%, fired at 1100 °C with a soaking time of 15 min have a modulus of rupture of 18.9 to 19.7 MPa, breaking strength of 600 to 613N and water absorption of 9.78% to 8.2% respectively that fulfilled the lowest requirements for the ISO 13006 for dry pressed tiles Group BIIb.
A new notion of subharmonicity on locally smoothing spaces, and a conjecture by Braverman, Milatovic, Shubin
Authors: Güneysu Batu , Pigola Stefano , Stollmann Peter , Veronelli Giona
Published: April 2024

Given a strongly local Dirichlet space and $$\lambda \geqslant 0$$

λ
⩾
0

, we introduce a new notion of $$\lambda $$
λ
-subharmonicity for $$L^1_\textrm{loc}$$

L
loc
1

-functions, which we call local$$\lambda $$
λ
-shift defectivity, and which turns out to be equivalent to distributional $$\lambda $$
λ
-subharmonicity in the Riemannian case. We study the regularity of these functions on a new class of strongly local Dirichlet, so called locally smoothing spaces, which includes Riemannian manifolds (without any curvature assumptions), finite dimensional RCD spaces, Carnot groups, and Sierpinski gaskets. As a byproduct of this regularity theory, we obtain in this general framework a proof of a conjecture by Braverman, Milatovic, Shubin on the positivity of distributional $$L^q$$

L
q

-solutions of $$\Delta f\leqslant f$$

Δ
f
⩽
f

for complete Riemannian manifolds.
An effective method for preparing histological sections of blow fly intra-puparial stages for minimum PMI estimations
Authors: Martín-Vega Daniel , Simonsen Thomas J. , Hall Martin J. R.
Published: April 2024

Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are generally early colonisers of fresh cadavers, enabling the estimation of a minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI) based on an accurate aging of the oldest immature stages associated with a cadaver. In blow flies, the pupal stage and the subsequent development of the adult take place inside a protective case, the puparium, formed from the hardened and darkened cuticle of the third instar larva. Because the puparium is an opaque structure that shows virtually no external changes, qualitative analyses of the internal tissues can be very informative for determining reliable age-specific morphological markers. Those analyses can be performed using either non-invasive but expensive and not widely accessible techniques, or traditional histological methods, which are invasive as they require the serial sectioning of the sample. Histological methods are often readily available for forensic researchers and practitioners; however, the histological study of blow fly intra-puparial stages has traditionally been hampered by the poor paraffin infiltration of tissues due to the abundance of fat bodies, resulting in usually fragmented sections and the subsequent loss of relevant information. We present here an effective method for the preparation of histological sections of blow fly intra-puparial stages, maximising the paraffin infiltration while enabling the production of clean and entire sections that allow for the use of reliable age-specific morphological markers, thus improving the accuracy of minPMI estimations when access to more costly techniques is not feasible.
External post-mortem examination in virtual reality—scalability of a monocentric application
Authors: Klus Christina , Krumm Katja , Jacobi Sindy , Willemer Marie-Christin , Daub Charlotte , Stoevesandt Dietrich , Metzler Katrin , Richter Carolin , Peter Lisa-Maria , Heide Steffen , Schmidt Uwe
Published: April 2024

Conducting external post-mortem examinations is an essential skill required of physicians in various countries, regardless of their specialization. However, the quality of these examinations has been a subject of continuous debates, and notable errors were reviled. In response to these shortcomings, a virtual reality (VR) application was developed at Halle's medical department in Germany, focusing on the scene of discovery and the completion of death certificates. The initial trial of this VR application in 2020 involved 39 students and 15 early-career professionals. Based on the feedback, the application underwent improvements and was subsequently introduced to the medical department in Dresden, Germany, in 2022. Its primary objective was to showcase the VR training's adaptability and scalability across various educational structures and levels of medical expertise. Out of 73 students who participated, 63 completed the evaluation process. 93.1% (n = 58) of the evaluators reported increased confidence in conducting external post-mortem examinations, and 96.8% (n = 61) felt more assured in filling out death certificates, crediting this progress to the VR training. Additionally, 98.4% (n = 62) believed that repeating forensic medical aspects in their coursework was crucial, and 96.8% (n = 61) viewed the VR examination as a valuable addition to their academic program. Despite these positive responses, 91.6% (n = 55) of participants maintained that training with real corpses remains irreplaceable due to the insufficiency of haptic feedback in VR. Nevertheless, the potential for enhancing the VR content and expanding the training to additional locations or related disciplines warrants further exploration.
The retinal venous pressure at different levels of airway pressure measured with a new method
Authors: Baumgärtner Johanna L. , Stodtmeister Richard , Mauer René , Pillunat Lutz E. , Pillunat Karin R.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study is to investigate the increase in retinal venous pressure (RVP) induced by a stepwise increase in airway pressure (AirP) using the new IOPstim method, which is designed to artificially increase the intraocular pressure (IOP) and thus to stimulate vascular pulsation.

Methods

Twenty-eight healthy subjects were examined in the left eye. The RVP was measured at baseline and at four different levels of AirP (10, 20, 30, and 40 mmHg) using the new IOPstim method: a half balloon of 8 mm diameter is inflated laterally to the cornea under observation of the central retinal vein. As soon as the vein pulsates at a certain AirP level, the IOP is measured with a commercially available tonometer, which then corresponds to the RVP.

Results

Spontaneous venous pulsation was observed in all study participants. The mean RVP values at baseline and at the AirP levels of 10, 20, 30, and 40 mmHg were 17.6 ± 2.8 mmHg; 20.1 ± 3.0 mmHg; 22.1 ± 3.5 mmHg; 24.3 ± 3.7 mmHg, and 26.6 ± 4.2 mmHg, respectively. The mean RVP values of each AirP level were statistically significantly different from each other in pairwise comparison. In a linear mixed model, the effect of AirP on RVP was highly significant (p < 0.001). In the model, a 10-mmHg increase in AirP resulted in a linear increase in RVP of 2.2 mmHg.

Conclusion

An increase in AirP was accompanied by a linear increase in RVP. The influence of AirP on RVP, and thus on retinal perfusion pressure during the Valsalva maneuver, is less than was assumed based on previous studies in which contact lens dynamometry was used.
Risk factors for bariatric surgery in patients over 65 years of age—a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Dowgiałło-Gornowicz Natalia , Lech Paweł , Katkowski Bartosz , Walędziak Maciej , Proczko-Stepaniak Monika , Szymański Michał , Karpińska Izabela , Major Piotr
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Societies are aging, life expectancy is increasing, and as a result, the percentage of elderly people in the population is constantly increasing. When qualifying patients over 65 years of age for bariatric surgery, the benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Weighing risk factors against each other to improve the quality of life and better control of obesity-related diseases. The study aimed to determine risk factors for bariatric surgery among patients over 65 years of age.

Methods

A multicenter, retrospective analysis of patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric procedures from 2008 to 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: complicated (C) and uncomplicated (UC). Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to obtain significant, independent risk factors.

Results

There were 20 (7.0%) patients in C group and 264 (93.0%) patients in UC group. The most common complication was intraperitoneal bleeding (8, 2.8). There was no postoperative mortality. The mean follow-up was 47.5 months. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, length of stay and %EWL significantly corresponded to general complications (OR 1.173, OR 1.020). A higher weight loss before surgery lowered the risk for hemorrhagic events after surgery (OR 0.889). A longer length of stay corresponded to leak after surgery (OR 1.175).

Conclusions

Bariatric and metabolic surgery appears to be a safe method of obesity treatment in patients over 65 years of age. The most common complication was intraperitoneal bleeding. A prolonged hospital stay may increase the risk of leakage, while a higher weight loss before the surgery may lower the risk of bleeding.
Plant genome information facilitates plant functional genomics
Authors: Bernal-Gallardo Judith Jazmin , de Folter Stefan
Published: April 2024

Main conclusion

In this review, we give an overview of plant sequencing efforts and how this impacts plant functional genomics research.

Plant genome sequence information greatly facilitates the studies of plant biology, functional genomics, evolution of genomes and genes, domestication processes, phylogenetic relationships, among many others. More than two decades of sequencing efforts have boosted the number of available sequenced plant genomes. The first plant genome, of Arabidopsis, was published in the year 2000 and currently, 4604 plant genomes from 1482 plant species have been published. Various large sequence initiatives are running, which are planning to produce tens of thousands of sequenced plant genomes in the near future. In this review, we give an overview on the status of sequenced plant genomes and on the use of genome information in different research areas.
Coping with unpredictable environments: fine-tune foraging microhabitat use in relation to prey availability in an alpine species
Authors: Scridel Davide , Anderle Matteo , Capelli Federico , Forti Alessandro , Bettega Chiara , Alessandrini Corrado , del Mar Delgado Maria , Pedrotti Luca , Partel Piergiovanni , Bogliani Giuseppe , Pedrini Paolo , Brambilla Mattia
Published: April 2024

Microhabitat utilisation holds a pivotal role in shaping a species’ ecological dynamics and stands as a crucial concern for effective conservation strategies. Despite its critical importance, microhabitat use has frequently been addressed as static, centering on microhabitat preference. Yet, a dynamic microhabitat use that allows individuals to adjust to fine-scale spatio-temporal prey fluctuations, becomes imperative for species thriving in challenging environments. High-elevation ecosystems, marked by brief growing seasons and distinct abiotic processes like snowmelt, winds, and solar radiation, feature an ephemeral distribution of key resources. To better understand species’ strategies in coping with these rapidly changing environments, we delved into the foraging behaviour of the white-winged snowfinch Montifringilla nivalis, an emblematic high-elevation passerine. Through studying microhabitat preferences during breeding while assessing invertebrate prey availability, we unveiled a highly flexible microhabitat use process. Notably, snowfinches exhibited specific microhabitat preferences, favoring grass and melting snow margins, while also responding to local invertebrate availability. This behaviour was particularly evident in snow-associated microhabitats and less pronounced amid tall grass. Moreover, our investigation underscored snowfinches’ fidelity to foraging sites, with over half located within 10 m of previous spots. This consistent use prevailed in snow-associated microhabitats and high-prey-density zones. These findings provide the first evidence of dynamic microhabitat use in high-elevation ecosystems and offer further insights into the crucial role of microhabitats for climate-sensitive species. They call for multi-faceted conservation strategies that go beyond identifying and protecting optimal thermal buffering areas in the face of global warming to also encompass locations hosting high invertebrate densities.
Characterising vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy in adults: symptom development and long-term persistent outcomes
Authors: Li Tiffany , Trinh Terry , Bosco Annmarie , Kiernan Matthew C. , Goldstein David , Park Susanna B.
Published: April 2024

Background

Decades following the introduction of vincristine as treatment for haematological malignancies, vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy (VIPN) remains a pervasive, untreatable side-effect. However there remains a gap in understanding the characteristics of VIPN in adults. This study presents a comprehensive phenotyping of VIPN.

Methods

Adult patients (n = 57; age = 59.8 ± 14.6) were assessed cross-sectionally following completion of vincristine (months post treatment = 16.3 ± 15.6, cumulative dose = 7.6 ± 4.4), with a subset of 20 patients assessed prospectively during treatment. Patient reported measures (EORTC-QLQ-CIPN20, R-ODS) were used to profile symptoms and disability. Neurological assessment was undertaken using the Total Neuropathy Score and nerve conduction studies. Sensory threshold and fine motor tasks were also undertaken. Comparisons of data between timepoints were calculated using paired-sample t tests or Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test. Comparisons between outcome measures were calculated with independent sample t tests or Mann–Whitney U tests for non-parametric data.

Results

The majority of patients developed VIPN by mid-treatment (77.8%, 7.0 ± 3.3 weeks post baseline) with the prevalence remaining stable by end-of-treatment (75%, 8.1 ± 1.7 weeks post mid-treatment). By 3 months post-completion, 50% of patients still reported VIPN although there were significant improvements on neurological grading and functional assessment (P < 0.05). VIPN presented with sensorimotor involvement in upper and lower limbs and was associated with decreased sensory and motor nerve amplitudes, reduced fine-motor function and increased disability.

Conclusion

VIPN in adults presents as a sensorimotor, upper- and lower-limb neuropathy that significantly impacts disability and function. Neuropathy recovery occurs in a proportion of patients; however, VIPN symptoms may persist and continue to affect long-term quality of life.
Highly integrable silicon micropumps using lateral electrostatic bending actuators
Authors: Uhlig Sebastian , Gaudet Matthieu , Langa Sergiu , Ruffert Christine , Jongmanns Marcel , Schenk Harald
Published: April 2024

We present the design, fabrication, and characterization of an innovative silicon-based micropump with high potential for portable lab-on-chip (LoC) as well as point-of-care (PoC) applications. The actuators of the pump are electrostatic driven in-plane bending devices, which were presented earlier (Borcia et al. in Phys Rev Fluids 3(8): 084202, 2018. 10.1103/PhysRevFluids.3.084202; Uhlig et al. in Micromachines, 9(4), 2018. 10.3390/mi9040190). This paper presents the characterization results achieved with the micropump. The dielectric non-polar liquid Novec7100™ was used as a test liquid due to its adequate physical properties. When applying a periodic voltage of 130 V, a flow rate of up to 80 µL/min was detected. The counter pressure amounts up to 30 kPa and the correspondent fluidic power (volumetric flow rate times the counter pressure) was calculated to 10 µW. The pump contains passive flap valves at the inlet and outlet, which are based on a bending cantilever design. Depending on the application requirements, the micropump can be designed modularly to adjust the specific parameters by an adequate arrangement of pump base units. In this paper, the proof of principle is shown using a single base unit with different number of stacked NED-actuator beams, as well as the serial arrangement of base units. Both modular concepts target the increase of backpressure of the NED-micropump in an inherently different way compared to conventional membrane micropumps.
Short-term effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on motor speech in Parkinson’s disease: a pilot study
Authors: Brabenec Lubos , Kovac Daniel , Mekyska Jiri , Rehulkova Lenka , Kabrtova Veronika , Rektorova Irena
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Hypokinetic dysarthria (HD) is a common motor speech symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) which does not respond well to PD treatments. We investigated short-term effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on HD in PD using acoustic analysis of speech. Based on our previous studies we focused on stimulation of the right superior temporal gyrus (STG) - an auditory feedback area. Methods: In 14 PD patients with HD, we applied anodal, cathodal and sham tDCS to the right STG using a cross-over design. A protocol consisting of speech tasks was performed prior to and immediately after each stimulation session. Linear mixed models were used for the evaluation of the effects of each stimulation condition on the relative change of acoustic parameters. We also performed a simulation of the mean electric field induced by tDCS. Results: Linear mixed model showed a statistically significant effect of the stimulation condition on the relative change of median duration of silences longer than 50 ms (p = 0.015). The relative change after the anodal stimulation (mean = -5.9) was significantly lower as compared to the relative change after the sham stimulation (mean = 12.8), p = 0.014. We also found a correlation between the mean electric field magnitude in the right STG and improvement of articulation precision after anodal tDCS (R = 0.637; p = 0.019). Conclusions: The exploratory study showed that anodal tDCS applied over the auditory feedback area may lead to shorter pauses in a speech of PD patients.
A Rényi-type quasimetric with random interference detection
Authors: Cerqueti Roy , Maggi Mario
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a new dissimilarity measure between two discrete and finite probability distributions. The followed approach is grounded jointly on mixtures of probability distributions and an optimization procedure. We discuss the clear interpretation of the constitutive elements of the measure under an information-theoretical perspective by also highlighting its connections with the Rényi divergence of infinite order. Moreover, we show how the measure describes the inefficiency in assuming that a given probability distribution coincides with a benchmark one by giving formal writing of the random interference between the considered probability distributions. We explore the properties of the considered tool, which are in line with those defining the concept of quasimetric—i.e. a divergence for which the triangular inequality is satisfied. As a possible usage of the introduced device, an application to rare events is illustrated. This application shows that our measure may be suitable in cases where the accuracy of the small probabilities is a relevant matter.
Annealing and doping effects on magnetism for T$$^{*}$$-type (La, Eu, Sr)$$_2$$CuO$$_{4-y}$$F$$_y$$ cuprates
Authors: Xie Peiao , Takahama Motofumi , Taniguchi Takanori , Okabe Hirotaka , Koda Akihiro , Watanabe Isao , Fujita Masaki
Published: April 2024

The magnetic behavior of T$$^{*}$$

∗

-phase cuprates in the underdoped region has been studied through zero-field muon spin rotation/relaxation ($$\mu $$
μ
SR) measurements. By examining the manner in which the superconducting transition temperature changes with increased fluorine substitution, we demonstrate the possibility of achieving an underdoped region in T$$^{*}$$

∗

-La$$_{1-x/2}$$

1
-
x
/
2

Eu$$_{1-x/2}$$

1
-
x
/
2

Sr$$_{x}$$

x

CuO$$_{4-y}$$

4
-
y

F$$_{y}$$

y

(LESCOF). For as-grown (AS) samples, the onset temperature for development of spin correlation is determined by $$\mu $$
μ
SR measurement. We observed a substantial enhancement from $$\sim $$
∼
7 K (x = 0.18, y = 0) to $$\sim $$
∼
80 K (x = 0.18, y = 0.15) with an appearance of a magnetic order below $$\sim $$
∼
55 K. Thus, the magnetic order can be stabilized by underdoping in AS T$$^{*}$$

∗

-LESCOF, similar to T-phase La$$_{2-x}$$

2
-
x

Sr$$_x$$

x

CuO$$_4$$

4

. However, the damping of spin precession in the $$\mu $$
μ
SR time spectra appears to be significant than in La$$_2$$

2

CuO$$_4$$

4

(LCO), suggesting the presence of inhomogeneous magnetism. In addition, the unrecovered normalized time spectrum to 1/3 along the time axis indicates a dynamical nature of magnetism. These magnetic behavior disappears with oxidation annealing, even in the lightly hole-doped sample. The absence of static magnetism in the oxidation-annealed T$$^{*}$$

∗

-LESCOF could be attributed to the structural effect, as the physical properties of the T$$^{\prime }$$

′

-phase cuprates has been discussed in terms of oxygen coordination around the Cu ion.
Association of Genetic Variants with Postoperative Donor Artery Development in Moyamoya Disease: RNF213 and Other Moyamoya Angiopathy-Related Gene Analysis
Authors: Torazawa Seiei , Miyawaki Satoru , Imai Hideaki , Hongo Hiroki , Ono Hideaki , Ogawa Shotaro , Sakai Yu , Kiyofuji Satoshi , Koizumi Satoshi , Komura Daisuke , Katoh Hiroto , Ishikawa Shumpei , Saito Nobuhito
Published: April 2024

Robust postoperative bypass development is a characteristic of moyamoya disease (MMD); however, genetic factors mediating this phenomenon remain incompletely understood. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between postoperative donor artery development and genetic variants. We retrospectively enrolled 63 patients (79 hemispheres) who underwent combined revascularization surgery. Postoperative development of the superficial temporal artery (STA), middle meningeal artery, and deep temporal artery (DTA) was assessed using the caliber-change ratio determined from magnetic resonance angiography measurements. We analyzed RNF213 and 36 other moyamoya angiopathy-related genes by whole-exome sequencing and extracted rare or damaging variants. Thirty-five participants carried RNF213 p.Arg4810Lys (all heterozygotes), whereas 5 had RNF213 rare variants (RVs). p.Arg4810Lys was significantly associated with postoperative DTA development, while age at surgery, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were inversely associated. Multiple regression analysis revealed that age and p.Arg4810Lys held statistical significance (P = 0.044, coefficient − 0.015, 95% confidence interval (CI) − 0.029 to 0.000 and P = 0.001, coefficient 0.670, 95% CI 0.269 to 1.072, respectively). Those with RNF213 RV without p.Arg4810Lys exhibited a significant trend toward poor DTA development (P = 0.001). Hypertension demonstrated a significant positive association with STA development, which remained significant even after multiple regression analysis (P = 0.001, coefficient 0.303, 95% CI 0.123 to 0.482). Following Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, targeted analyses of RNF213 and 36 moyamoya angiopathy-related genes showed a significant association of only RNF213 p.Arg4810Lys with favorable DTA development (P = 0.001). A comprehensive analysis of RNF213, considering both p.Arg4810Lys and RVs, may provide a clearer prediction of postoperative DTA development.
The Impact of the Limit q-Durrmeyer Operator on Continuous Functions
Authors: Gürel Yılmaz Övgü , Ostrovska Sofiya , Turan Mehmet
Published: April 2024

The limit q-Durrmeyer operator, $$D_{\infty ,q}$$

D

∞
,
q

, was introduced and its approximation properties were investigated by Gupta (Appl. Math. Comput. 197(1):172–178, 2008) during a study of q-analogues for the Bernstein–Durrmeyer operator. In the present work, this operator is investigated from a different perspective. More precisely, the growth estimates are derived for the entire functions comprising the range of $$D_{\infty ,q}$$

D

∞
,
q

. The interrelation between the analytic properties of a function f and the rate of growth for $$D_{\infty ,q}f$$

D

∞
,
q

f

are established, and the sharpness of the obtained results are demonstrated.
Numerical studies of the energy absorption capacities and deformation mechanisms of 2D cellular topologies
Authors: Majdak Mateusz , Baranowski Paweł , Małachowski Jerzy
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the energy absorption capacities of selected cellular topologies under quasi-static loading conditions. Twenty topologies with nearly identical relative densities belonging to 4 groups were examined: honeycomb, re-entrant, bioinspired and chiral. The topologies were modeled using an experimentally validated numerical ABSplus model and subsequently subjected to in-plane uniaxial compression tests. The findings revealed the topologies with the most favorable energy absorption parameters and the main deformation mechanisms. The topologies were classified by mechanism, and a parametric study of basic material properties, namely modulus of elasticity, yield stress, and ductility, was performed for a representative topology from each mechanism. The results indicated that the honeycomb group topologies were characterized by the largest average absorbed energy, and yield stress was found to have the greatest impact on energy absorption efficiency regardless of the main deformation mechanism.
Structural Game Characteristics and Problematic Gaming
Authors: Rehbein Florian , Gentile Douglas A. , Lemmens Jeroen , Rumpf Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Introduction: The current state of research suggests that personal, environmental, and product-related risk factors contribute to the development and maintenance of gaming disorder. Concerning game related risk factors, evidence points to certain game features contributing to the overall risk of gaming disorder, as for example reward features, social features, and monetization features. However, no standardized instrument is available to capture risk enhancing game characteristics. Methods: Based on theoretical considerations and stepwise conducted qualitative analyses of in-game content, risk-enhancing game features were identified and specified. Furthermore, a pilot study was conducted comprising N = 4,468 students ( M[Age] = 14.54 years, SD = 1.37 years). Game features of the preferred games of the students were analyzed regarding their predictive value of gaming disorder. Results: Data suggests that two features are associated most strongly with gaming disorder: 1) mandatory social interactions ( β = .20), and 2) number of reward categories ( β = .12). Based on these findings and further updates, the RCCG was refined and finalized. Conclusions: With the RCCG, a structured instrument to capture, describe, and evaluate risk enhancing structural characteristics of video games is available. The RCCG enables a general risk assessment of games as well as recommended age-classifications based on certain structural features unsuitable for specific age groups.
Three-dimensional spin-wave dynamics, localization and interference in a synthetic antiferromagnet
Authors: Girardi Davide , Finizio Simone , Donnelly Claire , Rubini Guglielmo , Mayr Sina , Levati Valerio , Cuccurullo Simone , Maspero Federico , Raabe Jörg , Petti Daniela , Albisetti Edoardo
Published: April 2024

Spin waves are collective perturbations in the orientation of the magnetic moments in magnetically ordered materials. Their rich phenomenology is intrinsically three-dimensional; however, the three-dimensional imaging of spin waves has so far not been possible. Here, we image the three-dimensional dynamics of spin waves excited in a synthetic antiferromagnet, with nanoscale spatial resolution and sub-ns temporal resolution, using time-resolved magnetic laminography. In this way, we map the distribution of the spin-wave modes throughout the volume of the structure, revealing unexpected depth-dependent profiles originating from the interlayer dipolar interaction. We experimentally demonstrate the existence of complex three-dimensional interference patterns and analyze them via micromagnetic modelling. We find that these patterns are generated by the superposition of spin waves with non-uniform amplitude profiles, and that their features can be controlled by tuning the composition and structure of the magnetic system. Our results open unforeseen possibilities for the study and manipulation of complex spin-wave modes within nanostructures and magnonic devices.
Layer-by-layer phase transformation in Ti3O5 revealed by machine-learning molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Liu Mingfeng , Wang Jiantao , Hu Junwei , Liu Peitao , Niu Haiyang , Yan Xuexi , Li Jiangxu , Yan Haile , Yang Bo , Sun Yan , Chen Chunlin , Kresse Georg , Zuo Liang , Chen Xing-Qiu
Published: April 2024

Reconstructive phase transitions involving breaking and reconstruction of primary chemical bonds are ubiquitous and important for many technological applications. In contrast to displacive phase transitions, the dynamics of reconstructive phase transitions are usually slow due to the large energy barrier. Nevertheless, the reconstructive phase transformation from β- to λ-Ti3O5 exhibits an ultrafast and reversible behavior. Despite extensive studies, the underlying microscopic mechanism remains unclear. Here, we discover a kinetically favorable in-plane nucleated layer-by-layer transformation mechanism through metadynamics and large-scale molecular dynamics simulations. This is enabled by developing an efficient machine learning potential with near first-principles accuracy through an on-the-fly active learning method and an advanced sampling technique. Our results reveal that the β−λ phase transformation initiates with the formation of two-dimensional nuclei in the a
b-plane and then proceeds layer-by-layer through a multistep barrier-lowering kinetic process via intermediate metastable phases. Our work not only provides important insight into the ultrafast and reversible nature of the β−λ transition, but also presents useful strategies and methods for tackling other complex structural phase transitions.
Transparent ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene/MXene films with efficient UV-absorption for thermal management
Authors: Liu Xianhu , Zhang Wenrui , Zhang Xin , Zhou Zhengui , Wang Chunfeng , Pan Yamin , Hu Bin , Liu Chuntai , Pan Caofeng , Shen Changyu
Published: April 2024

The rational use and conversion of energy are the primary means for achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. MXenes can be used for photothermal conversion, but their opaque appearance limits wider applications. Herein, we successfully develop visible-light transparent and UV-absorbing polymer composite film by solution blending the MXene with polyethylene and then vacuum pressing. The resulting film could be quickly heated to 65 °C under 400 mW cm−2 light irradiation and maintained over 85% visible-light transmittance as well as low haze (<12%). The findings of the indoor heat insulation test demonstrate that the temperature of the glass house model covered by this film was 6-7 °C lower than that of the uncovered model, revealing the potential of transparent film in energy-saving applications. In order to mimic the energy-saving condition of the building in various climates, a typical building model with this film as the outer layer of the window was created using the EnergyPlus building energy consumption software. According to predictions, they could reduce yearly refrigeration energy used by 31-61 MJ m−2, and 3%-12% of the total energy used for refrigeration in such structures. This work imply that the film has wide potential for use as transparent devices in energy-related applications.
Metabolomic profiling of cancer-related fatigue involved in cachexia and chemotherapy
Authors: Okinaka Yuki , Kageyama Susumu , Goto Toshiyuki , Sugimoto Masahiro , Tomita Atsumi , Aizawa Yumi , Kobayashi Kenichi , Wada Akinori , Kawauchi Akihiro , Kataoka Yosky
Published: April 2024

Patients with advanced cancer are frequently burdened with a severe sensation of fatigue called cancer-related fatigue (CRF). CRF is induced at various stages and treatments, such as cachexia and chemotherapy, and reduces the overall survival of patients. Objective and quantitative assessment of CRF could contribute to the diagnosis and prediction of treatment efficacy. However, such studies have not been intensively performed, particularly regarding metabolic profiles. Here, we conducted plasma metabolomics of 15 patients with urological cancer. The patients with and without fatigue, including those with cachexia or chemotherapy-induced fatigue, were compared. Significantly lower concentrations of valine and tryptophan were observed in fatigued patients than in non-fatigued patients. In addition, significantly higher concentrations of polyamine pathway metabolites were observed in patients with fatigue and cachexia than in those without cachexia. Patients with exacerbated fatigue due to chemotherapy showed significantly decreased cysteine and methionine metabolism before chemotherapy compared with those without fatigue exacerbation. These findings suggest that plasma metabolic profiles could help improve the diagnosis and monitoring of CRF.