bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the optimal imaging protocol for [18F]PSMA-PET-CT for the detection of bone metastases in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Bredensteiner Linus , Ventura David , Rassek Philipp , Schäfers Michael , Bögemann Martin , Schindler Philipp , Weckesser Matthias , Rahbar Kambiz , Roll Wolfgang
Published: July 2024

Aim Prostate-specific membrane antigen-positron emission tomography (PSMA-PET) is a widely used diagnostic tool in patients with prostate cancer (PC). However, due to the limited availability of PET scanners and relevant acquisition costs, it is important to consider the indications and acquisition time. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether a PET scan from the skull base to the proximal thigh is sufficient to detect the presence of bone metastases.

Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1050 consecutive [18F]PSMA-1007-PET-CT scans from the head to the proximal lower leg. The PET scans were categorised according to the presence and amount of bone metastases: (1) 1–5, (2) 6–19 and (3) ≥20. Additionally, the PET scans were evaluated for the presence of bone metastases below the proximal thigh as well as bone metastases above the skull base. Imaging results were compared to patients PSA values.

Results Of the 391 patients with bone metastases, 146 (37.3%) exhibited metastases located below the proximal thigh and 104 (26.6%) above the skull base. The majority of bone metastases located below the proximal thigh (145, 99.3%) and above the skull base (94, 90.4%) were identified in patients with more than five bone metastases. No solitary distal metastasis was detected. The PSA value correlated significantly with number of bone metastases (e. g., 1–5 vs. ≥20 bone metastases, P < 0.001) and was significantly higher in patients with distal bone metastases (P < 0.001). ROC analysis showed that a PSA value of 11.15 ng/mL is the optimal cut-off for detecting bone metastases located below the proximal thigh, with an AUC of 0.919 (95% CI: 0.892–0.945, sensitivity 87%, specificity 86%). Similarly, the PSA value of 12.86 ng/mL is the optimal cut-off for detecting bone metastases above the skull base with an AUC of 0.904 (95% CI: 0.874–0.935, sensitivity 87%, specificity 83%). 

Conclusion PSMA-PET acquisition protocols from the skull base to the proximal femur may be sufficient to accurately detect bone metastatic disease in PC. PSA values can provide decision support for individual PET acquisition protocols.
Ballon-Dilatation subglottischer Stenosen insbesondere bei Granulomatose mit Polyangiitis
Authors: Wichmann Jeannette , Hoffmann Markus , Laudien Martin
Published: July 2024

Einleitung Subglottische Stenosen (SGS) sind Verengungen im Bereich unterhalb der Stimmlippen, die ein lebensbedrohliches Problem für die Betroffenen darstellen können. Ziel dieses Forschungsprojektes war es, herauszufinden, bei welcher Patientengruppe die Behandlung der SGS mittels Ballondilatation zu einem längerfristigen Erfolg führen kann.

Methoden 14 PatientInnen mit SGS wurden prospektiv (vor und bis zu 12 Monate nach Intervention) mittels Lungenfunktionstest, Laryngoskopien und zweier Fragebögen (Clinical Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Questionnaire), (modified Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale) zur Atemsituation untersucht. Zudem wurde die Anzahl der notwendigen Interventionen dokumentiert, der Stenosegrad gemessen und nach Myer Cotton bestimmt.

Ergebnisse Vier PatientInnen, die nur eine Intervention mit dem Ballon benötigten, zeigten eine bessere präinterventionelle Atemfunktion sowie eine höhere subjektive Belastung. Mittels Lungenfunktionstests und der Auswertung der Fragebögen konnte eine Verbesserung der Atemsituation und des Gesundheitszustandes aller 14 PatientInnen nach der initialen Intervention nachgewiesen werden. PatientInnen mit einem Stenosedurchmesser unter 4 mm benötigten nur eine Intervention. ProbandInnen mit 12-mm-Ballon-Eingriffen benötigten wiederholt Behandlungen.

Schlussfolgerungen ProbandInnen mit hohem Stenosegrad sowie tendenziell höherer subjektiver Belastung als auch geringerer objektiver Einschränkung der Atemsituation scheinen eine höhere Wahrscheinlichkeit für eine längerfristig erfolgreiche Behandlung mit dem Ballon zu haben. Die Wahl der Ballongröße scheint ein zusätzlich entscheidender Faktor für den Erfolg einer Intervention zu sein.
Exploring the impact of auditor industry specialization on income smoothing
Authors: Hung Wen-Jye , Gong Lingyu , Wang Yamin , Wang Yan
Published: July 2024

Since the late 1970s’ reform and opening-up, China’s economy has achieved remarkable success, maintaining an average annual GDP growth of 9.7% from 1978 to 2006. In 2007, China achieved a GDP of 3.38 trillion USD, surpassing Germany to become the world’s third-largest economy, and by the second quarter of 2010, it had become the second-largest economy globally. These developments have attracted international investors’ attention to Chinese equities. However, China’s poor reputation for corporate governance may deter investors, despite their positive outlook on China’s economy. Corporate managers in China are known to engage in income smoothing, taking actions to dampen fluctuations in their firms’ publicly reported net income. In 2004, the OECD proposed that a strong disclosure regime promoting real transparency can help attract capital and maintain confidence in the capital market, with income smoothing being a key concern for both institutional and individual investors. This study investigates how auditor industry specialization (AIS) affects income smoothing behavior in Chinese listed companies. Using a sample of 27,208 firm-year observations from 2006 to 2018 collected from the Taiwan Economic Journal Database, the results indicate that AIS is negatively related to managers’ income smoothing behavior, underscoring the importance of industry expertise in mitigating such practices. Additionally, an independent t-test highlights the difference between Big Four and non-Big Four auditors in influencing client companies’ income smoothing behaviors. The study further demonstrates the significant moderating effect of Big Four auditors on the relationship between accounting firms with top industry expertise and client companies’ income smoothing, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Chinese market. This study verifies the suppressive effect of AIS on firms’ income smoothing and indirectly suggests that governments (or the Chinese Institute of Certified Public Accountants, CICPA) should regularly disclose accounting firms/auditors with industry expertise publicly. This regime can help global investors make informed investment decisions.
3D printing low-cost augmented reality waveguides
Authors: Lange Katherine De
Published: July 2024

Using a modified 3D printing approach, optical waveguides can be mass produced for AR display applications
Nonautonomous spectral submanifolds for model reduction of nonlinear mechanical systems under parametric resonance
Authors: Thurnher Thomas , Haller George , Jain Shobhit
Published: July 2024

We use the recent theory of spectral submanifolds (SSMs) for model reduction of nonlinear mechanical systems subject to parametric excitations. Specifically, we develop expressions for higher-order nonautonomous terms in the parameterization of SSMs and their reduced dynamics. We provide these results for both general first-order and second-order mechanical systems under periodic and quasiperiodic excitation using a multi-index based approach, thereby optimizing memory requirements and the computational procedure. We further provide theoretical results that simplify the SSM parametrization for general second-order dynamical systems. More practically, we show how the reduced dynamics on the SSM can be used to extract the resonance tongues and the forced response around the principal resonances in parametrically excited systems. In the case of two-dimensional SSMs, we formulate explicit expressions for computing the steady-state response as the zero-level set of a two-dimensional function for systems that are subject to external as well as parametric excitation. This allows us to parallelize the computation of the forced response over the range of excitation frequencies. We demonstrate our results on several examples of varying complexity, including finite-element-type examples of mechanical systems. Furthermore, we provide an open-source implementation of all these results in the software package SSMTool.
Optimal phase-selective entrainment of electrochemical oscillators with different phase response curves
Authors: Luis Ocampo-Espindola Jorge , Singhal Bharat , Li Jr-Shin , Kiss István Z.
Published: July 2024

We investigate the entrainment of electrochemical oscillators with different phase response curves (PRCs) using a global signal: the goal is to achieve the desired phase configuration using a minimum-power waveform. Establishing the desired phase relationships in a highly nonlinear networked system exhibiting significant heterogeneities, such as different conditions or parameters for the oscillators, presents a considerable challenge because different units respond differently to the common global entraining signal. In this work, we apply an optimal phase-selective entrainment technique in both a kinetic model and experiments involving electrochemical oscillators in achieving phase synchronized states. We estimate the PRCs of the oscillators at different circuit potentials and external resistance, and entrain pairs and small sets of four oscillators in various phase configurations. We show that for small PRC variations, phase assignment can be achieved using an averaged PRC in the control design. However, when the PRCs are sufficiently different, individual PRCs are needed to entrain the system with the expected phase relationships. The results show that oscillator assemblies with heterogeneous PRCs can be effectively entrained to desired phase configurations in practical settings. These findings open new avenues to applications in biological and engineered oscillator systems where synchronization patterns are essential for system performance.
Fast event-driven simulations for soft spheres: from dynamics to Laves phase nucleation
Authors: Castagnède Antoine , Filion Laura , Smallenburg Frank
Published: July 2024

Conventional molecular dynamics (MD) simulations struggle when simulating particles with steeply varying interaction potentials due to the need to use a very short time step. Here, we demonstrate that an event-driven Monte Carlo (EDMC) approach was first introduced by Peters and de With [Phys. Rev. E 85, 026703 (2012)] and represents an excellent substitute for MD in the canonical ensemble. In addition to correctly reproducing the static thermodynamic properties of the system, the EDMC method closely mimics the dynamics of systems of particles interacting via the steeply repulsive Weeks–Chandler–Andersen (WCA) potential. In comparison to time-driven MD simulations, EDMC runs faster by over an order of magnitude at sufficiently low temperatures. Moreover, the lack of a finite time step in EDMC circumvents the need to trade accuracy against the simulation speed associated with the choice of time step in MD. We showcase the usefulness of this model to explore the phase behavior of the WCA model at extremely low temperatures and to demonstrate that spontaneous nucleation and growth of the Laves phases are possible at temperatures significantly lower than previously reported.
A hydrogen sensor based on an acoustic topological material with a coiled structure
Authors: Liu Zheng , Zhang Ruoyan , Duan Zhendong , Fan Li , Zhang Shuyi , Cheng Liping , Xu Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

A hydrogen sensor is created on the basis of an acoustic topological material with a coiled structure. Compared to traditional hydrogen sensors, the sensor does not possess a sensitive layer and works with the shift of a topological interface state induced by hydrogen. The sensor is composed of two phononic crystals with distinct topological characteristics, and an interface state is achieved at the interface of both phononic crystals. When hydrogen is introduced into the sensor, the density and the sound velocity of the gas in the sensor change, which shifts the frequency of the interface state. Thus, the concentration of hydrogen can be obtained by measuring the frequency shift of the interface state. Due to the absence of a sensitive layer, the sensor operates without a chemical sorption process, and the performance of the sensor is marginally influenced by working conditions, temperature, and humidity. Theoretical analysis, numerical simulations, and experimental results show that in different background gases, synthetic air, nitrogen, and argon, the sensor exhibits relative sensitivities of 0.50, 0.50, and 0.37, which do not change with the working conditions. Additionally, the sensor possesses a rapid response, a good linearity and robustness, and a long lifespan. Furthermore, the sensor is designed based on a coiled structure, which considerably improves the space utilization and decreases the bulk.
Horizontal and vertical Lagrangian dispersion in decaying cyclonic and anticyclonic vortices with lateral and bottom friction
Authors: Ocampo Jaimes J. , Zavala Sansón L. , Graef F.
Published: July 2024

The horizontal and vertical dispersion of passive particles in a decaying circular vortex in a rotating system is investigated analytically and numerically. The vortex decay is due to lateral viscosity and bottom friction effects (associated with the Ekman boundary layer). The vortex model comprises the three-dimensional velocity field, where the azimuthal component is much larger than the radial and vertical components, so the structure remains circular. The particles are dispersed by the deterministic velocity field plus stochastic perturbations. The analytical model allows the examination of frictional effects separately. The experiments show that an initial point charge of particles is dispersed around the vortex. The role of lateral viscosity is to delay the angular distribution of the particles. Bottom friction, on the other hand, generates radial motions, thus inducing outward advection in cyclones and inward advection in anticyclones. The intensity of lateral and bottom friction slows down the expulsion or retention of particles. Regarding vertical dispersion, cyclonic vortices can lift particles by a substantial fraction of the fluid column, while anticyclones sink particles as in a bathtub vortex. It is shown that the vertical distributions of the particles are significantly affected by the strength of the decaying mechanisms. Some consequences for the dispersion of tracers in oceanic vortices are discussed.
Research on methods to increase the flashover voltage of supporting insulators in Tesla transformers
Authors: Li Junna , Shi Haoliang , Wang Yongliang , Ge Jianwei , Wu Fangzheng , Huang Qixiang , Zhang Yiting , Li Qisheng
Published: July 2024

This paper presents three methods aimed at enhancing the flashover voltage of the supporting insulator in a Tesla transformer. These methods include optimizing the maximum electric field on the insulator surface, adjusting the overall structure of the insulator, and changing the surface structure of the insulator. Ten insulator samples with different structures were designed based on electric field simulation. Subsequent experiments were conducted to validate the effectiveness of these methods in improving flashover voltage. On this basis, the supporting insulator of the Tesla transformer was redesigned, leading to an increased output voltage. The results are summarized in the following. First, optimization of the shielding rings of the cathode and anode reduces the electric field at the triple junction, which significantly increases the flashover voltage. Second, extending the inclination starting position of insulators with the same inclination angle effectively reduces the surface electric field intensity and increases the flashover voltage. Third, increasing the inclination angle within a certain range while keeping the inclination starting position constant extends the creepage distance and enhances the flashover voltage. However, excessively large inclination angles may lead to a decrease in flashover voltage due to excessive normal electric field. Fourth, grooving on the insulator surface at appropriate locations can inhibit the development of the streamer and improve flashover voltage. Finally, the supporting insulator of the Tesla transformer was redesigned based on these results, elevating the output voltage from 750 kV to over 1 MV.
New insights in the stratification of an argon positive column plasma. II. Experiments and particle simulations
Authors: Dosbolayev M. K. , Orazbayev S. A. , Boufendi L. , Ramazanov T. S. , Boeuf J. P.
Published: July 2024

The conditions of stratification of a radio frequency positive column plasma in argon over a pressure range from 0.1 to 2 Torr are studied using experiments and particle-in-cell Monte Carlo collision (PIC-MCC) simulations. The PIC-MCC simulations include a simple chemistry model for metastable production and losses, stepwise ionization, and associative ionization. Experiments in a 1.1 cm radius positive column plasma in argon in a 13.56 MHz radio frequency field reveal well-defined standing striations between 0.05 and 1 Torr. Adding a percentage of up to 10% hydrogen in the discharge does not affect the stratification around 0.1 Torr and below. Since hydrogen is a good quencher of argon atoms in the metastable state, this indicates that the presence of metastable atoms plays no role in the stratification of the positive column at this pressure and below. At pressures above 0.3 Torr, the striations disappear with the addition of a lower percentage of hydrogen in the experiment, showing that the presence of metastable atoms is necessary for the formation of striations at sufficiently high pressure. The PIC-MCC simulations are consistent with the experimental results and with the theory based on dispersion relations, presented in a companion paper [J. P. Boeuf, L. Boufendi, M. K. Dosbolayev, S. A. Orazbayev, T. S. Ramazanov, Phys. Plasmas 31, 073508 (2024)], which demonstrates that the negativity of the thermoelectric term related to the Dufour effect in the electron energy flux is responsible for stratification even when metastable ionization is dominant. The non-linearity of metastable ionization with electron density is not responsible for stratification in the conditions considered in this paper.
pyMBE: The Python-based molecule builder for ESPResSo
Authors: Beyer David , Torres Paola B. , Pineda Sebastian P. , Narambuena Claudio F. , Grad Jean-Noël , Košovan Peter , Blanco Pablo M.
Published: July 2024

We present the Python-based Molecule Builder for ESPResSo (pyMBE), an open source software application to design custom coarse-grained (CG) models, as well as pre-defined models of polyelectrolytes, peptides, and globular proteins in the Extensible Simulation Package for Research on Soft Matter (ESPResSo). The Python interface of ESPResSo offers a flexible framework, capable of building custom CG models from scratch. As a downside, building CG models from scratch is prone to mistakes, especially for newcomers in the field of CG modeling, or for molecules with complex architectures. The pyMBE module builds CG models in ESPResSo using a hierarchical bottom-up approach, providing a robust tool to automate the setup of CG models and helping new users prevent common mistakes. ESPResSo features the constant pH (cpH) and grand-reaction (G-RxMC) methods, which have been designed to study chemical reaction equilibria in macromolecular systems with many reactive species. However, setting up these methods for systems, which contain several types of reactive groups, is an error-prone task, especially for beginners. The pyMBE module enables the automatic setup of cpH and G-RxMC simulations in ESPResSo, lowering the barrier for newcomers and opening the door to investigate complex systems not studied with these methods yet. To demonstrate some of the applications of pyMBE, we showcase several case studies where we successfully reproduce previously published simulations of charge-regulating peptides and globular proteins in bulk solution and weak polyelectrolytes in dialysis. The pyMBE module is publicly available as a GitHub repository (https://github.com/pyMBE-dev/pyMBE), which includes its source code and various sample and test scripts, including the ones that we used to generate the data presented in this article.
Efficient approximate screening techniques for integrals over London atomic orbitals
Authors: Blaschke Simon , Stopkowicz Stella , Pausch Ansgar
Published: July 2024

Efficient integral screening techniques are essential for the investigation of extended molecular structures. This work presents a critical assessment of well-established approximate screening techniques and extends them for integrals over London atomic orbitals, which are required in the presence of strong, external magnetic fields. Through the examination of helium clusters in such extreme environments, we demonstrate that seemingly straightforward extensions of field-free screening techniques as proposed in the recent literature can lead to significant errors. To rectify this, we propose two alternative screening techniques that lead to the desired speedups while still maintaining strict error control.
Novel data interpretation method for DIII-D divertor retarding field energy analyzer with 3-D particle-in-cell simulations
Authors: Zhao B. , Donovan D. C. , Ren J. , Phillips M. D.
Published: July 2024

A novel data interpretation process that utilizes comprehensive particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations is developed for the new retarding field energy analyzer (RFEA) currently being constructed at DIII-D for the lower divertor using the Divertor Material Evaluation System. This probe is expected to survive a heat load of up to 100 MW/m2 for up to 5 s and reliably measure the main ion temperature (Ti) on the divertor target ranging from 10 to 200 eV. These extreme conditions posed significant engineering limitations on the probe geometry, thus extensive validation work has been performed. The conventional fitting method for the RFEA I–V characteristics is based on a simplified 1-D model without considering the ion space charge inside the probe cavity and may not be sufficient for probes designed for the DIII-D divertor environment. In this article, a more realistic description of the particle propagation process within the RFEA cavity is achieved by including both 3-D geometric effects and ion space charge in the PIC simulations, and the capability to reconstruct the ion energy distribution functions is demonstrated with reasonable consistency.
One cohort or two?
Authors: Willoughby Louisa , Nambu Satoshi , Pezzotti Barbara
Published: July 2024

Foreign language anxiety and enjoyment have been shown to correlate with each other (Botes et al., 2022), but few studies to date have considered whether distinct groups of
learners within the one class may experience these variables differently. This article considers whether learners who have arrived
in Australian university intermediate language classrooms via two different pipelines, either having studied the language at
university the year before or entering directly from high school, report diverse levels of enjoyment, anxiety, or out-of-class
study behaviours. The study draws on data from 141 students studying at an Australian university who allowed their questionnaire
data to be matched to their final grade for the unit. While there was no significant difference in the final grades awarded to
students from each pipeline, the two groups reported differences in their experience of anxiety, and study behaviours. When it came
to final grades only Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety (FLCA) was clearly predictive of performance.
Examining gay male discursive practices in hook-up apps
Authors: García-Gómez Antonio
Published: July 2024

Whilst there is a growing body of literature on the normalisation of abuse in youth digital sexual image exchange (Ringrose, Regehr & Whitehead 2021), mediated intimacies and sexual harms among men who have sex with men (MSM) in online contexts still remain largely neglected (Dietzel 2021). The present study builds on Russell’s (2021) study on male discursive practices and investigates sexual and gendered ideologies in 600 online dating profiles gathered from Grindr and Wapo. The discourse analysis of these profiles, on the one hand, sheds light on the existing violent nature of gay Alpha imaginaries in the short-term sexual encounters that these dating apps facilitate and, on the other hand, gives evidence of how discourses of hegemonic heteronormativity, and rape culture, seem to inform MSMs dating app profiles.
Navigating ‘safe’ and ‘non-safe’ queer spaces
Authors: Khoo Jill , Ilbury Christian
Published: July 2024

It is well documented that gay people adopt behavioural
strategies to navigate the heteronormative expectations and norms of social
space. These practices are likely to be particularly pronounced in socially
conservative countries which have seen less progress for LGBTQ+ rights. This
study examines how two gay men (Rui and Kenni) stylistically negotiate their
sexual identities in a socially conservative country – Singapore – by analyzing
the variation in two phonetic variables that have been linked to gender and
sexuality: Pitch and /s/. We show that both speakers style-shift across
queer-friendly and heteronormative environments though the rate and degree of
shifting is influenced both by the situated social meanings of the features and
the interactional context. Concluding, we argue that research should consider
how minoritised individuals are required to style-shift in
order to adhere to the hegemonic norms and expectations of society.
Queer immigrants’ performative identity and cultural marginality in the context of queering ESL education
Authors: Ren Yih
Published: July 2024

This qualitative study analyzes three gay Chinese immigrants’ experiences and perspectives regarding English hegemony, internalized oppression, and sexual identity using language ideology, social positioning, and performativity. The findings show that speaking English still determines one’s proximity to American culture, and language ideology affects attitudes towards one’s own culture and language. In particular, the study demonstrates atriple marginalizationin which participants are more or less marginalized because their inherited American values clash with their marginality, and at the same time, because of their negative experiences with local gay communities and rejection from their own culture, they feel alienated, displaced, and immobile as a result. Additionally, English learning and interacting with LGBTQ content contribute to their language acquisition, sexual identity transformation, and activism development. Queering ESL education is needed because English learners inherit oppressive English ideologies and show discrimination towards other marginalized groups. As agatewayto American society and cultures, ESL classes present opportunities to raise awareness and challenge hegemonic discourse. Furthermore, ESL classrooms can also be powerful places for queer students whose cultures provide little or no validation of their sexuality to cultivate their cultural competence and affirm their place within society.
Membrane tension evolution and mechanical regulation of melittin-induced membrane poration
Authors: Zhang 张 Wanting 婉婷 , Xu 徐 Rong 榕 , Ma 马 Wendong 文东 , Lin 林 Zhao 召 , Yang 杨 Kai 恺 , Yuan 元 Bing 冰
Published: July 2024

Membrane tension plays a crucial role in various fundamental cellular processes, with one notable example being the T cell-mediated elimination of tumor cells through perforin-induced membrane perforation by amplifying cellular force. However, the mechanisms governing the regulation of biomolecular activities at the cell interface by membrane tension remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the correlation between membrane tension and poration activity of melittin, a prototypical pore-forming peptide, using dynamic giant unilamellar vesicle leakage assays combined with flickering tension analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, and live cell assays. The results demonstrate that an increase in membrane tension enhances the activity of melittin, particularly near its critical pore-forming concentration. Moreover, peptide actions such as binding, insertion, and aggregation in the membrane further influence the evolution of membrane tension. Live cell experiments reveal that artificially enhancing membrane tension effectively enhances melittin’s ability to induce pore formation and disrupt membranes, resulting in up to a ten-fold increase in A549 cell mortality when exposed to a concentration of 2.0-μg⋅mL−1 melittin. Our findings elucidate the relationship between membrane tension and the mechanism of action as well as pore-forming efficiency of melittin, while providing a practical mechanical approach for regulating functional activity of molecules at the cell-membrane interface.
Comparative studies of GelMA hydrogels: investigating the effect of different source on mechanical, physical and biological properties
Authors: Yilmaz Hilal , Gursoy Sevda , Calik Hilal , Kazancioglu Yagmur , Yildirim Ridvan , Cakir Rabia , Gunduz Oguzhan , Ahmed Arsalan , Ustundag Cem Bulent
Published: July 2024

GelMA hydrogels are prominent in biomedical applications due to their innate extracellular matrix mimicking properties. They exhibit favorable properties for cell proliferation and formation of light-induced hydrophilic cross-linked structures. However, there is limited research on the effect of variations in the starting material (gelatin) on the physical, mechanical and biological properties. In this study, Gelatin Methacrylic Anhydride (GelMA) hydrogels were synthesized from two different products of type B gelatin and loaded with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanoparticles by electrospray method. Chemical and structural analyses were performed by FTIR, 1HNMR, TNBS and SEM, respectively. Mechanical properties were evaluated by compression tests. Cytocompatibility was evaluated by XTT analysis. GelMA hydrogels obtained from two brands have suitable pore size, mechanical strength, swelling properties and cytocompatibility, making them suitable for various biomedical applications. In addition, the addition of PVP nanoparticles can make them useful for drug delivery applications.
Design and micromanufacturing technologies of focused piezoelectric ultrasound transducers for biomedical applications
Authors: Bai Xingyu , Wang Daixu , Zhen Liyun , Cui Meng , Liu Jingquan , Zhao Ning , Lee Chengkuo , Yang Bin
Published: July 2024

Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers have shown great potential in biomedical applications due to their high acoustic-to-electric conversion efficiency and large power capacity. The focusing technique enables the transducer to produce an extremely narrow beam, greatly improving the resolution and sensitivity. In this work, we summarize the fundamental properties and biological effects of the ultrasound field, aiming to establish a correlation between device design and application. Focusing techniques for piezoelectric transducers are highlighted, including material selection and fabrication methods, which determine the final performance of piezoelectric transducers. Numerous examples, from ultrasound imaging, neuromodulation, tumor ablation to ultrasonic wireless energy transfer, are summarized to highlight the great promise of biomedical applications. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of focused ultrasound transducers are presented. The aim of this review is to bridge the gap between focused ultrasound systems and biomedical applications.
Mechanical and physical properties of epoxy/SiC composites simulated
Authors: Al Hasan Nuha Hadi Jasim
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to predict the mechanical properties of SiC-reinforced epoxy. The cross-linked reinforced epoxy was simulated using Material Studio 7.0 (Accelrys, Inc.). Various percentages of SiC (0, 4, 6, 8, and 10) wt% were used in the simulations. A density curve and cell size diagram are obtained from MD simulations of SiC-epoxy nanocomposites. Under a 0.5 GPa pressure, Forcite dynamic simulations showed that amorphous cells have densities that are close to epoxy density (1.2 g cm−3). Simulations have shown that epoxy/SiC composites respond well to a variety of mechanical strains. Increasing the SiC weight percentage increases the stiffness matrix coefficient of epoxy composites, which is demonstrated by increased stiffness matrix coefficients. Computational studies of epoxy/SiC composites have suggested up to 10% SiC nanoparticles by weight will maintain the epoxy matrix’s density in industrial applications.
Exploring the therapeutic utility of the factor XIa inhibitor asundexian
Authors: Edwards Jocelyn , Corey Jack , Coons James C
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Factor XIa inhibitors are a promising novel class of anticoagulants that attenuate pathological thrombosis with minimal interference with hemostasis. These effects contrast with those of conventional anticoagulants, which may exhibit adverse events of untoward bleeding precluding treatment in some patients. A variety of investigational pharmacological modalities have been developed and studied to target factor XIa.

Asundexian is a small molecule inhibitor of factor XIa that has been evaluated in several clinical studies. It has been studied as an oral, once-daily medication and found to inhibit approximately 90% of factor XIa activity at doses of 20 to 50 mg. Phase 2 trials have demonstrated the potential for improved safety compared to standard of care in certain treatment settings, such as in atrial fibrillation. For other indications, such as noncardioembolic stroke and acute myocardial infarction, asundexian has been used in addition to background antiplatelet therapy. In these instances, asundexian did not show a difference in the incidence of bleeding events compared to placebo.

Conclusion

Phase 3 trials have recently been launched; however, the OCEANIC-AF trial was prematurely discontinued due to inefficacy of asundexian vs apixaban for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation. Another phase 3 trial, OCEANIC-AFINA, is planned to compare asundexian to placebo in patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk for stroke who are deemed ineligible for anticoagulation.
Dorsal Modification: Practical Applications in Rhinoplasty
Authors: Zholtikov Vitaly , Ouerghi Riadh , Kosins Aaron
Published: July 2024

Background

Management of the dorsum continues to present challenges for rhinoplasty surgeons, especially regarding the inherent asymmetry of the bony and cartilaginous vaults and the need for a highly individualized approach for each case.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of superficial dorsal modification to improve the shape and symmetry of the dorsum, without resecting/reconstructing the main parts that maintain dorsal stability.

Methods

A total of 147 patients who underwent superficial dorsal modification between October 2020 and March 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. A step-by-step algorithm was applied to achieve the required dorsal improvement.

Results

The average postoperative follow-up period was 27 months (range, 12-41 months). No patients required revision surgery of their dorsum. No complications were reported. A retrospective analysis of the 147 patients demonstrated aesthetic and functional improvement.

Conclusions

Dorsal modification as a separate philosophy is a very conservative, fast, and reliable approach. In cases where there is no need to significantly change dorsal dimensions (height and width), dorsal modification improves the dorsum quickly and efficiently without significant resection and no reconstruction, while maintaining stability and maximum predictability.
The Gargano Yin Yang Breast Reduction Technique: How to Obtain Better Breast Shape, Volume Distribution, and Size With Long-Lasting Results
Authors: Gargano Francesco
Published: July 2024

Background

Reduction mammoplasty techniques have evolved due to the continued search for optimal and sustainable results.

Objectives

The purpose of the study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of a novel technique, Gargano's Yin Yang breast reduction, in achieving a better breast shape, position, and volume distribution and to also evaluate the complication rate, operative time, and long-term effects on mammary base, projection, and pseudoptosis.

Methods

The author presents 185 consecutive patients who underwent the Yin Yang reduction mammaplasty technique, which utilizes a geometrical model to obtain a better breast shape. The key surgical steps of the technique are: (1) a superomedial pedicle flap and (2) an inferior pole laterally based flap. The glandular resection is performed in an S shape for the right breast and a mirrored S shape for the left breast; (3) the resection of the skin is in a Wise pattern.

Results

Forty-three of the 185 patients participated in a prospective morphometric study over an 18-month period. Patients who underwent the Yin Yang technique had a 15% vertical scar increase for reductions >1200 g, the mammary base and projection were unchanged over time compared with the immediate postoperative period.

Conclusions

The Yin Yang technique is an effective and reliable approach to correct breast hypertrophy, conducive to achieving and maintaining a better breast shape, volume, and position. The results are stable over time for mammary base, projection, and pseudoptosis or “bottoming out.” In addition, the complication rate is relatively low and appears to decrease with experience.

Level of Evidence: 4
Dupilumab-associated (hyper)eosinophilia in patients with atopic dermatitis: a single-centre cohort study of the TREAT NL (TREatment of ATopic eczema, the Netherlands) registry
Authors: Li Angelo , Musters Annelie H , Hyseni Ariënna , Gerbens Louise A A , Spuls Phyllis I
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the incidence and progression of (hyper)eosinophilia in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) treated with dupilumab, using data from the TREAT NL registry cohort. In total, 38.5% of patients had (hyper)eosinophilia at baseline and/or during dupilumab treatment. (Hyper)eosinophilia was present at baseline in 43 (55.8%) patients and developed in 34 (44.2%) patients during treatment. Eosinophilia was transient, peaking at 6 months and normalizing by 18–24 months. One patient discontinued dupilumab due to persistent hypereosinophilia, but generally, eosinophilia did not affect treatment outcomes. In conclusion, dupilumab is found viable for patients with AD regardless of baseline eosinophilia, with temporary increases in eosinophil counts that are often not clinically significant.
Quality of life in patients with acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation: a systematic review
Authors: Jiang Melinda , Wang Eugene , Rodrigues Michelle
Published: July 2024

Acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation (ADMH) encompasses conditions including lichen planus pigmentosus, erythema dyschromicum perstans, ashy dermatosis, Riehl melanosis and pigmented contact dermatitis. This group of cosmetically distressing pigmentary disorders poses a therapeutic challenge, yet to our knowledge, there have been no systematic reviews published that describe their impact on quality of life (QoL). An electronic database search of PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library was performed in December 2022 to search for articles published from inception until 15 December 2022. Articles were included if they (i) were a primary clinical publication, (ii) reported QoL in patients with ADMH, and (iii) were available in full text. Overall, the review highlighted a considerable gap in the literature concerning the impact of ADMH on QoL. Seven studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included, with a total of 259 patients. All seven studies reported impaired QoL in patients with ADMH. The currently available literature on this topic indicates that ADMH has a significant adverse impact on QoL, likely to a greater degree than melasma, and to a similar or lesser degree than vitiligo. Five of seven studies reported the QoL impairment for patients with ADMH based on the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); these studies consistently found a mean DLQI score reflective of a moderate effect on patients’ QoL. Clinicians must be aware of the significant psychosocial burden associated with ADMH. This impact is often overlooked but should be considered when taking a holistic approach to management.
Deep learning in the diagnosis of maxillary sinus diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Wu Ziang , Yu Xinbo , Chen Yizhou , Chen Xiaojun , Xu Chun
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To assess the performance of deep learning (DL) in the detection, classification, and segmentation of maxillary sinus diseases.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted by two reviewers on databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and IEEE. All English papers published no later than February 7, 2024, were evaluated. Studies related to DL for diagnosing maxillary sinus diseases were also searched in journals manually.

Results

Fourteen of 1167 studies were eligible according to the inclusion criteria. All studies trained DL models based on radiographic images. Six studies applied to detection tasks, one focused on classification, two segmented lesions, and five studies made a combination of two types of DL models. The accuracy of the DL algorithms ranged from 75.7% to 99.7%, and the area under curves (AUC) varied between 0.7 and 0.997.

Conclusion

DL can accurately deal with the tasks of diagnosing maxillary sinus diseases. Students, residents, and dentists could be assisted by DL algorithms to diagnose and make rational decisions on implant treatment related to maxillary sinuses.
Hypervigilance to pain and sleep quality are confounding variables in the infrared thermography examination of the temporomandibular joint and temporal and masseter muscles
Authors: de Souza Junior Erasmo Freitas , Pereira Camila Maia Vieira , Barbosa Jussara da Silva , Arruda Maria Jacinta Arêa Leão Lopes Araújo , Pita de Melo Daniela , Bento Patrícia Meira
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Verify whether hypervigilance to pain (HP) and sleep quality (SQ) are confounding variables in the infrared thermography (IT) examination of the temporomandibular joint and temporal and masseter muscles.

Methods

A cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted, collecting HP and SQ data from 80 participants without temporomandibular disorders (TMD), performing their IT and another 40 participants with TMD. For the selection of participants with and without TMD, the TMD Pain Screener questionnaire and axis I of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders were applied. SQ was verified using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. For the HP assessment the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ) was applied. And the IT was performed through a FLIR infrared sensor camera, model T650 Infrared.

Results

No significant correlations were found between SQ and the temperatures of the areas of interest (P > .05), and regarding HP, a statistically significant positive correlation was found with the dimensionless (ρ = 0.289) and non-dimensionless (ρ = 0.223) asymmetries of temporal muscle temperatures. In the temperature comparisons between the participants without TMD and the participants with TMD, significant differences were found (P < .05), also when the group without TMD was controlled according to both HP and SQ (P < .05), with higher temperatures found in the TMD group.

Conclusions

HP and SQ can be considered confounding variables in IT examination of the temporomandibular region.
Thromboembolism after coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination in atrial fibrillation/flutter: a self-controlled case series study
Authors: Choi You-Jung , Lim Jaehyun , Bea Sungho , Lee Jieun , Choi Jah Yeon , Rho Seung Young , Lee Dae-In , Na Jin Oh , Kim Hyung-Kwan
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Concerns about the safety of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines in patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF/AFL) have arisen due to reports of thrombo-embolic events following COVID-19 vaccination in the general population. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of thrombo-embolic events after COVID-19 vaccination in patients with AF/AFL.

Methods

This was a modified self-controlled case-series study using a comprehensive nationwide-linked database provided by the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea to calculate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of thrombo-embolic events. The study population included individuals aged ≥12 years who were either vaccinated (e.g. one or two doses) or unvaccinated during the period from February to December 2021. The primary outcome was a composite of thrombo-embolic events, including ischaemic stroke, transient ischaemic attack, and systemic thromboembolism. The risk period was defined as 0–21 days following COVID-19 vaccination.

Results

The final analysis included 124 127 individuals with AF/AFL. The IRR of thrombo-embolic events within 21 days after COVID-19 vaccination, compared with that during the unexposed control period, was 0.93 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77–1.12]. No significant risk variations were noted by sex, age, or vaccine type. However, patients without anticoagulant therapy had an IRR of 1.88 (95% CI 1.39–2.54) following vaccination.

Conclusions

In patients with AF/AFL, COVID-19 vaccination was generally not associated with an increased risk of thrombo-embolic events. However, careful individual risk assessment is required when advising vaccination for those not on oral anticoagulant, as these patients exhibited an increased risk of thrombo-embolic events post-vaccination.
A genetic screen in Drosophila uncovers a role for senseless-2 in surface glia in the peripheral nervous system to regulate CNS morphology
Authors: Lacin Haluk , Zhu Yuqing , DiPaola Jose T , Wilson Beth A , Zhu Yi , Skeath James B
Published: July 2024

Despite increasing in mass approximately 100-fold during larval life, the Drosophila CNS maintains its characteristic form. Dynamic interactions between the overlying basement membrane and underlying surface glia are known to regulate CNS structure in Drosophila, but the genes and pathways that establish and maintain CNS morphology during development remain poorly characterized. To identify genes that regulate CNS shape in Drosophila, we conducted an EMS-based, forward genetic screen of the second chromosome, uncovered 50 mutations that disrupt CNS structure, and mapped these alleles to 17 genes. Analysis of whole genome sequencing data wedded to genetic studies uncovered the affected gene for all but 1 mutation. Identified genes include well-characterized regulators of tissue shape, like LanB1, viking, and Collagen type IV alpha1, and previously characterized genes, such as Toll-2 and Rme-8, with no known role in regulating CNS structure. We also uncovered that papilin and C1GalTA likely act in the same pathway to regulate CNS structure and found that the fly homolog of a glucuronosyltransferase, B4GAT1/LARGE1, that regulates Dystroglycan function in mammals is required to maintain CNS shape in Drosophila. Finally, we show that the senseless-2 transcription factor is expressed and functions specifically in surface glia found on peripheral nerves but not in the CNS to govern CNS structure, identifying a gene that functionally subdivides a glial subtype along the peripheral–central axis. Future work on these genes should clarify the genetic mechanisms that ensure the homeostasis of CNS form during development.