bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using meta‐analysis to understand the impacts of dietary protein and fat content on the composition of fecal microbiota of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris): A pilot study
Authors: Phimister Francis D. , Anderson Rachel C. , Thomas David G. , Farquhar Michelle J. , Maclean Paul , Jauregui Ruy , Young Wayne , Butowski Christina F. , Bermingham Emma N.
Published: March 2024

The interplay between diet and fecal microbiota composition is garnering increased interest across various host species, including domestic dogs. While the influence of dietary macronutrients and their associated microbial communities have been extensively reviewed, these reviews are descriptive and do not account for differences in microbial community analysis, nor do they standardize macronutrient content across studies. To address this, a meta‐analysis was performed to assess the impact of dietary crude protein (“protein”) and dietary crude fat (“fat”) on the fecal microbiota composition in healthy dogs. Sixteen publications met the eligibility criteria for the meta‐analysis, yielding a final data set of 314 dogs. Diets were classed as low, moderate, high, or supra in terms of protein or fat content. Sequence data from each publication were retrieved from public databases and reanalyzed using consistent bioinformatic pipelines. Analysis of community diversity indices and unsupervised clustering of the data with principal coordinate analysis revealed a small effect size and complete overlap between protein and fat levels at the overall community level. Supervised clustering through random forest analysis and partial least squares‐discriminant analysis indicated alterations in the fecal microbiota composition at a more individual taxonomic level, corresponding to the levels of protein or fat. The Prevotellaceae Ga6A1 group and Enterococcus were associated with increasing levels of protein, while Allobaculum and Clostridium sensu stricto 13 were associated with increasing levels of fat. Interestingly, the random forest analyses revealed that Sharpea, despite its low relative abundance in the dog's fecal microbiome, was primarily responsible for the separation of the microbiome for both protein and fat. Future research should focus on validating and understanding the functional roles of these relatively low‐abundant genera.
Efficacy of far infrared functional glasses in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction‐related dry eye
Authors: Tian Lei , Guo Yihan , Wang Silu , Li Zhongying , Wang Ningli , Jie Ying
Published: March 2024

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)‐related dry eye disease (DED) is a significant subtype of DED. In this research, we investigate the effectiveness of far infrared (FIR) functional glasses in the treatment of MGD‐related DED. According to the TFO DEWS II diagnostic criteria, 61 eyes with MGD‐related DED were included. All participants wore functional FIR glasses throughout the day for a period of 4 weeks and were followed up three times during the treatment. All subjects were followed up thoroughly in accordance with the DED clinical examination procedure. Ultimately, the treatment's impact was assessed. We found the Visual Analogue Scale and Ocular Surface Disease Index scores after FIR treatment were significantly lower than the baseline values (p < 0.05). Compared with the baseline, fluorescein tear breakup time and corneal fluorescein staining score after FIR treatment were significantly improved (p < 0.05). The eyelid margin signs, meibum quality, and meibomian gland expressibility after the 4‐week treatment were significantly better than those at baseline (p < 0.05). We can see that wearing the FIR functional glasses significantly relieves the symptoms and signs of patients. We believe FIR therapy could be considered as a new method of MGD‐related DED.
High efficiency GaN power amplifier with compact harmonic tuning network
Authors: Cai Qi , Gao Zicheng , Xue Quan , Che Wenquan
Published: March 2024

One high efficiency second harmonic tuned (2HT) power amplifier (PA) with a compact multi‐harmonic tuning network is presented. The proposed design method can drive the third harmonic impedance to short‐circuit condition to achieve an ideal 2HT PA operation. Then the second harmonic impedance is controlled to proper position to improve the PA efficiency. Meanwhile, the fundamental impedance is also transferred to 50 Ω load by making the most of this tuning network. Consequently, the proposed output network can be designed to a compact size and is suitable for high frequency PA applications. For demonstration, a PA using Cree CGH40010 GaN high‐electron‐mobility transistor is designed and fabricated at 3.5 GHz. The measured results show that the PA achieves peak power added efficiency of 72.8%, output power of 41.3 dBm and drain efficiency of 80.2% at 3.3 GHz.
The rationale for bladder washouts in children with neurogenic bladder
Authors: Singh Gopal‐Krsna , Deshpande Aniruddh V , Schlegel Gemma , Starkey Malcolm Ronald , Taghavi Kiarash
Published: March 2024

Children with a neurogenic bladder are at risk of developing recurrent urinary tract infections and long‐term kidney failure. Due to an altered lower urinary tract, children may be overtreated for simple bacteriuria or undertreated for a potentially severe urinary tract infection. This group of patients represent high users of healthcare, and are at risk of colonization and development of antibiotic resistance. Bladder washouts with non‐antibiotic electrochemically activated solutions are a potential new prophylactic option for patients with bladder dysfunction when clean intermittent catheterization has resulted in chronic bacteriuria.
Engineered selective biotoxin‐binding hydrogels for toxin sequestration
Authors: Morris Melody A. , Yang Yun Jung , Mai Danielle J. , Olsen Bradley D.
Published: March 2024

The development of synthetic selective membranes that separate materials of similar sizes, charges, and/or polarities remains a difficult challenge, and looking towards biology provides inspiration for new designs. In this work, a series of cholera toxin binding peptides (CTBPs) are identified, spanning a range of binding inhibitions, and integrated into chemically cross‐linked cholera toxin binding gels (CTBGs) via thiol‐Michael polycondensation reactions. All gels demonstrate rheological profiles consistent with elastic solids. The CTBGs are probed via small‐angle neutron scattering and exhibit a correlation length, ξ, smaller than most proteins (1.3–2.5 nm). Thus, an effective entropic mesh is formed to block non‐targeted proteins. However, the CTBGs have a dynamic mesh size, Ξ, that is larger than cholera toxin (CT) to allow the transport of target proteins. The CTBGs with the highest binding inhibitions both show high selectivity and permeation of CT, rejecting all other tested proteins. In total, two new highly selective CTBGs are synthesized and validated for use in cholera toxin remediation. Together, this platform demonstrates the wide applicability of selectively‐diffusive materials for difficult separations.
Role of upper airway evaluation in the multidisciplinary management of obstructive sleep apnea in children below two years of age
Authors: Blancke Hanne , Platteau Charlotte , Slosse Emma , Verhulst Stijn , Installé Sophie , Jouret Nathalie , Van Hoorenbeeck Kim , Boudewyns An
Published: March 2024

Background

Diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in infants and young children is challenging because of its clinical heterogeneity and lack of age‐specific guidelines.

Aim

We report the management and treatment outcome of OSA in children below 2 years of age. Treatment decisions were based upon the pattern of upper airway (UA) obstruction, clinical presentation and OSA severity.

Methods

Retrospective, non‐randomized observational cohort study at a tertiary center. Children with OSA who underwent an UA evaluation (drug‐induced sleep endoscopy or direct laryngoscopy) were included.

Results

We studied 100 patients, 57 boys and 43 girls, age 0.72 years (0.0–2.0) and OSA confirmed by polysomnography. Multilevel UA collapse was present in 26%, (adeno)tonsillar hypertrophy in 31% and 21% had laryngomalacia. Laryngomalacia was more common in children below 6 months of age and adenotonsillar hypertrophy was observed mainly in children >1.5 year of age. Surgical and nonsurgical treatment guided by UA findings, improved OSA severity at group level with a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in obstructive apnea/hypopnea index from 10.8/h (2.1–99.1) to 1.7/h (0.0–73.0), an improvement in mean oxygen saturation from 96.9% (88.9–98.4) to 97.4% (92.3–99.0), in minimal oxygen saturation from 85.4% (37.0–96.0) to 88.8% (51.0–95.5) and oxygen desaturation index from 5.1/h (0.2–52.0) to 1.3/h (0.0–47.8).

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary management of young children with OSA guided by the pattern of UA obstruction and OSA severity, reduces OSA severity. The pattern of UA obstruction changes in the first 2 years of life from a dynamic collapse to structural abnormalities.
Radiative and Nonradiative Recombination Processes in AlGaN Quantum Wells on Epitaxially Laterally Overgrown AlN/Sapphire from 10 to 500 K
Authors: Ishii Ryota , Tanaka Shiki , Susilo Norman , Wernicke Tim , Kneissl Michael , Funato Mitsuru , Kawakami Yoichi
Published: March 2024

Radiative and nonradiative recombination processes are investigated in the temperature range from 10 to 500 K for AlGaN quantum wells on epitaxially laterally overgrown AlN/sapphire templates. Time‐integrated photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy under selective excitation conditions demonstrates that the decrease in the radiative recombination efficiency with increasing temperature is one of the causes of the thermal droop in AlGaN‐based deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) light‐emitting diodes. Time‐resolved PL spectroscopy indicates that not only the decreasing nonradiative recombination lifetime but increasing radiative recombination lifetime with increasing temperature contributes to the thermal droop. The temperature dependence of the radiative recombination lifetime is discussed, revealing that luminescence linewidth is a valuable criterion for designing efficient AlGaN‐based DUV emitters.
Attribute statistical process control under nonconstant process deterioration
Authors: Cobb Barry R.
Published: March 2024

A statistical process control (SPC) model is introduced that incorporates sample data on the number of defectives and allows the probability that an assignable cause of variation in each time interval of a finite production process to be nonconstant. A Limited Memory Influence Diagram (LIMID) model is implemented to facilitate the decision in each time interval on whether or not to investigate the potential presence of the assignable cause of variation and restore the process to working condition. The method determines control limits that minimize the costs of inspection, repair, sampling, and operating under the assignable cause of variation. Sample size and sampling intervals can also be adjusted to further reduce the costs of maintaining quality control. This method expands on the capabilities of models that assume that the conditional probability of an assignable cause occurring remains constant throughout the production horizon.
Directionally sensitive adaptive MEWMA charts with fixed and variable sampling rates
Authors: Haq Abdul , Khoo Michael B. C.
Published: March 2024

A primary objective in detecting disease outbreaks is to precisely identify substantial increases in process means to control the spread of outbreaks. In this paper, we introduce a novel directionally sensitive adaptive multivariate exponentially weighted moving average chart for efficiently detecting either increases or decreases in the mean vector of a multivariate normally distributed process. In addition, the chart's sensitivity is enhanced through features such as variable sample size, variable sampling interval, and a combination of both. Monte Carlo simulation is employed to estimate zero‐state and steady‐state average time‐to‐signal (ATS) profiles. Performance measures, including expected weighted and relative ATS, are used for evaluating the performances of multivariate charts. Our results indicate that the proposed charts outperform existing charts in detecting various mean shift sizes. The application of these multivariate charts is demonstrated through illustrative examples.
Detection‐based compound event‐triggered secure control for nonlinear multiagent systems
Authors: Zhu Tianfei , Cao Liang , Ren Hongru , Xue Hong
Published: March 2024

This paper designs a distributed dynamic‐detection‐based event‐triggered control method to address the secure tracking control problem. A distributed online iterative dynamic detection mechanism is designed to detect denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks. The detection results are transmitted into a proposed ET method to adjust the triggering threshold, which can mitigate the impact of DoS attacks. Moreover, the signals of state, observations of disturbance observers and adaptive laws are calculated to generate the trigger signals in the control signal simultaneously, which can help conserve communication resources and reduce the occurrence of pulse phenomenon. Meanwhile, since the predictor exists certain prediction errors that will reduce the tracking performance, a speed function is introduced to ensure the achievement of the control objective. The designed solution guarantees semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded for all signals within the closed‐loop system. Finally, the effectiveness of control scheme is demonstrated through several simulation results.
The role of social capital in community development: Insights from behavioral game theory and social network analysis
Authors: Sakamoto Maiko
Published: March 2024

This study examined the multifaceted nature of Social Capital (SC) in community development projects by using Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions in three urban Bangladeshi slums as a case study. Despite its recognized importance, the ambiguity surrounding SC has led to mixed outcomes, necessitating a more theorized approach to quantitatively assess SC. To address this, a comprehensive methodology was developed, specifically crafted for a community development context and incorporating standard SC questions, social network analysis indices, and an adherence to social norms through behavioral game theory. The analysis revealed varied SC profiles, with one slum achieving successful community toilet management through strong reciprocal ties. The other slums faced challenges due to community division and weakened SC among key individuals. These findings underscore the necessity of tailoring interventions to community‐specific SC characteristics. The streamlined approach derived from the study provides guidance for both enhancing the effectiveness of community interventions and advancing sustainable development.
Encapsulation of Enzymes into Hydrophilic and Biocompatible Metal Azolate Framework: Improved Functions of Biocatalyst in Cascade Reactions and its Sensing Applications
Authors: Zhao Qilin , Wu Donghui , Wang Yu , Meng Tian , Sun Jian , Yang Xiurong
Published: March 2024

Multiple enzyme‐triggered cascade biocatalytic reactions are vital in vivo or vitro, considering the basic biofunction preservation in living organisms and signals transduction for biosensing platforms. Encapsulation of such enzymes into carrier endows a sheltering effect and can boost catalytic performance, although the selection and preparation of an appropriate carrier is still a concern. Herein, focusing on MAF‐7, a category of metal azolate framework (MAF) with superiority against the topologically identical ZIF‐8, this enzyme@MAF system can ameliorate the sustainability of encapsulating natural enzymes into carriers. The proposed biocatalyst composite AChE@ChOx@MAF‐7/hemin is constructed via one‐pot in situ coprecipitation method. Subsequently, MAF‐7 is demonstrated to exhibit an excellent capacity of the carrier and protection against external factors in the counterpart of ZIF‐8 through encapsulated and free enzymes. In addition, detections for specific substrates or inhibitors with favorable sensitivity are accomplished, indicating that the properties above expectation of different aspects of the established platform are successfully realized. This biofunctional composite based on MAF‐7 can definitely provide a potential approach for optimization of cascade reaction and enzyme encapsulation.
General Semi‐Solid Freeze Casting for Uniform Large‐Scale Isotropic Porous Scaffolds: An Application for Extensive Oral Mucosal Reconstruction
Authors: Chen Jinlin , Zhang Tianyu , Liu Dan , Yang Fan , Feng Yuan , Wang Ao , Wang Yanchao , He Xueling , Luo Feng , Li Jiehua , Tan Hong , Jiang Lu
Published: March 2024

Ice‐templated porous biomaterials possess transformative potential in regenerative medicine; yet, scaling up ice‐templating processes for broader applications—owing to inconsistent pore formation—remains challenging. This study reports an innovative semi‐solid freeze‐casting technique that draws inspiration from semi‐solid metal processing (SSMP) combined with ice cream‐production routines. This versatile approach allows for the large‐scale assembly of various materials, from polymers to inorganic particles, into isotropic 3D scaffolds featuring uniformly equiaxed pores throughout the centimeter scale. Through (cryo‐)electron microscopy, X‐ray tomography, and finite element modeling, the structural evolution of ice grains/pores is elucidated, demonstrating how the method increases the initial ice nucleus density by pre‐fabricating a semi‐frozen slurry, which facilitates a transition from columnar to equiaxed grain structures. For a practical demonstration, as‐prepared scaffolds are integrated into a bilayer tissue patch using biodegradable waterborne polyurethane (WPU) for large‐scale oral mucosal reconstruction in minipigs. Systematic analyses, including histology and RNA sequencing, prove that the patch modulates the healing process toward near‐scarless mucosal remodeling via innate and adaptive immunomodulation and activation of pro‐healing genes converging on matrix synthesis and epithelialization. This study not only advances the field of ice‐templating fabrication but sets a promising precedent for scaffold‐based large‐scale tissue regeneration.
Reduction Kinetics of Fluxed Iron Ore Pellets Made of Coarse Iron Ore Particles
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Mishra Biswajit , Sinha Om Prakash
Published: March 2024

The present work demonstrates a sustainable approach of using relatively coarser iron ore particles for ironmaking. The motivation is to reduce the energy consumption in the milling of the iron ore by utilizing coarser iron ore particles (+0.05 mm) and to select a suitable binder for improving pellet properties. Iron ore fines in the range of 0.05–0.25 mm was selected and classified into three size ranges. Fluxed iron ore pellets were prepared using lime as a binder for the basicity of 0, 1, and 2. Reduction of these pellets with a packed bed of coal fines was performed in the temperature range of 900–1200 °C for a duration of 30–120 min. The direct reduction kinetics of the iron ore pellets were studied by employing diffusion and chemical reaction control models to the experimental data. The results show that pellets made with coarser iron ore particles have improved reduction behavior and kinetics. The reduction reaction is found to be a mixed control. The activation energy for the reduction reaction varies from 44.3 to 74.76 kJ mol−1 as iron ore particle size decreases from 0.25 to 0.05 mm and basicity increases from 0 to 2.
Ultrasound Assisted Aqueous Two‐Phase Extraction of Polysaccharides from Ophiopogon japonicus: Process Optimization, Structure Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Tian Yanhua , Luo Aiguo , Yang Zhaoyan , Zhang Ling , Zhang Xuanping
Published: March 2024

Ultrasound assisted aqueous two‐phase extraction (UATPE) is used to extract polysaccharides from Ophiopogon japonicus (OJPs). Experimental factors in UATPE process are optimized by response surface methodology. The optimal extraction conditions are obtained as follows: the ethanol concentration of 34%, ammonium sulfate concentration of 23%, solid‐to‐liquid ratio of 1:17 g/mL, and ultrasound power of 480 W, and the yield of OJPs is 9.41% ± 0.12%, and then the crude OJPs are further purified by different column chromatography to obtain a homogenous fraction (OJPs‐2‐SG), and identified its structure via different methods. OJPs‐2‐SG with a molecular weight of 1.25 × 105 Da is comprised of mannose (Man), galactose (Gal), glucose (Glc), and rhamnose (Rha) with a molar ratio of 5.15: 26.39: 68.72:8.41. Moreover, OJPs‐2‐SG contained α and β glycosidic bonds, and didn't showed a triple helix structure. Furthermore, OJPs‐2‐SG described irregular structures, and cylindrical and conical block like features. The IC50 values of scavenging 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH), and superoxide (O2‐) radicals for OJPs‐2‐SG achieved 3.72 mg/mL, 3.89 mg/mL, and 8.71 mg/mL, respectively. These results provide important references for the extraction and application of polysaccharides.
Value of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors as a combination therapy for treating erectile dysfunction: A literature review
Authors: Owen Christopher K. , Khalafalla Kareim , Wang Run
Published: March 2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is increasing in prevalence, with estimates that 50% of men between 40 and 70 years of age suffer from the disease. Due to a wide array of available medical interventions, significant focus has been put on combination therapies that can treat ED refractory to first‐line treatments such as phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5is). However, reviews evaluating monotherapy noninferiority and patient satisfaction of monotherapy versus combination therapy are lacking. A thorough PubMed search was performed to evaluate combination therapy in ED treatment. Articles published between January 2008 and June 2023 were reviewed, including randomized control trials, retrospective analyses, and cohort studies. Combination therapies included PDE5i plus another PDE5i, testosterone supplementation, α‐blockers, vacuum erectile devices, intracavernosal injections, and low‐intensity shockwave therapy. Based on this review, PDE5i monotherapy is not inferior to combination therapy and has increased satisfaction, convenience, and ease of use for patients with ED. Limitations of current literature on combination therapy include small sample size, limited data on patient satisfaction, possible biases, and limited follow‐up time. Further studies will need larger randomized control trials with follow‐up times greater than 1 year.
Free‐ranging cattle and the return of the wolf: behavioral responses and implications for conservation management
Authors: Smit C. , Kuijper D. P. J.
Published: March 2024

Over the last decades, wolves have considerably expanded their distribution in Europe. Their range expansion even led to recolonizing densely human‐populated countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands. The few available studies on the effects of returning wolves in these landscapes focus primarily on the behavioral responses of wild ungulates, such as deer. While livestock in intensive farming practices can be protected against wolves, free‐ranging cattle in nature areas often have to protect themselves. How these cattle respond to the returned wolves is thus far unclear, yet highly relevant for conservation management. There is very little information about how free‐ranging cattle respond to the re‐appearance of wolves in terms of anti‐predator behavior and ability to defend themselves. In June 2022, a newly established wolf pair was located in a natural area in Drenthe. This natural area is grazed year‐round by free‐ranging Galloway cattle, a small and hornless primitive breed commonly used in conservation management. Here, we reported on the behavioral responses of the herd following two wolf attacks that occurred at nighttime in April 2023, the first caught on wildlife cameras in the Netherlands. During these events, the Galloways showed a clear behavioral response: they became active, restless and vigilant, and showed grouping behavior, presumably to protect the calves. Chasing behavior towards the attacking wolf was even exhibited by some individuals. The reported attacks did not result in killed or injured cattle. These two well‐documented wolf–cattle interactions show promising information as they highlight anti‐predator behaviors from an unexperienced cattle breed, all within a year of the wolves' return. We broadly discuss the relevance of these findings for grazing management, including selection for breeds, anti‐predator behaviors, and impact of herd structure and size, and we provide avenues for future research to address current knowledge gaps.
Situated Knowledge and Energy Transformations: A Socio-Anthropological Exploration
Authors: Cappello Elena Apostoli
Published: March 2024

This chapter focuses on San Pietro island case study and uses an ethnographic, micro and qualitative approach. San Pietro island is facing Sulcis, the southwestern corner of the Sardinia, a region of coal-mining and industrial vocation currently involved in a challenging energy transition. San Pietro local residents claim their ethnic difference as descendants of the eighteenth century settlers from Liguria. Today, contrary to Sulcis, the island benefits from several EU grants aiming to improve energy efficiency and renewables. I explore if the orientation of the community towards a shared idea of its past and future could be a determining factor in triggering a positive and stable tipping point towards decarbonization. I use energyscape framework to understand the spatial dimension and ethnography to explore local imaginaries on renewables as context for examination of social agency. I find that the attempt at deep transformations driven by policy plans may experience implementation difficulties, since local residents’ futures and horizons do not align to the timescales, worldviews on humans or technology, or many other dimensions and narratives arriving “from outside” the community.
Tipping Points Emerge in the Interaction Between Narrative and Reality
Authors: van der Leeuw Sander
Published: March 2024

The paper considers narratives as dynamic memory banks and shifts understanding from emphasizing the origins of the present to the emergence of the present. In the construction of reality, imagined futures articulate with knowledge obtained in the past.

In another inversion, rather than explain change and consider stability as the norm, it focuses on change as the norm and investigates the creation of stability to explain, for example, why our societies are so slow in acting on climate change.

The creation of meaning is the result of an interaction between thinking and experience, like the interaction between a map and the territory it represents. It reduces the complexity of the territory to the simplicity of the map, shaping simultaneously the cognitive map and the territory it represents. Such cognitive structures evolve into dense networks of cognitive dimensions.

Tipping points emerge as a particular cognitive structure is no longer enabling a society to deal with its changing environment because it does not fully trace the logical and functional nature of the relationship between the two. To facilitate that, we need to understanding noise as signals for which no interpretative conceptual and cognitive structure has yet been identified.
Social Tipping Processes in the Transformation of Civitavecchia’s Socio-energy System
Authors: Rodrigues Daniel Delatin , Grasso Marco
Published: March 2024

The chapter introduces the notion of ‘social tipping processes’, an interdisciplinary framework for the analysis of complex transformation processes which helps to identify the sequence of, broadly understood, socio-political events that can trigger positive or negative dynamics of transformations of current social-ecological systems. Social tipping processes are first framed and delineated, then this category is applied to a spatially and temporally delimited empirical case, the long-standing Italian energy city of Civitavecchia—near Rome—to investigate the transformation to renewables of the local socio-energy systems as a dynamic and relational process. The chapter concludes by outlining the main paths forward for a sustainable future, as advocated by the social tipping processes perspective put into action in the case under scrutiny.
Increasing Accessibility of Online Board Games to Visually Impaired People via Machine Learning and Textual/Audio Feedback: The Case of “Quantik”
Authors: Gnecco Giorgio , Battaglini Chiara , Biancalani Francesco , Bottari Davide , Camurri Antonio , Leporini Barbara
Published: March 2024

Playing board games is commonly recognized as an effective way to promote the integration and socialization of their participants. However, visually impaired people may encounter accessibility issues when playing online versions of board games, for instance, because such versions may have been designed having initially sighted people in mind. Given this premise, the aim of this work is to design an interface aimed to help visually impaired people play board games online, via an improved interaction with a normal or touch screen. This goal is achieved by means of automatic recognition of the portion of the screen one’s finger or the cursor is pointing to, its classification via machine learning, and the use of either textual or audio feedback. In this way, a visually impaired person could explore the screen in quite a natural way, obtaining information, e.g., about the positions of the various pieces on the board. As a case study, a preliminary version of the interface is developed to address accessibility of the online version of a carefully selected pure strategy abstract board game, namely “Quantik” from Gigamic.
Chiral magnetic waves in strongly coupled Weyl semimetals
Authors: Ahn Yong jun , Baggioli Matteo , Liu Yan , Wu Xin-Meng
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Propagating chiral magnetic waves (CMW) are expected to exist in chiral plasmas due to the interplay between the chiral magnetic and chiral separation effects induced by the presence of a chiral anomaly. Unfortunately, it was pointed out that, because of the effects of electric conductivity and dissipation, CMW are overdamped and therefore their signatures are unlikely to be seen in heavy-ion collision experiments and in the quark gluon plasma. Nonetheless, the chiral anomaly plays a fundamental role in Weyl semimetals and their anomalous transport properties as well. Hence, CMW could be potentially observed in topological semimetals using table-top experiments. By using a holographic model for strongly coupled Weyl semimetals, we investigate in detail the nature of CMW in presence of Coulomb interactions and axial charge relaxation and estimate whether, and in which regimes, CMW could be observed as underdamped collective excitations in topological materials.
On running coupling in the JIMWLK evolution and its Langevin formulation
Authors: Altinoluk Tolga , Beuf Guillaume , Lublinsky Michael , Skokov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Various conventional running coupling prescriptions reproducing β0-dependent terms of NLO JIMWLK are reviewed and found to be theoretically inconsistent: the JIMWLK evolution Hamiltonian with running coupling violates the requirement of positive semidefiniteness. This requirement appears to be tightly related to the possibility of having a Langevin formulation for the evolution.

We also review the scheme that attributes a part of β0-dependent terms to the DGLAP evolution of the projectile. The remaining β0-dependent contributions sum up into so-called “daughter dipole” prescription, which leads to a manifestly positive semidefinite Hamiltonian.
Deep learning reconstruction for high-resolution computed tomography images of the temporal bone: comparison with hybrid iterative reconstruction
Authors: Fujita Nana , Yasaka Koichiro , Hatano Sosuke , Sakamoto Naoya , Kurokawa Ryo , Abe Osamu
Published: March 2024

Purpose

We investigated whether the quality of high-resolution computed tomography (CT) images of the temporal bone improves with deep learning reconstruction (DLR) compared with hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR).

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 36 patients (15 men, 21 women; age, 53.9 ± 19.5 years) who had undergone high-resolution CT of the temporal bone. Axial and coronal images were reconstructed using DLR, HIR, and filtered back projection (FBP). In qualitative image analyses, two radiologists independently compared the DLR and HIR images with FBP in terms of depiction of structures, image noise, and overall quality, using a 5-point scale (5 = better than FBP, 1 = poorer than FBP) to evaluate image quality. The other two radiologists placed regions of interest on the tympanic cavity and measured the standard deviation of CT attenuation (i.e., quantitative image noise). Scores from the qualitative and quantitative analyses of the DLR and HIR images were compared using, respectively, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the paired t-test.

Results

Qualitative and quantitative image noise was significantly reduced in DLR images compared with HIR images (all comparisons, p ≤ 0.016). Depiction of the otic capsule, auditory ossicles, and tympanic membrane was significantly improved in DLR images compared with HIR images (both readers, p ≤ 0.003). Overall image quality was significantly superior in DLR images compared with HIR images (both readers, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Compared with HIR, DLR provided significantly better-quality high-resolution CT images of the temporal bone.
Impact of 4D-Flow CMR Parameters on Functional Evaluation of Fontan Circulation
Authors: Ait Ali Lamia , Martini Nicola , Listo Elisa , Valenti Elisa , Sotelo Julio , Salvadori Stefano , Passino Claudio , Monteleone Angelo , Stagnaro Nicola , Trocchio Gianluca , Marrone Chiara , Raimondi Francesca , Catapano Giosuè , Festa Pierluigi
Published: March 2024

We sought to evaluate the potential clinical role of 4D-flow cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)-derived energetics and flow parameters in a cohort of patients’ post-Fontan palliation. In patients with Fontan circulation who underwent 4D-Flow CMR, streamlines distribution was evaluated, as well a 4D-flow CMR-derived energetics parameters as kinetic energy (KE) and energy loss (EL) normalized by volume. EL/KE index as a marker of flow efficiency was also calculated. Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) was also performed in a subgroup of patients. The population study included 55 patients (mean age 22 ± 11 years). The analysis of the streamlines revealed a preferential distribution of the right superior vena cava flow for the right pulmonary artery (62.5 ± 35.4%) and a mild preferential flow for the left pulmonary artery (52.3 ± 40.6%) of the inferior vena cave-pulmonary arteries (IVC-PA) conduit. Patients with heart failure (HF) presented lower IVC/PA-conduit flow (0.75 ± 0.5 vs 1.3 ± 0.5 l/min/m2, p = 0.004) and a higher mean flow-jet angle of the IVC-PA conduit (39.2 ± 22.8 vs 15.2 ± 8.9, p < 0.001) than the remaining patients. EL/KE index correlates inversely with VO2/kg/min: R: − 0.45, p = 0.01 peak, minute ventilation (VE) R: − 0.466, p < 0.01, maximal voluntary ventilation: R:0.44, p = 0.001 and positively with the physiological dead space to the tidal volume ratio (VD/VT) peak: R: 0.58, p < 0.01. From our data, lower blood flow in IVC/PA conduit and eccentric flow was associated with HF whereas higher EL/KE index was associated with reduced functional capacity and impaired lung function. Larger studies are needed to confirm our results and to further improve the prognostic role of the 4D-Flow CMR in this challenging population.
Advanced Facial Rejuvenation: Synergistic Effects of Lower Blepharoplasty and Ultrasound Guided Mid-Face Lift Using Polydioxanone (PDO) Threads
Authors: Park Jun Ho , Jeong Ji Won , Park Ji-Ung
Published: March 2024

Background

Traditional facial aging surgeries have risks and extended recovery times, leading to a demand for minimally invasive alternatives. PDO (polydioxanone) threads, which are absorbable sutures that stimulate collagen production and tissue contraction, offer improved aesthetic outcomes. This paper evaluates the combined use of PDO thread mid-cheek lift and lower blepharoplasty for facial rejuvenation.

Methods

This retrospective study compared outcomes in patients undergoing lower blepharoplasty combined with a mid-face lift using PDO threads versus those undergoing only lower blepharoplasty. Focused on individuals with baggy lower eyelids and pronounced nasolabial folds, outcome measures included the Modified Fitzpatrick wrinkle scale, Allergan® midface volume deficit scale, Width of inter zygomatic distance, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and patient satisfaction questionnaires, assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 1 year postoperatively.

Results

The combined procedure demonstrated superior aesthetic outcomes and higher patient satisfaction compared to lower blepharoplasty alone. Improvements were more significant in wrinkle reduction, midface volume, and inter-zygomatic distance in the combined procedure group. Although the combined procedure had a longer mean operation time, scar assessment scores were similar between both groups, with no complications reported.

Conclusion

The combination of lower blepharoplasty and mid-face lift using PDO threads is a comprehensive and effective approach for facial rejuvenation. It significantly enhances wrinkle reduction, mid-face lifting, and patient satisfaction. Ultrasound-guided thread lifting, a method of assessing and performing mid-face lifting, proves to be safe and efficient. This approach holds promise as a future option in cosmetic anti-aging surgery, presenting a minimally invasive alternative with natural-looking results and reduced downtime.

Level of Evidence II

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors https://link.springer.com/journal/00266.
The effectiveness of virtual reality exercise games on balance functions and fear of falling in women with osteoporosis
Authors: Yilmaz Nihal , Kösehasanoğulları Meryem
Published: March 2024

To investigate and compare the effectiveness of Nintendo Wii games and home exercises on balance functions in patients with osteoporosis, an important disease adversely affecting balance functions. The patients included in the study were randomized into two groups the Wii exercise group (n = 30) and the home exercise group (n = 30). Wii exercise group performed balance exercises with a Nintendo Wii device and balance board three times a week for 12 weeks under the supervision of a physiotherapist in the hospital, and home exercise group was prescribed home exercises three days a week for 12 weeks. Balance functions were evaluated with the timed up-and-go-test and Berg Balance Scale, and the fall risk was evaluated with the Falls Efficacy Scale at the beginning and end of 12 weeks of treatment. Comparison of pre- and post-treatment timed up-and-go-test, Berg Balance Scale, and Falls Efficacy Scale results in both groups revealed statistically significant improvements (p = 0.001; p < 0.05). Furthermore, post-treatment test scores between the two groups demonstrated a significant enhancement in Wii exercise group regarding the Berg Balance Scale score (Mean ± SD 52.9 ± 3.63) (p = 0.001; p < 0.05). Within the osteoporotic population, balance functions serve as robust predictors of fall risk. Improvement in balance functions is crucial for the prevention of falls and subsequent osteoporotic fractures. In our study, we found that balance exercises performed with Wii games are effective in improving balance functions in patients with osteoporosis.
Patients undergoing double J substitution with a pigtail suture stent report a significant decrease of stent-related symptoms. Results from a prospective multicenter longitudinal trial
Authors: Bosio Andrea , Ferretti Stefania , Alessandria Eugenio , Vitiello Federico , Vercelli Eugenia , Campobasso Davide , Micai Luca , Gozzo Claudia , Bertello Glauco , Guarino Giulio Gaetano , Alice Claudia , Bisconti Alessandro , Fop Fabrizio , Gontero Paolo
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To compare stent-related symptoms (SRS) in patients with double J (DJ) undergoing substitution with a pigtail suture stent (PSS) after ureteroscopy (URS), through the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ).

Materials and methods

Patients with DJ undergoing URS for stone treatment were enrolled in this prospective multicenter longitudinal study. The USSQ was submitted thrice: 2 weeks after DJ, 2 weeks after PSS and 4 weeks after PSS removal (baseline). Primary endpoint: to compare Urinary Symptom Index Score and the rate of patients with pain 2 weeks after DJ and PSS. Secondary endpoints: to compare other USSQ scores and single answers 2 weeks after DJ and PSS, and DJ and PSS USSQ scores with baseline.

Results

93 patients were enrolled. 2 weeks Urinary Symptom Index Score (p < 0.001) and the percentage of patients complaining of pain (60.2% vs 88.2%, p < 0.001) were significantly in favour of PSS compared to DJ. 2 weeks scores were significantly improved with PSS compared to DJ: Pain Index (p < 0.001), VAS (p < 0.001), General Health Index (p < 0.001) and Work Performance Index (p < 0.001). All urinary symptoms were significantly decreased with PSS, including renal pain during micturition and pain interfering with life. Pain Index Score (p = 0.622) and VAS (p = 0.169) were comparable to baseline with PSS, while differed with DJ.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing DJ substitution with PSS after URS report a significant decrease of SRS. Urologists may consider positioning PSS after URS in pre-stented patients to reduce the impact of SRS.
Increasing utilization of intrauterine device insertion at hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation for patients with endometrial hyperplasia
Authors: Ciesielski Katharine M. , Mann Pavan K. , Mandelbaum Rachel S. , Klar Maximilian , Roman Lynda D. , Wright Jason D. , Matsuo Koji
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To examine the utilization and characteristics related to the use of hysteroscopy at the time of endometrial evaluation for endometrial hyperplasia in the outpatient surgery setting.

Methods

This cross-sectional study queried the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project’s Nationwide Ambulatory Surgery Sample. The study population was 3218 patients with endometrial hyperplasia who underwent endometrial evaluation from January 2016 to December 2019. Performance and clinical characteristics of hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation were assessed with multivariable binary logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 2654 (82.5%) patients had hysteroscopic endometrial tissue evaluation. Patients with postmenopausal bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, and polycystic ovary syndrome were more likely to undergo hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation in multivariable analysis (all, adjusted-P < 0.001). Uterine injury occurred in 4.9 per 1000 hysteroscopic endometrial evaluations; none had uterine injury in the non-hysteroscopy cohort. Among the 2654 patients who had hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation, 106 (4.0%) patients had intrauterine device insertion at surgery, and the utilization increased from 2.9 to 5.8% during the study period (P-trend < 0.001). Younger age, more recent year surgery, and obesity were independently associated with increased utilization of intrauterine device insertion at hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation (all, adjusted-P < 0.05). Among 2023 reproductive-age patients with endometrial hyperplasia, 1666 (82.4%) patients underwent hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation. On multivariable analysis, patients with heavy menstrual bleeding were more likely to have hysteroscopic endometrial evaluation (adjusted-P < 0.05). Intrauterine device insertion increased from 3.7% in 2016 to 8.0% in 2019 (P-trend = 0.007).

Conclusion

This nationwide analysis suggests that the insertion of intrauterine devices at the time of hysteroscopic endometrial tissue evaluation for endometrial hyperplasia is increasing among reproductive-age population.
Occurrence of mucosa-affecting diseases of the upper airways in middle ear cholesteatoma patients: a nationwide case–control study
Authors: Modée Borgström Agnes , Mogensen Hanna , Engmér Berglin Cecilia , Knutsson Johan , Bonnard Åsa
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Exploring a possible link between upper airway inflammation and the development of cholesteatoma by studying the association between mucosa-affecting diseases of the upper airways and cholesteatoma surgery.

Methods

This is a nationwide case–control study of 10,618 patients who underwent surgery for cholesteatoma in Sweden between 1987 and 2018. The cases were identified in the National Patient Register and 21,235 controls matched by age, sex and place of residency were included from national population registers. Odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the association between six types of mucosa-affecting diseases of the upper airways and cholesteatoma surgery.

Results

Chronic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis and nasal polyposis were more common in cholesteatoma patients than in controls (OR 1.5 to 2.5) as were both adenoid and tonsil surgery (OR > 4) where the strongest association was seen for adenoid surgery. No association was seen between allergic rhinitis and cholesteatoma.

Conclusion

This study supports an association between mucosa-affecting diseases of the upper airways and cholesteatoma. Future studies should aim to investigate the mechanisms connecting mucosa-affecting diseases of the upper airways and cholesteatoma formation regarding genetic, anatomical, inflammatory and mucosa properties.
Persons with multiple sclerosis older than 55 years: an analysis from the German MS registry
Authors: Goereci Yasemin , Ellenberger David , Rommer Paulus , Dunkl Veronika , Golla Heidrun , Zettl Uwe , Stahmann Alexander , Warnke Clemens
Published: March 2024

Background

Persons with MS (PwMS) ≥ 55 years are underrepresented in therapy studies leading to a lack of evidence.

Objective and methods

To study the subgroup of PwMS ≥ 55 years in the German MS registry in comparison with PwMS < 55 years. Endpoints of interest were the grade of disability, leading symptoms, clinical and magnetic resonance imaging activity, and use of disease modifying therapy.

Results

At the time of analysis, data from 40,428 PwMS were available for analysis. In PwMS aged ≥ 65 and PwMS aged ≥ 55 to 64 years, compared with PwMS aged < 55 years, the mean Expanded Disability Status Scale Scores were higher (5.3, 4.2 and 2.7, respectively), while the proportion of individuals with current use of disease modifying therapy was lower (42.6%, 60.9% and 76.7%, respectively). The older patient groups were more likely to be labeled with progressive MS and the frequency of occupational invalidity was high (38.8% in PwMS aged ≥ 55 to 64 years). Gait disorder, fatigue, bladder dysfunction, and spasticity were among the leading symptoms in PwMS aged ≥ 55 years.

Conclusion

PwMS ≥ 55 years have a high degree of disability, but a large proportion do not receive disease modifying therapy, exposing an unmet need.