bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi‐species material point method with a mixture model
Authors: Li Bo , Liu Shiguang
Published: May 2024

The material point method (MPM) has attracted more and more attention in computer graphics. It is very successful in simulating both fluid flow and solid deformation, but may fail in simulating multiple fluids and solids coupling. We propose a unified MPM solver for multi‐species simulations. Compared to traditional MPM, we extend the degree of freedom on background grid to store information of multiple materials, so that our framework is able to deal with multiple materials well. The proposed method leverages the advantages of MPM as a hybrid method. We introduce the mixture model into the framework, which was the most widely used for grid‐based multi‐fluid flows. This enables MPM to capture the interaction and relative motion, and animates complex and coupled fluids and solids in a unified manner. A series of experiments are presented to demonstrate effectiveness of our method.
Facial action units detection using temporal context and feature reassignment
Authors: Yang Sipeng , Huang Hongyu , Huang Ying Sophie , Jin Xiaogang
Published: May 2024

Facial action units (AUs) encode the activations of facial muscle groups, playing a crucial role in expression analysis and facial animation. However, current deep learning AU detection methods primarily focus on single‐image analysis, which limits the exploitation of rich temporal context for robust outcomes. Moreover, the scale of available datasets remains limited, leading models trained on these datasets to tend to suffer from overfitting issues. This paper proposes a novel AU detection method integrating spatial and temporal data with inter‐subject feature reassignment for accurate and robust AU predictions. Our method first extracts regional features from facial images. Then, to effectively capture both the temporal context and identity‐independent features, we introduce a temporal feature combination and feature reassignment (TC&FR) module, which transforms single‐image features into a cohesive temporal sequence and fuses features across multiple subjects. This transformation encourages the model to utilize identity‐independent features and temporal context, thus ensuring robust prediction outcomes. Experimental results demonstrate the enhancements brought by the proposed modules and the state‐of‐the‐art (SOTA) results achieved by our method.
PIPformers: Patch based inpainting with vision transformers for generalize paintings
Authors: Lee Jeyoung , Kang Hochul
Published: May 2024

Image inpainting is a field that has been traditionally attempted in the field of computer vision. After the development of deep learning, image inpainting has been advancing endlessly together with convolutional neural networks and generative adversarial networks. Thereafter, it has been expanded to various fields such as image filing through guiding and image inpainting using various masking. Furthermore, the field termed image out‐painting has also been pioneered. Meanwhile, after the recent announcement of the vision transformer, various computer vision problems have been attempted using the vision transformer. In this paper, we are trying to solve the problem of image generalization painting using the vision transformer. This is an attempt to fill images with painting no matter whether the areas where painting is missing are in or out of the images, and without guiding. To that end, the painting problem was defined as a problem to drop images in patch units for easy use in the vision transformer. And we solved the problem with a simple network structure created by slightly modifying the vision transformer to fit the problem. We named this network PIPformers. PIPformers achieved better values than other papers compared to PSNR, RMSE and SSIM.
Zinc Ions Doping in Layered Bimetallic Nickel‐Cobalt Glycerol Nanosheets for Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Luo Yumei , Wei Dan , Qiu Shujun , Xu Fen , Cao Weiping , Wang Qingyong , Sun Lixian , Chu Hailiang
Published: May 2024

Supercapacitors, distinguished by their high power density, rapid charge‐discharge rates, and prolonged cycle life, hold significant promise in various technological applications. However, limited lower energy density still hinder their practical application. Enhancing intrinsic conductivity by smart choice of elemental combination along with design of nanostructures has the potential to significantly improve the electrochemical performance. Herein, a self‐template method was used for the synthesis of Zn‐doped hydrolyzed NiCo‐glycerate nanosphere (ZnNiCo−G−H) electrode material, assembled with a large number of nanosheets by simple hydrothermal reaction, which can provide abundant active sites and thus achieve superior electrochemical performance. The optimized electrode material displayed a specific capacitance of 1145 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. The fabricated asymmetric supercapacitor, composed of ZnNiCo−G−H and activated carbon as two electrodes, delivered excellent cycling performance with a capacitance retention of 93.8 % after 5000 cycles at the current density of 5 A g−1 and a high energy density of 40 Wh kg−1 at 825 W kg−1, offering great potential as a qualified candidate for the electrochemical energy storage devices.
Ligand‐Free Nickel‐Catalyzed Carbonyl Addition with Organoborons
Authors: Wu Sha‐Sha , Ye Xiaodong , Wang Zi‐Chao , Shi Shi‐Liang
Published: May 2024

Carbonyl addition serves as a strategically straightforward and versatile approach for synthesizing alcohols, which are often encountered within bioactive molecules. Herein, we present a ligand‐free, nickel‐catalyzed carbonyl addition process using organoboron reagents. This method enables efficient arylation of readily available ketones or aldehydes, affording a variety of tertiary and secondary alcohols. Key highlights of this protocol include the obviation of external ligands and the tolerance to many functional groups and heterocycles, thereby enhancing its practicality and utility in synthetic organic chemistry.
Thio and Seleno‐Psoralens as Efficient Triplet Harvesting Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Jena Subhrakant , Mohanty Pranay , Rout Rout Saiprakash , Kumar Pati Saswat , Biswal Himansu S.
Published: May 2024

The Psoralen (Pso) molecule finds extensive applications in photo‐chemotherapy, courtesy of its triplet state forming ability. Sulfur and selenium replacement of exocyclic carbonyl oxygen of organic chromophores foster efficient triplet harvesting with near unity triplet quantum yield. These triplet‐forming photosensitizers are useful in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) applications for selective apoptosis of cancer cells. In this work, we have critically assessed the effect of the sulfur and selenium substitution at the exocyclic carbonyl (TPso and SePso, respectively) and endocyclic oxygen positions of Psoralen. It resulted in a significant redshifted absorption spectrum to access the PDT therapeutic window with increased oscillator strength. The reduction in singlet‐triplet energy gap and enhancement in the spin‐orbit coupling values increase the number of intersystem crossing (ISC) pathways to the triplet manifold, which shortens the ISC lifetime from 10−5 s for Pso to 10−8 s for TPso and 10−9 s for SePso. The intramolecular photo‐induced electron transfer process, a competitive pathway to ISC, is also considerably curbed by exocyclic functionalizations. In addition, a maximum of 115 GM of two‐photon absorption (2PA) with IR absorption (660–1050 nm) confirms that the Psoralen skeleton can be effectively tweaked via single chalcogen atom replacement to design a suitable PDT photosensitizer.
Activation of SO2F2 at a Rhodium PNP Pincer Complex: Ligand Supported S−F Bond Cleavage to Generate NSO2F Derivatives
Authors: Jaeger Ruben , Rachor Simon G. , Ahrens Mike , Braun Thomas
Published: May 2024

The κ2‐(P,N)−phosphine ligand precursor NH(CH2CH2PCy2)2 can be used for the synthesis of the rhodium(I) complex [Rh(CO){ĸ3‐(P,N,P)−Cy2PC2H4NHC2H4PCy2}][Cl] (1). The deprotonated complex [Rh(CO){ĸ3‐(P,N,P)−Cy2PC2H4NC2H4PCy2}] (2) shows a cooperative reactivity of the PNP ligand in the activation reaction of SO2F2 to yield the rhodium fluorido complex trans‐[Rh(F)(CO){ĸ2‐(P,P)−Cy2PC2H4N(SO2F)C2H4PCy2}]2 (3) by S−F bond cleavage. It is remarkable that no reaction was observed when 3 was treated with hydrogen sources e. g. dihydrogen, organosilicon compounds such as triethylsilane or TMS−CF3 and different fluorine sources such as SF4 or Selectfluor®. However, the treatment of complex 3 with XeF2 in the presence of CsF resulted in the formation of the unique fluorido rhodium(III) complex cis,trans‐[Rh(F)3(CO){ĸ2‐(P,P)−Cy2PC2H4N(SO2F)C2H4PCy2}]2 (4). In the presence of pyridine(HF)X or BF3 the fluorido complex 3 converted into the dicationic complexes [Rh(CO){ĸ2‐(P,P)−Cy2PC2H4N(SO2F)C2H4PCy2}]2[XF]2, X=HF (5) or BF3 (6), respectively.
Social relationships and their impact on health‐related quality of life in a long‐term breast cancer survivor cohort
Authors: Belau Matthias Hans , Jung Lisa , Maurer Tabea , Obi Nadia , Behrens Sabine , Seibold Petra , Becher Heiko , Chang‐Claude Jenny
Published: May 2024

Background

Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) has become increasingly important for breast cancer survivors, but clinically relevant declines often persist for many years after treatment. This study aimed to investigate whether social relationships can mitigate or prevent this decline in HRQOL.

Methods

Data were used from the German population‐based Mamma Carcinoma Risk Factor Investigation (MARIE) cohort of 2022 breast cancer cases with follow‐up information for more than 15 years after diagnosis. Correlations between social integration, social support, and global health status (GHS) as an overall measure of HRQOL were analyzed, and linear regression analysis was performed with structural equation modeling.

Results

The majority of participants reported high levels of social integration and social support and moderate levels of GHS. Social integration 5 years after diagnosis was associated with GHS 5 years after diagnosis (β = 1.12; 95% CI, 0.25–1.99), but no longitudinal effects were found. Social support 5 years after diagnosis was associated with better GHS 5 years (β = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.36–0.48) and 10 years after diagnosis (β = 0.12; 95% CI, 0.02–0.22), whereas social support 10 years after diagnosis was associated with GHS 10 years (β = 0.29; 95% CI, 0.20–0.39) and 15 years after diagnosis (β = 0.10; 95% CI, 0.01–0.21).

Conclusions

These results confirm that social relationships positively influence HRQOL in long‐term breast cancer survivors and that their association should receive more attention clinically and beyond routine care.
Posttransplant cyclophosphamide versus anti‐thymocyte globulin versus combination for graft‐versus‐host disease prevention in haploidentical transplantation for adult acute myeloid leukemia: A report from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Acute Leukemia Working Party
Authors: Bazarbachi Abdul‐Hamid , Labopin Myriam , Raiola Anna Maria , Blaise Didier , Arcese William , Santarone Stella , Koc Yener , Bramanti Stefania , Kulagin Alexander , Kwon Mi , Sica Simona , Sanz Jaime , Brissot Eolia , Nagler Arnon , Ciceri Fabio , Mohty Mohamad
Published: May 2024

Background

The optimal choice for graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis in haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo‐SCT) remains debatable. Posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) and anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) are two common strategies, but little is known about their combination.

Methods

Using the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) registry, the authors identified 3649 adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who underwent haplo‐SCT in complete remission between 2007 and 2021 at 260 EBMT‐participating centers who received either PTCy (n = 2999), ATG (n = 358), or combination prophylaxis (n = 292). Cord blood transplants, combined bone marrow and peripheral grafts, and transplants with ex vivo graft manipulation were excluded. Median follow‐up was 31.8 months.

Results

On multivariate analysis, adjusting for patient age and performance status, disease status at transplant, cytogenetic risk, conditioning intensity, stem cell source, female‐to‐male graft, and donor and patient CMV status, we present the following. Compared to PTCy, ATG had a higher risk of nonrelapse mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.6; p = .003), worse leukemia‐free survival (HR, 1.4; p = .002), overall survival (HR, 1.49; p = .0009), and GVHD‐free and relapse‐free survival (HR, 1.29; p = .012). The combination of PTCy and ATG, however, led to significantly reduced rates of grade 2–4 (HR, 0.51; p = .0003) and grade 3–4 (HR, 0.5; p = .018) acute GVHD and did not affect any transplant outcomes compared to PTCy without ATG.

Conclusion

The authors conclude that ATG alone is a less effective prophylaxis strategy compared to PTCy, however, the combination of PTCy and ATG is superior to either monotherapy. They propose that this combination could be considered a potential new standard of care for GVHD prophylaxis in haplo‐SCT for AML.
Efficacy of teplizumab for treatment of type 1 diabetes: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Heidari Ehsan , Shafiee Arman , Noorian Shahab , Rafiei Mohammad Ali , Abbasi Mohammad , Amini Mohammad Javad , Safari Omid , Aghamahdi Fatemeh , Bakhtiyari Mahmood
Published: May 2024

Background

The management of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a significant clinical challenge. This study evaluated the efficacy of teplizumab, an immunomodulatory drug, in patients with T1DM, using a systematic review and meta‐analysis approach.

Methods

We systematically searched multiple databases including Medline, Scopus, and others up to 10 January 2024, without language or regional restrictions. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing teplizumab with placebo in T1DM patients.

Results

Our analysis incorporated 8 RCTs, predominantly involving participants aged 7–35 years, diagnosed with T1DM and treated with 14‐day courses of teplizumab. The primary outcomes included insulin use, C‐peptide levels, and HbA1c levels. We observed a significant reduction in insulin use in the teplizumab group standardised mean difference of −0.50 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: −0.76 to −0.23, p < 0.001; I2 = 49%). C‐peptide levels were consistently higher in the teplizumab group, indicating improved endogenous insulin production. However, no significant change was noted in HbA1c levels between the groups. Quality assessment indicated a low risk of bias in most studies.

Conclusions

Teplizumab has a significant impact on reducing insulin dependence and enhancing endogenous insulin production in T1DM patients. However, its effect on long‐term glycaemic control, as indicated by HbA1c levels, remains inconclusive.
Implications of trial eligibility in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Peters Anthony E. , Clare Robert M. , Chiswell Karen , Harrington Josephine , Kelsey Anita , Hernandez Adrian , Felker Gary Michael , Mentz Robert J. , DeVore Adam D.
Published: May 2024

Aims

Clinical trials in heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) commonly have detailed eligibility criteria. This may contribute to challenges with efficient enrolment and questions regarding the generalizability of trial findings.

Methods and results

Patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF from a large US healthcare system were identified through a computable phenotype applied in linked imaging and electronic health record databases. We evaluated shared eligibility criteria from five recent/ongoing HFmrEF/HFpEF trials (PARAGON‐HF, EMPEROR‐Preserved, DELIVER, FINE‐ARTS, and SPIRRIT‐HFpEF) and compared clinical and echocardiographic features as well as outcomes between trial‐eligible and trial‐ineligible patients. Among 5552 patients with HFpEF/HFmrEF, 792 (14%) were eligible for trial consideration, having met all criteria assessed. Causes of ineligibility included lack of recent loop diuretics (37%), significant pulmonary disease (24%), reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (17%), recent stroke/transient ischaemic attack (13%), or low natriuretic peptides (12%); 53% of ineligible patients had >1 reason for exclusion. Compared with eligible patients, ineligible patients were younger (age 71 vs. 75 years, P < 0.001) with higher rates of coronary artery disease (66% vs. 59%, P < 0.001) and peripheral vascular disease (40% vs. 33%, P < 0.001), but less mitral regurgitation, lower E/e′ ratio, and smaller left atrial sizes. Both eligible and ineligible patients demonstrated high rates of structural heart disease consistent with HFpEF [elevated left atrial size or left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy/increased LV mass], although this was slightly higher among eligible patients (95% vs. 92%, P = 0.001). The two cohorts demonstrated similar LV global longitudinal strain along with a similar prevalence of atrial fibrillation/flutter, hypertension, and obesity. Ineligible patients had similar all‐cause mortality (33% vs. 33% at 3 years) to those eligible but lower rates of heart failure hospitalization (20% vs. 28% at 3 years, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Among patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF from a large health system, approximately one in seven were eligible for major trials based on key criteria applied through a clinical computable phenotype. These findings highlight the large proportion of patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF ineligible for contemporary trials for whom the generalizability of trial findings may be questioned and further investigation would be beneficial.
TMPA‐based Cavitary Cobalt (II) Funnel Complexes
Authors: Nyssen Nicolas , Abudayyeh Abdullah , Zhurkin Fedor , Aoun Pamela , Višnjevac Aleksandar , Colasson Benoit , Jabin Ivan , Reinaud Olivia
Published: May 2024

The synthesis of a series of mononuclear, dicationic CoII funnel complexes is reported herein. Three ligands Calix‐TMPAX present a calix[6]arene cone closed at its small rim by a tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine (TMPA) unit and differ by the nature of three cavity walls, anisole, phenol or quinone. The X‐ray diffraction structure of [CoII(MeCN)Calix‐TMPAOMe](ClO4)2 displays a trigonal bipyramidal geometry, with Co bound to all 4 nitrogen atoms of the TMPA cap, and to one MeCN guest molecule buried inside the calixarene cavity. All complexes were fully characterized in solution as high spin 5‐coordinate species using various techniques, including 1H NMR spectroscopy. For comparison purpose, an analogous CoII complex based on the TMPACH2OH ligand, devoid of a calixarene core, was synthetized. Its X‐ray structure shows a dicationic 7‐coordinate cobalt(II) center in the N4O3 environment provided by the ligand, leaving no space for exogenous ligand binding. This contrasts with the 5‐coordinate complexes obtained with the calix‐ligands that allow guest‐ligand binding and exchange. A brief overview of the coordination properties of the calix‐complexes, compared to those obtained with TMPA ligands, devoid of a cavity, highlights major differences in terms of complexation kinetics, geometry, coordination to the labile site, anion affinity, nuclearity, and stability.
Burnout in emergency physicians in Hong Kong—A cross‐sectional study on its prevalence, associated factors, and impact
Authors: Chan Tsz Kit , Lui Chun Tat , Wu Wing Yee Clara , Rainer Timothy , Leung Chin San
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of burnout, its underlying personal or occupational stressors, and impact on individual well‐being and patient care.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Participants

All emergency physicians in the public and the private sector in Hong Kong.

Method

Self‐administered, anonymous, voluntary questionnaires were distributed in physical and electronic forms from April to June 2022. Burnout was assessed by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Stressors were assessed by questions on demographic, occupational, and social background. Impact was assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9) for depression and questions on job satisfaction and self‐perceived patient care.

Results

The response rate was 37.8% (n = 241). Prevalence of high overall burnout was 28.2% (n = 68), with 47.7% (n = 115) having high emotional exhaustion, 63.1% (n = 152) high depersonalization, and 56% (n = 135) low personal accomplishment. A higher burnout rate was observed in younger age, female, not married, job position (associate consultant, resident specialist, and higher trainee), working on shift duty, more night shifts, and consecutive shifts. Burnout is also associated with depression, suicidal idea, consideration of quitting, less job satisfaction, and less favorable patient care (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Burnout is prevalent in emergency physicians in Hong Kong, and its impact on individual well‐being and clinical care was evident. A higher burnout rate was observed in younger doctors and also fellows. Identified stressors such as shift pattern should be addressed and potentially improved. Further strategies should be explored to reduce burnout in our colleagues.
Holocene geoecohydrological floodplain dynamics in NE Belgium: regional drivers of local change
Authors: Hoevers Renske , Broothaerts Nils , Verstraeten Gert
Published: May 2024

During the Late Holocene, the majority of lowland river systems in temperate Europe transformed from low‐energy multi‐channel rivers in strongly vegetated marshy floodplains to more open floodplains characterised by single‐channel meandering rivers with overbank deposits. While the general framework of this transformation in floodplain geomorphology, ecology and hydrology (i.e. geoecohydrology) is widely recognised many uncertainties remain as its timing varies significantly, both among different river catchments and within them. To unravel whether the observed differences in floodplain response can be attributed to differences in the timing and nature of the driving forces or to a difference in sensitivity towards them, we compare long‐term and large‐scale reconstructions of the geoecohydrological floodplain dynamics and of the (climatically and anthropogenically driven) land cover change for two contrasting regions: the central Belgian loess belt and the sandy Campine region. By using a combination of cluster analysis, ordination and Ellenberg indicator scores on a large multi‐proxy and multi‐site dataset, we revealed the major trends in the past geoecohydrological evolution of northeastern Belgian floodplains. These trends are probably determined by changes in floodplain wetness, which can in turn be linked to variations in upland forest cover. The Early and Late Holocene floodplain transformations appear synchronous with the respective increases and decreases in upland forest cover in the vicinity of the sites, largely determining the water availability in the river catchments and thereby their local geoecohydrological conditions. Initially, these evolutions were determined by climate, but during the Middle and especially Late Holocene anthropogenic influence became a far more important factor, causing the evolutions in the two studied regions to increasingly diverge. While marshy floodplains with forested margins can still be found in the sandy Campine region today, these have become rare in the central Belgian loess belt due to the combination of a higher level of human impact and greater erodibility of the soils in this area. Despite the strong spatiotemporal variability of the floodplain transformations, we observe a trend towards increasingly rapid floodplain responses to upland land cover changes over the course of the Holocene, probably related to the growing hillslope–floodplain connectivity. We conclude that the (dis)similarities in Holocene geoecohydrological floodplain change can be largely attributed to the (dis)similarities in (climatically or anthropogenically driven) land cover change in the uplands, although the differences in inherent sensitivity of the locations – linked to factors such as soil type and topography – further complicate the already non‐linear impact–response relationships.
The formation of parasocial relationships in tourism social media: A rational and emotional trust‐building process
Authors: Meng Bo , Zhang Jiena , Choi Kyuhwan
Published: May 2024

This study examines the effects of parasocial interactions on relationships and behavior in the context of tourism social media. Based on a dual process of trust formation, this study theorizes rational trust and emotional trust as part of a parasocial interaction process to explain the formation of this form of relationship. The study results (N = 424) reveal that information characteristics and influencer characteristics are identified as critical predictors of rational trust and emotional trust by the respondents. Furthermore, trust amplifies parasocial relationships as well as increasing consequent trust behaviors, such as information adoption and word of mouth. This study thus contributes to the literature by illuminating how the trust‐building process forms parasocial relationships. Meanwhile, it also provides insights into the mechanism of parasocial relationship formation for theoretical researchers and has important implications for tourism social media administrators.
Tailored re‐roofing technique for pulsatile tinnitus caused by sigmoid sinus dehiscence or diverticulum
Authors: Lee Jeong Gum , Na Gina , Hur Young Kyun , Yoon Ji Min , Kwak Seung Min , Cho Youn Jin , Kim Minbum , Moon In Seok
Published: May 2024

Background

Sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence (SSD) is one of the treatable causes of venous pulsatile tinnitus. It can be diagnosed using temporal bone computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance angiography/venography (MRA). In cases where patients find their symptoms intolerable, surgical treatment is typically preferred. Here, we have presented a novel surgical technique involving sigmoid sinus re‐roofing and have analyzed its feasibility.

Methods

Between January 2020 and July 2023, approximately 150 patients with pulsatile tinnitus were evaluated at two different tertiary hospitals. Of these, 12 patients were diagnosed with SSD, and seven underwent surgical treatment. Five patients were treated with tailored reroofing (TRR) of the sigmoid sinus and two with transmastoid resurfacing (MRS) of the sigmoid sinus. We compared the Korean tinnitus handicap inventory (K‐THI) score, pure tone audiogram (PTA) threshold, and CT findings before and a month after surgeries for these two techniques. The operation time was also analyzed.

Results

In TRR cases, the K‐THI score reduced from 55.0 ± 31.4 preoperatively to 4.0 ± 3.0 postoperatively, and the SSD was well‐repositioned and covered by a bone chip postoperatively. In MRS cases, the K‐THI score reduced from 41.0 ± 9.9 preoperatively to 15.0 ± 21.2 postoperatively, and the SSD was well‐covered with bone cement postoperatively. The average surgical time of five TRR and two MRS cases were 77.5 ± 32.5 and 174.0 ± 75.0 min, respectively. No complications were noted.

Conclusions

Despite the insufficient number of cases, we noted that TRR requires a reasonable amount of time, involves a smaller incision, and may provide favorable outcomes compared to conventional MRS in cases of pulsatile tinnitus associated with SSD.

Level of evidence

IV.
N‐acetylcysteine microparticles reduce cisplatin‐induced RSC96 Schwann cell toxicity
Authors: Kedeshian Katherine , Hong Michelle , Hoffman Larry , Kita Ashley
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Cisplatin is known to cause inner ear dysfunction. There is growing evidence that cisplatin‐induced demyelination of spiral or Scarpa's ganglion neurons may play an additional role in drug‐induced ototoxicity alongside afferent neuron injury. As Schwann cells produce myelin, there may be an opportunity to reduce ototoxic inner ear damage by promoting Schwann cell viability. This work describes a cellular model of cisplatin‐induced Schwann cell injury and investigates the ability of the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine to promote Schwann cell viability. A local delivery system of drug‐eluting microparticles was then fabricated, characterized, and investigated for bioactivity.

Methods

RSC96 rat Schwann cells were dosed with varying concentrations of cisplatin to obtain a dose curve and identify the lethal concentration of 50% of the cells (LC50). In subsequent experiments, RSC96 cells were co‐treated with cisplatin and both resuspended or eluted N‐acetylcysteine. Cell viability was assessed with the CCK8 assay.

Results

The LC50 dose of cisplatin was determined to be 3.76 μM (p = 2.2 x 10−16). When co‐dosed with cisplatin and a therapeutic concentration of resuspended or eluted N‐acetylcysteine, Schwann cells had an increased viability compared to cells dosed with cisplatin alone.

Conclusion

RSC96 Schwann cell injury following cisplatin insult is characterized in this in vitro model. Cisplatin caused injury at physiologic concentrations and N‐acetylcysteine improved cell viability and mitigated this injury. N‐acetylcysteine was packaged into microparticles and eluted N‐acetylcysteine retained its ability to increase cell viability, thus demonstrating promise as a therapeutic to offset cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 2023.
High‐Performance Integrated Laser Based on Thin‐Film Lithium Niobate Photonics for Coherent Ranging
Authors: Wang Shuxin , Lin Zhongjin , Wang Qi , Zhang Xian , Ma Rui , Cai Xinlun
Published: May 2024

Frequency‐modulated continuous‐wave (FMCW) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) has a huge potential for developing the next generation of LiDAR applied in autonomous driving, industrial automation, environmental monitoring, and so on. An ideal laser for the FMCW LiDAR system should simultaneously feature fast chirp repetition frequency, a large chirp bandwidth, high linearity, a compact footprint, and low‐cost. In this study, such a laser based on thin‐film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonics is proposed and demonstrated. The laser can achieve a chirp bandwidth of 3.44 GHz, a tuning efficiency of 574 MHz V−1, and a chirp rate of 3.44 × 107 GHz s−1, which are the best values compared with other TFLN‐based lasers. A FMCW LiDAR system built by their laser is also experimentally demonstrated, showing that it can achieve a ranging precision of 4.9 mm, a velocity precision of 0.054 m s−1, and a sampling rate of 5 MSa s−1.
The Effect of taVNS at 25 Hz and 100 Hz on Parkinson's Disease Gait—A Randomized Motion Sensor Study
Authors: van Midden Vesna , Simončič Urban , Pirtošek Zvezdan , Kojović Maja
Published: May 2024

Background

Transcutaneous electrostimulation of the auricular branch of the vagal nerve (taVNS) has the propensity to reach diffuse neuromodulatory networks, which are dysfunctional in Parkinson's disease (PD). Previous studies support the use of taVNS as an add‐on treatment for gait in PD.

Objectives

We assessed the effect of taVNS at 25 Hz (taVNS25), taVNS at 100 Hz (taVNS100), and sham earlobe stimulation (sVNS) on levodopa responsive (arm swing velocity, arm range of motion, stride length, gait speed) and non‐responsive gait characteristics (arm range of motion asymmetry, anticipatory postural adjustment [APA] duration, APA first step duration, APA first step range of motion), and turns (first turn duration, double 360° turn duration, steps per turn) in advanced PD.

Methods

In our double blind sham controlled within‐subject randomized trial, we included 30 PD patients (modified Hoehn and Yahr stage, 2.5–4) to assess the effect of taVNS25, taVNS100, and sVNS on gait characteristics measured with inertial motion sensors during the instrumented stand and walk test and a double 360° turn. Separate generalized mixed models were built for each gait characteristic.

Results

During taVNS100 compared to sVNS arm swing velocity (P = 0.030) and stride length increased (P = 0.027), and APA duration decreased (P = 0.050). During taVNS25 compared to sVNS stride length (P = 0.024) and gait speed (P = 0.021) increased and double 360° turn duration decreased (P = 0.039).

Conclusions

We have found that taVNS has a frequency specific propensity to improve stride length, arm swing velocity, and gait speed and double 360° turn duration in PD patients. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Access to legacy‐oriented interventions at end of life for pediatric oncology patients: A decedent cohort review
Authors: Daniels Sarah , Franqui‐Rios Nelson D. , Mothi Suraj S. , Gaitskill Elizabeth , Cantrell Kathryn , Kaye Erica C.
Published: May 2024

Background

Legacy‐oriented interventions have the potential to offer pediatric oncology patients and families comfort at end of life and during bereavement. Certified child life specialists often provide these services, and presently little is known about whether disparities exist in the provision of legacy‐oriented interventions.

Methods

In this retrospective decedent cohort study, we examined demographic and clinical characteristics from a sample of 678 pediatric oncology patients who died between 2015 and 2019. Bivariate analysis assessed differences between patients who received any versus no legacy‐oriented intervention. Uni‐ and multivariable logistic regression models assessed associations of baseline characteristics and likelihood of receiving legacy‐oriented intervention. Further multivariable analysis explored joint effects of significant variables identified in the univariable analysis.

Results

Fifty‐two percent of patients received a legacy‐oriented intervention. Older adolescents (≥13 years) were less likely (odds ratio [OR]: 1.73, p = .007) to receive legacy‐oriented interventions than younger ones. Patients with home/hospice deaths were also less likely (OR: 19.98, p < .001) to receive interventions compared to patients who passed away at SJCRH locations. Hispanic patients (OR: 1.53, p = .038) and those in palliative care (OR: 10.51, p < .001) were more likely to receive interventions. No significant race association was noted.

Conclusion

All children and adolescents with cancer deserve quality care at end of life, including access to legacy‐oriented interventions, yet nearly half of patients in this cohort did not receive these services. By identifying demographic and clinical characteristics associated with decreased odds of receiving legacy‐oriented interventions, healthcare professionals can modify end‐of‐life care processes to improve access. Introducing legacy‐oriented interventions early and increasing exposure in community spaces may enhance access to legacy‐oriented interventions for pediatric oncology patients.
Heat‐induced structural and chemical changes to a computationally designed miniprotein
Authors: Dudley Joshua A. , Park Sojeong , Cho Oliver , Wells Nicholas G. M. , MacDonald Meagan E. , Blejec Katerina M. , Fetene Emmanuel , Zanderigo Eric , Houliston Scott , Liddle Jennifer C. , Dashnaw Chad M. , Sabo T. Michael , Shaw Bryan F. , Balsbaugh Jeremy L. , Rocklin Gabriel J. , Smith Colin A.
Published: May 2024

The de novo design of miniprotein inhibitors has recently emerged as a new technology to create proteins that bind with high affinity to specific therapeutic targets. Their size, ease of expression, and apparent high stability makes them excellent candidates for a new class of protein drugs. However, beyond circular dichroism melts and hydrogen/deuterium exchange experiments, little is known about their dynamics, especially at the elevated temperatures they seemingly tolerate quite well. To address that and gain insight for future designs, we have focused on identifying unintended and previously overlooked heat‐induced structural and chemical changes in a particularly stable model miniprotein, EHEE_rd2_0005. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies suggest the presence of dynamics on multiple time and temperature scales. Transiently elevating the temperature results in spontaneous chemical deamidation visible in the NMR spectra, which we validate using both capillary electrophoresis and mass spectrometry (MS) experiments. High temperatures also result in greatly accelerated intrinsic rates of hydrogen exchange and signal loss in NMR heteronuclear single quantum coherence spectra from local unfolding. These losses are in excellent agreement with both room temperature hydrogen exchange experiments and hydrogen bond disruption in replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations. Our analysis reveals important principles for future miniprotein designs and the potential for high stability to result in long‐lived alternate conformational states.
Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy Meets Optical Microscopy: Probing the Local Paths of Charge Transfer Operando in Booster‐Microparticles for Flow Batteries
Authors: Moghaddam Mahdi , Godeffroy Louis , Jasielec Jerzy J. , Kostopoulos Nikolaos , Noël Jean‐Marc , Piquemal Jean‐Yves , Lemineur Jean‐François , Peljo Pekka , Kanoufi Frédéric
Published: May 2024

Understanding the oxidation/reduction dynamics of secondary microparticles formed from agglomerated nanoscale primary particles is crucial for advancing electrochemical energy storage technologies. In this study, the behavior of individual copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF) microparticles is explored at both global and local scales combining scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), for electrochemical interrogation of a single, but global‐scale microparticle, and optical microscopy monitoring to obtain a higher resolution dynamic image of the local electrochemistry within the same particle. Chronoamperometric experiments unveil a multistep oxidation/reduction process with varying dynamics. On the one hand, the global SECM analysis enables quantifying the charge transfer as well as its dynamics at the single microparticle level during the oxidation/reduction cycles by a redox mediator in solution. These conditions allow mimicking the charge storage processes in these particles when they are used as solid boosters in redox flow batteries. On the other hand, optical imaging with sub‐particle resolution allows the mapping of local conversion rates and state‐of‐charge within individual CuHCF particles. These maps reveal that regions of different material loadings exhibit varying charge storage capacities and conversion rates. The findings highlight the significance of porous nanostructures and provide valuable insights for designing more efficient energy storage materials.
Experimental investigation of dowel action in reinforcing bars using refined measurements
Authors: Pejatović Marko , Muttoni Aurelio
Published: May 2024

In typical reinforced concrete design, reinforcement is designed to carry axial forces, but it can also resist transversal forces by dowel action. This is usually neglected for simplicity's sake in the design phase, but it can be accounted for either explicitly in mechanical models or implicitly in empirical relationships. Furthermore, there are cases where the connection between various concrete elements explicitly depends on dowel action, as for example, in connections between precast elements or between two concrete parts cast at different times. On the other side, dowel action can have a negative impact on the fatigue resistance of reinforcing bars subjected to cyclic loading, because of the local stress concentrations near interfaces due to relative movements, either in sliding or in opening of cracks not perpendicular to the bar. For the assessment of the remaining capacity of existing structures, improved models of the behavior are needed, including realistic models of the behavior of concrete, steel and their interfaces. The aim of the present paper is to provide a contribution to a better understanding of dowel action by two test series. The first series focused on the behavior of the dowel: the concrete specimens with the embedded bars were placed in a custom‐made test setup and subjected to monotonic or low stress‐level cyclic actions with a longitudinal and a transversal crack opening component, up to developing the full plastic capacity of the dowel and rupture at the peak of catenary action. The measurement system included tracking the displacement field at the surface of the concrete and the strains in the dowel by optical fibers glued on its surface. The latter measurements allow to derive the internal forces in the reinforcing bar and deformed shape of the bar as well as the contact pressure between the bar and the surrounding concrete. The results show a strong dependency on the test variables: diameter of the bar, imposed crack kinematics and angle between the bar and the crack. The second test series looked more closely at the behavior of concrete underneath the bar, in the presence of a point load introduced at various locations into concrete through a reinforcing bar. A comparison of the test results with existing models shows a general good agreement and some aspects that deserve to be improved.
Enhancing trauma care through innovative trauma and disaster team response training: A blended learning approach in Tanzania
Authors: Osebo Cherinet , Razek Tarek , Deckelbaum Dan , Grushka Jeremy , Khwaja Kosar , Fazlollahi Ali , Vlček Christian , Farber Eadan , Montero Ortiz Johana , Papanastasiou Alexa , Ndeserua Rabi , Mcharo Bryson , Lemnge Anna , Ulimali Albert , Rwanyuma Laurean , Munthali Victoria , Boniface Respicious
Published: May 2024

Background

In Tanzania, inadequate infrastructures and shortages of trauma‐response training exacerbate trauma‐related fatalities. McGill University's Centre for Global Surgery introduced the Trauma and Disaster Team Response course (TDTR) to address these challenges. This study assesses the impact of simulation‐based TDTR training on care providers' knowledge/skills and healthcare processes to enhance patient outcomes.

Methods

The study used a pre‐post‐interventional design. TDTR, led by Tanzanian instructors at Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute from August 16–18, 2023, involved 22 participants in blended online and in‐person approaches with simulated skills sessions. Validated tools assessed participants' knowledge/skills and teamwork pre/post‐interventions, alongside feedback surveys. Outcome measures included evaluating 24‐h emergency department patient arrival‐to‐care time pre‐/post‐TDTR interventions, analyzed using parametric and non‐parametric tests based on data distributions.

Results

Participants' self‐assessment skills significantly improved (median increase from 34 to 58, p < 0.001), along with teamwork (median increase from 44.5 to 87.5, p < 0.003). While 99% of participants expressed satisfaction with TDTR meeting their expectations, 97% were interested in teaching future sessions. The six‐month post‐intervention arrival‐to‐care time significantly decreased from 29 to 13 min, indicating a 55.17% improvement (p < 0.004). The intervention led to fewer ward admissions (35.26% from 51.67%) and more directed to operating theaters (29.83% from 16.85%), suggesting improved patient management (p < 0.018).

Conclusion

The study confirmed surgical skills training effectiveness in Tanzanian settings, highlighting TDTR's role in improving teamwork and healthcare processes that enhanced patient outcomes. To sustain progress and empower independent trauma educators, ongoing refresher sessions and expanding TDTR across low‐ and middle‐income countries are recommended to align with global surgery goals.
Catholic Liturgy Caught Between Polemics About Differences and Embracing Diversity
Authors: Geldhof Joris
Published: May 2024

This chapter starts from the observation that in the Roman Catholic Church the liturgy has been quite a battlefield over the last decades. Many different opinions about it have been uttered, often loaded with affections and attachments to certain ritual forms and shapes. In addition, the liturgy has often been approached from various ideological angles, each one promoting the enhancement of the liturgical life of the faithful and the Church. Ironically, however, very few of these ideologies and opinions have done well to the liturgy itself, or even seriously listened to it. The fundamental reason for that is probably that, whereas ideological schemas tend to function on the basis of binary oppositions, the liturgy cannot be captured by any such dichotomy. Liturgy even invites to undermine binary thinking and reaches out to overcome the blind-sidedness and narrowmindedness that comes along with such schemas. Concretely, four such conceptual oppositions are discussed in this chapter: sacred and profane, liberal and conservative, hierarchical and democratic, and active and contemplative. The goal of disentangling the complexity of being caught in these oppositions is to demonstrate that liturgy does not fall prey to them but instead helps getting beyond them. Moreover, it is shown that liturgy has a unique theological potential not only to further but also to incorporate inclusion and diversity in the Church.
Community Energy and Community Resilience: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective
Authors: Vallecha Harshit , To Long Seng
Published: May 2024

This chapter explores the mutually interdependent relationship between community energy and community resilience. The resilience of Community Energy Systems (CES) depends on both the physical aspects of energy provision and the socio-economic and political aspects of the constitution of communities. At the same time, sustainable energy projects managed by communities build autonomy, control over resources, and community cohesion thus making communities themselves more resilient. This chapter offers an analytical framework to analyse resilience in CES and to increase their resilience during their conceptualisation, installation, operation, and upgradation. Resilience is seen here as dependent on communities’ social, economic, physical, and human capital. The framework shows that while some aspects of CES resilience can be addressed in the design of the energy system, their success depends on appropriate mechanisms for community involvement and governance.
Where Is the Community in Community Energy?
Authors: Unnikrishnan Hita
Published: May 2024

One of the most enduring debates in relation to community energy is the significance of the term community. Community energy refers to the active role that people may play in managing and governing energy resources and technologies, but the community is not an homogeneous unit that can be easily identified and defined. Instead, this chapter argues for recognising the inherent diversity of the communities that participate in community energy and how that diversity enhances their potential, but also causes challenges. The chapter explores different theorisations of communities—communities of interest and communities of practice—as well as the different imaginaries associated with the notion of community. This analysis reinforces a dynamic perspective on ideas of community and their mobilisation within particular political contexts.
Financial Aspects of Community Energy Systems
Authors: Eales Aran
Published: May 2024

This chapter analyses the process of financing community energy, emphasising delivering sustainable projects that do not add additional burdens for communities. Community energy depends on developing micro- and pico-systems, which have specific financial requirements due to their small size. A key challenge is ensuring the financial sustainability of projects once installed and when the initial capital runs out. The chapter advocates putting the community at the centre of a structured financial planning process, negotiating cost reductions and revenue models, and diversifying the revenue stream by looking beyond conventional sources of finance. The analysis of a case study of financing two micro-grids in Malawi demonstrates the obstacles faced by financing projects. These small projects face enormous challenges that drive up costs, including difficulties in accessing supply chains for solar equipment, inflation and foreign exchange fluctuations, and limited technical capacity to maintain the system. A sustainable energy transition should help reduce these costs to facilitate the expansion of the micro-grid model. Until such expansion takes place, the sustainability of micro-grids will depend on public support and external grants to top up the income from consumer tariffs.