bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It all comes down to one: A rare case of a single coronary artery
Authors: Christodoulou Konstantinos C. , Stougiannou Theodora M. , Rigatou Anastasia , Karangelis Dimos
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

SCA is a rare congenital anomaly that, under certain conditions, can pose a life‐threatening risk to the individual. It is crucial to fully understand the entire course of the vessel and its anatomical relationships before developing a personalized treatment plan.
Insights into Bimetallic Ag2Cu2O3 Precatalyst for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to Ethanol
Authors: Wang Huan , Liu Yuan Wei , Li Xin Yan , Xu Yi Ning , Xu Xiaolei , He Jing Jing , Niu Qiang , Liu Peng Fei , Yang Hua Gui
Published: August 2024

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) into valuable chemicals represents an effective approach for realizing carbon neutralization goals. Copper oxide‐derived catalysts are particularly promising due to their tunable electronic structures. In this study, we focused on investigating the Ag2Cu2O3 model catalyst and a mixture of CuO and Ag2O with an identical metal molar ratio (denoted an as M–CuAgO). Electrochemical CO2RR tests revealed that Ag2Cu2O3 exhibited selectivity towards ethanol, while M–CuAgO showed no selectivity towards multi‐carbon products. Characterizations of the post‐reaction materials showed differences in the specific crystal structures of the two catalysts. Further X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis demonstrated that the Ag2Cu2O3 structure, after the reaction, facilitated the transfer of electrons from Cu to Ag, thereby promoting the formation of multi‐carbon products. This work underscores the significance of structural design in precatalysts and opens up new avenues for the design of high‐performance catalysts.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) Supported on Ni3O4 as Spinel‐Based Cathode Catalyst for the Effective Anion‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Application
Authors: Santhosh Kumar Ramasamy , Gokulapriyan Ramasamy , Sakthivel Venkitesan , Sayfiddinov Dilmurod , Kim Ae Rhan , Arunkumar Iyappan , Yoo Dong Jin
Published: August 2024

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) stability and catalytic activity in high‐durability anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) can be improved using graphene‐supported spinel‐based Ni3O4 cathode catalysts. Here, we describe a simple and economical hydrothermal method for synthesizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported on Ni3O4. The atomic‐level contribution of the Ni−Ni and Ni−O bonds to the chemical structure of nickel oxide was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron and absorption spectroscopy studies. Due to the force of the void for oxygen created by nickel atoms, Ni3O4@rGO for the ORR exhibited enhanced stability and catalytic activity (E1/2=0.761 V and over 30,000 CV cycles). A single AEMFC cell achieved the greatest power density and long‐term durability using a Ni3O4@rGO cathode, suggesting improved endurance despite the minimal voltage decrease (power density 29.6 mW cm−2, endurance for 25 h). These findings offer insights and point to opportunities for developing metal oxide–based AEMFCs.
Digital platforms and the SDGs: A socio‐eco‐technical framework for SMEs based on cross‐case analysis
Authors: Isensee Carmen , Teuteberg Frank , Griese Kai‐Michael
Published: August 2024

Managing the complex relationship between digitalization and sustainable development is a key challenge for many small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). To understand strategies of forerunners in the field of digital platforms and platformization, this study performs a cross‐case analysis of three sustainability‐oriented SMEs employing multi‐sided platforms operating in three sectors (wholesale, information and communication technology, and construction) in Germany. The integrated analysis framework draws from Belief‐Action‐Outcome theory, multi‐sided platform strategies, and the sustainable development goals (SDG). The findings identify four platformization strategies and exemplarily specify contributions to SDG 2, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 17. The proposed socio‐eco‐technical framework emphasizes linkages between an employed platformization strategy (technical system), the corporate culture (social system), the platform stakeholders and the SDGs (ecological system). A seven‐step approach is proposed to motivate and facilitate the development and continuous improvement of platformization for sustainability in SMEs.
Photocatalytic Synergy Between α‐Bi2O3 Nanosphere and Spindle MIL‐88A for Gas‐Phase CO2 Reduction
Authors: Ojha Niwesh , Kishore Pant Kamal
Published: August 2024

Visible light‐active photocatalysts play a crucial role in gas‐phase photocatalytic CO2 reduction, offering significant potential for sustainable energy conversion. Herein, we present the synthesis of spindle‐shaped Iron (Fe)‐based metal‐organic framework (MOF) MIL‐88 A, coupled with distinct α‐Bi2O3 nanospheres. The α‐Bi2O3/MIL88A heterostructure is formed by interacting opposite surface charges, enhancing visible‐light absorption and efficient interfacial charge‐carrier separation. Such low‐cost photocatalysts have a 1.75 eV band gap and demonstrate enhanced efficacy in converting CO2 to CO, CH4, and H2 in water without using any sacrificial agents or noble metals compared to pristine MIL88A. In addition, in‐situ Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) analyses revealed that these unique catalysts combination promoted enhanced interfacial charge dynamics, creating efficient trapping sites for photogenerated carriers. Further, in‐situ Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transfer Spectroscopy (DRIFTS) investigation elucidates the plausible reaction mechanism and provides an effective methodology for catalyst screening for CO2 photoreduction. This study offers an effective approach for synthesizing the earth‐abundant heterostructure from metal oxide and low‐cost MOFs, enhancing photocatalytic activity for sustainable carbon dioxide conversion into invaluable chemicals.
Azolium‐Porphyrin Electrosynthesis
Authors: Akhssas Fatima , Lin Rongning , Trojan Michal , Poyac Ludivine , Amiri Nesrine , Ertel Thibault , Fournier Sophie , Lerayer Emmanuel , Cattey Hélène , Clément Sébastien , Richeter Sébastien , Devillers Charles H.
Published: August 2024

Electrochemical oxidation of Zn(II) 2,7,12,17‐tetra‐tert‐butylporphyrin in the presence of a series of azole derivatives (1‐methylimidazole, 1‐vinyl‐1H‐imidazole, 2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)pyridine, 1‐methylbenzimidazole, 1‐methyl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole, and benzothiazole) affords the corresponding meso‐substituted azolium‐porphyrins in very mild conditions and good yields. It was found that these nucleophiles were strongly ligated to the zinc(II) azolium‐porphyrin complexes. Thus a demetalation/remetalation procedure was performed to recover the non‐azole‐coordinated zinc(II) complexes. X‐ray crystallographic structures of three azolium‐porphyrins were solved. Cyclic voltammetry analyses provided insight into the electron‐withdrawing effect of the azolium substituents.
Mathematical modeling and stress‐aware stability analysis of a nonideal multiport Single Inductor DC–DC converter for renewable energy
Authors: Gupta Ashutosh , Joshi Dheeraj
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a novel configuration for a multiport boost converter (MPBC) with a single inductor (SI), accounting for equivalent series resistances (ESRs) and minimizing input switching stress. The MPBC performance is evaluated and compared with other established topologies. The proposed MPBC interfaces two unidirectional input DC power ports and a rechargeable port for an energy storage element (ESE) with two output ports. The design integrates two renewable sources with the ESE as a third source. One output is for higher voltage, linked to a single‐phase inverter for AC loads. The other output is for lower DC voltage, used for DC loads. The configuration can be adjusted based on requirements. This converter has numerous applications in renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and agriculture. The steady‐state and small signal modeling of MPBC has been done to derive the mathematical expressions for analyzing stability, stresses (both voltage and current), and performance considering ESRs. A 240 W, MPBC is fabricated along with improved switching strategies using DSP TMS320F28379D. Experimental and simulation results are compared to show the effectiveness of proposed scheme on stability, stresses, and efficient power transfer. Output power is regulated effectively by sharing the input power thereby reducing voltage stress on switches.
Potential mechanisms of cancer stem‐like progenitor T‐cell bio‐behaviours
Authors: Ni Ling
Published: August 2024

In situations involving continuous exposure to antigens, such as chronic infections or cancer, antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells can become dysfunctional or exhausted. This change is marked by increased expression levels of inhibitory receptors (PD‐1 and Tim‐3). Stem‐like progenitor exhausted (Tpex) cells, a subset of exhausted cells that express TCF‐1 and are mainly found in the lymph nodes, demonstrate the ability to self‐renew and exhibit a high rate of proliferation. Tpex cells can further differentiate into transitional intermediate exhausted (Tex‐int) cells and terminally exhausted (Tex‐term) cells. Alternatively, they can directly differentiate into Tex‐term cells. Tpex cells are the predominant subset that respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), making them a prime candidate for improving the efficacy of ICI therapy. This review article aimed to present the latest developments in the field of Tpex formation, expansion, and differentiation in the context of cancer, as well as their responses to ICIs in cancer immunotherapy. Consequently, it may be possible to develop novel treatments that exclusively target Tpex cells, thus improving overall treatment outcomes.

Key points

Tpex cells are located in lymph nodes and TLS.

Several pathways control the differentiation trajectories of Tpex cells, including epigenetic factors, transcription factors, cytokines, age, sex, etc.
Structure and melting of strongly coupled dusty plasma
Authors: Issaad Mohamed
Published: August 2024

The structure and phase transition of a two‐dimensional dusty plasma, confined by an anisotropic power‐law potential and interacting via a screened Coulomb potential, were investigated using Monte Carlo simulations. The study varied the number of particles (), screening strength (), eccentricity parameter (), and confinement power parameter () to characterize the system's structural properties. According to the simulation results, the melting temperature is influenced by the eccentricity parameter. Reducing the eccentricity results in a corresponding decrease in the melting temperature. However, the confinement power parameter does not appear to have any impact on the melting temperature.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients aged 80 years and over with heart failure: Need for better treatment
Authors: Yang Mingming , Kondo Toru , Anand Inder S. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Campbell Ross T. , Køber Lars , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Maggioni Aldo P. , Martinez Felipe A. , O'Meara Eileen , Packer Milton , Sabatine Marc S. , Kerr Saraiva Jose F. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Zannad Faiez , Zile Michael R. , Jhund Pardeep S. , Solomon Scott D. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: August 2024

Aims

Although the prevalence of heart failure (HF) increases markedly with advancing age, surprisingly little is known about HF in the very elderly. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of octogenarians with HF.

Methods and results

Individual participant meta‐analysis of patients with HF and reduced, mildly reduced, and preserved ejection fraction (HFrEF, HFmrEF, and HFpEF, respectively) enrolled in eight large randomized trials. Overall, the proportion of octogenarians was 1518 of 20 168 patients (7.5%) with HFrEF, 610 of 4609 (13.2%) with HFmrEF, and 3130 of 15 354 (20.4%) with HFpEF. Regardless of HF phenotype, octogenarian patients were more often female and had more comorbidities, more symptoms and signs of congestion, and worse health status (but not quality of life), in comparison to patients aged <80 years. The incidence (per 100 person‐years) of the composite of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization was 13.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.7–14.0) in octogenarians versus 9.5 (95% CI 9.3–9.7) in non‐octogenarians (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.40, 95% CI 1.32–1.48). Each component of the composite was more frequent in octogenarians with rates of cardiovascular mortality of 7.0 (95% CI 6.5–7.4) per 100 person‐years versus 4.9 (95% CI 4.8–5.1) in non‐octogenarians (aHR 1.60, 95% CI 1.48–1.72, p < 0.001). Octogenarians received less evidence‐based therapy, especially mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, than younger patients.

Conclusion

Despite worse health status and higher hospitalization and mortality rates, octogenarians were undertreated compared to younger patients.
Heavy Atom Quantum Tunnelling in N‐Heterocyclic Pentalenes
Authors: Santoyo‐Flores Juan Julian , Kozuch Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Heavy atom quantum tunnelling was already observed in several π‐bond‐shifting reactions of antiaromatic molecules. In these, their Jahn‐Teller distortions create sharp energy profiles with small atomic trajectories, which are ideal for observing tunnelling. Herein, we studied the effect of the nitrogen in the N‐heterocyclic pentalenes, distinguishing between isothermic and exothermic reactions. The reactivity was not easily predictable, with our computations revealing a wide variability of rates, from the complete cancellation of the barrier to high isomer stability. For all these systems, quantum tunnelling emerged as the most significant mechanism at room temperature and the only valid one at cryogenic conditions.
Research on the prevention and manage of rockburst in deep‐seam mining roadways
Authors: Huang Wanpeng , Zhao Tongyang , Jiang Donghai , Liu Yaxin , Wang Xukui , Xin Guangming
Published: August 2024

This study presents a strategy for preventing and controlling rockbursts in deep and vast seams during the mining operation. We analyzed the main factors influencing rockburst by combining the geological structure of the rock mass with field‐collected microseismic monitoring data. Determined the disturbance strain sensitive threshold through mechanical experiments on coal's antidisturbance characteristics, the indoor pull‐out test of the supporting bolt was carried out. Studied the rockburst support technology and the antirockburst capability of the support system based on the energy method. The key governing variables of regional impact risk in the big buried deep coal seam operating face include high tectonic stress, goaf effect, fault, and fault protection coal pillar. The uniaxial compressive strength of the coal sample in the 3308 working face is 15.11 MPa, the antidisturbance strength is 10 MPa. When the extreme stress is 86.03%, the specimen fails; the ultimate failure strength under disturbance is 13 MPa. The support system's antishock ability is analyzed based on its energy absorption, under the premise of ensuring the support quality and support strength, the antiscour ability of 3308 Tailentry support meets the anti‐impact requirements. It is believed that the system offers adequate lateral confining pressure for the internal creep disturbance‐sensitive area, enhancing the area's resistance to disturbance. This is crucial in preventing and managing rockburst incidents.
LETKF‐based Ocean Research Analysis (LORA) version 1.0
Authors: Ohishi Shun , Miyoshi Takemasa , Ando Takafusa , Higashiuwatoko Tomohiko , Yoshizawa Eri , Murakami Hiroshi , Kachi Misako
Published: August 2024

Local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF)‐based Ocean Research Analysis (LORA) version 1.0 datasets for western North Pacific (WNP) and Maritime Continent (MC) regions (LORA‐WNP and ‐MC, respectively) are released through the JAXA‐RIKEN Ocean Analysis website. The LORA datasets are created using an eddy‐resolving LETKF‐based ocean data assimilation system with satellite sea‐surface temperature, salinity, and height data and with in‐situ temperature and salinity data assimilated daily. The LORA datasets include 128‐member ensemble analyses at the sea surface (2D), each term of mixed‐layer temperature and salinity budget equations, and the related variables (2D) such as mixed‐layer depth and heat and freshwater fluxes as well as system grid information and analysis ensemble mean and spread (3D), from August 2015 to January 2024 (as of June 2024). The LORA datasets are useful for geoscience research and practical applications, especially for particle tracking, boundary conditions of atmospheric models, and research on spatiotemporal variations in sea‐surface temperature and salinity.
An Exploration of the Peri‐Diagnostic Experiences of Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual People With Dementia Using the Candidacy Framework
Authors: Hammond J. , Hicks B. , Daley S. , Banerjee S.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

How dementia affects lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer people or those with other minoritised sexual/gender identities (LGBTQ+) is not well understood. Furthermore, existing research often excludes the voices of LGBTQ+ people living with dementia and focuses instead on their care partners. This study addresses this evidence gap by drawing on the ESRC/NIHR funded DETERMIND cohort, consisting of 940 newly diagnosed people with dementia, to explore the peri‐diagnostic experiences of people living with dementia who identify as LGBTQ+.

Methods

We recruited five people (who identified as lesbian, gay or bisexual [LGB]) and completed semi‐structured interviews with them and their partner caregivers (n = 3) discussing their experiences of (1) engaging with dementia health care services, (2) receiving a dementia diagnosis, and (3) the support they were offered after diagnosis. Interviews were shaped by the Candidacy Framework, a theoretical model for understanding accessibility of health services, and an inductive thematic analysis was employed to develop common themes.

Findings

Participants did not routinely disclose their LGBTQ+ identities to health service professionals, despite feeling this was an essential aspect of who they are. They relied on their resilience of overcoming previous experiences of lifetime discrimination to navigate complicated dementia care systems. The importance of ‘chosen families’ as informal support networks for LGBTQ+ people living with dementia was highlighted, particularly given the lack of formal care services they felt comfortable accessing. All participants were concerned about their future care needs and whether they would receive home‐based or community‐based support that respected their LGBTQ+ identities.

Conclusions

This study adds to the limited evidence base that can be used to inform future research, policy and practice seeking to address inequalities across the dementia care pathway. We only interviewed people who identified as LGB so generalizability to the whole LGBTQ+ population is limited, however our data suggest dementia health care professionals should encourage and support disclosures of LGBTQ+ identities so that inclusive care and support planning can be provided to LGBTQ+ people at every stage of dementia.
Exploring the interplay between epicardial fat, coronary artery calcium score, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through non‐ECG‐gated chest computed tomography: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Moradi Golnaz , Abed Aisen , Zarei Diana , Ashraf Haleh , Asefi Hoda
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

This study examines the relationships between epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and coronary artery calcium score (CACS) using non‐ECG‐gated CT scans. It aims to determine the effectiveness of EAT measurements and NAFLD as predictors for coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted at a specialized center, focusing on individuals who underwent non‐ECG‐gated chest CT scans without contrast. We evaluated EAT thickness and density in three areas: the right atrioventricular groove, the free wall of the right ventricle, and the central area of the right anterior interventricular groove. Additionally, we measured CACS and determined the presence of NAFLD by comparing liver‐to‐spleen density ratios. Statistical analyses, including regression models, were performed using SPSS (version 26).

Results

In this study, we enrolled 365 participants, including 203 males with an average age of 47 ± 17.93 years. EAT thickness was 6.28 ± 1.62 mm, and EAT density was −96.07 ± 12.47 Hounsfield units (HU). The mean CACS was 22.27 ± 79.01, and the mean liver density was 50.01 ± 10.76 HU. A significant positive correlation was observed between EAT thickness and CACS (r = 0.208, p < 0.001). EAT density showed a significant negative correlation with CACS (r = −0.155, p = 0.003). No correlation was found between NAFLD and CACS. Univariate logistic regression analysis identified significant predictors of increased CACS, including EAT thickness (OR: 1.803), EAT density (OR: 0.671), diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR: 5.921), and hypertension (HTN) (OR: 7.414). Multivariate analysis confirmed the significance of EAT thickness (OR: 0.682), DM (OR: 3.66), and HTN (OR: 2.79) as predictors of elevated CACS.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that increased EAT thickness and decreased density are associated with higher CACS. Also, both DM and HTN significantly contribute to increased CACS. These results support the inclusion of EAT measurements in cardiovascular risk assessment models to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
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Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Yachuan , Wang Yankun , Jiang Luyue , Zhao Jinyan , Song Zhitang , Bi Jinshun , Zhao Libo , Jiang Zhuangde , Schwarzkopf Jutta , Wu Shengli , Zhang Bin , Ren Wei , Song Sannian , Niu Gang
Published: August 2024

Hardware neuromorphic computing based on phase‐change random access memories brings about a spring of artificial intelligence.

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Maps or Itineraries? A Systems Engineering Insight from Ancient Navigators
Authors: Schindel William D.
Published: August 2024

Processes and procedures are the heart of current descriptions of systems engineering. The “vee diagram,” ISO 15288, the INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook, and enterprise‐specific business process models focus attention on process and procedure. However, there is a non‐procedural way to view systems engineering. This approach is to describe the configuration space “navigated” by systems engineering, and what is meant by system trajectories in that space, traveled during system life cycles. This sounds abstract because we have lacked explicit maps necessary to describe this configuration space. We understand concrete steps of a procedure, so we focus there. But where do these steps take us? And what does “where” mean in this context? Clues are found in recent discoveries about ancient navigation, as well as later development of mathematics and physics. This paper, part I of a case for stronger model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) semantics, focuses on the underlying configuration space inherent to systems.
Observation on the developmental studies of stomatal differentiation in the epidermis of Solanaceae
Authors: Karatela Y. Y. , Gill L. S.
Published: August 2024

Epidermal morphology and development of stomata in 15 species of the family Solanacene are described. Hemimesogenous ontogeny with single subsidiary cell is described for anomocytic, diacytic, anisocytie and paracytic stomata. Ontogeny of anisocytic stomata with two mesogene subsidiary cells is traced in Lycopersicon esculentum and Nicotiana tabacum. Contiguous stomata and cytoplasmic connections between adjacent guard cells are observed in Capsicum annuum and Lycopersicon esculentum. Definite relationship exists between sinousity of epidermal cells and growth habit.
Implementation and evaluation of a patient action plan for patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Thormann K. , Lupe L. , Radonjic‐Hoesli S. , von Dach C. , Simon D.
Published: August 2024

Background

Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) are complex and therefore bear the risk of therapeutic failure. Individualised patient action plans for patients and for caregivers have been shown to improve AD management, eczema monitoring and therapy adherence. Little is known about the use of patient action plans in the adult setting.

Objectives

This project aimed at implementing a patient action plan to improve eczema management and evaluating its effects on disease severity and patient‐related outcomes.

Methods

This quality improvement project had a pretest–posttest design and evaluated AD severity and patient‐related outcomes after implementing a patient action plan. A convenience sample of 20 adult patients with AD was included. Socio‐demographic, diagnostic and clinical variables were collected from the electronic health records. Trained staff assessed AD severity using SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) and person‐centred dermatology self‐care index (PeDeSI‐G) pre as well as 1‐month postintervention. Patients completed dermatology life quality index (DLQI) and patient benefit index (PBI). For comparison of SCORAD, DLQI, PeDeSI‐G, paired t‐test was applied. PBI was presented using descriptive statistics.

Results

Upon intervention, a significant decrease of disease severity (p < 0.0001), in parallel with a significant decrease of DLQI (p < 0.001) and PeDeSI‐G (p < 0.0001) was observed. A PBI ≥ 1 was reached in 95% of participants (mean 2.73; SD 0.9).

Conclusions

Our findings confirm the importance of providing patient action plans to AD patients to achieve best treatment results. Based on our experience, we plan to modify the action plan by including both topical and systemic therapies, and to translate it into several languages.
Optimal Pathological Prediction of Vocal Fold Leukoplakia Based on IPCLs and Morphology
Authors: Fang Yi , Li Changjiang , Chen Min , Chen Jian , Cheng Lei , Wu Haitao
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To establish a combined classification based on intrapapillary capillary loops (IPCLs) and morphological characteristics to improve the accuracy of pathological prediction of vocal fold leukoplakia (VFL).

Material and Methods

A prospective research was conducted of VFL patients diagnosed by IPCLs and morphology. The VFL cases were classified as Type I‐III based on IPCLs and morphological characteristics. Type I referred to VFL with dendritic vessels but not IPCLs. Type II defined VFL without any IPCLs or vessels and classified by morphology into two subtypes as non‐rough Type IIa and rough Type IIb. Type III referred to VFL with IPCLs and classified into two subtypes as Type IIIa with small IPCLs and Type IIIb with large IPCLs or vascular distortion in or around lesions. Predicting pathology accuracy was analyzed.

Results

182 eligible patients were recruited. The prediction accuracy rates of VFL pathology were 81.5% according to the 2019 Ni classification. The combined classification includes 4 cases of Type I, 28 Type IIa, 35 Type IIb, 56 Type IIIa, and 59 Type IIIb VFLs. The prediction accuracy rate of combined classification ranged from 95.1% to 97.3% in three observers. The average sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value was 97.8%, 86.2%, 97.4%, 88.2%, respectively. The inter‐observer agreement varied from 84.1% to 94.0%, and mean area under curve of receiver‐operating curve analysis was 0.954.

Conclusions and Significance

The new combined classification based on IPCLs and morphological characteristics could predict pathology of VFL accurately.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2024
The Use of Oxymetazoline 0.1% Ophthalmic Solution for Acquired Blepharoptosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Newland Mary , Eberly Hänel , Ma Cheng , Lighthall Jessyka G.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Oxymetazoline hydrochloride has been shown to be effective in some studies for acquired blepharoptosis and for aesthetic upper eyelid elevation. This study aims to systematically review the literature on the use of topical oxymetazoline for treating acquired blepharoptosis.

Databases Reviewed

PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), Scopus (Elsevier), and Cochrane.

Methods

A systematic review of studies published between 2013 and 2024 following PRISMA guidelines was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases. Primary outcomes included pre‐ to posttreatment change in marginal reflex distance (MRD1) after treatment with topical oxymetazoline, and mean difference (pre‐to‐posttreatment) in MRD1 versus control.

Results

Five articles included data from 458 patients for analysis. Meta‐analysis demonstrated significant improvement in MRD1 measurements posttreatment with oxymetazoline (1.40 mm; 95% confidence interval, CI [0.41 mm, 2.40 mm]). In addition, when compared to controls, patients treated with oxymetazoline demonstrated greater increase in MRD1 values (0.83 mm; 95% CI [0.10 mm, 1.55 mmm]). Heterogeneity, measured by I2 statistic, was high in all studies (85%–95%).

Conclusion

The use of oxymetazoline 0.1% ophthalmic solution significantly improves MRD1 in patients with acquired blepharoptosis. Further studies comparing this treatment in other etiologies of acquired blepharoptosis should be conducted. Laryngoscope, 2024
IT IS THE QUALITY OF OUR CHARACTER THAT DETERMINES OUR PERFORMANCE AND RESULTS
Authors: McArthur Sarah
Published: August 2024

The author, Leader to Leader’s editor‐in‐chief, examines the rapid changes in today’s society, and how leaders react to and lead through these changes. She nods to the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus (c. 535–475 BC), and begins with a quotation from former Ford Motor Company CEO Alan Mulally. She also quotes from Leader to Leader’s founder, Frances Hesselbein, in her 2005 column “The Leaders We Need”: “In the end, it is the quality and character of the leader that determines the performance, the results.” An important distinction in how leaders adapt and lead through change is to not compromise our values and ethics for the sake of expediency. Recalling one particular example drawn from a story told by a client about someone they had coached, McArthur writes, “Yet, in the end, the leader chose to bend just a touch to meet goals and stay employed rather than to live the values agreed upon by the leadership team and committed to by the entire company.”
Mathematical modeling of poliomyelitis virus with vaccination and post‐paralytic syndrome dynamics using Caputo and ABC fractional derivatives
Authors: Azroul Elhoussine , Bouda Sara
Published: August 2024

In this study, using Caputo and ABC derivatives, we present a mathematical analysis of two fractional models for poliomyelitis, considering the presence of vaccination (V) and a post‐paralytic class (A). The existence and uniqueness of solutions are proved. The basic reproduction number
is computed. Local and global stability of the disease‐free stationary state, depending on the threshold
, is provided, along with conditions for the existence of an endemic stationary state. Moreover, we performed a sensitivity analysis to study the influence of all biological parameters on
. We concluded our study with numerical simulations to illustrate the models' dynamics and to compare the trajectories of Caputo and ABC solutions. We found that the Caputo and ABC operators are both convenient for the modelization of the poliomyelitis disease. However, the ABC operator not only refined the Caputo operator by removing singularity from the kernel expression but also brought out heredity and memory in the model's characteristics.
Transformer‐ and joint learning‐based dual‐domain networks for undersampled MRI segmentation
Authors: Duan Jizhong , Huang Zhenyu , Xie Yunshuang , Wang Junfeng , Liu Yu
Published: August 2024

Background

Recently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a crucial medical imaging technology widely used in clinical practice. However, MRI faces challenges such as the lengthy acquisition time for k‐space data and the need for time‐consuming manual annotation by radiologists. Traditionally, these challenges have been addressed individually through undersampled MRI reconstruction and automatic segmentation algorithms. Whether undersampled MRI segmentation can be enhanced by treating undersampled MRI reconstruction and segmentation as an end‐to‐end task, trained simultaneously, rather than as serial tasks should be explored.

Purpose

We introduce a novel Transformer‐ and Joint Learning‐based Dual‐domain Network (TJLD‐Net) for undersampled MRI segmentation.

Methods

This method significantly enhances feature recognition in the segmentation process by fully utilizing the rich detail obtained during the image reconstruction phase. Consequently, the method can achieve precise and reliable image segmentation even with undersampled k‐space data. Additionally, it incorporates an attention mechanism for feature enhancement, which improves the representation of shared features by learning the contextual information in MR images.

Results

Simulation experiments demonstrate that the segmentation performance of TJLD‐Net on three datasets is significantly higher than that of the joint model (RecSeg) and six baseline models (where reconstruction and segmentation are regarded as serial tasks). On the CHAOS dataset, the Dice scores of TJLD‐Net are, on average, 9.87%, 2.17%, 1.90%, 1.80%, 9.60%, 0.80%, and 6.50% higher than those of the seven compared models. On the ATLAS challenge dataset, the average Dice scores of TJLD‐Net improve by 4.23%, 5.63%, 2.30%, 1.53%, 3.57%, 0.93%, and 6.60%. Similarly, on the SKM‐TEA dataset, the average Dice scores of TJLD‐Net improve by 4.73%, 12.80%, 14.83%, 8.67%, 4.53%, 11.60%, and 12.10%. The novel TJLD‐Net model provides a promising solution for undersampled MRI segmentation, overcoming the poor performance issues encountered by automated segmentation algorithms in low‐quality accelerated imaging.
Evaluating external auditory exostosis severity using ImageJ: A clinical method applied to archaeological remains
Authors: Casa Bianca , Lorentz Kirsi O. , Hermon Sorin
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate if ImageJ could be used to quantify the severity of external auditory exostoses (EAEs) in archaeological human skeletal remains. Thirty‐seven external auditory canals (EACs) with EAEs present (22 right, 15 left) of 100% completeness derived from individuals from archaeological sites on Cyprus dating from the Neolithic to the Roman period were available for analyses. EAC area and EAE area were measured three times as an intra‐observer error test using ImageJ in a two‐dimensional plane. The level of agreement between measurements was assessed using a paired T‐test, Bland–Altman plot, technical error of measurement, and coefficient of reliability. No statistically significant differences were found between measurements of EAC area and EAE area and a high technical measurement of error and coefficient of reliability resulted. ImageJ can be used with a high level of reliability for quantifying the severity of EAEs. This approach enables detailed quantification of EAEs in two‐dimensions, as well as specific measurement of EAE severity to evaluate differences between individuals and assemblages. The percentage of occlusion of the EAC by EAEs may contribute data to interpretations of the potential secondary clinical symptoms encountered by the individual, such as conductive hearing loss. This technique can only be applied to EACs that are of 100% preservation and in EACs where the EAEs are located laterally. Future studies should aim to incorporate the use of ImageJ for quantifying EAE severity in order to develop more detailed comparisons between individuals and assemblages in relation to their duration of exposure to wet and/or wet and windy environments and to evaluate the potential secondary symptoms that individuals with severe EAEs may have encountered.
Green Synthesis of Diphenyl‐Substituted Alcohols Via Radical Coupling of Aromatic Alcohols Under Transition‐Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Le Ha V. , Nguyen Vy T. B. , Le Huy X. , Nguyen Tung T. , Nguyen Khoa D. , Ho Phuoc H. , Nguyen Thuong T. H.
Published: August 2024

Alcohols are common alkylating agents and starting materials alternative to harmful alkyl halides. In this study, a simple, benign and efficient pathway was developed to synthesize 1,3‐diphenylpropan‐1‐ols via the β‐alkylation of 1‐phenylethanol with benzyl alcohols. Unlike conventional borrowing hydrogen processes in which alcohols were activated by transition‐metal catalyzed dehydrogenation, in this work, t‐BuONa was suggested to be a dual‐role reagent, namely, both base and radical initiator, for the radical coupling of aromatic alcohols. The cross‐coupling reaction readily proceeded under transition metal‐free conditions and an inert atmosphere, affording 1,3‐diphenylpropan‐1‐ol with an excellent yield. A good functional group tolerance in benzyl alcohols was observed, leading to the production of various phenyl‐substituted propan‐1‐ol derivatives in moderate‐to‐good yields. The mechanistic studies proposed that the reaction could involve the formation of reactive radical anions by base‐mediated deprotonation and single electron transfer.
Unveiling Colombia's medicinal Cannabis sativa treasure trove: Phenotypic and Chemotypic diversity in legal cultivation
Authors: Enríquez Diego J. , Alonso Julio C. , Hille Lucas , Brand Stefan , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Vergara Daniela , Montoya Guillermo , Ramírez Yesid A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Cannabis sativa is a highly versatile plant with a long history of cultivation and domestication. It produces multiple compounds that exert distinct and valuable therapeutic effects by modulating diverse biological systems, including the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Access to standardized, metabolically diverse, and reproducible C. sativa chemotypes and chemovars is essential for physicians to optimize individualized patient treatment and for industries to conduct drug‐discovery campaigns.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize and assess the phytochemical diversity of C. sativa chemotypes in diverse ecological regions of Colombia, South America.

Methodology

Ten cannabinoids and 23 terpenes were measured using liquid and gas chromatography, in addition to other phenotypic traits, in 156 C. sativa plants that were grown in diverse ecological regions in Colombia, a hotspot for global biodiversity.

Results

Our results reveal significant phytochemical diversity in Colombian‐grown C. sativa plants, with four distinct chemotypes based on cannabinoid profile. The significant amount of usually uncommon terpenes suggests that Colombia's environments may have unique capabilities that allow the plant to express these compounds. Colombia's diverse climates offer enormous cultivation potential, making it a key player in both domestic and international medicinal and recreational C. sativa trade.

Conclusion

These findings underscore Colombia's capacity to pioneer global C. sativa production diversification, particularly in South America with new emerging markets.
Evaluating the two‐item measure of engagement at work for Japan Self‐Defense Forces: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Saito Taku , Kitano Masato , Waki Fumiko , Nagamine Masanori
Published: August 2024

Aim

Work engagement is critical in both occupational and mental health contexts. However, no studies have compared the usefulness of the nine‐, three‐, and two‐item measures from the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES). Therefore, this study aimed to examine the internal consistency and convergent validity of the two‐item measure and compare its usefulness with the nine‐item and three‐item versions for assessing engagement at work among Japan Self‐Defense Forces (JSDF) personnel.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 229,383 participants who underwent an annual mental health check between October 19 and December 17, 2021. To test the internal consistency of the scales, Cronbach's alpha was used. To test the convergent validity, Pearson's correlation coefficients were examined for each item corresponding to job resources, job satisfaction, stress reactions, and job demands assessed by the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire.

Results

Most participants were men (89.8%). Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the nine‐, three‐, and two‐item scales were 0.95, 0.85, and 0.80, respectively. All three versions showed significant and positive correlations with each of the items corresponding to job resources and job satisfaction. The correlation coefficients of the two‐item scale were not inferior to those of the nine‐item and three‐item scales for job resources and job satisfaction items.

Conclusion

Our results showed the internal consistency and convergent validity for the two‐item measure of engagement at work among JSDF personnel. The two‐item measure may be useful for briefly and efficiently assessing the actual state of workers' engagement at work.
Impact of a worker bee thoracic ganglion RIC‐3 variant on the actions of acetylcholine and neonicotinoids on nicotinic receptors in Apis mellifera
Authors: Takebayashi Mayuka , Mori Sumito , Ito Ryo , Takayama Koichi , Ojima Hisanori , Takeuchi Miyu , Takahashi Hiyori , Yamamoto Niina , Egawa Runa , Kimura Yuki , Ihara Makoto , Sasaki Ken , Sattelle David B. , Matsuda Kazuhiko
Published: August 2024

A transmembrane thioredoxin (TMX3) enables the functional expression of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in Xenopus laevis oocytes, while co‐factors RIC‐3 and UNC‐50 regulate the receptor expression level. RIC‐3 (resistant to inhibitors of cholinesterase 3) has been shown to diversify by its differential mRNA splicing patterns. How such diversity influences neonicotinoid sensitivity of nAChRs of beneficial insect species remains poorly understood. We have identified a RIC‐3 variant expressed most abundantly in the thoracic ganglia of honeybee (Apis mellifera) workers and investigated its effects on the functional expression and pharmacology of Amα1/Amα8/Amβ1 and Amα1/Amα2/Amα8/Amβ1 nAChRs expressed in X. laevis oocytes. The AmRIC‐3 enhanced the response amplitude to the acetylcholine (ACh) of these A. mellifera nAChRs when its cRNA was injected into oocytes at low concentrations but suppressed the ACh response amplitude at high concentrations. Co‐expression of the AmRIC‐3 had a minimal impact on the affinity of ACh, but changed the efficacy of imidacloprid and clothianidin, suggesting that the presence and the level of RIC‐3 expression can affect the nAChR responses to ACh and neonicotinoids, depending on nAChR subunit composition in honeybees. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: Evolution of prognosis over 10 years of new emerging therapies
Authors: Staal Diederik P. , Hendriks Paul M. , van Thor Mitch C. J. , van de Groep Liza D. , van den Toorn Leon M. , Mulder Berend‐Jan M. , Chandoesing Prewesh P. , Kauling Robert M. , Boerman Sanne , van den Bosch Annemien E. , Mager Johannes J. , Boomars Karin A. , Post Martijn C.
Published: August 2024

Therapies for inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) include balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) and PH‐specific medical therapy. This study compares survival and its predictors before and after the introduction of BPA. BPA was independently associated with survival; however, there was no difference in overall survival between the two cohorts.
Dual Hydrogen Production System: Synergistic Effect of Ru and Ce Over Cu2O Nanotubes Drives Hydrogen Evolution and Formaldehyde Oxidation
Authors: Yu Hongjie , Zhang Lijun , Jiang Shaojian , Liu Wenke , Deng Kai , Wang Ziqiang , Xu You , Wang Hongjing , Wang Liang
Published: August 2024

Water splitting for hydrogen production is limited by high cell voltage and low energy conversion efficiencies due to the slow kinetic process of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Here, an electrolytic system is constructed in which the cathode and anode co‐release H2 at ultra‐low input voltage using formaldehyde oxidation reaction (FOR) instead of OER. The prepared RuCe co‐doped Cu2O nanotubes on copper foam (RuCe‐Cu2O/CF) are used as electrode materials for the HER‐FOR system. A current density of 0.8 A cm−2 is achieved at 0.55 V, and a stable hydrogen production process is realized at both the cathode and anode. Density functional theory (DFT) studies show that the synergistic effect of Ru and Ce drives: i) the d‐band center of RuCe‐Cu2O/CF away from the Fermi energy level; ii) the energy barrier for the C─H cracking of the H2C(OH)O* intermediate in FOR is lowered, which promotes the formation of H2 from H*, and iii) ΔGH* tends to 0 (−0.1 eV), optimizing the reaction kinetics of HER. This work provides a new design for an efficient catalyst for dual hydrogen production systems from water splitting.
Graphdiyne Nanosheets Integrated with Ni6MnO8 via In Situ Calcination: A Robust S‐Scheme Heterojunction for Enhanced Eosin Y‐Sensitized Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Wang Peizhen , Jin Fei , Pan Xinyu , Yang Cheng , Shen Yu , Jin Zhiliang
Published: August 2024

As a 2D semiconductor material, graphdiyne (GDY) is a promising photocatalyst with excellent carrier mobility, uniform pores, ideal light absorption, and appropriate bandgap structure. Herein, GDY nanosheets are prepared by mechanical ball milling and subsequently tightly bonded to Ni6MnO8 by the in situ calcination method. The constructed Ni6MnO8/GDY S‐scheme heterojunction exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance. Under visible light, with eosin Y as the sensitizer, the hydrogen evolution of the optimized component reaches 1719.2 μmol (g h)−1, representing 3.6 and 9.6 times enhancement in comparison with that of Ni6MnO8 and GDY, respectively. The in situ calcination method is thought to play a major role in improving the efficiency of hydrogen evolution, which can enhance the interactions between the materials without significantly reducing the specific surface area of the materials. The presence of an internal electric field in the composite catalyst facilitates the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers. Furthermore, an S‐scheme heterojunction charge transfer model with Ni6MnO8 as the active site for hydrogen precipitation is rationally constructed by in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thereby revealing the migration path of photogenerated carriers. The results provide a new strategy for the construction of GDY‐based photocatalytic composite catalysts with exceptional potential for hydrogen generation.
Ultrahigh Breakdown Field in Gallium (III) Oxide Dielectric Structure Fabricated by Novel Aerosol Deposition Method
Authors: Lee Jun‐Woo , Won Jong Ho , Kim Woosup , Jeon Jwa‐Bin , Cho Myung‐Yeon , Kim Sunghoon , Kim Minkyung , Park Chulhwan , Shin Weon Ho , Won Kanghee , Koo Sang‐Mo , Oh Jong‐Min
Published: August 2024

With the increasing demand for modern high‐voltage electronic devices in electric vehicles and renewable‐energy systems, power semiconductor devices with high breakdown fields are becoming essential. β‐Gallium oxide (Ga2O3), which has a theoretical breakdown field of 8 MV cm−1, is being studied as a next‐generation power‐switch material. However, realizing a breakdown field close to this theoretical value remains challenging. In this study, an aerosol deposition‐manufactured Ga2O3 film boasting an extremely high breakdown field, achieved through thickness optimization, heat treatment, and a unique nozzle‐tilting method, is developed. This study explores the effect of oxygen vacancies on the dielectric constant, breakdown field, and microstructure of Ga2O3 films. Through these methods, Ga2O3 films with a denser (98.88%) and uniform surface, made less affected by oxygen vacancies through nozzle tilting and post‐annealing at 800 °C, are produced, resulting in appropriate dielectric constants (9.3 at 10 kHz), low leakage currents (5.8 × 10−11 A cm−2 at 20 kV cm−1), and a very high breakdown field of 5.5 MV cm−1. The results of this study suggest that aerosol‐deposited Ga2O3 layers have great potential to enable power switches with reliable switching.