bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal reliability ensemble averaging approach for robust climate projections over China
Authors: Gao Yiyan , Yu Zhongbo , Zhou Minpei , Ju Qin , Wen Lei , Huang Tangkai
Published: May 2024

Accurate simulation and reliable projection of temperature and precipitation over China under climate change is important for proposing adaptation measures for future natural ecosystems. This study proposes a novel method to construct an optimal reliability ensemble averaging (REA) subset from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) based on their historical performance in simulating temperature and precipitation across different subregions. The optimal REA ensemble outperforms the multi‐model ensemble mean (MMEM) and single optimal model in reproducing the spatial patterns of historical annual mean temperature and precipitation over China from 1985 to 2014. Under the examined Shared Socioeconomic Pathway scenarios (SSP1‐2.6, SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5), the REA projects persistent warming and increased precipitation towards the end of the 21st century, intensifying under higher emissions. Nationwide mean temperature rises of 1.39, 2.69 and 5.05°C, and precipitation increases of 9%, 10% and 20% are projected in the long‐term (2081–2100) relative to 1995–2014 under SSP1‐2.6, SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5 scenarios, respectively. Northwestern China and the Tibetan Plateau are expected to experience amplified warming and precipitation increases, respectively. Compared to the MMEM, the REA generally indicates reduced warming but larger precipitation increases, especially over the Tibetan Plateau under higher‐emissions scenarios. The REA exhibits lower projection uncertainty than the MMEM for both temperature and precipitation, primarily attributed to reduced internal variability. The novel optimal framework for REA shows the potential for extracting robust regional climate information applicable to different subregions of China. This study may contribute to new comprehension of future climate change over China.
Development and validation of a biomechanically fidelic surgical training knee model
Authors: Bennett Kieran J. , Foroutan Parham , Fairweather Ella , Al‐Dirini Rami M. A. , Sobey Sammuel A. , Litchfield Nick , Roe Mark , Reynolds Karen J. , Costi John J. , Taylor Mark
Published: May 2024

Knee arthroplasty technique is constantly evolving and the opportunity for surgeons to practice new techniques is currently highly dependent on the availability of cadaveric specimens requiring certified facilities. The high cost, limited supply, and heterogeneity of cadaveric specimens has increased the demand for synthetic training models, which are currently limited by a lack of biomechanical fidelity. Here, we aimed to design, manufacture, and experimentally validate a synthetic knee surgical training model which reproduces the flexion dependent varus‐valgus (VV) and anterior‐posterior (AP) mechanics of cadaveric knees, while maintaining anatomic accuracy. A probabilistic finite element modeling approach was employed to design physical models to exhibit passive cadaveric VV and AP mechanics. Seven synthetic models were manufactured and tested in a six‐degree‐of‐freedom hexapod robot. Overall, the synthetic models exhibited cadaver‐like VV and AP mechanics across a wide range of flexion angles with little variation between models. In the extended position, two models showed increased valgus rotation (<0.5°), and three models showed increased posterior tibial translation (<1.7 mm) when compared to the 95% confidence interval (CI) of cadaveric measurements. At full flexion, all models showed VV and AP mechanics within the 95% CI of cadaveric measurements. Given the repeatable mechanics exhibited, the knee models developed in this study can be used to reduce the current reliance on cadaveric specimens in surgical training.
Polarization‐independent liquid crystal device with microdomain twisted structure
Authors: Tang Mingyuan , Huang Kai , Zhang Yumeng , Lu Jiangang
Published: May 2024

The polarization‐independent liquid crystal (LC) phase modulators can greatly improve the efficiency and reduce the complexity of the optical system. However, it is difficult for the LC phase modulator to achieve both good low‐loss modulation and polarization‐independent properties. A LC phase modulator of single layer microdomain twisted structure has been proposed to achieve good polarization independence and low loss in phase modulation. However, the multi‐exposure in fabrication is difficult to realize in production process. To simplify the fabrication process, an alternate LC (ALC) mask is proposed with the alternate arrangement of twist‐nematic (TN) LC and nematic LC. The fabrication process is optimized to two steps exposure with the usage of ALC and is suitable for large‐amount‐production. The measurement results showed that the single layer microdomain twisted LC phase modulator may get very low polarization dependence, about 3.52% under 2π phase modulation depth, with low loss. The device shows good potential application in optical communication, wearable device, and display.
Initial clinical outcomes of robotic resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma: Is it safe and effective?
Authors: Lippert Trenton , Ross Sharona , Pattilachan Tara , Christodoulou Maria , Gratsianskiy Denis , Rosemurgy Alexander , Sucandy Iswanto
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

We aimed to describe our outcomes of robotic resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, the largest single institutional series in the Western hemisphere to date.

Methods

Between 2016 and 2022, we prospectively followed all patients who underwent robotic resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

Results

In total, 23 patients underwent robotic resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, 18 receiving concomitant hepatectomy. The median age was 73 years. Operative time was 470 min with an estimated blood loss of 150 mL. No intraoperative conversions to open or other intraoperative complications occurred. Median length of stay was 5 days. Four postoperative complications occurred. Three readmissions occurred within 30 days with one 90‐day mortality. R0 resection was achieved in 87% of patients and R1 in 13% of patients. At a median follow‐up of 27 months, 15 patients were alive without evidence of disease, two patients with local recurrence at 1 year, and six were deceased.

Conclusions

Utilization of the robotic platform for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma is safe and feasible with excellent perioperative outcomes. Further studies are needed to determine the long‐term oncological outcomes.
Nucleus pulposus structure and function assessed in shear using magnetic resonance elastography, quantitative MRI, and rheometry
Authors: Co Megan , Raterman Brian , Klamer Brett , Kolipaka Arunark , Walter Benjamin
Published: May 2024

Background

In vivo quantification of the structure–function relationship of the intervertebral disc (IVD) via quantitative MRI has the potential to aid objective stratification of disease and evaluation of restorative therapies. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is an imaging technique that assesses tissue shear properties and combined with quantitative MRI metrics reflective of composition can inform structure–function of the IVD. The objectives of this study were to (1) compare MRE‐ and rheometry‐derived shear modulus in agarose gels and nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue and (2) correlate MRE and rheological measures of NP tissue with composition and quantitative MRI.

Method

MRE and MRI assessment (i.e., T1ρ and T2 mapping) of agarose samples (2%, 3%, and 4% (w/v); n = 3–4/%) and of bovine caudal IVDs after equilibrium dialysis in 5% or 25% PEG (n = 13/PEG%) was conducted. Subsequently, agarose and NP tissue underwent torsional mechanical testing consisting of a frequency sweep from 1 to 100 Hz at a rotational strain of 0.05%. NP tissue was additionally evaluated under creep and stress relaxation conditions. Linear mixed‐effects models and univariate regression analyses evaluated the effects of testing method, %agarose or %PEG, and frequency, as well as correlations between parameters.

Results

MRE‐ and rheometry‐derived shear moduli were greater at 100 Hz than at 80 Hz in all agarose and NP tissue samples. Additionally, all samples with lower water content had higher complex shear moduli. There was a significant correlation between MRE‐ and rheometry‐derived modulus values for homogenous agarose samples. T1ρ and T2 relaxation times for agarose and tissue were negatively correlated with complex shear modulus derived from both techniques. For NP tissue, shear modulus was positively correlated with GAG/wet‐weight and negatively correlated with %water content.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates that MRE can assess hydration‐induced changes in IVD shear properties and further highlights the structure–function relationship between composition and shear mechanical behaviors of NP tissue.
Robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty leads to high implant survival and patient satisfaction at mean 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Ruderman Lindsey V. , Bayoumi Tarik , ten Noever de Brauw Gaby V. , Lan Ranqing , Nguyen Joseph T. , Pearle Andrew D.
Published: May 2024

Background

There is a lack of literature reporting on long‐term outcomes following robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). This study assessed the long‐term survivorship, patient‐reported satisfaction and pain scores following robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral UKA for lateral compartment osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A single surgeon's database was reviewed to identify all patients who underwent robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral UKA with a cemented, fixed‐bearing prosthesis prior to May 2015. Patients were contacted to determine implant survivorship, satisfaction and pain. Kaplan–Meier models were applied to analyse survival.

Results

A total of 77 knees (70 patients) with a mean follow‐up of 10.2 ± 1.5 years (range: 8.1–13.3) were included. Five knees were revised, corresponding to a 10‐year survivorship of 96.1% and estimated survival time of 12.7 ± 0.3 years (95% confidence interval: 12.2–13.2) with all‐cause revision as the endpoint. Unexplained pain (40.0%) and progression of OA (40.0%) in contralateral compartments were the most reported reasons for revision. Among patients without revision, 94.4% were either satisfied or very satisfied with their lateral UKA and the average pain score was 1.1.

Conclusion

Robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral UKA led to high implant survivorship and patient satisfaction, and low pain scores at long‐term follow‐up. Progression of OA in contralateral compartments and unexplained pain were the most frequent reasons for revision. These findings support the continued use of robotic‐arm‐assisted lateral UKA for lateral compartment OA; however, its clinical value over conventional techniques remains to be established in prospective comparative studies.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic Level IV.
Enhancing soft tissue balance: Evaluating robotic‐assisted functional positioning in varus knees across flexion and extension with quantitative sensor‐guided technology
Authors: Erard Julien , Olivier Flora , Kafelov Moussa , Servien Elvire , Lustig Sébastien , Batailler Cécile
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Functional implant positioning (FIP) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an evolution of kinematic alignment based on preoperative CT scan and robotic‐assisted technology. This study aimed to assess the ligament balancing of image‐based robotic‐assisted TKA in extension, mid‐flexion and flexion with an FIP using intraoperative sensor‐guided technology. The hypothesis was that image‐based robotic‐assisted TKA performed by FIP would achieve ligament balancing all along the arc of knee flexion.

Methods

This prospective monocentric study included 47 consecutive patients with varus knees undergoing image‐based robotic‐assisted TKA performed with FIP. After robotic‐assisted bone cuts, trial components were inserted, and soft tissue balance was assessed using sensor‐guided technology at 10°, 45° and 90° of knee flexion. A mediolateral balanced knee was defined by an intercompartmental pressure difference (ICPD) ≤ 15 lbf and medial and lateral compartment pressure ≤60 lbf. The mean age was 71.6 years old ±6.7, the mean BMI was 29.0 kg/m2 ± 4.9 and the mean preoperative HKA was 174° ± 5 [159; 183].

Results

The mean postoperative knee alignment was 177.0° ± 2.2° [172; 181]. There were 93.6% of balanced knees (n = 44) at 10 and 90° of knee flexion versus 76.6% (n = 36) at 45° of knee flexion with a significant difference (p = 0.014). Median ICPD at 10, 45 and 90° of knee flexion were, respectively, 7.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 9), 11.0 (IQR: 9.5) and 8.0 (IQR: 9.0). Pairwise analyses revealed differences for ICPD at 45° versus ICPD at 10° (p = 0.003) and ICPD at 90° versus ICPD at 45° (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

FIP with an image‐based robotic‐assisted system allowed the restoration of a well‐balanced knee at 10° and 90° of flexion in varus knees. Nevertheless, some discrepancies occurred in midflexion, and more work is needed to understand ligament behaviour all along the arc of knee flexion.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Age‐related morphological change in bony segment and cartilage segment of Eustachian tube
Authors: Hong Juan , Dai Peidong , Sun Guangbin , Lin Lin , Lyu Huiying , Chen Keguang
Published: May 2024

Background

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is the predominant cause of otitis media with effusion in children and adults. Balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube (BDET) provides a new method for restoring the ventilatory function of Eustachian tube (ET). However, the differences in age‐related morphological changes in the dimensions and positions of ET in children and adults are unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to examine age‐related morphological changes in bony and cartilage segments of the ET in a three‐dimensional space in normal population.

Methods

A total of 71 randomly selected computed tomography (CT) images of the temporal bones of 46 people were retrospectively studied in four age groups: A (0–3 years old); B (4–8 years old), C (9–18 years old), and D (19–65 years old). Space analytic geometry was assessed to calculate the dimensions and positions of ET.

Results

The bony segment of ET lengthened from infancy to adulthood with age in groups A, B and C (r = 0.562**/0.000). The cartilage segment of ET mostly extended with age from infancy to 8 years old in children (r = 0.633**/0.000), but with bending close to the sagittal plane and away from the horizontal plane with age in groups A, B and C (P < .05), and with a constant angle to the coronal plane among the four groups (P > .05).

Conclusion

The bony and cartilaginous segments of ET exhibit distinct morphological changes in space with age. The bony segment of ET extends in a constant position from infancy to adulthood. In contrast, the cartilaginous segment of the ET indicates multidimensional positional changes until adulthood, in addition to the elongation from infancy to children. This may provide an accurate morphological basis for comparing the differences in ETD pathogenesis and surgical treatment between children and adults.
Seasonality of submarine groundwater discharge to an Arctic coastal lagoon
Authors: Bullock Emma J. , Schaal Isabel V. , Cardenas M. Bayani , McClelland James W. , Henderson Paul B. , Charette Matthew A.
Published: May 2024

Supra‐permafrost submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) in the Arctic is potentially important for coastal biogeochemistry and will likely increase over the coming decades owing to climate change. Despite this, land‐to‐ocean material fluxes via SGD in Arctic environments have seldom been quantified. This study used radium (Ra) isotopes to quantify SGD fluxes to an Arctic coastal lagoon (Simpson Lagoon, Alaska) during five sampling periods between 2021 and 2023. Using a Ra mass balance model, we found that the SGD water flux was substantial and dependent on environmental conditions. No measurable SGD was detected during the spring sampling period (June 2022), when the lagoon was partially ice‐covered. During ice‐free periods, the main driver of SGD in this location is wind‐driven lagoon water level changes, not tides, which control surface water recirculation through sediments along the lagoon boundary. A combination of wind strength and direction led to low SGD fluxes in July 2022, with an SGD flux of (6 ± 3) × 106 m3 d−1, moderate fluxes in August 2021 and July 2023, which had an average flux of (17 ± 9) × 106 m3 d−1, and high fluxes in October 2022, at (79 ± 16) × 106 m3 d−1. This work demonstrates how soil and environmental conditions in the Arctic impact Ra mobilization, laying a foundation for future SGD studies in the Arctic and shedding light on the major processes driving Ra fluxes in this important environment.
“Yes, I'm worth it!”: How romantic breakups influence self‐gifting propensity
Authors: Malik Aaminah Z. , Vo Khue (Kylie)
Published: May 2024

When do consumers indulge in self‐gifting? While extant research predominantly explores self‐gifting as a coping mechanism in postchallenging phases, this research suggests an additional dimension: self‐gifting as a form of self‐reward. Drawing from the idea of stress‐related growth, this paper focuses on consumer behavior following a romantic breakup, investigating self‐gifting as a reward mechanism. Results from five studies consistently demonstrate that the severity of a breakup significant influences consumers' self‐gifting propensity in both intrinsic‐ and extrinsic‐rewarding consumption, driven by their heightened perceived deservingness. These effects are attenuated when individuals engage in ruminative thoughts about their tumultuous (vs. harmonious) breakups. These findings explain the nuances of self‐gifting behavior following a romantic breakup by establishing a theoretical link between personal failures (e.g., romantic breakups) and a sense of deservingness, which influences consumer's self‐gifting propensity as a self‐reward.
Engaging secondary school students in sustainability assessments through farm nutrient mass balances
Authors: Olivo Agustin J. , Godber Olivia F. , Perry Jeffrey , Wattiaux Michel A. , Ketterings Quirine M.
Published: May 2024

Decision‐support tools (DSTs) are increasingly used to collect, manage, and/or analyze growing amounts of data generated on farms. The whole‐farm nutrient mass balance (NMB) is an assessment with an associated DST (the Cornell NMB calculator) that measures farm nutrient management efficiency. Our main objectives were to (1) develop and implement a secondary school curriculum on NMB assessments; (2) evaluate its impact on student knowledge and perceptions of agricultural sustainability, nutrient management, careers in agriculture, awareness about data collection and use of DSTs, and analytical and quantitative skills; and (3) assess teacher experiences delivering the materials. The curriculum was implemented across 21 New York classrooms. Students completed one pre‐ and one post‐curriculum implementation questionnaire (n = 134). Teachers completed a post‐curriculum implementation questionnaire (n = 19). Results showed that the curriculum enhanced student knowledge of nutrient management and effectively conveyed the fundamentals of the NMB metrics. It also impacted student perceptions of the utilization of DSTs and need for mathematical skills and data management knowledge in agriculture. The curriculum did not influence student interest in pursuing agricultural careers but exposed them to aspects of farming that they were not previously familiar with. The math‐focused lessons were identified as challenging by many students and teachers. Teachers found the curriculum applicable to the real world, exposing students to new aspects of farming. We conclude that real‐world case‐study examples, carefully planned math‐focused lessons, appropriate support materials including widely installable and user‐friendly software, and training opportunities for teachers can help effective teaching of DST use and agriculture sustainability concepts.
Evaluation of Hypocalcemia Following Total Laryngectomy With and Without Thyroidectomy
Authors: Eberly Hänel W. , Sciscent Bao Y. , Jeffrey Lorenz F. , Truong Nguyen , King Tonya S. , Goldenberg David , Goyal Neerav
Published: May 2024

Objective

Hypoparathyroidism and associated hypocalcemia are well‐established complications following laryngectomy. This study further characterizes the rates of hypocalcemia in patients undergoing total laryngectomy (TL) with and without thyroidectomy and hemithyroidectomy.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

TriNetX.

Methods

We queried TriNetX, a deidentified patient database, to identify patients who underwent TL with and without thyroidectomy and hemithyroidectomy. Rates of hypocalcemia, low parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and calcitriol supplementation were compared between groups with multivariable repeated measures logistic regression.

Results

We identified 870 patients in the TL without thyroidectomy cohort, 158 patients in the hemithyroidectomy cohort, and 123 in the total thyroidectomy cohort. Rates of hypocalcemia differed between patients receiving total thyroidectomy versus TL alone for 0 to 1 month (odds ratio [OR]: 2.88 [1.95‐4.26]) 1 to 6 months (OR: 5.08 [2.29‐11.3]), and 6 to 12 months (OR: 2.63 [1.003‐6.88]) postoperatively, with adjustment for age at laryngectomy, race, ethnicity, and gender. Results were similar among those who received calcium supplementation. The rate of low PTH levels differed in these groups for 0 to 1 month (OR: 5.13 [3.10‐8.51]), 1 to 6 months (OR: 3.47 [1.46‐8.22]), and 6 to 12 months (OR: 3.63 [1.40‐9.38]) following surgery. Rates of postoperative calcium supplementation were increased for patients receiving total thyroidectomy versus TL for 1 to 6 months (OR: 2.44 [1.62‐3.68]), and 6 to 12 months following surgery (OR: 1.79 [1.18‐2.72]).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing TL with total thyroidectomy have a higher risk of postoperative hypocalcemia compared to patients receiving TL alone. Risk of parathyroid injury in these patients may warrant further emphasis on PTH measurement after surgery and a multidisciplinary approach to management.
A Scoping Review of Artificial Intelligence Detection of Voice Pathology: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Liu George S. , Jovanovic Nedeljko , Sung C. Kwang , Doyle Philip C.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Survey the current literature on artificial intelligence (AI) applications for detecting and classifying vocal pathology using voice recordings, and identify challenges and opportunities for advancing the field forward.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus databases.

Review Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Peer‐reviewed journal articles in the English language were included if they used an AI approach to detect or classify pathological voices using voice recordings from patients diagnosed with vocal pathologies.

Results

Eighty‐two studies were included in the review between the years 2000 and 2023, with an increase in publication rate from one study per year in 2012 to 10 per year in 2022. Seventy‐two studies (88%) were aimed at detecting the presence of voice pathology, 24 (29%) at classifying the type of voice pathology present, and 4 (5%) at assessing pathological voice using the Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, and Strain scale. Thirty‐six databases were used to collect and analyze speech samples. Fourteen articles (17%) did not provide information about their AI model validation methodology. Zero studies moved beyond the preclinical and offline AI model development stages. Zero studies specified following a reporting guideline for AI research.

Conclusion

There is rising interest in the potential of AI technology to aid the detection and classification of voice pathology. Three challenges—and areas of opportunities—for advancing this research are heterogeneity of databases, lack of clinical validation studies, and inconsistent reporting.
Can local ecological knowledge establish conservation baselines for the Critically Endangered Blue‐crowned Laughingthrush?
Authors: Gleave Rosalind A. , Papworth Sarah K. , Bauman David , Portugal Steven J. , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Yikang , Cao Zhiming , Cheng Xiaojin , Turvey Samuel T.
Published: May 2024

Designing conservation interventions for rare species can be hindered by a lack of relevant data. Local ecological knowledge (LEK) has potential to provide rapidly collected, cost‐effective data across large spatio‐temporal scales, but has rarely been used as a source of conservation‐relevant information for the Asian Songbird Crisis.

The Blue‐crowned Laughingthrush (Pterorhinus courtoisi; BCLT) is a Critically Endangered passerine found only in southeastern China. It is unclear why the species' breeding range and global population are extremely small, as it occurs in human‐occupied forest‐agricultural landscapes similar to surrounding environments across southern China.

We conducted systematic range‐wide interviews on BCLT (n = 519) to collect novel information on the species' temporal and spatial distribution, and on potential human activities and landscape changes associated with its presence or absence. Recognition of BCLT was moderate (45.0% of respondents reported sightings), with sightings within the previous 18 months across the study area, within and beyond their known distribution. Over half of known breeding villages were confirmed by LEK data, and nesting was reported from two villages with no previous breeding records.

BCLT trapping was reported across the study landscape, mostly from the last decade and associated with trappers from urban centres. BCLT trapping and lack of fengshui forest were associated with sites where BCLTs did not breed. Breeding sites were associated with increases in vegetable gardens over respondents' lifetimes, and other sites within the species' range were associated with decreases in bush/scrub.

We demonstrate that LEK can identify potential threats, new breeding sites and landscape changes correlated with species presence or absence for threatened birds affected by the Asian songbird crisis. This study provides the first evidence of ongoing trapping as a threat to BCLT, and remedial measures are urgently required across the region.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Exome sequencing in every pregnancy? Results of trio exome sequencing in structurally normal fetuses
Authors: Levy Michal , Lifshitz Shira , Goldenberg‐Fumanov Mirela , Bazak Lily , Goldstein Rayna Joy , Hamiel Uri , Berger Rachel , Lipitz Shlomo , Maya Idit , Shohat Mordechai
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the detection rate of clinically significant results of prenatal exome sequencing (pES) in low‐risk pregnancies and apparently normal fetuses in non‐consanguineous couples.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of pES conducted at a single center from January 2020 to September 2023 was performed. Genetic counseling was provided, and detailed medical histories were obtained. High‐risk pregnancies were excluded due to major ultrasound anomalies, sonographic soft markers, abnormal maternal biochemical screening, or family history suggestive of monogenic diseases as well as cases with pathogenic and likely pathogenic (P/LP) chromosomal microarray results. Exome analysis focused on ∼2100 genes associated with Mendelian genetic disorders. Variant analysis and classification followed the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines.

Results

Among 1825 pES conducted, 1020 low‐risk cases revealed 28 fetuses (2.7%) with potentially clinically significant variants indicating known monogenic diseases, primarily de novo dominant variants (64%). Among these 28 cases, 9 fetuses (0.9%) had the potential for severe phenotypes, including shortened lifespan and intellectual disability, and another 12 had the potential for milder phenotypes. Seven cases were reported with variants of uncertain significance (VUS) that, according to the ACMG criteria, leaned toward LP, constituting 0.7% of the entire cohort. Termination of pregnancy was elected in 13 out of 1020 cases (1.2%) in the cohort, including 7/9 in the severe phenotypes group, 2/12 in the milder phenotype group, and 4/7 in the VUS group.

Conclusion

The 2.7% detection rate highlights the significant contribution of pES in low‐risk pregnancies. However, it necessitates rigorous analysis, and comprehensive genetic counseling before and after testing.
Event‐triggered obstacle avoidance control for autonomous surface vehicles with actuator faults
Authors: Dong Gege , Hao Li‐Ying , Li Tieshan , Peng Zhouhua
Published: May 2024

The article addresses the event‐triggered obstacle avoidance control problem for autonomous surface vehicles subject to actuator faults. In order to tackle the challenges presented by unknown actuator faults, internal model uncertainties, and external disturbances, we propose a fault‐tolerant control scheme that relies on an extended state observer to estimate the unknown parameters. In addition, considering the occurrence of actuator faults, a novel event‐triggered mechanism is developed to reduce wear of actuator and ensures the performance of system. On this basis, we employ backstepping technique and an improved artificial potential function methods to develop an event‐triggered obstacle avoidance control scheme with the capability of fault tolerance. This proposed control strategy ensures the uniform ultimate boundedness of tracking errors. In contrast to existing results, the presented control strategy simultaneously holds the performance of obstacle avoidance and fault tolerance and reduce the update frequency of actuators. The effectiveness of the provided control scheme has been confirmed through simulation.
LEO satellite constellations configuration based on the Doppler effect in laser intersatellite links
Authors: Boumalek Kaouther , Aris Skander , Goh Shu Ting , Zekavat Seyed A. , Benslama Malek
Published: May 2024

This paper presents low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation configuration based on the performance of Doppler effect in laser intersatellite links (LISLs). It studies the impact of the LEO constellation's parameters on the performance of the Doppler effect in LISLs. The paper aims to develop LEO satellite constellation configurations that evolve LISLs with minimal Doppler shift. It evaluates the impact of the variation of the relative distance, the inclination angle of the LEO constellation orbital planes, the orbital planes number in the LEO constellation, and the altitude on the performance of Doppler wavelength shift (DWS) in LISLs, for different operating laser wavelengths (OLWs) with respect to two possible intersatellite links (ISL) connection modes within the constellation, straight ISL (n‐to‐n) and inclined ISL (n‐to‐n − 1). n is the order of the satellite in the orbital plane. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of these configurations in terms of altitude, OLW, inclination angle, and the number of orbital planes. In addition, both OneWeb and Starlink constellations are studied to evaluate DWS performance. The study demonstrates that DWS decreases either with the diminution of the relative distance between linked LEO satellites, the inclination of LEO constellation, and the OLW, or with the augmentation of the orbital planes number and altitude. Moreover, the overall DWS between two LEO satellites in the proposed constellation is at least 50% lower than the constellation configuration in other literature. The paper proposes the LEO constellation's configurations that perform LISLs with less possible Doppler effect by optimizing the LEO constellation parameters that impact the Doppler effect. The result of this study helps in the early stage of LEO satellite constellation designing in terms of payload simplicity and cost.
Homogeneously Planar‐Exposure LiB Fiber Skeleton Toward Long‐Lifespan Practical Li Metal Pouch Cells
Authors: Long Kecheng , Liu Xinsheng , Yang Jixu , Wang Han , Wang Anbang , Chen Yuejiao , Mei Lin , Zhang Yu , Wu Zhibin , Wang Weikun , Jin Zhaoqing , Chen Libao
Published: May 2024

LiB alloy is promising lithium (Li) metal anode material because the continuous internal LiB fiber skeleton can effectively suppress Li dendrites and structural pulverization. However, the unvalued surface states limit the practical application of LiB alloy anodes. Herein, the study examined the influence of the different exposure manners of the internal LiB fiber skeleton owing to the various surface states of the LiB alloy anode on electrochemical performance and targetedly proposed a scalable friction coating strategy to construct a lithiated fumed silica (LFS) functional layer with abundant electrochemically active sites on the surface of the LiB alloy anode. The LFS significantly suppresses the inhomogeneous interfacial electrochemical behavior of the LiB alloy anode and enables the exposure of the internal LiB fiber skeleton in a homogeneously planar manner (LFS‐LiB). Thus, a 0.5 Ah LFS‐LiB||LiCoO2 (LCO) pouch cell exhibits a discharge capacity retention rate of 80% after 388 cycles. Moreover, a 6.15 Ah LFS‐LiB||S pouch cell with 409.3 Wh kg−1 exhibits a discharge capacity retention rate of 80% after 30 cycles. In conclusion, the study findings provide a new research perspective for Li alloy anodes.
MOFs‐Based Materials with Confined Space: Opportunities and Challenges for Energy and Catalytic Conversion
Authors: Wang Wei , Yang Ke , Zhu Qinghan , Zhang Tingting , Guo Li , Hu Feiyang , Zhong Ruixia , Wen Xiaojing , Wang Haiwang , Qi Jian
Published: May 2024

Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are a very promising material in the fields of energy and catalysis due to their rich active sites, tunable pore size, structural adaptability, and high specific surface area. The concepts of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality” have opened up huge development opportunities in the fields of energy storage, energy conversion, and catalysis, and have made significant progress and breakthroughs. In recent years, people have shown great interest in the development of MOFs materials and their applications in the above research fields. This review introduces the design strategies and latest progress of MOFs are included based on their structures such as core–shell, yolk–shell, multi‐shelled, sandwich structures, unique crystal surface exposures, and MOF‐derived nanomaterials in detail. This work comprehensively and systematically reviews the applications of MOF‐based materials in energy and catalysis and reviews the research progress of MOF materials for atmospheric water harvesting, seawater uranium extraction, and triboelectric nanogenerators. Finally, this review looks forward to the challenges and opportunities of controlling the synthesis of MOFs through low‐cost, improved conductivity, high‐temperature heat resistance, and integration with machine learning. This review provides useful references for promoting the application of MOFs‐based materials in the aforementioned fields.
Preformed Vesicle Approach to LNP Manufacturing Enhances Retinal mRNA Delivery
Authors: Eygeris Yulia , Henderson Michael I. , Curtis Allison G. , Jozić Antony , Stoddard Jonathan , Reynaga Rene , Chirco Kathleen R. , Su Grace Li‐Na , Neuringer Martha , Lauer Andreas K. , Ryals Renee C. , Sahay Gaurav
Published: May 2024

Complete encapsulation of nucleic acids by lipid‐based nanoparticles (LNPs) is often thought to be one of the main prerequisites for successful nucleic acid delivery, as the lipid environment protects mRNA from degradation by external nucleases and assists in initiating delivery processes. However, delivery of mRNA via a preformed vesicle approach (PFV‐LNPs) defies this precondition. Unlike traditional LNPs, PFV‐LNPs are formed via a solvent‐free mixing process, leading to a superficial mRNA localization. While demonstrating low encapsulation efficiency in the RiboGreen assay, PFV‐LNPs improved delivery of mRNA to the retina by up to 50% compared to the LNP analogs across several benchmark formulations, suggesting the utility of this approach regardless of the lipid composition. Successful mRNA and gene editors’ delivery is observed in the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors and validated in mice, non‐human primates, and human retinal organoids. Deploying PFV‐LNPs in gene editing experiments result in a similar extent of gene editing compared to analogous LNP (up to 3% on genomic level) in the Ai9 reporter mouse model; but, remarkably, retinal tolerability is significantly improved for PFV‐LNP treatment. The study findings indicate that the LNP formulation process can greatly influence mRNA transfection and gene editing outcomes, improving LNP treatment safety without sacrificing efficacy.
Nanoemulsion‐laden poly(vinyl) alcohol hydrogel films for transdermal delivery of carbamazepine
Authors: Rai Manali , Lakra Preeti , Yadav Harsh , Maiti Sabyasachi
Published: May 2024

There is an unmet demand for transdermal devices that can deliver large dose of medications through the skin. Herein, nanoemulsion‐based poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) transdermal hydrogel films were developed for the high‐dose anti‐epileptic drug carbamazepine. A stable nanoemulsion was created with almond oil, Tween 60, and amphiphilic locust bean gum. The nanoemulsion had a hydrodynamic diameter of 251 nm, a polydispersity of 10.3%, and a zeta potential of −51.2 mV. Carbamazepine‐loaded nanoemulsion was blended with carbamazepine‐free PVA dispersion and casted into films. To accommodate a high dose, carbamazepine‐loaded nanoemulsion was trapped in a PVA dispersion containing carbamazepine to create transdermal films. The physicochemical characteristics and drug penetration characteristics of the produced films were compared. Both films had the uniform thickness, weight, and drug content. The folding endurance was found to be greater than 700 in both cases. Water vapor permeability decreased when carbamazepine was added to almond oil as well as polymer dispersion. FESEM pictures revealed a waxy paper‐like appearance for the PVA hydrogel film with dual drug‐reservoirs. FTIR spectra assessment revealed a hydrogen bonding interaction between PVA and carbamazepine. X‐ray diffraction examination revealed that the film contained an amorphous dispersion of carbamazepine. Dual carbamazepine reservoir‐based films outperformed single nanoemulsion drug reservoir‐based films in terms of drug flux through excised rat skin by 3.2 times. The in vitro skin permeation findings corresponded well to zero order kinetic models. Overall, this study showed that a high‐dose drug could be placed on nanoemulsion‐based transdermal PVA hydrogel films, resulting in improved skin permeability.

Highlights

Nanoemulsion was stable at almond oil:Tween 60/modified gum ratio of 5:5.

Loading of high dose carbamazepine in nanoemulsion‐PVA transdermal films.

Film of dual carbamazepine reservoir showed low water vapor permeation, moisture retention.

Flux of carbamazepine from films improved three times through excised rat skin.
Value of high‐definition laryngoscopy in the diagnosis of pyriform sinus fistula
Authors: Zhang Pei‐Jun , Tian Xiu‐Fen
Published: May 2024

Objective

Efficient methods are available to diagnose pyriform sinus fistula (PSF). This study aimed to assess the value of high‐definition laryngoscopy (HDL) in the diagnosis of PSF.

Methods

From January 2017 to December 2019, patients with PSF were enrolled into this study. HDL was performed without general anesthesia. Laryngoscopy characteristics were analyzed. An inner orifice in the pyriform fossa indicated the presence of PSF. The diagnostic accuracy of HDL was compared to that of barium swallow.

Results

A total of 56 patients (33 males and 23 females, ages 2–57 years) were included. The positive predictive value of HDL was 96.4%, and that of barium swallow was 89.2%. Compared to pronouncing the English letter “e,” anterior cervical skin traction plus Valsalva maneuver could offer a clearer view of the inner orifice in the pyriform fossa (χ2 = 11.187, p < 0.05). Nevertheless, compared to barium swallow, HDL showed no statistically significant difference in diagnosing PSF (χ2 = 2.598, p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Both HDL and barium swallow have their advantages and are complementary in diagnosing PSF. Their combination may achieve a higher diagnostic accuracy for PFS.
Coastal Fisheries Governance in the Pacific Islands: The Evolution of Policy and the Progress of Management-at-Scale
Authors: Govan Hugh , Lalavanua Watisoni , Steenbergen Dirk J.
Published: May 2024

For Pacific Island people, coastal fisheries are fundamental for supporting livelihoods, nutrition and health, cultures, and economies. However, only in the last 30 years has the region’s fisheries policy come to recognize the significant contributions of coastal fisheries and the need for national management strategies. This chapter tracks the evolving regional policy on coastal fisheries, including the challenges and opportunities for prospective regional and national policy formation and implementation. Regional policy first recognized the importance of management across coastal waters in 2003; since then, this recognition has increased through a series of directives and strategic frameworks. The need to accelerate the national implementation of coastal fisheries management has led fisheries agency staff and other science and civil society stakeholders to collectively develop, under the auspices of the Pacific Community (SPC), the “Pacific Framework for Action on Scaling up Community-based Fisheries Management: 2021–2025.” Regional policies are specifically targeted and prioritized for national needs and provide the most effective means of support delivery. The SSF Guidelines are supplementary, particularly in the areas of human rights, and their further integration through joint delivery at the national level will be important. Over 600 community-based fisheries management sites have been documented across the Pacific Islands, which in some countries includes most fishing communities. These sites represent almost the entirety of coastal marine protected areas, which are significant for achieving international conservation targets. However, in highly populated countries, substantial community coverage remains unlikely, suggesting that other aspects of the enabling environment need to be addressed. More crucially, implementation is challenged by limitations to national staffing and recurrent budgets. With increasing philanthropic interest in funding locally governed marine and coastal areas, it will be crucial that these efforts build on the substantial progress made and are guided by regional and national public policy. A critical consideration is ensuring substantially increased management budgets and administrative capacity of fisheries agencies.
Structural basis for the distinct roles of non-conserved Pro116 and conserved Tyr124 of BCH domain of yeast p50RhoGAP
Authors: Shankar Srihari , Chew Ti Weng , Chichili Vishnu Priyanka Reddy , Low Boon Chuan , Sivaraman J.
Published: May 2024

p50RhoGAP is a key protein that interacts with and downregulates the small GTPase RhoA. p50RhoGAP is a multifunctional protein containing the BNIP-2 and Cdc42GAP Homology (BCH) domain that facilitates protein–protein interactions and lipid binding and the GAP domain that regulates active RhoA population. We recently solved the structure of the BCH domain from yeast p50RhoGAP (YBCH) and showed that it maintains the adjacent GAP domain in an auto-inhibited state through the β5 strand. Our previous WT YBCH structure shows that a unique kink at position 116 thought to be made by a proline residue between alpha helices α6 and α7 is essential for the formation of intertwined dimer from asymmetric monomers. Here we sought to establish the role and impact of this Pro116. However, the kink persists in the structure of P116A mutant YBCH domain, suggesting that the scaffold is not dictated by the proline residue at this position. We further identified Tyr124 (or Tyr188 in HBCH) as a conserved residue in the crucial β5 strand. Extending to the human ortholog, when substituted to acidic residues, Tyr188D or Tyr188E, we observed an increase in RhoA binding and self-dimerization, indicative of a loss of inhibition of the GAP domain by the BCH domain. These results point to distinct roles and impact of the non-conserved and conserved amino acid positions in regulating the structural and functional complexity of the BCH domain.
Prenatal treatment with preimplantation factor improves early postnatal neurogenesis and cognitive impairments in a mouse model of Down syndrome
Authors: Moreau Manon , Dard Rodolphe , Madani Amélia , Kandiah Janany , Kassis Nadim , Ziga Jessica , Castiglione Héloïse , Day Solenn , Bourgeois Thomas , Matrot Boris , Vialard François , Janel Nathalie
Published: May 2024

Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disease characterized by a supernumerary chromosome 21. Intellectual deficiency (ID) is one of the most prominent features of DS. Central nervous system defects lead to learning disabilities, motor and language delays, and memory impairments. At present, a prenatal treatment for the ID in DS is lacking. Subcutaneous administration of synthetic preimplantation factor (sPIF, a peptide with a range of biological functions) in a model of severe brain damage has shown neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties by directly targeting neurons and microglia. Here, we evaluated the effect of PIF administration during gestation and until weaning on Dp(16)1Yey mice (a mouse model of DS). Possible effects at the juvenile stage were assessed using behavioral tests and molecular and histological analyses of the brain. To test the influence of perinatal sPIF treatment at the adult stage, hippocampus-dependent memory was evaluated on postnatal day 90. Dp(16)1Yey pups showed significant behavioral impairment, with impaired neurogenesis, microglial cell activation and a low microglial cell count, and the deregulated expression of genes linked to neuroinflammation and cell cycle regulation. Treatment with sPIF restored early postnatal hippocampal neurogenesis, with beneficial effects on astrocytes, microglia, inflammation, and cell cycle markers. Moreover, treatment with sPIF restored the level of DYRK1A, a protein that is involved in cognitive impairments in DS. In line with the beneficial effects on neurogenesis, perinatal treatment with sPIF was associated with an improvement in working memory in adult Dp(16)1Yey mice. Perinatal treatment with sPIF might be an option for mitigating cognitive impairments in people with DS.