bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes Distress and Transition Readiness in Youths with Type 1 Diabetes Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care
Authors: Leung Joseph M. W. S. , Al-Yahyawi Naseem Y. , Choi Heywood S. , Stewart Laura L. , Bone Jeffrey N. , Tang Tricia S. , Amed Shazhan
Published: September 2023

Background. Youths with type 1 diabetes transitioning from pediatric to adult care are known to experience significant glycemic excursions and medical complications. Diabetes distress and transition readiness are two potentially related constructs involved in this transition process, but the relationship between them has not been extensively studied. Hypothesis. Lower diabetes distress is associated with increased transition readiness among youths with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adult care. Subjects. One hundred one adolescents and emerging adults with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adult care complete data in 63 study participants. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, we collected diabetes distress scale scores (via T1-DDS) and transition readiness scores (via Am I ON TRAC) at the last pediatric diabetes visit. We fitted regression models to estimate the relationship between T1-DDS scores and ON TRAC scores. Results. The total mean T1-DDS score was associated with ON TRAC knowledge score (β = −2.73, 95% CI −4.41,−1.06,

p
=
0.002

), behavior score (β = −2.61, 95% CI −4.39,−0.84,

p
=
0.005

), and transition readiness indicator (β = −0.18, −0.34,−0.01,

p
=
0.03

). Multiple T1-DDS subscales were associated with ON TRAC knowledge score: powerlessness, management distress, negative social perceptions, eating distress, physician distress, and family/friend distress. Multiple T1-DDS subscales were also associated with ON TRAC behavior score: management distress, negative social perceptions, eating distress, and family/friend distress. Conclusions. Diabetes distress and transition readiness have an inversely proportional relationship in youths with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adult care. Targeting diabetes distress may also improve transition readiness (and vice versa) in this population.
Inhibition of Thermal Runaway Propagation in Lithium-Ion Battery Pack by Minichannel Cold Plates and Insulation Layers
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Zhou Zhifu , Wu Wei-Tao , Lv Jizu , Hu Chengzhi , Gao Linsong , Li Yang , Li Yubai , Song Yongchen
Published: September 2023

The main concern hindering the large-scale application of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in electric vehicles (EV) is thermal runaway (TR). In this work, three-dimensional (3D) TR and conjugate heat transfer modeling of a LIB pack consisting of 12 prismatic cells is performed. Three strategies of thermal spread protection are investigated by numerical simulation. Inserting insulation layers with different thermal conductivities between adjacent LIBs, it is observed that the time to trigger TR in cell 2 delays by 23 s, 31 s, 51 s, and 132 s. When the insulation layer material is 2 mm and 3 mm aerogel, cell 2 produces TR time of 312 s and 944 s. It has reached the standard of safety, and adjacent LIBs could not generate in TR for at least 300 s. The study also shows cell 2 causing TR at 56 s, 51 s, 48 s, and 46 s with cold plates by different mainstream velocities. To completely block the propagation of TR, this study proposes a novel hybrid protective strategy based on insulation layers and cold plates. As a result, the average temperature of cell 2 does not reach more than 80°C, LIB pack tends to be in thermal equilibrium to prevent safety accidents from occurring. The modeling approach used in this study is demonstrated to be an effective tool for the thermal protection design of power system in EV.
Effect of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Treatment in a Patient with Short Stature Associated with the Ring Chromosome 17 Syndrome
Authors: Tempone Cardoso Penna Gustavo , de Rezende Lelot Gabriela , de Rezende Lelot Ana Luiza , Greghi Hernandez Juliana , Costa Figueiredo Carolina , de Araujo Evangelista Nara Michelle , Tonetto Fernandes Vania de Fatima , de Paula Colares Neto Guido
Published: September 2023

Background. Ring chromosome 17 syndrome is a rare hereditary disorder whose prevalence is less than 1 : 1.000.000. We present a ten-year-old patient with ring chromosome 17 syndrome who had short stature and was treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH). Case Report. A ten-year-old male scholar had moderate left conductive deafness, left kidney hypoplasia with hypertension, epilepsy, malformations in hands, feet, and abdomen, and disproportionately short stature. Despite no evidence of growth hormone deficiency, rhGH treatment was indicated as a therapeutic test due to his decelerated growth velocity and severe short stature. As a result, his growth velocity increased by 4.2 cm per year and his stature Z-score increased (from −5.87 to −5.23). Conclusion. The patient’s severe short stature may be related to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors and the positive response to rhGH may indicate abnormalities in the somatotropic axis that were mitigated with the treatment. Although rhGH associated with adequate comorbidities controls improved his growth velocity and height Z-score, its effects in the long term are still unclear.
An Unusual Diagnosis for an Infant Presenting with Olive-Shaped Abdominal Mass
Authors: Abdulaziz Ghada Maher , Mohamed Khalid Maher , Zilai Ayat Hassan , Attieh Asmaa Ibrahim , Alhammad Eman Abdulmohsen , Akkam Abdullah Yahya
Published: September 2023

A 3-month-old male infant was bought to the emergency department with almost 3 weeks of projectile, bilious emesis after each feed. On presentation, he was cachectic and severely dehydrated and had a palpable olive in the epigastric region. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was excluded by abdominal ultrasound. The barium meal demonstrated a massively distended stomach, absence of distal gas, and triple bubble sign. Given the radiological findings, the patient underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy and a congenital duodenal web (CDW) was discovered. While the clinical picture suggested the diagnosis of HPS, barium meal eventually revealed congenital duodenal web. To our knowledge, no other cases of palpable olive mass as the presenting sign of proximal bowel obstruction have been published.
Therapiesteuerung in der Hämatologie und Onkologie
Authors: Westphalen C. Benedikt , Krause Bernd J. , Schuler Markus , Brucker Sara Y. , Hartkopf Andreas , Rasche Leo , Saußele Susanne , Wörmann Bernhard , Hecken Josef , Danner Martin
Published: September 2023

Die diesjährige Frühjahrstagung der DGHO (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hämatologie und Medizinische Onkologie e. V.) stand unter der Überschrift «Herausforderungen in der Onkologie – personalisierte Therapiesteuerung». Über drei Themenkomplexe hinweg wurden aktuelle Möglichkeiten und Perspektiven der Therapiesteuerung in der Onkologie hinsichtlich «Methoden», gelungenen «Beispielen» sowie der «Umsetzung in der Versorgung» diskutiert.
Evidence of rTMS for Motor or Cognitive Stroke Recovery: Hype or Hope?
Authors: Hofmeijer Jeannette , Ham Florien , Kwakkel Gert
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Evidence of efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for stroke recovery is hampered by an unexplained variability of reported effect sizes and an insufficient understanding of mechanisms of action. We aimed to (1) briefly summarize evidence of efficacy, (2) identify critical factors to explain the reported variation in effects, and (3) provide mechanism-based recommendations for future trials.

METHODS:

We performed a systematic review of the literature according to Cochrane and PRISMA Protocols. We included trials with ≥10 patients per treatment group. We classified outcome measures according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. Meta-analysis was done when at least 3 trials were reported on the same construct. In case of significant summary effect sizes with significant heterogeneity, we used sensitivity analyses to test for correlations and differences between found individual effect sizes and possible effect modifiers such as patient-, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation-, and trial characteristics.

RESULTS:

We included 57 articles (N=2595). Funnel plots showed no publication bias. We found significant effect sizes at the level of body function (upper limb synergies, muscle strength, language functioning, global cognitive functioning, visual/spatial inattention) with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation within or beyond 3 months after stroke. We also found significant effect sizes at the level of activities. We found no subgroup differences or significant correlations between individual summary effect sizes and any tested possible effect modifier.

CONCLUSIONS:

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation holds the potential to benefit a range of motor and cognitive outcomes after stroke, but the evidence of efficacy is challenged by unexplained heterogeneity across many small sampled trials. We propose large trials with the collection of individual patient data on baseline severity and brain network integrity with sufficiently powered subgroup analyses, as well as protocolized time-locked training of the target behavior. Additional neurophysiological and biomechanical data may help in understanding mechanisms and identifying biomarkers of treatment efficacy.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: CRD42022300330.
Prediction of Stroke Outcome in Mice Based on Noninvasive MRI and Behavioral Testing
Authors: Knab Felix , Koch Stefan Paul , Major Sebastian , Farr Tracy D. , Mueller Susanne , Euskirchen Philipp , Eggers Moritz , Kuffner Melanie T.C. , Walter Josefine , Berchtold Daniel , Knauss Samuel , Dreier Jens P. , Meisel Andreas , Endres Matthias , Dirnagl Ulrich , Wenger Nikolaus , Hoffmann Christian J. , Boehm-Sturm Philipp , Harms Christoph
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Prediction of poststroke outcome using the degree of subacute deficit or magnetic resonance imaging is well studied in humans. While mice are the most commonly used animals in preclinical stroke research, systematic analysis of outcome predictors is lacking.

METHODS:

We intended to incorporate heterogeneity into our retrospective study to broaden the applicability of our findings and prediction tools. We therefore analyzed the effect of 30, 45, and 60 minutes of arterial occlusion on the variance of stroke volumes. Next, we built a heterogeneous cohort of 215 mice using data from 15 studies that included 45 minutes of middle cerebral artery occlusion and various genotypes. Motor function was measured using a modified protocol for the staircase test of skilled reaching. Phases of subacute and residual deficit were defined. Magnetic resonance images of stroke lesions were coregistered on the Allen Mouse Brain Atlas to characterize stroke topology. Different random forest prediction models that either used motor-functional deficit or imaging parameters were generated for the subacute and residual deficits.

RESULTS:

Variance of stroke volumes was increased by 45 minutes of arterial occlusion compared with 60 minutes. The inclusion of various genotypes enhanced heterogeneity further. We detected both a subacute and residual motor-functional deficit after stroke in mice and different recovery trajectories could be observed. In mice with small cortical lesions, lesion volume was the best predictor of the subacute deficit. The residual deficit could be predicted most accurately by the degree of the subacute deficit. When using imaging parameters for the prediction of the residual deficit, including information about the lesion topology increased prediction accuracy. A subset of anatomic regions within the ischemic lesion had particular impact on the prediction of long-term outcomes. Prediction accuracy depended on the degree of functional impairment.

CONCLUSIONS:

For the first time, we developed and validated a robust tool for the prediction of functional outcomes after experimental stroke in mice using a large and genetically heterogeneous cohort. These results are discussed in light of study design and imaging limitations. In the future, using outcome prediction can improve the design of preclinical studies and guide intervention decisions.
Improving Multitask Retrieval by Promoting Task Specialization
Authors: Zhang Wenzheng , Xiong Chenyan , Stratos Karl , Overwijk Arnold
Published: September 2023

In multitask retrieval, a single retriever is trained to retrieve relevant contexts for multiple tasks. Despite its practical appeal, naive multitask retrieval lags behind task-specific retrieval, in which a separate retriever is trained for each task. We show that it is possible to train a multitask retriever that outperforms task-specific retrievers by promoting task specialization. The main ingredients are: (1) a better choice of pretrained model—one that is explicitly optimized for multitasking—along with compatible prompting, and (2) a novel adaptive learning method that encourages each parameter to specialize in a particular task. The resulting multitask retriever is highly performant on the KILT benchmark. Upon analysis, we find that the model indeed learns parameters that are more task-specialized compared to naive multitasking without prompting or adaptive learning.1
The ‘woody clade’ in Kalanchoe: reinstatement and amendment of K. subg. Calophygia (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) published by Bernard Marie Descoings in 2006
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: September 2023

Up to now, four subgenera were widely upheld in Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae): (1) the autonymic K. subg. Kalanchoe, (2) K. subg. Alatae, (3) K. subg. Bryophyllum, and (4) K. subg. Kitchingia. To accommodate what is often referred to as the ‘woody clade’ group of species at the rank of subgenus in Kalanchoe, this cluster is here recognised as the fifth subgenus, K. subg. Calophygia Desc. emend. Gideon F.Sm. Kalanchoe subg. Calophygia, as published by Bernard Marie Descoings in 2006, is therefore reinstated, but with taxonomic amendments to the circumscription of the subgenus to retain only the so-called ‘woody clade’ species. These species are generally low-growing and pseudo-rosulate to multi-branched, shrubby or arborescent perennials of which, with a few notable exceptions, virtually all external surfaces are variously covered by a tomentum consisting of glandular or stellate hairs or minute scales.
Aristolochia crocea, a new species of Aristolochia subsection Pentandrae (Aristolochiaceae) from Guerrero, Mexico
Authors: GUILLÉN ANNA PAIZANNI , BAUTISTA ELIHÚ , DOUTERLUNGNE DAVID
Published: September 2023

Aristolochia crocea from Atlixtac, Guerrero, Mexico, is described and illustrated as a new species. It belongs to Aristolochia subsection Pentandrae, the most diverse group of the genus in Mexico, with 48 species. The species is distinguished by its saffron-colored (yellow-orange) limb when aged, pale yellow throat, and trilobate leaf blades with the middle lobe narrowly triangular to triangular, and rounded lateral lobes. It shares morphological similarities with Aristolochia nelsonii, A. variifolia, and A. versabilifolia, for having trilobate-shaped leaves, and with A. oaxacana for the yellowish limb color. A comparative table with the main features of A. crocea and its morphologically closest species is provided, as well as an identification key, photographs, and distribution map.
Publication of Kalanchoe sect. Trichanthae (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae), a new status for K. [infragen. unranked] Trichanthae of Alwin Berger (930), in K. subg. Calophygia (2006 as amended in 2023)
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: September 2023

A new status at the rank of section, Kalanchoe sect. Trichanthae, based on K. [infragen. unranked] Trichanthae that Alwin Berger validly published in 1930, is here published. Kalanchoe sect. Trichanthae includes three species, K. synsepala, K. tetraphylla, and K. berevoensis, and belongs in K. subg. Calophygia Descoings (2006), as emended by Smith (2023a). This subgenus was in the recent past most often referred to as the Malagasy ‘woody clade’ of K. subg. Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae).
Morphological and molecular profiling of an entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema feltiae: Unlocking its biocontrol potential against vegetable insect pests
Authors: JANARDHAN HIRIYANNANAHALLI NARAYANASWAMY , ASKARY TARIQUE HASSAN , BHAT AASHAQ HUSSAIN , RANA AASHA , AHAD ISHTIYAQ , AL-QAHTANI WAHIDAH H.
Published: September 2023

A population of entomopathogenic nematodes, belonging to the Feltiae-clade and labelled J13, was discovered in the agricultural soils of the hilly regions of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Based on morphological, morphometric, and molecular analyses, the nematodes were identified as Steinernema feltiae. The J13 nematode isolate was tested in a laboratory assay for its pathogenicity against six major pests of vegetable crops: Pieris brassicae, Plutella xylostella, Helicoverpa armigera, Agrotis iplison, Trichoplusia ni, and Exelastis atomosa. The morphology of the isolated nematode closely matched the original description, except for the adult females, which had prominent epiptygmata instead of the weakly developed, double-flapped epiptygmata described in the original report. Analysis of the internal transcribed spacer and large subunit rRNA data from the J13 nematodes showed 100% similarity to sequences of the type population, indicating that they are conspecific. The virulence assays revealed that the nematode caused 100% mortality in the tested insect pests within 48–72 hours, even at the lowest concentration of 50 infective juveniles per insect. The calculated median lethal concentration varied among the pests, with the lowest number of infective juveniles needed to achieve 50% larval killing being 117 for P. xylostella, 181.74 for P. brassicae, 226.35 for H. armigera, and 202.07 for T. ni at 24 hours post-inoculation. These findings suggest that S. feltiae isolated during the present investigation, may be a viable option for the biocontrol of these insect pests in Kashmir valley, India.
A comprehensive update on the morphology and distribution of the invasive scaffold-web spider Eidmannella pallida (Araneae, Nesticidae) with a focus on new records from Italy
Authors: NARDI DAVIDE , PANTINI PAOLO , RIZZO PIERLUIGI , TRESPIDI GIACOMO , TURETTA ALESSANDRA , BARBIERI GIACOMO , BALLARIN FRANCESCO
Published: September 2023

Updated non-native distributional data of the invasive spider Eidmannella pallida (Emerton, 1875), Nesticidae, are herein summarized together with the morphological characters of the species. We report all the known localities from the literature. Furthermore, we present and discuss recent findings for the Italian peninsula. In particular, the species has been consistently found in vineyards and annual crop fields in North Italy and in olive groves in South Italy. We include a redescription of the species, and detailed illustrations of the diagnostic characters of both males and females, based on stereomicroscope and SEM images. The spreading potential of the species and its possible impacts on local communities are discussed. Our data suggest that E. pallida has high invasiveness potential and several new findings in non-native areas were recorded in the last years. We found that E. pallida can establish permanent populations in crop-dominated landscapes and has a tendency to exploit vulnerable ecosystems such as the subterranean environment. We thus recommend new and more comprehensive studies on this species to investigate in deeper detail its phylogeny, ecology, and micro-habitat preferences. A high effort should be placed to assess the potential negative effects of E. pallida on the endemic fauna in invaded areas, especially in caves.
On the systematic placement of the fossil crab Lathahypossia aculeata (Busulini, Tessier & Visentin, 1984) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: OSSÓ ÀLEX , NG PETER K. L.
Published: September 2023

The systematic placement of the iconic fossil crab, Lathahypossia aculeata (Busulini, Tessier & Visentin, 1984) (formerly in Titanocarcinus A. Milne-Edwards, 1864), from the Eocene of Italy is revised. The examination of two specimens that had the ventral and subcephalic features well preserved has allowed us to better understand the morphology of this species. As a result, Lathahypossia aculeata must be removed from the Hypothalassiidae (Eriphioidea), where it is now placed, and moved to the Xanthidae (Xanthoidea). The present work again highlights the importance of ventral characters in the study of fossil crabs and allows a more accurate systematic classification.
Functional Grammar and the Pragmatics of Information Structure for Biblical Languages
Authors: Buth Randall
Published: September 2023

Functional grammars include pragmatic information within formal grammar. Information structure refers to how languages keep track of the topics and introductory material of a text, and how they pre-sent the salient main points of a text. There are differences between normal handling of topical material and special marking of topical material. Likewise, there are default ways of presenting the main points and specially marked ways. The Functional Grammar of Si-mon Dik is helpful in pointing out constituents that carry pragmatic marking through word order. This facilitates reading for meaning in the biblical languages so that readers may recognize special presentations of material in text. The linking of sentences together in a text with marked Topics, recognizing Focus constituents, some unit discontinuities in a text and some rhetorical features in a text can be described. Functional Grammar describes how audiences may perceive these features in various languages and process them rapidly. This adds both to the accuracy and enjoyment of listening to a text or reading it. Extensive application and illustration are provided in Hebrew with additional application to Greek. Modern readers of ancient languages, where normal processes of language internalization may not have taken place, may receive a special ben-efit from considering the interactions of Functional Grammar and information structure. Key Words: Topic; Focus; Functional Grammar; Word Order; He-brew; Greek
Seeding of Supercooled Low Stratus Clouds with a UAV to Study Microphysical Ice Processes: An Introduction to the CLOUDLAB Project
Authors: Henneberger Jan , Ramelli Fabiola , Spirig Robert , Omanovic Nadja , Miller Anna J. , Fuchs Christopher , Zhang Huiying , Bühl Johannes , Hervo Maxime , Kanji Zamin A. , Ohneiser Kevin , Radenz Martin , Rösch Michael , Seifert Patric , Lohmann Ulrike
Published: September 2023

Ice formation and growth processes play a crucial role in the evolution of cloud systems and the formation of precipitation. However, the initial formation and growth of ice crystals are challenging to study in the real atmosphere resulting in uncertainties in weather forecasts and climate projections. The CLOUDLAB project tackles this problem by using supercooled stratus clouds as a natural laboratory for targeted glaciogenic cloud seeding to advance the understanding of ice processes: Ice nucleating particles are injected from an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) into supercooled stratus clouds to induce ice crystal formation and subsequent growth processes. Microphysical changes induced by seeding are measured 3–15 min downstream of the seeding location using in situ and ground-based remote sensing instrumentation. The novel application of seeding with a multirotor UAV combined with the persistent nature of stratus clouds enables repeated seeding experiments under similar and well-constrained initial conditions. This article describes the scientific goals, experimental design, and first results of CLOUDLAB. First, the seeding plume is characterized by using measurements of a UAV equipped with an optical particle counter. Second, the seeding-induced microphysical changes observed by cloud radars and a tethered balloon system are presented. The seeding signatures were detected by regions of increased radar reflectivity (>−20 dBZ), which were 10–20 dBZ higher than the natural background. Simultaneously, high concentrations of seeding particles and ice crystals (up to 2,000 L−1) were observed. A cloud seeding case was simulated with the numerical weather model ICON to contextualize the findings.
Decomposition of Vertical Velocity and Its Zonal Wavenumber Kinetic Energy Spectra in the Hydrostatic Atmosphere
Authors: Žagar Nedjeljka , Neduhal Valentino , Vasylkevych Sergiy , Zaplotnik Žiga , Tanaka Hiroshi L.
Published: September 2023

The spectrum of kinetic energy of vertical motions (VKE) is less well understood compared to the kinetic energy spectrum of horizontal motions (HKE). One challenge that has limited progress in describing the VKE spectrum is a lack of a unified approach to the decomposition of vertical velocities associated with the Rossby motions and inertia–gravity (IG) wave flows. This paper presents such a unified approach using a linear Rossby–IG vertical velocity normal-mode decomposition appropriate for a spherical, hydrostatic atmosphere. New theoretical developments show that for every zonal wavenumber k, the limit VKE is proportional to the total mechanical energy and to the square of the frequency of the normal mode. The theory predicts a VKE ∝ k−5 and a VKE ∝ k1/3 power law for the Rossby and IG waves, assuming a k−3 and a k−5/3 power law for the Rossby and IG HKE spectra, respectively. The Kelvin and mixed Rossby–gravity wave VKE spectra are predicted to follow k−1 and k−5 power laws, respectively. The VKE spectra for ERA5 data from August 2018 show that the Rossby VKE spectra approximately follow the predicted a k−5 power law. The expected k1/3 power law for the gravity wave VKE spectrum is found only in the SH midlatitude stratosphere for k ≈ 10–60. The inertial range IG VKE spectra in the tropical and midlatitude troposphere reflect a mixture of ageostrophic and convection-coupled dynamics and have slopes between −1 and −1/3, likely associated with too steep IG HKE spectra. The forcing by quasigeostrophic ageostrophic motions is seen as an IG VKE peak at synoptic scales in the SH upper troposphere, which gradually moves to planetary scales in the stratosphere.

Significance Statement

The spectrum of kinetic energy of vertical motions (VKE) is less well understood compared to the kinetic energy spectrum of horizontal motions. One challenge is a lack of a unified approach to the decomposition of vertical velocities associated with the Rossby motions and inertia–gravity (IG) wave flows. This paper presents such a unified approach using a linear Rossby–IG vertical velocity normal-mode decomposition appropriate for a spherical, hydrostatic atmosphere. It is shown that for every zonal wavenumber, the limit VKE is proportional to the total mechanical energy and to the square of the frequency of the normal mode. The theory is successfully applied to the ERA5 data. It leads the way for a more accurate computation of momentum fluxes.
Biomass Burning Emissions of Black Carbon over the Maritime Continent and ENSO Variability
Authors: Xie Biyin , Yang Yang , Wang Hailong , Wang Pinya , Liao Hong
Published: September 2023

Fire emissions from the Maritime Continent (MC) over the western tropical Pacific are strongly influenced by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), posing various climate effects to the Earth system. In this study, we show that the historical biomass burning emissions of black carbon (BCbb) aerosol in the dry season from the MC are strengthened in El Niño years due to the dry conditions. The eastern Pacific type of El Niño exerts a stronger modulation in BCbb emissions over the MC region than the central Pacific type of El Niño. Based on simulations using the fully coupled Community Earth System Model (CESM), the impacts of increased BCbb emissions on ENSO variability and frequency are also investigated in this study. With BCbb emissions from the MC scaled up by a factor of 10, which enables the identification of climate response from the internal variability, the increased BCbb heats the local atmosphere and changes land–sea thermal contrast, which suppresses the westward transport of the eastern Pacific surface water. It leads to an increase in sea surface temperature in the eastern tropical Pacific, which further enhances ENSO variability and increases the frequency of extreme El Niño and La Niña events. This study highlights the potential role of BCbb emissions on extreme ENSO frequency, and this role may be increasingly important in the warming future with higher wildfire risks.
A Rigorous Derivation of the Water Mass Transformation Framework, the Relation between Mixing and Diasurface Exchange Flow, and Links to Recent Theories in Estuarine Research
Authors: Klingbeil Knut , Henell Erika
Published: September 2023

In this paper we present the analytical derivation of a local water mass transformation (WMT) framework for an individual water column. We exactly formulate the mapping of the governing equations from geopotential coordinates to an arbitrary tracer space. Unique definitions for the local effective vertical diasurface fluxes are given. In tracer space we derive new relations between the local diatracer fluxes and the mixing per tracer class. The key relation between the effective vertical diatracer velocity and the mixing per tracer class directly formulates how the overturning circulation is linked to local tracer variance dissipation. Horizontal integration of the governing equations in tracer space and the relations between the diatracer quantities finally recovers the well-known integral WMT formulations.
The 30 December 2021 Colorado Front Range Windstorm and Marshall Fire: Evolution of Surface and 3D Structure, NWP Guidance, NWS Forecasts, and Decision Support
Authors: Benjamin Stanley G. , James Eric P. , Szoke Edward J. , Schlatter Paul T. , Brown John M.
Published: September 2023

The Marshall Fire on 30 December 2021 became the most destructive wildfire costwise in Colorado history as it evolved into a suburban firestorm in southeastern Boulder County, driven by strong winds and a snow-free and drought-influenced fuel state. The fire was driven by a strong downslope windstorm that maintained its intensity for nearly 11 hours. The southward movement of a large-scale jet axis across Boulder County brought a quick transition that day into a zone of upper-level descent, enhancing the midlevel inversion providing a favorable environment for an amplifying downstream mountain wave. In several aspects, this windstorm did not follow typical downslope windstorm behavior. NOAA rapidly updating numerical weather prediction guidance (including the High-Resolution Rapid Refresh) provided operationally useful forecasts of the windstorm, leading to the issuance of a High-Wind Warning (HWW) for eastern Boulder County. No Red Flag Warning was issued due to a too restrictive relative humidity criterion (already published alternatives are recommended); however, owing to the HWW, a countywide burn ban was issued for that day. Consideration of spatial (vertical and horizontal) and temporal (both valid time and initialization time) neighborhoods allows some quantification of forecast uncertainty from deterministic forecasts—important in real-time use for forecasting and public warnings of extreme events. Essentially, dimensions of the deterministic model were used to roughly estimate an ensemble forecast. These dimensions including run-to-run consistency are also important for subsequent evaluation of forecasts for small-scale features such as downslope windstorms and the tropospheric features responsible for them, similar to forecasts of deep, moist convection and related severe weather.

Significance Statement

The Front Range windstorm of 30 December 2021 combined extreme surface winds (>45 m s−1) with fire ignition resulting in an extraordinary and quickly evolving, extremely destructive wildfire–urban interface fire event. This windstorm differed from typical downslope windstorms in several aspects. We describe the observations, model guidance, and decision-making of operational forecasters for this event. In effect, an ensemble forecast was approximated by use of a frequently updated deterministic model by operational forecasters, and this combined use of temporal, spatial (horizontal and vertical), and other forecast dimensions is suggested to better estimate the possibility of such extreme events.
Caught Between Heart and Limbs: Navigating the Treatment of Patients With CAD and PAD in an Overwhelmed Healthcare System
Authors: Dabic Petar , Petrovic Jovan , Vucurevic Bojan , Bucic Andriana , Bajcetic Danica , Ilijevski Nenad , Sevkovic Milorad
Published: September 2023

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD) are manifestations of atherosclerosis, affecting a substantial proportion of the population. Despite their interrelation, the prevalence of CAD in severe PAD varies, prompting the need to understand their complex relationship. This study retrospectively analyzes prospectively collected data from a high-volume vascular center to assess CAD prevalence, risk factors, and implications for patients undergoing vascular surgery. Among 667 arterial disease patients, 19.5% underwent coronary angiography, with CAD detected in 61.5% of cases. CAD varied across vascular beds. Decision-making around preoperative coronary angiography and revascularization remains complex, with benefits for high-risk patients still being debated. In accordance with current guidelines, the routine practice of coronary revascularization preceding vascular surgery is generally discouraged. This study underscores the need for risk stratification to identify patients who might benefit from coronary revascularization prior to vascular surgery while adhering to cost-effectiveness and avoiding unnecessary and time-consuming diagnostics in the majority of patients. Patient demographics, risk factors, and clinical presentation were analyzed alongside hospital stay, mortality, and complications. The study highlights the challenges in managing patients with concurrent CAD and PAD and calls for improved protocols for treating this high-risk group.
Conflict in the Contested Borderland: Land-Based Conflict Across the Ethiopia–Sudan Border in Metema Woreda Borderland, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Temesgen Eyilet , Limeneh Getachew Senishaw
Published: September 2023

The main aim of the study was to investigate the causes of cross-border land–based conflict along the Ethiopia–Sudan border in Metema Woreda borderlands. The study employed a qualitative research approach and thus in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and observation instruments of data collection were used. The study found out that the internal land administrative defects in Metema and the Ethiopian government land handover claims to the Sudanese investor have been among the reasons behind the conflict. In addition, the abundant availability of illicit firearms transaction in the area has intensified the land conflict. Moreover, the existence of the contested border with no clear demarcation between Ethiopia and Sudan also aggravates the conflict. Consequently, whenever land shortage occurs in Metema and there is a feeling of Ethiopia’s land confiscation by the Sudanese, the Ethiopian borderland farmers are forced to cross the border and farm on the land claimed by the Sudanese. Therefore, the symbolic land that people carry in their mind along with other internal land–related problems was the cause of the conflict. To sum up, the internal land–related problems along with the contested white line (the colonial border which was demarcated when Sudan was under British rule but remains unclear and contested) claims justify the reason for the cross-border conflict in the area.
The Impact of Population Aging on Personal Income Tax Revenue in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hoang-Oanh , Nguyen Viet-Hung , Vu Thi-Bich-Ngoc , Giang Thanh-Long
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the impact of population aging on personal income tax (PIT) revenue in Vietnam for the period 2014–2030. With the assumptions of a changing tax base and growing real gross domestic product (GDP), the total PIT revenue is projected to increase in absolute terms. However, the projected total PIT revenue as a percentage of GDP under an aging population and the counterfactual results (without aging population) show a negative impact on PIT revenue in the studied period.
Fatal gunshot trauma of a child: A case from colonial Cyprus
Authors: Eliopoulos Constantine , Moraitis Konstantinos , Borrini Matteo , Irish Joel , Kallis Xenophon , Manoli Panayiotis , Chimonas Marios , Cariolou Marios
Published: September 2023

Forensic science has made some significant contributions to the investigation of human rights abuses related to armed conflicts, especially in the last 40 years. Some investigations are aimed at the collection of evidence in order to prosecute those responsible, while others are humanitarian in nature. This paper presents the multidisciplinary effort to recover and identify the remains of a 7-year-old child who was shot by British colonial forces in Cyprus in 1956. An investigation led to the discovery of the burial site, and archaeological methods were used to recover the remains. The anthropological examination provided information about the age of the child, as well as the nature of the skeletal trauma present. DNA results confirmed the identity of the victim, and the remains were released to the surviving family members for burial.
A residual connection enabled deep neural network model for optic disk and optic cup segmentation for glaucoma diagnosis
Authors: Aurangzeb Khursheed
Published: September 2023

Glaucoma diagnosis at an early stage is vital for the timely initiation of its treatment for and preventing possible vision loss. For glaucoma diagnosis, an accurate estimation of the cup-to-disk ratio (CDR) is required. The current automatic CDR computation techniques attribute lower accuracy and higher complexity, which are important considerations for diagnostics system design to be used for such critical diagnoses. The current methods involve a deeper deep learning model, comprising a large number of parameters, which results in higher system complexity and training/testing time. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a Residual Connection (non-identity)-based Deep Neural Network (RC-DNN), which is based on non-identity residual connectivity for joint optic disk (OD) and optic cup (OC) detection. The proposed model is emboldened by efficient residual connectivity, which is beneficial in several ways. First, the model is efficient and can perform simultaneous segmentation of the OC and OD. Second, the efficient residual information flow permeates the vanishing gradient problem which results in faster converges of the model. Third, feature inspiration empowers the network to perform the segmentation with only a few network layers. We performed a comprehensive performance evaluation of the developed model based on its training in RIM-ONE and DRISHTIGS databases. For OC segmentation, for the images (test set) from {DRISHTI-GS and RIM-ONE} datasets, our proposed model achieves the dice coefficient, Jaccard coefficient, sensitivity, specificity, and balanced accuracy of {92.62, 86.52}, {86.87, 77.54}, {94.21, 95.36}, {99.83, 99.639}, and {94.2, 98.9}, respectively. These experimental results indicate that the developed model provides significant performance enhancement for joint OC and OD segmentation. Additionally, the reduced computational complexity based on reduced model parameters and higher segmentation accuracy provides the additional features of efficacy, robustness, and reliability of the developed model. These attributes of the developed model advocate for its deployment of population-scale glaucoma screening programs.
Spontaneous Fracture of a Silicone Implant: A Delayed Complication of Rhinoplasty
Authors: Lee Sae Bin , Min Hyun Jin
Published: September 2023

Silicone implants are commonly used alloplastic materials for rhinoplasty in Asia, as they are easy to manipulate, provide adequate volume augmentation, and exhibit excellent biocompatibility. However, they are associated with complications such as infection, displacement, and extrusion. Recently, we encountered an interesting complication in a 53-year-old woman presenting with palpable and visible stepping of the nasal dorsum. The patient had previously undergone rhinoplasty with an L-shaped silicone implant, and symptoms had been noticeable for approximately 1 year. Lateral nasal computed tomography revealed a fractured silicone implant. Because the patient reported no history of nasal trauma since rhinoplasty, we assumed that the silicone implant might have fractured spontaneously. The findings in this case suggest that spontaneous implant fracture can be a late complication of rhinoplasty with silicone implant.
Tracheostomy-Assisted Foreign Body Removal: Insights From a Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Wang Hao-cheng , Chen Yong-chao , Pan Hong-guang , Li Lan , Teng Yi-shu
Published: September 2023

Background:

Foreign body aspiration into the trachea is a common occurrence in children. While most foreign bodies in the airways can be removed using rigid tracheoscopy, there are instances where tracheostomy or tracheotomy is needed. This article presents a series of cases in which tracheostomy was necessary to remove foreign bodies, and summarizes the relevant experiences and lessons learned.

Methods:

We reviewed a total of 7 cases in which tracheostomy and rigid tracheoscopy were combined for foreign body removal out of a larger cohort of 1559 cases at Shenzhen Children’s Hospital in Guangdong, China over a 20-year period.

Results:

The combined use of tracheostomy and rigid tracheoscopy resulted in successful removal of foreign bodies in all 7 patients reviewed in this study. Six patients developed complications of tracheotomy, mainly including mediastinal emphysema (5/7), subcutaneous emphysema (3/7), and pneumothorax (1/7). Tracheotomy was temporary in all patients.

Conclusion:

In cases where a foreign body in the trachea is too large or has irregular, sharp edges, is embedded in submucosal tissues with edema, cannot be passed smoothly through the vocal cords, or local endoscopic facilities are inadequate, a tracheotomy may be necessary. However, this approach should be used with caution, and close collaboration with anesthesiologists and careful management of intraoperative emergencies are crucial for improving the success rate of the procedure. Additionally, the complications should be noted, paying particular attention to early complications such as pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and bleeding.
Evaluation of Vestibular Functions in a Case of Vestibular Migraine With Successful Treatment With Erenumab
Authors: Inui Takaki , Kimura Fumiharu , Moriyama Kou , Kuriyama Tatsuro , Shirai Takeo , Ayani Yusuke , Inaka Yuko , Yuki Masako , Haginomori Shin-ichi , Kawata Ryo
Published: September 2023

This is the first report of vestibular examinations before and after the successful treatment of vestibular migraine (VM), a common cause of recurrent vertigo, with calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor inhibitor. We evaluated a 42-year-old female with VM and concomitant probable Meniere’s disease, whose headache and dizziness have improved promptly with the administration of erenumab, a CGRP receptor inhibitor. The sensorineural hearing loss in pure-tone audiometry, dysfunctions shown in vestibular examinations (cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials), and mild endolymphatic hydrops shown in gadolinium-enhanced inner ear magnetic resonance imaging, all in the right ear, revealed no change compared with those observed before treatment. This case suggests that VM may be treated by blocking CGRP in the trigeminal ganglion, which suppresses the effects on the vestibular nucleus; herein, no effects were observed in the inner ear despite the clear amelioration of dizziness.
Pediatric Laryngeal Granular Cell Tumor: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Aldokhayel Fares , Alolaywi Ahmed , Alhussinan Khaled , Alhudaithi Deema , Alomar Khalid , Bin Manie Manal
Published: September 2023

Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are rare benign tumors that can occur in any part of the body. They are most commonly found in the head and neck region, especially the tongue. Laryngeal GCTs are rare, accounting for only 3% to 10% of all GCTs. This case report describes a 4-year-old boy with a laryngeal GCT. The patient presented with a history of hoarseness for 2 years. Stroboscopy revealed a large mass occupying the entire length of the left vocal cord. The mass was successfully removed by microlaryngeal surgery with laser ablation. The patient’s symptoms resolved after surgery, and he had an uneventful recovery. This case highlights the importance of considering GCTs in the differential diagnosis of patients with hoarseness. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to excellent outcomes.
Revisiting the Relation Between Steroid Hormones and Unethicality in an Exploratory, Longitudinal Study With Female Participants
Authors: Stern Julia , Schild Christoph , Zettler Ingo
Published: September 2023

Research on the relation between hormones and unethical behaviors and tendencies has provided mixed results, hindering the understanding of the potential biological regulation of unethical behaviors and tendencies. We conducted an exploratory, longitudinal study ( N = 257 women) allowing to estimate relations between, on the one hand, steroid hormones (testosterone, cortisol, estradiol, and progesterone) and conception probability and, on the other hand, a broad variety of measures related to unethicality (self-reported personality variables, cheating in committed relationships, self-serving economic dishonesty in a behavioral task, namely, the mind game). Contrary to theoretical assumptions of and results from some previous studies, we find no consistent relation between hormones and unethical behavior or tendencies in the majority of analyses. Yet, some small, exploratory associations emerged that call for (preregistered) replications, before more firm conclusions can be made.
Changing responses to a frozen conflict: The Republic of Cyprus soft balancing vis-à-vis Turkey
Authors: Dursun-Özkanca Oya
Published: September 2023

Tensions are on the rise in the Eastern Mediterranean, calling for a careful understanding of the motivations behind the foreign policies of small and large states in the region. This article explores the motivations behind the Republic of Cyprus and Turkey’s foreign policies and their implications for conflict dynamics, illustrating the complex relationship between soft balancing and the prospects for conflict resolution, considering the spatial dynamics of multi-party conflicts. It argues that the Republic of Cyprus’ and Turkey’s changing responses influenced the very conflict itself, by pulling in more actors and thereby expanding its spatial scope. This topic has implications for the study of frozen conflicts, transatlantic security, and peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region and beyond.