bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The R-Process Alliance: Analysis of limited-r stars
Authors: Xylakis-Dornbusch T. , Hansen T. T. , Beers T. C. , Christlieb N. , Ezzeddine R. , Frebel A. , Holmbeck E. , Placco V. M. , Roederer I. U. , Sakari C. M. , Sneden C.
Published: May 2024

Context. In recent years, the R-Process Alliance (RPA) has conducted a successful search for stars that are enhanced in elements produced by the rapid neutron-capture (r-)process. In particular, the RPA has uncovered a number of stars that are strongly enriched in light r-process elements, such as Sr, Y, and Zr. These so-called limited-r stars were investigated to explore the astrophysical production site(s) of these elements.

Aims. We investigate the possible formation sites for light neutron-capture elements by deriving detailed abundances for neutron-capture elements from high-resolution spectra with a high signal-to-noise ratio of three limited-r stars.

Methods. We conducted a kinematic analysis and a 1D local thermodynamic equilibrium spectroscopic abundance analysis of three stars. Furthermore, we calculated the lanthanide mass fraction (XLa) of our stars and of limited-r stars from the literature.

Results. We found that the abundance pattern of neutron-capture elements of limited-r stars behaves differently depending on their [Ba/Eu] ratios, and we suggest that this should be taken into account in future investigations of their abundances. Furthermore, we found that the XLa of limited-r stars is lower than that of the kilonova AT2017gfo. The latter seems to be in the transition zone between limited-rXLa and that of r-I and r-II stars. Finally, we found that unlike r-I and r-II stars, the current sample of limited-r stars is largely born in the Galaxy and is not accreted.
Three-temperature radiation hydrodynamics with PLUTO: Thermal and kinematic signatures of accreting protoplanets
Authors: Muley Dhruv , Melon Fuksman Julio David , Klahr Hubert
Published: May 2024

In circumstellar disks around young stars, the gravitational influence of nascent planets produces telltale patterns in density, temperature, and kinematics. To better understand these signatures, we first performed 3D hydrodynamical simulations of a 0.012 M⊙ disk with a Saturn-mass planet orbiting circularly in-plane at 40 au. We tested four different disk thermodynamic prescriptions (in increasing order of complexity: local isothermality, β cooling, two-temperature radiation hydrodynamics, and three-temperature radiation hydrodynamics), finding that β cooling offers a reasonable approximation for the three-temperature approach when the planet is not massive or luminous enough to substantially alter the background temperature and density structure. Thereafter, using the three-temperature scheme, we relaxed this assumption, simulating a range of different planet masses (Neptune-mass, Saturn-mass, and Jupiter-mass) and accretion luminosities (0 and 10−3 L⊙) in the same disk. Our investigation revealed that signatures of disk–planet interaction strengthen with increasing planet mass, with circumplanetary flows becoming prominent in the high-planet-mass regime. Accretion luminosity, which adds pressure support around the planet, was found to weaken the midplane Doppler flip, which is potentially visible in optically thin tracers such as C18O, while strengthening the spiral signature, particularly in upper disk layers sensitive to thicker lines, such as those of 12CO.
Peculiarities of the chemical enrichment of metal-poor stars in the Milky Way Galaxy
Authors: Mishenina T. , Pignatari M. , Usenko I. , Soubiran C. , Thielemann F.-K. , Kniazev A. Yu. , Korotin S. A. , Gorbaneva T.
Published: May 2024

Context. The oldest stars in the Milky Way are metal-poor with [Fe/H] < −1.0, displaying peculiar elemental abundances compared to solar values. The relative variations in the chemical compositions among stars is also increasing with decreasing stellar metallicity, allowing for the pure signature of unique nucleosynthesis processes to be revealed. The study of ther-process is, for instance, one of the main goals of stellar archaeology and metal-poor stars exhibit an unexpected complexity in the stellar production of ther-process elements in the early Galaxy.

Aims. In this work, we report the atmospheric parameters, main dynamic properties, and the abundances of four metal-poor stars: HE 1523-0901, HD 6268, HD 121135, and HD 195636 (−1.5 > [Fe/H] > −3.0).

Methods. The abundances were derived from spectra obtained with the HRS echelle spectrograph at the Southern African Large Telescope, using both local and non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE and NLTE) approaches, with the average error between 0.10 and 0.20 dex.

Results. Based on their kinematical properties, we show that HE 1523-0901 and HD 195636 are halo stars with typical high velocities. In particular, HD 121135 displays a peculiar kinematical behaviour, making it unclear whether it is a halo or an accreted star. Furthermore, HD 6268 is possibly a rare prototype of very metal-poor thick disk stars. The abundances derived for our stars are compared with theoretical stellar models and with other stars with similar metallicity values from the literature.

Conclusions. HD 121135 is Al-poor and Sc-poor, compared to stars observed in the same metallicity range (−1.62 > [Fe/H] > −1.12). The most metal-poor stars in our sample, HE 1523-0901, HD 6268, and HD 195636, exhibit anomalies that are better explained by supernova models from fast-rotating stellar progenitors for elements up to the Fe group. Compared to other stars in the same metal-licity range, their common biggest anomaly is represented by the low Sc abundances. If we consider the elements beyond Zn, HE 1523-0901 can be classified as an r-II star, HD 6268 as an r-I candidate, and HD 195636 and HD 121135 exhibiting a borderliner-process enrichment between limited-r and r-I star. Significant relative differences are observed between the r-process signatures in these stars.
Investigating the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of Cd1–xVxTe: insights from first-principles calculations
Authors: Baiboud Mohamed , Labrag Abdelaziz , Bghour Mustapha , Khenfouch Mohammed , Charkaoui Halima , Abou El Hassan Ahmed , Ouaddi H.El , Laasri Said
Published: May 2024

In our study, we aim to investigate the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of Cd1–xVxTe, a diluted magnetic semiconductor with a Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) structure. To achieve this, we employ the full potential linear augmented plane wave method implemented in the CASTEP code, which allows us to accurately simulate the behavior of the system. To describe the electronic exchange and correlation effects, we adopt the Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) within the Density Functional Theory (DFT) framework. This choice of methodology ensures reliable and accurate calculations of the electronic and magnetic properties of Cd1–xVxTe. Our results reveal that the substitution of Cadmium by Vanadium (V) into the (Cd) site of the CdTe lattice does not alter the zinc blende crystal structure, demonstrating the stability and structural integrity of the system. Furthermore, our calculations demonstrate that the introduction of Vanadium impurities leads to spin polarization within the material, resulting in the emergence of a magnetic moment. Notably, we find that a Vanadium concentration of approximately x ≈ 0.12 leads to the strongest magnetic properties, characterized by a significant magnetic moment. These findings provide valuable insights into the behavior and potential applications of Cd1–xVxTe as a diluted magnetic semiconductor, shedding light on the interplay between structural, electronic, and magnetic properties in this material.
Alopecia areata – ein Update
Authors: Huber Stephanie Marie , Navarini Alexander A. , Braun Ralph P. , Greis Christian
Published: May 2024

Alopecia areata (AA) – der kreisrunde Haarausfall – stellt nach der androgenetischen
Alopezie die zweithäufigste Haarverlusterkrankung weltweit dar. Es wird vermutet, dass es
infolge des Verlusts des Immunprivilegs des Haarfollikels zu einer Destruktion der Zellen des
Haarfollikels kommt. Der konsekutive Haarausfall geht mit erheblichen Auswirkungen auf die
Lebensqualität einher. Die Spontanremission liegt insbesondere bei leichteren Verlaufsformen
bei bis zu 80%. Es bestehen topische, injizierbare und systemische immunsupprimierende bzw.
-modulierende Behandlungsmöglichkeiten. Vielversprechend scheinen v.a. systemisch verabreichte
JAK-Inhibitoren zu sein.
Neue Therapien, neue Herausforderungen – alte
Bedürfnisse
Authors: Bergelt Corinna
Published: May 2024

Im Februar fand der 36. Deutsche Krebskongress statt, der unter dem Kongressmotto
„Fortschritt gemeinsam gestalten“ stand. Der Kongress stellte mit 12.500
Teilnehmenden einen neuen Besucher*innenrekord auf und setzte dem Kongressmotto
entsprechend einen Schwerpunkt in den Bereichen personalisierte Medizin und neue
Therapieansätze 1. Gerade in den letzten 20
Jahren hat sich die Krebsmedizin extrem weiterentwickelt und es sind zu den bereits
bestehenden Therapieoptionen viele neue Entwicklungen im Bereich molekularer und
personalisierter Therapien hinzugekommen, durch die deutlich bessere
Therapieergebnisse erzielt und Überlebenszeiten verbessert werden können 2. Durch große Forschungsinitiativen wie die
Nationale Dekade gegen Krebs 3 und auch die
Weiterentwicklungen im Bereich künstlicher Intelligenz ist zu erwarten, dass sich
das Entwicklungstempo weiter beschleunigen wird und es besteht berechtigte Hoffnung,
dass der medizinische Fortschritt weitere Erfolge für die Krebstherapie bringen
wird.
The Efficacy of Three Different Oral Hygiene Regimens in Preventing
Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis in Pediatric Patients Receiving
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Aygunes Utku , Karagun Barbaros Sahin , Sasmaz Ilgen , Antmen Bülent
Published: May 2024

Background Oral mucositis is one of the side effects developed
post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant. This retrospective study aimed to
assess the efficacy of a mouthwash mixture (lidocaine, sodium alginate,
sucralfate, pheniramine) versus hyaluronic acid and a solution of sodium
bicarbonate in terms of healing time and weight gain in the treatment of oral
mucositis in pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell
transplantation with hemato-oncological malignancies.

Methods A total of 171 patients that received chemotherapy for the
hematopoietic stem cell transplant were divided into three groups; group 1,
treated with a mixed mouthwash of lidocaine, sodium alginate, sucralfate, and
pheniramine; group 2, treated with hyaluronic acid; and group 3, treated with an
aqueous solution of 5% sodium bicarbonate. Weight and mucositis scale scores
derived from medical records of patients.

Results There was a statistically significant difference in the mucositis
scale scores between the groups on the transplant day and days 5, 10, 15 and 20
after the transplantation. At these measurement points, Group 2 (receiving
hyaluronic acid) had a lower score, and Group 3 (who received sodium
bicarbonate) had a higher score, especially on days 5 and 10 after the
transplantation.

Conclusion The results suggest that hyaluronic acid is a more effective
treatment option than the other oral care solutions that are frequently used for
prophylaxis and treatment of oral mucositis.
Pretransplant Parathyroidectomy in Patients with Severe Secondary
Hyperparathyroidism and Long-Term Effectiveness After Kidney
Transplantation
Authors: Akcay Omer Faruk , Yeter Haci Hasan , Yuksel Osman , Guz Galip
Published: May 2024

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best option for patients with end-stage renal
disease, but recipients still have legacy bone mineral disease from the
pretransplant period, especially patients with severe secondary
hyperparathyroidism (sHPT). Patients who had severe sHPT and underwent KT were
analyzed retrospectively. Two groups were identified (patients with severe sHPT
who had parathyroidectomy or calcimimetic before KT). Bone mineral density (BMD)
was measured in the first year and last follow-up at the femoral neck, total
hip, and lumbar spine using the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
Persistent hyperparathyroidism (perHPT) incidence was significantly higher in
the calcimimetic group (75% vs. 40%, p=0.007). In patients with
parathyroidectomy, BMDs were higher at femoral neck (0.818±0.114 vs.
0.744±0.134, p=0.04) and lumbar spine (1.005±0.170 vs. 0.897±0.151, p=0.01) at
the first assessment. The BMD comparison between patients treated with
parathyroidectomy and calcimimetic found a significant difference only in the
femoral neck at second evaluation (0.835±0.118 vs. 0.758±0.129; p=0.03). In
multivariate, linear regression revealed a positive association between the last
BMD of the femoral neck with body mass index (CC: 0.297, 95% CI, 0.002–0.017)
and parathyroidectomy (CC: 0.319, 95% CI, 0.021–0.156). Parathyroidectomy is
associated with a significantly better femoral neck BMD and a lower incidence of
perHPT in patients with severe sHPT.
Effects of Different Weekly Set Volumes on Strength and Perceptual
Responses in Athletes
Authors: Enes Alysson , Spiess Bruno , Oneda Gustavo , Leonel Danilo Fonseca , Bernardo Mauro F. , Macedo Ana Carolina G. , Alves Ragami Chaves , De Souza Eduardo Oliveira , Souza-Junior Tácito P.
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the effects of different resistance training (RT) volumes
quantified by weekly sets at high intensity (load and effort) on dynamic
strength adaptations and psychophysiological responses in trained individuals.
Twenty-four athletes were randomly allocated to three groups that performed
three (3 S, n=8), six (6 S, n=8), and nine (9 S, n=8) weekly sets, respectively,
three times a week on the barbell back squat and bench press during an 8-week
period. While all groups showcased strength gains (p<0.05), post hoc
comparisons revealed that 6 S and 9 S elicited greater strength adaptations than
3 S in barbell back squat (p=0.027 and p=0.004, respectively) and bench press
(p=0.001 and p=0.044, respectively). There were no differences between 6 S and
9 S conditions for back squat (p=0.999) and bench press (p=0.378). Although a
time effect was observed for Session-RPE (p=0.014) and Total Quality Recovery
scale (p=0.020), psychophysiological responses were similar among groups. Our
findings suggest that performing six and nine weekly sets at high intensities
led to greater strength gains compared to three weekly sets in strength-trained
individuals, despite similar psychophysiological responses.
Implementation of a telemedical urgency assessment procedure in the
pediatric emergency room: evaluation results
Authors: Beyer Angelika , Moon Kilson , Hirsch Thomas , Lode Holger N. , Hoffmann Wolfgang , van den Berg Neeltje
Published: May 2024

Background In rural areas in Germany, the number of emergency departments
with pediatric expertise decreases. Telemedicine solutions are used
sporadically, but they lack certain parameters for assessing a child's
health status, such as touch and smell. We tested and evaluated the
implementation of a telemedical, cross-hospital urgency assessment in pediatric
emergency rooms. The telemedical urgency assessments were carried out via video
conferences and were compared to the usual on-site procedure. Primary results of
the concordance analysis have been published elsewhere. This work describes the
results of the evaluation of the implementation.

Methods The telemedical urgency assessment was carried out in 5 pediatric
emergency departments during the years 2015-2019. Various methods were used to
evaluate the implementation. The following reports are based on (a) a parent
questionnaire with two statements to be evaluated (entire project duration), (b)
a survey of the physicians using telemedicine after each case (entire project
duration) and (c) detailed process documentation (July 2017 until end of the
project).

Results A total of 266 patients under 18 years old, recruited from four
hospitals, were included in the study. (a) 210 parents completed the
questionnaire. 78% of the parents felt adequately cared for and 70% could
imagine telemedicine becoming established as a future supplementary care
procedure. (b) The physicians' questionnaires for the telemedicine site
were completed in 232 cases (87%). The average satisfaction rating was 1.8 on a
6-point-likert-scale (95% confidence interval: 1.64; 1.95). (c) The most
frequent implementation problem concerned the technical implementation of the
video conference. The evaluation of the accompanying documentation revealed in
particular implementation barriers in the technical area (e. g. limited video
and/or audio quality) and in the provision of human resources.

Conclusion Despite implementation barriers, the project showed that
telemedical urgency assessment in acute pediatric care is a promising option for
supporting care. Most of the participating clinicians needed a high level of
support, which in some cases indicated a rather low level of digital competence.
Increasing acceptance of telemedicine functionalities requires changes in
society as a whole with improved framework conditions.
Sleep, Sleepiness, and Memory
Authors: Schmidt Bianca Estefani , Lopes-de-Souza Lucas Henrique , Gutierres Athany , Simon Tiago Teixeira
Published: May 2024

Objective To evaluate the relationship between sleep and sleepiness with memory complaints.

Materials and Methods Patients who were submitted to polysomnography between May and September of 2022 and answered the prospective and retrospective memory questionnaire and the Epworth sleepiness scale were included, respectively. Data were entered into an Excel spreadsheet and converted to a file compatible with the SPSS software.

Results The sample consisted of 98 subjects, 62.2% male, mean age of 45.9 years, 73.4% overweight, 54.1% with comorbidities, and 51% with excessive sleepiness. There was a significant difference in sleep efficiency, respiratory disturbance index (RDI), slow wave sleep (SWS), and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep for the group with comorbidities; in latency to sleep and SWS between genders; and in RDI for the body mass index group. No correlation between RDI and memory could be identified, but there were statistically significant correlations between REM and sleep efficiency; RDI and REM sleep; RDI and SWS; SWS and sleep efficiency; and sleep efficiency and latency to sleep onset. Older adults performed better on memory tests when total sleep time (TST) is longer than 5 hours and excessive daytime sleepiness is related to complaints of prospective, retrospective, and total memory.

Conclusion Elderly people with TST longer than 5 hours have a better memory. Although a correlation between RDI and memory was not observed, a correlation between excessive daytime sleepiness—one of the main symptoms of patients with sleep disorders—and memory was.
Can Improving Postoperative Sleep Speed Up Surgical Recovery?
Authors: da Silva Flavia Rodrigues , Guerreiro Renato de Carvalho , Barreto Amaury Tavares , Brant Valdênio Martins , Silva Andressa , De-Mello Marco Túlio
Published: May 2024

Sleep disturbance is common during recovery after surgical procedures and may have an important effect on mortality, and quality of life. Sleep restriction/deprivation, including decreased quantity and continuity, is common in patients who are patients and persons with acute and chronic illnesses. Age, gender, illness, primary sleep disorders, environment, and medical treatment factors are thought to influence sleep throughout the preoperative period, hospitalization, and recovery. Resulting sleep pattern disturbances include decreases in circadian patterning, continuity, duration, and perceived (subjective) sleep quality. This article synthesizes sleep disturbance in patients who have undergone surgery and highlights sleep strategies to improve faster surgical recovery.
Artéria mediana persistente e síndrome do túnel do carpo: Um estudo retrospectivo
Authors: Felix Yago de Andrade Fonseca , Pistilli Vitor Henrique de Lima , Rezende Luis Guilherme Rosifini Alves , Shimaoka Filipe Jun , Mandarano-Filho Luiz Garcia , Mazzer Nilton
Published: May 2024

Objetivo Este é um estudo retrospectivo acerca da persistência da artéria mediana associada à síndrome do túnel do carpo (STC).

Métodos Este é um estudo retrospectivo da persistência da artéria mediana e STC. Os critérios de exclusão foram pacientes que não apresentavam artéria mediana persistente, aqueles que eram diabéticos ou reumatoides e os que decidiram não realizar a cirurgia. Apenas 25 pacientes foram elegíveis para este estudo retrospectivo.

Resultados A trombose da artéria mediana apresentou diferenças estatísticas considerando as variáveis sexo (p = 0,009), achados eletroneuromiográficos (p = 0,021), profissão (p = 0,066) e “duração total desde o início dos sintomas” (p = 0,055). A atrofia da musculatura tenar não apresentou diferenças estatísticas à comparação das variáveis. O nervo mediano bífido apresentou diferenças estatísticas em comparação aos testes provocativos (p = 0,013), frequência dos sintomas (p = 0,001) e idade (p = 0,028).

Conclusão Embora incomum, a persistência da artéria mediana deve ser considerada um diagnóstico diferencial da STC. A ultrassonografia é um método confiável para prever a anatomia do túnel do carpo. O início tardio e os sintomas podem influenciar a trombose arterial e piorar os sintomas.
Food Consumption and Sleep Disturbances in 9-year-old Children
Authors: Faria Maria Emília de Carvalho , Mastroeni Silmara Salete de Barros Silva , Schultz Lidiane Ferreira , Corrêa Zaíne Glaci Duarte , Ferreira Renatha El Rafihi , Mastroeni Marco F.
Published: May 2024

Objective To assess the association of food consumption with sleep disturbances in 9-year-old children.

Material and Methods The present study is part of a larger cohort study named Predictors of Maternal and Infant Excess Body Weight (PREDI) that was conducted in the homes of the participants during the fourth study follow-up. Anthropometric assessment and demographic, socioeconomic, food consumption, and sleep data were obtained. The children's food consumption was evaluated using the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN, in the Portuguese acronym). Sleep habits were assessed using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children to evaluate sleep pattern-related behaviors in children/adolescents aged 3 to 18 years. Data were self-reported by the mother and her child on the day of the visit. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association of food consumption with sleep disturbances in children at 9 years of age.

Results Of the 142 children who participated in the study, 45.1% had sleep disturbances; most of them were boys (53.6%). The proportion of children with sleep disturbances was higher (55.6%) among children who did not consume fruits compared with those who ate fruits (p = 0.008). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the lack of fruit consumption was associated with sleep disturbances (OR = 2.26, p = 0.023), even after adjustment for other predictors.

Conclusion We showed that the lack of fruit consumption is a predictor of sleep disturbances. Since fruit consumption had a protective effect on sleep disturbances at 9 years of age, encouraging the consumption of fiber-rich foods may contribute to preventing the establishment of sleep problems even in infants.
Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Connective Tissue Disease-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Mulcaire-Jones Erica , Pugashetti Janelle Vu , Oldham Justin M. , Khanna Dinesh
Published: May 2024

Connective tissue diseases (CTD) comprise a group of autoimmune diseases that can affect multiple organs in the body including the lungs. The most common form of pulmonary involvement is interstitial lung disease (ILD). CTD-associated ILD (CTD-ILD) can take one of several courses including nonprogressive, chronically progressive, or rapidly progressive. Chronically and rapidly progressive patterns are associated with increased mortality. Limited randomized controlled trial data are available for treatment of CTD-ILD, with most data coming from systemic sclerosis-related ILD. The current first-line treatment for all CTD-ILD is immunosuppression with consideration of antifibrotics, stem cell transplant, and lung transplant in progressive disease. In this article, we review data for ILD treatment options in systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, myositis, and primary Sjögren's syndrome-related ILDs.
Dietary Inflammatory Potential and its Association with Sleep Complaints in Institutionalized Older Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ferreira Letícia do Nascimento Maximiano , Melo Camila Maria de , Ramos Lilian Barbosa , Silva Henrique Salmazo da , Roriz Anna Karla Carneiro , Ribeiro Sandra Maria Lima
Published: May 2024

Objective To evaluate the inflammatory potential of diets, the specific dietary contributors to said inflammatory potential, the nutritional adequacy of these diets, and the association between the dietary inflammatory potential and sleep complaints among residents of long-term care facilities.

Materials and Methods The present is a cross-sectional, quantitative, and exploratory study, with a convenience pilot sample from two long-term care facilities. To assess sleep complaints, the sleep domain of the Nottingham Health Profile was applied, as well as a question about daytime napping. To evaluate the inflammatory potential of the diet, the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was calculated.

Results The participants presented energy and protein intakes below the recommendation. The intake of saturated fatty acids, omega 6, dietary fiber, vitamins D, E, B6, and magnesium were inadequate in some of the participants. The mean score on the DII was of 1.6, representing a more proinflammatory potential, due to insufficient intake of anti-inflammatory components. The foods with the most significant inflammatory effect consumed were whole milk and butter. On the other hand, those with less inflammatory potential were beans, beets, coffee, and sweet potatoes. No significant association was observed between the sleep complaints and the DII.

Conclusion The data showed inadequacy of many nutrients and a proinflammatory potential regarding the diet in the long-term care facilities. However, the DII was not significantly associated with sleep complaints in our sample. The present study highlights the need for greater attention to meal planning in these institutions.
Chapter 6: What Else Can I Do with This Equipment?
Authors: Palmer Catherine , Zitelli Lori
Published: May 2024

If there is sound in the ear canal, you can measure it with a probe microphone in the ear. The following are a few examples of how you might use your real-ear probe microphone measures beyond verifying hearing aid fittings, signal processing, and function of features. A process to simulate hearing loss to educate and support family members and patients is described.
Chapter 4: Introduction and Getting Ready for Real-Ear Probe Microphone Measures
Authors: Zitelli Lori , Palmer Catherine
Published: May 2024

Probe microphone measurements are an essential step in an individualized hearing aid fitting. These measurements allow audiologists to account for the individual's hearing and ear canal acoustics when programming hearing aids. An evidence-based hearing aid fitting includes matching the measured output of the hearing aids to targets for each input level and frequency. This allows the audiologist to confidently counsel the patient that the acoustic fitting is accurate, and the next step is for the individual to use the amplification during all waking hours to adapt to the newly amplified sounds. This also avoids mistakes such as overamplification or insufficient gain, which can endanger the patient and/or lead to a compromised fitting.
Effect of Bleaching on Surface Roughness and Color Parameters of Coffee-Stained Nanohybrid Dental Composites with Different Viscosities
Authors: Redwan Hetaf S. , Hussein Mohamed A. , Abdul-Monem Mohamed M.
Published: May 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to test the effect of different bleaching protocols on surface roughness, color stability, and translucency parameter of coffee-stained nanohybrid dental composites with different viscosities.

Materials and Methods Five nanohybrid dental composites with different viscosities (n = 250)—Neo Spectra LV, Neo Spectra HV, Neo Spectra Flow (Dentsply, Konstanz, Germany), Grandio, and Grandio Flow (Voco, Cuxhaven, Germany)—were used to test surface roughness, color stability, and translucency parameter after bleaching of coffee-stained specimens using either in-office bleaching, home bleaching, or a combination of both. The viscosity of the five types of dental composites was tested using a viscometer. A scanning laser microscope (SLM) was used to examine the surface topography of representative samples from each dental composite after the combined effect of both bleaching agents. Effect of composite type, bleaching protocol, and their interaction was assessed by two-way analysis of variance. For multiple comparisons, Tukey's post hoc test was used with Bonferroni correction.

Results Surface roughness of all coffee-stained dental composites increased after bleaching; however, those of Grandio and Grandio Flow increased significantly (p < 0.0001). This was confirmed by SLM images that showed rough surface with protruding fillers after in-office and home bleaching protocol. Results revealed that bleaching, regardless of the protocol, decreased the delta E values of all dental composites; however, it was still higher than the accepted threshold value of 3.7. Neither of the bleaching protocols enhanced translucency parameter of all dental composites. Neo Spectra Flow and Voco Flow had the highest translucency parameter after the three bleaching protocols.

Conclusion Bleaching does not improve color stability and translucency of coffee-stained nanohybrid dental composites regardless of the viscosity. Surface roughness of coffee-stained nanohybrid dental composites increases after application of bleaching agents.
Levetiracetam Dosing Based on Glasgow Coma Scale Scores in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Authors: Miklus Victoria , Trout Lindsay , Even Katelyn
Published: May 2024

Introduction Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases the risk of early posttraumatic seizures (EPTS). Guidelines suggest the use of prophylactic antiseizure agents, including levetiracetam. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using levetiracetam dosing based on Glasgow Comas Scale (GCS) scores with higher doses used for more severe TBI.

Methods Patients 6 months to 18 years old admitted to Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital (PSHCH) with a TBI who received levetiracetam for EPTS prophylaxis with at least one documented GCS score were included. Patients were divided into two cohorts: before and after implementation of the pediatric TBI Cerner PowerPlan at PSHCH which standardized levetiracetam dosing based on GCS scores. Primary outcome was appropriate dosing of levetiracetam based on GCS. Secondary outcomes included seizure occurrence and adverse effects.

Results Eighty-five patients were included: 42 in the pre-PowerPlan group and 43 in the post-PowerPlan group. Overall, 46 (54%) patients received the appropriate levetiracetam dose based on GCS (pre-PowerPlan, n = 19 [45%] vs. post-PowerPlan n = 27 [63%], p = 0.104). Sixty-four percent of severe TBI patients received appropriate levetiracetam dosing after implantation of the PowerPlan compared with 28% prior to the PowerPlan (p = 0.039). Three patients in each group experienced a seizure while on levetiracetam. Two patients experienced agitation and somnolence attributed to levetiracetam.

Conclusion Levetiracetam dosing based on GCS scores in pediatric TBI patients is a novel approach, and dosing accuracy may be increased with use of a PowerPlan. Additional large-scale studies are needed to evaluate efficacy and safety of this approach prior to widespread implementation.
Application of Computerized Surgical Planning in Craniosynostosis Surgery
Authors: Parikh Neil , Aral Ali , Lewis Katelyn , Alperovich Michael
Published: May 2024

Craniosynostosis, a medical condition characterized by premature fusion of one or multiple cranial sutures, has historically been treated through surgical correction. Computerized Surgical Planning (CSP) and three-dimensional (3D) modeling have gained significant popularity across craniofacial surgery. Through a collaborative effort between surgeons and engineers, it is now possible to virtually execute a surgical plan based on preoperative imaging using computed tomography scans. The CSP workflow involves several elements including virtual 3D modeling, CSP computer-aided surgical guide design, manufacturing of guides and templates, and intraoperative implementation. Through the gradual optimization of this workflow, it has been possible to achieve significant progress in the surgical process including improvements in the preoperative planning of complex craniosynostosis cases and reduction of intraoperative time. Furthermore, CSP and 3D modeling have had a positive impact on surgical simulation and residency training, along with patient education and counseling. This article summarizes the CSP workflow in the treatment of craniosynostosis and the implications of this treatment modality on medical trainee education and patient management.
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy for the Management of Obstructive Hydrocephalus in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Durán-Ojeda Alejandro , Campos-Fajardo Santiago , Suárez-Monsalve Silvia , Lindado-Pacheco Carlos Alberto , Becerra-Ospina Jaime Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Introduction Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain's ventricular system. It can stem from obstructive and nonobstructive causes. Pregnancy introduces physiopathological changes that may heighten the risk of developing or worsening symptomatic hydrocephalus. Nevertheless, comprehensive reports on this aspect, especially regarding surgical interventions, remain scarce.

Case Report A young woman with a history of recurrent headaches experienced a worsening of her symptoms at the onset of her pregnancy. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the first trimester revealed increased ventricular dilation, indicating an obstructive cause due to aqueduct stenosis. During a neurosurgical board meeting, treatment options were discussed, considering the identifiable obstruction, the heightened intra-abdominal pressure associated with pregnancy, and the risk of ventricular shunt dysfunction. The patient underwent an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) without complications, leading to both symptom relief and a successful conclusion to the pregnancy.

Discussion Neurosurgical procedures in pregnant women are uncommon due to the increased risks to both the mother and the fetus. However, when performed by a qualified multidisciplinary team, they can lead to positive outcomes. In cases of hydrocephalus during pregnancy, ETV appears to be a viable alternative for surgical intervention, particularly when hydrocephalus becomes symptomatic and an obstructive cause is identified, whether in patients with existing shunts or those with newly developed hydrocephalus.
Pulmonary Embolism Following Lung Transplantation: Prevention and Management
Authors: Mohammadi Daniel , Keshavamurthy Suresh
Published: May 2024

Thromboembolic events are the third leading cardiovascular diagnosis following stroke and myocardial infarction. In the United States, 300,000 to 600,000 people per year are diagnosed with venous thromboembolism, either deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (PE). Of those patients, thousands die from PE despite heightened vigilance and improved therapies. Lung transplant recipients are at increased risk of developing PE due to multiple risk factors unique to this population. Additionally, the transplant recipients are more susceptible to morbid complications from PE. As a result, prevention, timely recognition, and intervention of PE in the lung transplant population are of the utmost importance.
A Prospective Study on the Use of Deep Inspiration Breath-Hold Technique in External Beam Radiotherapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Jose Nijo , N.P Jayashree , Lewis Shirley , Sharan Krishna , Velu Umesh , Reddy Anusha , Singh Anshul , Rao Shreekripa , C. Shambhavi , Nisha Rachel , Nair Sarath , Nagesh Jyothi , Chandraguthi Srinidhi
Published: May 2024

Background Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of death in women. The deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) technique helps reduce the dose received by the heart and lungs in breast cancers during adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). We present the dosimetry of heart and lungs with DIBH technique, reproducibility, and ease of execution.

Materials and Methods This is a prospective study among breast cancer patients planned for adjuvant RT following either breast conservation or mastectomy. Patients received adjuvant RT to a dose of 42.5 Gy/16 Fr to the chest wall/whole breast followed by a boost of 10 Gy/5 Fr for breast conservation surgery patients with either three-dimensional conformal RT or volumetric modulated arc therapy technique. The dosimetric parameters such as lung mean dose, heart mean dose, and V25 Gy were compared between DIBH and free-breathing (FB) scans. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results The study was conducted from September 2018 to August 2020, and 32 patients were included. The compliance to the DIBH technique was good. The dose received by ipsilateral lung V20 (17 vs. 25%) and mean dose (9 vs. 12 Gy) were significantly lower in DIBH compared with FB (p < 0.001). The V5 (31 vs. 15%), V25 (9 vs. 2%), and mean dose (7 vs. 3.3 Gy) to the heart were much higher in FB compared with DIBH (p < 0.001).

Conclusion DIBH-based RT treatment delivery for breast cancer patients requiring adjuvant RT showed good compliance and offers a significant reduction in radiation dose to the heart and lung.
Study on the productivity and mechanism of physical field evolution of enhanced geothermal systems under different working fluid types and properties
Authors: Cui Hanbo , Jiang Xintong , Mo Zongyun , Guo Fei , Guo Shenghao , Zhuang Weitan , Huang Xiaojun
Published: May 2024

The injected working fluid conditions directly affect the heat generation efficiency of a stimulated hot dry rock reservoir. Taking exploration well GR1 in the Gonghe Basin of Qinghai as the research object, a stochastic discrete fracture reservoir model was established around the main injection channel, and the productivity variation pattern of the enhanced geothermal system (EGS) and the spatiotemporal evolution mechanism of the reservoir fields were analyzed for CO2 and H2O working fluids. The interaction mechanism between the upper and lower rock formations and the reservoir during the heat mining process was discussed. This study obtained the following findings: (1) when the working fluid was CO2, after 20 years of heat recovery, the injection flow rate, output flow rate, and heat generation efficiency with a working fluid temperature of 60 °C reached 1.22 times, 1.18 times, and 1.92 times those with a working fluid temperature of 35 °C, respectively. The average subsidence and average geostress with the working fluid temperature of 60 °C were low, at only 90.61% and 95.96% of those with the working fluid temperature of 35 °C, respectively. However, high-temperature fluid injection increased flow loss. The changes in the various laws of H2O-EGS were similar to those of CO2-EGS. (2) When the working fluid temperature was 35 °C, after 20 years of heat recovery, the output flow rate and heat generation efficiency with the CO2-EGS reached 12.66 times and 1.28 times those with the H2O-EGS, respectively. However, the flow loss, average subsidence, and average geostress were higher with the CO2-EGS, reaching 6.58 times, 1.14 times, and 1.06 times those with the H2O-EGS, respectively. The patterns in these parameters observed at the other temperatures were similar to those observed at 35 °C. (3) The temperature decrease of the cushion layer was higher than that of the caprock, while the subsidence of the caprock was higher, and this phenomenon was more obvious when the working fluid temperature was lower. The conclusions obtained have important reference significance for the rational selection of working fluids.
Spatial confinement offered by a blocker on the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy of Ti plasma
Authors: Ayub Rana Muhammad , Bashir Shazia , Dawood Asadullah , Bonyah Ebenezer , Ganie Abdul Hamid , Mahmood Khaliq , Koka Nisar Ahmad , Hayat Asma , Akram Mahreen , Haider Rizvi Syed Zuhaib
Published: May 2024

Spatial confinement effects offered by a blocker on the laser-induced plasma parameters of titanium (Ti) are evaluated using the Optical Emission Spectroscopy technique. Nd:YAG (1064 nm, 10 ns) laser is used as an irradiation source. To observe the spatial confinement effects, an Al blocker at different distances of 4, 6, and 8 mm from the target is placed along the plume path. All the measurements are performed under the Ar environment at different pressures. It is observed that with increasing laser irradiance plasma parameters such as excitation temperature (Te) and electron number density (ne) increase, whereas it is vice versa true for increasing blocker distances. Without the blocker, the maximum values of Te and ne are about 7000 K and 1.4 × 1018 cm−3, respectively, at an Ar pressure of 50 Torr. A significant increase in emission intensity along with Te ≈ 9810 K and ne ≈ 2.2 × 1018 cm−3 is achieved in the presence of blocker. The results show that spatial confinement is responsible for the enhancement of Te and ne, which is attributed to the increased collisional frequency of plasma species after compression by shockwaves. The ablation pressure and shock pressure are also analytically evaluated and vary from 0.15 to 0.25 GPa and from 0.1 to 0.2 GPa, respectively, with increasing laser irradiance. With increasing blocker distances from 4 to 8 mm, the work done by reflected shockwaves to compress the plume varies from 0.02 to 0.002 mJ.
Development of a ReaxFF reactive force field for ternary phosphate-based bioactive glasses
Authors: Fallah Zohreh , Christie Jamieson K.
Published: May 2024

Phosphate-based glasses (PBGs) in the CaO–Na2O–P2O5 system have diverse applications as biomaterials due to their unique dissolution properties. A reactive force field (ReaxFF) has been developed to simulate these materials at the atomic level. The ReaxFF parameters of PBGs, including the interaction between phosphorus and calcium atoms, have been developed using a published code based on genetic algorithms. The training data, including the atomic charges, atomic forces, bond and angle parameters, and different differential energies, are chosen and measured from static quantum-mechanical calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics of PBGs. We did different short- and medium-range structural analyses on the bulk simulated PBGs with different compositions to validate the developed potential. Radial and angular distribution functions and coordination numbers of network formers and modifiers, as well as the network connectivity of the glass, are in agreement with experimental and previous simulations using both shell-model classical force fields and ab initio simulated data; for example, the coordination number of phosphorus is 4.0. This successful development of ReaxFF parameters being able to describe the bulk PBGs enables us to work on the dissolution behavior of the glasses, including the interaction of water molecules with PBGs, in future works.
Numerical characterization of piezoelectric energy harvesting from an L-shaped frame
Authors: Raafat Ahmed , Al-Haik Mohammad Y. , Al Nuaimi Saeed
Published: May 2024

An L-shaped structure, intended for piezoelectric energy harvesting, is being characterized numerically to obtain extended insight into the effect of various parameters and metrics that are hard to track from experimental setups and simplified analytical models and to show the underlying mechanism of efficient piezoelectric harvesting. A numerical model was developed to analyze the structure under harmonic base excitation to obtain voltage frequency response and strain distribution data. The model takes into effect the load resistance applied between the piezoelectric patch electrodes and the damping ratio of each mode for accurate resonance amplitude evaluation. The validity of the model was confirmed by comparisons with previous experiments and showed strong agreement. The approach demonstrated that piezoelectric energy harvesting modeling, in general, is sensitive to inaccurate estimations, especially in the damping parameters, which emphasizes that rough assumptions made in analytical models will not yield results that can be discussed in correlation with experimental outcomes. This work states the guidelines for accurate piezoelectric modeling using numerical software, with the aim of enabling the investigation of complex harvesters, providing more insights to direct researchers to more proof and optimized designs that tackle broadband and energy density problems found in simple harvesters.
Quantum study of the CH3+ photodissociation in full-dimensional neural network potential energy surfaces
Authors: Mazo-Sevillano Pablo del , Aguado Alfredo , Goicoechea Javier R. , Roncero Octavio
Published: May 2024

C H 3 + , a cornerstone intermediate in interstellar chemistry, has recently been detected for the first time by using the James Webb Space Telescope. The photodissociation of this ion is studied here. Accurate explicitly correlated multi-reference configuration interaction ab initio calculations are done, and full-dimensional potential energy surfaces are developed for the three lower electronic states, with a fundamental invariant neural network method. The photodissociation cross section is calculated using a full-dimensional quantum wave packet method in heliocentric Radau coordinates. The wave packet is represented in angular and radial grids, allowing us to reduce the number of points physically accessible, requiring to push up the spurious states appearing when evaluating the angular kinetic terms, through projection technique. The photodissociation spectra, when employed in astrochemical models to simulate the conditions of the Orion bar, result in a lesser destruction of CH3+ compared to that obtained when utilizing the recommended values in the kinetic database for astrochemistry.
Optimizing energy harvesting from ship-based buoys using Bat Algorithm—A case study
Authors: Chiu Min-Chie , Cheng Ho-Chih
Published: May 2024

It is imperative to explore alternative, preferably renewable energy sources to diminish our reliance on coal and oil, thereby mitigating the adverse impacts of greenhouse gases. For this, an approach was proposed to generate electrical power through energy harvesting from a ship’s buoy riding a lake’s wave. Specifically, an electrical power generation device was established on the side of the ship using a generator and a rod connected to the skirt-type buoy. With the buoy bobbing in the waves, the rod swung due to the relative height difference between the bobbing buoy and the ship, thus generating periodic electrical power. A case study was performed with a fetch of 4 km, a lake depth of 10 m, and a wind speed of 4.5 m/s. To maximize the electrical power generated, the ship-based energy harvester was optimized using a bat algorithm. The resulting mathematical analysis exhibits a worthy electrical power output of 241.6 W. This study underscores the potential of hydraulic energy generation as a promising and sustainable renewable energy and offers valuable insights into optimizing energy harvesters for maximized electricity production.