bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wave‐Influenced Delta Morphodynamics, Long‐Term Sediment Bypass and Trapping Controlled by Relative Magnitudes of Riverine and Wave‐Driven Sediment Transport
Authors: Zăinescu F. , Storms J. E. A. , Vespremeanu‐Stroe A. , Van Der Vegt H. , Schuster M. , Anthony E.
Published: October 2024

River sediment supply (Qs) and longshore sediment transport (LST) are recognized as two paramount controls on river delta morphodynamics and stratigraphy. We employed the Delft3D model to simulate the evolution of deltas from fluvial to wave‐dominated conditions, revealing the interplay between river‐ and wave‐driven sediment quantities. Wave‐influenced deltas may show alternating accumulation and retreat patterns driven by avulsions and wave‐induced sediment diffusion, posing coastal management challenges. Deltas with higher wave energy evolve under a fine balance between river supply and intense wave‐mediated sediment redistribution and are highly vulnerable under conditions of sediment reduction. Reducing Qs by ∼40%–70%, common in modern dammed rivers, can rapidly shift bypass from ∼0 to 1 (no bypass to complete bypass). This leads to accelerated diffusion and potential sediment loss in modern deltas. The study highlights the importance of accurately computing sediment quantities in real‐world deltas for improved management, especially under increasing anthropogenic and climatic pressures.
Sediment Corrections for Distributed Acoustic Sensing
Authors: Trabattoni Alister , Vernet Clara , van den Ende Martijn , Baillet Marie , Potin Bertrand , Rivet Diane
Published: October 2024

On continental margins, sediments cause significant and spatially variable delays in seismic phase arrival times. The strong impedance contrast of the sediment‐bedrock interface causes P‐wave splitting that is clearly seen on distributed acoustic sensing recordings of earthquakes, resulting in additional phase arrivals that must be picked separately. We introduce sediment corrections to correctly account for those additional phases in the hypocenter localization procedure. Conceptually, the sediment correction method differs from the commonly‐used station corrections; instead of introducing a mathematically optimal constant time delay for each station and each phase, the corrections are derived from a physical, first‐order modeling of the wave propagation in the sediments. To calibrate the sediment corrections, a two‐step procedure is adopted: (a) the delay between the P‐phase and the converted Ps‐phase is taken as a proxy of the sediment thickness; (b) the P‐ and S‐wave speeds are determined through inversion. We show that sediment corrections are able to account for most of the observed bias while considerably reducing the number of free parameters compared to classical station correction. Moreover, the observed local delays are almost fully explained by the presence of the sedimentary layer, rather than by the 3D velocity variations of the bedrock. We retrieve and values that are compatible with values commonly found for sediments. Given the simplicity and physical foundation of the proposed method, we recommend the use of sediment corrections over station corrections whenever significant P‐wave splitting can be observed.
Historical Trends in Ocean Heat, Carbon, Salinity, and Oxygen Simulations: Impact of a Changing Ocean Transport
Authors: Mannis Scott , Waugh Darryn W. , Gnanadesikan Anand , Haine Thomas W. N.
Published: October 2024

Examination of historical simulations from CMIP6 models shows substantial pre‐industrial to present‐day changes in ocean heat (ΔH), salinity (ΔS), oxygen (ΔO2), dissolved inorganic carbon (ΔDIC), chlorofluorocarbon‐12 (ΔCFC12), and sulfur hexafluoride (ΔSF6). The spatial structure of the changes and the consistency among models differ among tracers: ΔDIC, ΔCFC12, and ΔSF6 all are largest near the surface, are positive throughout the thermocline with weak changes below, and there is good agreement among the models. In contrast, the largest ΔH, ΔS, and ΔO2 are not necessarily at the surface, their sign varies within the thermocline, and there are large differences among models. These differences between the two groups of tracers are linked to climate‐driven changes in the ocean transport, with this tracer “redistribution” playing a significant role in changes in ΔH, ΔS, and ΔO2 but not the other tracers. The spatial structure, and differences between models, of changes in age tracers are consistent with ΔH, ΔS, and ΔO2, supporting the hypothesis that redistribution plays a major role for these tracers. Further, the impact of the vertical displacement of isopycnals (heave) plays a major role in the differing impact of redistribution between the two groups, with this process causing insignificant changes to ΔDIC, ΔCFC12, and ΔSF6 due to their weak spatial gradients. A similar multi‐tracer analysis of observations could provide insights into the relative role of the addition and redistribution of tracers in the ocean.
Evaluating the Importance of Nitrate‐Containing Aerosols for the Asian Tropopause Aerosol Layer
Authors: Zhu Yunqian , Yu Pengfei , Wang Xinyue , Bardeen Charles , Borrmann Stephan , Höpfner Michael , Mahnke Christoph , Weigel Ralf , Krämer Martina , Deshler Terry , Bian Jianchun , Bai Zhixuan , Vernier Hazel , Portmann Robert W. , Rosenlof Karen H. , Kloss Corinna , Pan Laura L. , Smith Warren , Honomichl Shawn , Zhang Jun , Stone Kane A. , Toon Owen Brian
Published: October 2024

The Asian Summer Monsoon (ASM) convection transports aerosols and their precursors from the boundary layer to the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS). This process forms an annually recurring aerosol layer near the tropopause. Recent observations have revealed a distinct property of the aerosol layer over the ASM region, it is nitrate‐rich. We present a newly implemented aerosol formation algorithm that enhances the representation of nitrate aerosol in the Community Aerosol and Radiation Model for Atmospheres (CARMA) coupled with the Community Earth System Model (CESM). The simulated aerosol chemical composition, as well as vertical distributions of aerosol size and mass, are evaluated using in situ and remote sensing observations. The simulated concentrations (ammonium, nitrate, and sulfate) and size distributions are generally within the error bars of data. We find nitrate, organics, and sulfate contribute significantly to the UTLS aerosol concentration between 15°–45°N and 0°–160°E. The two key formation mechanisms of nitrate‐containing aerosols in the ATAL are ammonium neutralization to form ammonium nitrate in regions where convection is active, and condensation of nitric acid in regions of cold temperature. Furthermore, including nitrate formation in the model doubles the surface area density in the tropical tropopause region between 15°–45°N and 0°–160°E, which alters the chlorine partitioning and subsequently impacts the rate of ozone depletion.
Response of the Thermosphere‐Ionosphere System to an X‐Class Solar Flare: 30 March 2022 Case Study
Authors: Sarp Volkan , Yiğit Erdal , Kilcik Ali
Published: October 2024

The response of the thermosphere ionosphere system to an X1.3 class solar flare is studied using observations of the total electron content (TEC) and the Global Ionosphere Thermosphere Model (GITM) simulations. The solar flare erupted from the active region AR12975 on 30 March 2022. Owing to the absence of accompanying severe geomagnetic activity, it was possible to isolate the effects of the flare on the upper atmosphere. TEC data are processed for Continental USA (CONUS), employing filtering and binning techniques to create 2D variation maps. The spectral content of the TEC variations is analyzed using a wavelet coherence method. The immediate response of the solar flare exhibited broad similarities, while notable differences were observed during the recovery period between the East and West sides of the CONUS. GITM is used to explore the East–West asymmetry of the key T‐I parameters. Simulation results reveal that the coinciding interplanetary magnetic field southward turning had a greater influence on these parameters compared to the solar flare, while their nonlinear interaction introduced complex variations. Additional investigation reveals gravity wave damping also contributes to the asymmetric solar flare response.
Melanoma-specific mutation hotspots in distal, non-coding, promoter-interacting regions implicate novel candidate driver genes
Authors: Pudjihartono Michael , Pudjihartono Nicholas , O’Sullivan Justin M. , Schierding William
Published: October 2024

Background

To develop targeted treatments, it is crucial to identify the full spectrum of genetic drivers in melanoma, including those in non-coding regions. However, recent efforts to explore non-coding regions have primarily focused on gene-adjacent elements such as promoters and non-coding RNAs, leaving intergenic distal regulatory elements largely unexplored.

Methods

We used Hi-C chromatin contact data from melanoma cells to map distal, non-coding, promoter-interacting regulatory elements genome-wide in melanoma. Using this “promoter-interaction network”, alongside whole-genome sequence and gene expression data from the Pan Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes, we developed multivariate linear regression models to identify distal somatic mutation hotspots that affect promoter activity.

Results

We identified eight recurrently mutated hotspots that are novel, melanoma-specific, located in promoter-interacting distal regulatory elements, alter transcription factor binding motifs, and affect the expression of genes (e.g., HSPB7, CLDN1, ADCY9 and FDXR) previously implicated as tumour suppressors/oncogenes in various cancers.

Conclusions

Our study suggests additional non-coding drivers beyond the well-characterised TERT promoter in melanoma, offering new insights into the disruption of complex regulatory networks by non-coding mutations that may contribute to melanoma development. Furthermore, our study provides a framework for integrating multiple levels of biological data to uncover cancer-specific non-coding drivers.
CircGSK3β mediates PD-L1 transcription through miR-338-3p/PRMT5/H3K4me3 to promote breast cancer cell immune evasion and tumor progression
Authors: Liang Lin , Gao Mengxiang , Li Wentao , Tang Jingqiong , He Qian , Zeng Feng , Cao Jiaying , Liu Siyi , Chen Yan , Li Xin , Zhou Yanhong
Published: October 2024

Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a pivotal role in breast cancer onset and progression. Understanding the biological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of dysregulated circRNAs in breast cancer is crucial for elucidating its pathogenesis and identifying potential therapeutic targets. In this study, we investigated the role and molecular mechanism of circGSK3β in breast cancer. We found that circGSK3β is highly expressed in breast cancer cell lines, where it promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, thereby driving breast cancer progression. Furthermore, we observed a close association between circGSK3β expression levels and immune evasion in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, circGSK3β acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by interacting with miR-338-3p, thereby promoting breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, circGSK3β positively regulates the expression of the target gene PRMT5 through its interaction with miR-338-3p. This, in turn, enhances H3K4me3 recruitment to the promoter region of PD-L1, resulting in upregulation of PD-L1 expression and consequent immune evasion in breast cancer. In summary, our findings underscore the significance of the circGSK3β-miR-338-3p-PRMT5-H3K4me3 axis in promoting breast cancer progression and immune evasion. CircGSK3β emerges as a critical player in breast cancer pathogenesis, potentially serving as a diagnostic and prognostic marker, and offering novel insights into the role of circRNAs in breast cancer progression.
Viral-bacterial co-infections screen in vitro reveals molecular processes affecting pathogen proliferation and host cell viability
Authors: Walch Philipp , Broz Petr
Published: October 2024

The broadening of accessible methodologies has enabled mechanistic insights into single-pathogen infections, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying co-infections remain largely elusive, despite their clinical frequency and relevance, generally exacerbating symptom severity and fatality. Here, we describe an unbiased in vitro screening of pairwise co-infections in a murine macrophage model, quantifying pathogen proliferation and host cell death in parallel over time. The screen revealed that the majority of interactions are antagonistic for both metrics, highlighting general patterns depending on the pathogen virulence strategy. We subsequently decipher two distinct molecular interaction points: Firstly, murine Adenovirus 3 modifies ASC-dependent inflammasome responses in murine macrophages, altering host cell death and cytokine production, thereby impacting secondary Salmonella infection. Secondly, murine Adenovirus 2 infection triggers upregulation of Mprip, a crucial mediator of phagocytosis, which in turn causes increased Yersinia uptake, specifically in virus pre-infected bone-marrow-derived macrophages. This work therefore encompasses both a first-of-its-kind systematic assessment of host-pathogen-pathogen interactions, and mechanistic insight into molecular mediators during co-infection.
Light-steerable locomotion using zero-elastic-energy modes
Authors: Deng Zixuan , Li Kai , Priimagi Arri , Zeng Hao
Published: October 2024

Driving synthetic materials out of equilibrium via dissipative mechanisms paves the way towards autonomous, self-sustained robotic motions. However, obtaining agile movement in diverse environments with dynamic steerability remains a challenge. Here we report a light-fuelled soft liquid crystal elastomer torus with self-sustained out-of-equilibrium movement. Under constant light excitation, the torus undergoes spontaneous rotation arising from the formation of zero-elastic-energy modes. By exploiting dynamic friction or drag, the zero-elastic-energy-mode-based locomotion direction can be optically controlled in various dry and fluid environments. We demonstrate the ability of the liquid crystal elastomer torus to laterally and vertically swim in the Stokes regime. The torus navigation can be extended to three-dimensional space with full steerability of the swimming direction. These results demonstrate the possibilities enabled by prestrained topological structures towards robotic functions of out-of-equilibrium soft matter.
Preclinical comparison of prolgolimab, pembrolizumab and nivolumab
Authors: Gordeev Aleksandr , Vaal Andrei , Puchkova Maria , Smirnova Iana , Doronin Aleksandr , Znobishcheva Anna , Zhmudanova Daria , Aleksandrov Aleksei , Sukchev Mikhail , Imyanitov Evgeny , Solovyev Valery , Iakovlev Pavel
Published: October 2024

Prolgolimab is a recombinant IgG1-based anti-PD-1 antibody, whose properties were improved by the introduction of the LALA mutation, and which has demonstrated high efficacy in patients with metastatic melanoma. This paper presents the results of comparative preclinical studies of antigen-binding and effector functions involving prolgolimab and conventional IgG4 antibodies, nivolumab and pembrolizumab. None of the studied antibodies had undesirable antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity. Prolgolimab has shown higher PD-1 receptor occupancy and T-cell activation, but lower propensity to activate antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis as compared to nivolumab and pembrolizumab. An in vivo study in mice inoculated with CT26.wt cancer cells showed that tumor growth inhibition was 16% for pembrolizumab and 56% for prolgolimab. This study warrants clinical comparison of IgG1- and IgG4-based anti-PD-1 antibodies.
Novel ophthalmic hyaluronic acid-hydrogel with curcumin nanoparticles for enhanced healing of ulcerative keratitis in rabbit model
Authors: Sohani Zahra , Jamshidi Shahram , Koohi Mohammad Kazem , Malakootikhah Javad , Abarkar Mohammad , Golchin Diba , Roshani Sarina , Naghdi Haniyeh , Aghajanpour-moghaddam-gazafroudi Negin , Gazafroudi  , Amjadi Nava , Izadi-niaki Reihaneh
Published: October 2024

Corneal ulcers, whether melting or indolent, are common in humans and companion animals. Treatment involves local administration of antibiotic eye drops and corneal healing drugs. Compared to traditional treatments for ulcerative keratitis, herbal medicines offer unique advantages, such as potent anti-inflammatory effects and inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines. Curcumin, extracted from the Curcuma Longa plant, possesses extensive pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties, and is used in various medicines. In this study, we developed a novel ophthalmic drop hydrogel using a formulation of Curcumin NPs encapsulated with β-cyclodextrin and hyaluronic acid, to accelerate corneal healing and improve the quality of healed structures. The formation of Curcumin NPs into Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels was characterized by zeta, FTIR, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses. A total of 25 healthy male New Zealand Albino rabbits were experimentally induced with ulcerative keratitis and treated individually with topical medication. Rabbits were divided into five groups. Fluorescein dye staining, corneal clarity score, Schirmer tear test, proinflammatory cytokine measurement, and pathologic factors assessments were used to evaluate the optimised Curcumin NPs with β-cyclodextrin in Hyaluronic acid hydrogel. Our results demonstrated that the optimized Curcumin NPs with β-cyclodextrin in hyaluronic acid hydrogel significantly reduced the frequency of medication administration compared to conventional therapies, enhancing the quality of healed structures and effectively treating ulcerative keratitis. All findings in this study provide new insight into designing and fabricating novel ophthalmic medicine for ulcerative keratitis for topical usage.
Longitudinal autophagy profiling of the mammalian brain reveals sustained mitophagy throughout healthy aging
Authors: Rappe Anna , Vihinen Helena A , Suomi Fumi , Hassinen Antti J , Ehsan Homa , Jokitalo Eija S , McWilliams Thomas G
Published: October 2024

Mitophagy neutralizes mitochondrial damage, thereby preventing cellular dysfunction and apoptosis. Defects in mitophagy have been strongly implicated in age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. While mitophagy decreases throughout the lifespan of short-lived model organisms, it remains unknown whether such a decline occurs in the aging mammalian brain—a question of fundamental importance for understanding cell type- and region-specific susceptibility to neurodegeneration. Here, we define the longitudinal dynamics of basal mitophagy and macroautophagy across neuronal and non-neuronal cell types within the intact aging mouse brain in vivo. Quantitative profiling of reporter mouse cohorts from young to geriatric ages reveals cell- and tissue-specific alterations in mitophagy and macroautophagy between distinct subregions and cell populations, including dopaminergic neurons, cerebellar Purkinje cells, astrocytes, microglia and interneurons. We also find that healthy aging is hallmarked by the dynamic accumulation of differentially acidified lysosomes in several neural cell subsets. Our findings argue against any widespread age-related decline in mitophagic activity, instead demonstrating dynamic fluctuations in mitophagy across the aging trajectory, with strong implications for ongoing theragnostic development.
Label-free and ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of nucleic acids based on an exonuclease III-assisted target recycling amplification strategy using a heated gold disk electrode
Authors: Cheng Yanggang , Liu Minglu , Wang Fangfang
Published: October 2024

The work demonstrates a label-free and ultrasensitive electrochemical sensor for specific DNA detection with an exonuclease III-assisted target recycling amplification strategy and elevated electrode temperature at a heated gold disk electrode.
Impurity-induced acceleration of polymorphic conversion via crystalline solid solutions and the T–X phase diagrams of salicylic acid and 3-hydroxybenzoic acid
Authors: Zhang Tao , Ricci Francesco , Molajafari Fateme , Mohajerani Seyed Sepehr , Paolello Mitchell , Nordstrom Fredrik L.
Published: October 2024

Binary T–X phase diagrams of salicylic acid and two monotropic polymorphs of 3-hydroxybenzoic acid showing divergence in thermodynamic stability leading to acceleration of polymorphic conversions.
Tunable electronic and optoelectronic characteristics of two-dimensional β-AsP monolayer: a first-principles study
Authors: Xu Zhonghui , Wei Kaiyu , Wang Zhenyu , Jiang Junlin , Liu Guogang , Ke San-Huang
Published: October 2024

Near-ultraviolet photodetector based on a β-AsP monolayer.
Al(iii) and Ga(iii) triflate complexes as solvate ionic liquids: speciation and application as soluble and recyclable Lewis acidic catalysts
Authors: Więcławik Justyna , Brzęczek-Szafran Alina , Jurczyk Sebastian , Matuszek Karolina , Swadźba-Kwaśny Małgorzata , Chrobok Anna
Published: October 2024

This first report of solvate ionic liquids (SILs) based on aluminium(iii) or gallium(iii) triflate and triglyme (G3) gives insight into their speciation, Lewis acidity and catalytic activity in [3 + 3] cycloaddition.
Visible light-induced strain-release transformations of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes
Authors: Zhang Qing-Bao , Li Feng , Pan Bin , Zhang Shanshan , Yue Xiang-Guo , Liu Qiang
Published: October 2024

This review aims to provide an overview on the recent visible light-mediated strain-release transformations of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes. Prospects for future development of (aza)bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes in this fascinating field are outlined.
Investigating New Bilosomes for Ex vivo Skin Deposition, In Vitro Characterization, and Transdermal Delivery of Nimodipine
Authors: Chettupalli Ananda Kumar , Bukke Sarad Pawar Naik , Udom Godswill James , Saraswathi Tenpattinam Shanmugam , Rahaman Shaik Abdul , Rai Sachchida Nand , Kavitha Marati , Boggula Narender , Goruntla Narayana , Yadesa Tadele Mekuriya , Onohuean Hope
Published: October 2024

Background:This study developed and evaluated bilosomes containing Nimodipine (NDP) to create an appropriate formulation for a sustained-release transdermal gel.The generated bilosomal gel formulation was tested for its potential to increase...
Novel eutectogels derived from an ionic-liquid-based deep eutectic solvent as electrolytes for supercapacitors: synthesis and characterization
Authors: Dutta Arindam , Millar Wade , Silvester Debbie S. , Banerjee Tamal
Published: October 2024

Two novel inorganic eutectogels are developed from an ionic-liquid-based hybrid deep eutectic solvent. The eutectogels deliver an excellent operating potential window of 3 V, holding promise as potential electrolytes for sustainable supercapacitors.
Two Ni/Ce complexes based on bicompartmental ligands with field supported slow magnetic relaxation
Authors: Krešáková Lenka , Litecká Miroslava , Oyarzabal Itziar , Titiš Ján , Červeňáková Michaela , Hillard Elizabeth A. , Robert Jerome , Černák Juraj
Published: October 2024

Dinuclear Ni(ii)/Ce(iii) complexes [Ni(o-van-dap)Ce(H2O)(NO3)3] (1) and [Ni(H2O)2(o-van-dmdap)Ce(NO3)3] (2): examples of tuning magnetic properties via a small structural change within the ligands used.
Perylene-derivative singlet exciton fission in water solution
Authors: Magne Chloe , Streckaite Simona , Boto Roberto A. , Domínguez-Ojeda Eduardo , Gromova Marina , Echeverri Andrea , Brigiano Flavio Siro , Ha-Thi Minh-Huong , Fanckevičius Marius , Jašinskas Vidmantas , Quaranta Annamaria , Pascal Andrew A. , Koepf Matthieu , Casanova David , Pino Thomas , Robert Bruno , Contreras-García Julia , Finkelstein-Shapiro Daniel , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Llansola-Portoles Manuel J.
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates that water-soluble perylene-derivative dimers can efficiently induce either singlet fission or charge separation upon photoactivation.
The Relation of Linguistic Awareness Skills to Reading and Spelling for Autistic and Non-Autistic Elementary School–Age Children
Authors: Henbest Victoria S. , Apel Kenn
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

For non-autistic children, it is well established that linguistic awareness skills support their success with reading and spelling. Few investigations have examined whether these same linguistic awareness skills play a role in literacy development for autistic elementary school–age children. This study serves as a first step in quantifying the phonological, prosodic, orthographic, and morphological awareness skills of autistic children; how these skills compare to those of non-autistic children; and their relation to literacy performance.

Method:

We measured and compared the phonological, prosodic, orthographic, and morphological awareness skills of 18 autistic (with average nonverbal IQs) and 18 non-autistic elementary school–age children, matched in age, nonverbal IQ, and real-word reading. The relations between linguistic awareness and the children's word-level literacy and reading comprehension skills were examined, and we explored whether the magnitude of these relations was different for the two groups. Regression analyses indicated the relative contribution of linguistic awareness variables to performance on the literacy measures for the autistic children.

Results:

The non-autistic children outperformed the autistic children on most linguistic awareness measures. There were moderate-to-strong relations between performances on the linguistic awareness and literacy measures for the non-autistic children, and most associations were not reliably different from those for the autistic children. Regression analyses indicate that the performance on specific linguistic awareness variables explains unique variance in autistic children's literacy performance.

Conclusion:

Although less developed than those of their non-autistic peers, the linguistic awareness skills of autistic elementary school–age children are important for successful reading and spelling.
Assessment of Cochlear Implant Rehabilitation Success by Speech-Language Therapists Using International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Criteria
Authors: Thyson Susann , Werminghaus Maika , Volpert Simone , Althaus Laurenz , Buscher Lisa , Schatton Dorothee , van Treeck Wiebke , Klenzner Thomas
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

This study aims to introduce an assessment questionnaire based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to enable quantifiable clinical documentation. The questionnaire assists speech-language therapists (SLTs) in evaluating both non-audiological and audiological rehabilitation outcomes of patients with cochlear implants (CIs).

Method:

Six SLTs were recruited to evaluate the effectiveness of CI care using ICF criteria. We carefully selected 20 pertinent ICF criteria, and SLTs received thorough training in how to apply them uniformly. A cohort of 48 patients was evaluated at three distinct time points: presurgery, postsurgery, and 6 months post-initial CI fitting. Patients underwent dedicated speech-language therapy sessions throughout the treatment course.

Results:

A total of 144 complete datasets were scrutinized using a two-factor analysis of variance for ranks. Following CI care, patients exhibited substantial improvements in auditory perception, characterized by enhanced sound recognition and speech discrimination. Additionally, patients demonstrated improved attentional focus, proficiency in daily tasks and increased conversational engagement over time. Environmental factors, particularly sound perception, improved markedly, correlating with reported reductions in stress levels. Minimal changes were noted in stress management and communication techniques. Articulatory function, speech functions, and pain perception exhibited the least alteration.

Conclusions:

The data extracted from the ICF-based assessments underscore the vital significance of incorporating speech therapy–based metrics to evaluate both non-audiological and audiological factors in assessing the success of CI care within the SLTs domain. This approach proves to be highly relevant both in terms of demonstration and clinical applicability.
Socio-Communicative Behaviors Involving Minimally Speaking Autistic Preschoolers and Their Typically Developing Peers: Effects of an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention Package
Authors: Edgar Tiffany Chavers , Schlosser Ralf W. , Koul Rajinder
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention package consisting of systematic instruction and aided AAC modeling with speech-output technology on the acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of socio-communicative behaviors in four minimally speaking, preschool-aged, autistic children.

Method:

A multiple-probe design across behaviors (i.e., initiating a request for a turn, answering questions, and commenting) replicated across participants was implemented to evaluate the effects of the intervention package on socio-communicative behaviors. Furthermore, a pretreatment and posttreatment multiple-generalization-probe design was used to assess generalization across typically developing peers who were not a part of the intervention. Maintenance data were collected 3 weeks post intervention.

Results:

Visual analysis, corroborated by nonoverlapping of all pairs statistics, established a strong functional relationship between the AAC intervention package and all targeted socio-communicative outcomes for two participants. For the other two participants, inconsistent intervention effects were observed. In terms of generalization from interacting with the researcher to typically developing peers, a functional relationship between the intervention and generalization outcomes for all targeted behaviors was established for only one participant (i.e., Aiden).

Conclusion:

The outcomes of this study suggest that aided AAC modeling and systematic instruction using a speech-output technology may lead to gains in socio-communicative behaviors in some minimally speaking, preschool-aged, autistic children.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27091879
Unveiling the shape: A multi-wavelength analysis of the galaxy clusters Abell 76 and Abell 1307
Authors: Barrena R. , Pizzuti L. , Chon G. , Böhringer H.
Published: October 2024

We analyse the dynamical state of the galaxy clusters Abell 76 and Abell 1307 from the optical point of view, presenting a coherent scenario that responds to the X-ray emissions observed in these structures. Our study is based on 231 and 164 spectroscopic redshifts, for the clusters A76 and A1307, respectively, obtained mostly with the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo, and complemented with others collected from the SDSS DR16 spectroscopic database and the literature. We find that A76 and A1307 are two galaxy clusters at z = 0.0390 and 0.0815, respectively, with a velocity dispersion of 650 ± 56 km s−1 and 863 ± 85 km s−1, and they show velocity distributions following, in practice, Gaussian profiles. From our dynamical analysis, X-ray studies and SZ-Planck emission, we obtain a mean total mass M500 = 1.7 ± 0.6 ⋅ 1014 M⊙ and 3.5 ± 1.3 ⋅ 1014 M⊙ for A76 and A1307, respectively. Using the SDSS DR16 photometric database, we find that the spatial distribution of likely cluster members in the case of A76 is very anisotropic, while A1307 shows a compact distribution of galaxies, but it is double peaked and elongated in the south-north direction. Using XMM-Newton X-ray data, we compared the surface brightness maps with galaxy distributions and noticed that both distributions are correlated. We reconstructed the total mass profile and velocity anisotropy of both clusters by analysing the full projected phase space, through the MG-MAMPOSSt code. Our study reveals a slight indication of radial orbits for A76, while A1307 seems to prefer more isotropic orbits in the whole cluster range. In summary, A76 represents a typical young cluster, in an early stage of formation, with a very low X-ray surface brightness but a high temperature showing a very anisotropic galaxy distribution. A1307 is however more consolidated and massive showing in-homogeneous galaxy distribution and an asymmetric X-ray emission, which suggest a scenario characterised by recent minor mergers.
Intertwined formation of H2, dust, and stars in cosmological simulations
Authors: Ragone-Figueroa Cinthia , Granato Gian Luigi , Parente Massimiliano , Murante Giuseppe , Valentini Milena , Borgani Stefano , Maio Umberto
Published: October 2024

Context. Molecular hydrogen (H2) plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies, serving as the primary fuel reservoir for star formation. In a metal-enriched Universe, H2 forms mostly through catalysis on interstellar dust grain surfaces. However, due to the complexities of modelling this process, star formation in cosmological simulations often relies on empirical or theoretical frameworks that have only been validated in the local Universe to estimate the abundance of H2.

Aims. The goal of this work is to model the connection between the processes of star, dust, and H2 formation in our cosmological simulations.

Methods. Building upon our recent integration of a dust evolution model into the star formation and feedback model MUPPI, we included the formation of molecular hydrogen on the surfaces of dust grains. We also accounted for the destruction of molecules and their shielding from harmful radiation.

Results. The model reproduces, reasonably well, the main statistical properties of the observed galaxy population for the stellar, dust, and H2 components. The evolution of the molecular hydrogen cosmic density (ρH2) in our simulated boxes peaks around redshift z = 1.5, consistent with observations. Following its peak, ρH2 decreases by a factor of two towards z = 0, which is a milder evolution than observed. Similarly, the evolution of the molecular hydrogen mass function since z = 2 displays a gentler evolution when compared to observations. Our model recovers satisfactorily the integrated molecular Kennicut-Schmidt (mKS) law between the surface star formation rate (ΣSFR) and surface H2 density (ΣH2) at z = 0. This relationship is already evident at z = 2, albeit with a higher normalization. We find hints of a broken power law with a steeper slope at higher ΣH2. We also study the H2-to-dust mass ratio in galaxies as a function of their gas metallicity and stellar mass, observing a decreasing trend with respect to both quantities. The H2-to-dust mass fraction for the global population of galaxies is higher at higher redshift. The analysis of the atomic-to-molecular transition on a particle-by-particle basis suggests that gas metallicity cannot reliably substitute the dust-to-gas ratio in models attempting to simulate dust-promoted H2.
Oro-antral communication closure using collagenated porcine cortical lamina: A retrospective study of 34 cases
Authors: Jaballah-Magdeleine Nicolas , Boussouni Soufiane , Michel Philippe , Kati-Coulibaly Clotaire
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Oro-antral communications (OAC) is a common complication in oral surgery. Many surgical techniques have been described, but traditional closure techniques have limitations, leading to the exploration of alternative approaches using resorbable biomaterials. This study aimed to assess the success of repairing OAC larger than 5 mm using collagenated porcine cortical lamina. Materials and methods: This retrospective study included 34 cases of OAC larger than 5 mm who underwent surgical repair using a porcine-derived collagenated cortico-cancellous plate, (Lamina Curve®). The median patient age was 46 yr. The study cohort consisted of 12 females and 22 males. The median follow-up time was 54 days. The primary outcome was the presence of complete mucosal closure, assessed at the 4th week postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included adverse events and stitching disunion. Results: Success rate was 97%. 9 patients (26.5% [12.1 ; 44]) had complications : 5 stitch disunions, 1 failure, 1 epistaxis, 1 infection and 1 nerve paresis. Of the 5 patients with stitch disunions (14.7% [4.12 ; 30.2]), all patients had complete mucosal closure at the primary outcome endpoint. Conclusion: Cortical lamina shows promising results in OAC repair. Success rates compare favorably with traditional flap-based methods. Further research is needed to validate these findings.
Numerical understanding of MnS precipitation influence on solute micro-segregation during solidification
Authors: Liu Nianfu , Li Yutang , Cheng Juan , Fu Jianxun
Published: October 2024

To illuminate the effects of MnS precipitation on solute micro-segregation, a coupled model of micro-segregation and MnS precipitation was built by the finite-difference method (FDM). Sulfur-bearing steel system with contents of S at 0–0.1 wt.% and C at 0–0.8 wt.% was used to analyze the influence of MnS precipitation on solidification behavior. The results show that MnS precipitation begin to affect solidus temperature and zero strength temperature (ZST) when the content of S and C reaches 0.001 wt.% and 0.085%, respectively. The micro-segregation of Mn and S are suppressed by MnS precipitation. The micro-segregation ratio of sulfur drops from 45.80 to 20.30, from 2.29 to 1.90 for manganese. At the same time, MnS precipitation makes the solidification finish about 10 °C in advance, resulting in the intensified micro-segregation of C, Si, and P. Besides, MnS precipitation also affectes the inter-dendritic distribution of solutes during solidification.
La clinique en rue auprès de la jeunesse des Antilles françaises dans le centre de Paris : la langue et les territoires
Authors: Robert Nicolas
Published: October 2024

Depuis 2017, une équipe pluridisciplinaire intervient à Paris auprès des jeunes en rue âgés de 12 à 30 ans. Cette équipe n’est pas spécialiste de problématiques spécifiques ou de catégories sociologiques particulières mais s’intéresse à la manière dont un territoire se forme par la présence des personnes en rue. Cet article témoigne de la pratique du psychologue clinicien dans ce dispositif particulier et plus particulièrement de sa rencontre avec la jeunesse provenant des Antilles françaises. Il interroge ainsi les conséquences de la colonisation sur la langue, sur les subjectivités et sur la clinique du psychologue. Il est également l’occasion d’une réflexion plus large sur les définitions de territoire et d’espace.
Baseline Platelet Count Predicts Infarct Size and Mortality after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Dutsch Alexander , Graesser Christian , Kessler Thorsten , Sager Hendrik B. , Novacek Sophie , Krefting Johannes , Schories Viktoria , Niedermeier Benedikt , Voll Felix , Kufner Sebastian , Xhepa Erion , Joner Michael , Cassese Salvatore , Schunkert Heribert , Ndrepepa Gjin , Kastrati Adnan
Published: October 2024

Introduction Platelets greatly contribute to cardiovascular diseases. We sought to explore the association of platelet counts with infarct size and outcome in patients presenting with acute ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).

Methods and Results In this retrospective study, we grouped 1,198 STEMI patients into tertiles (T) based on platelet count on admission: T1 = 102–206 [109 platelets/L] (n = 402), T2 = 207–259 [109 platelets/L] (n = 396), and T3 = 260–921 [109 platelets/L] (n = 400). Primary endpoint was 1-year all-cause mortality. Patients with highest platelet counts on admission showed the greatest area at risk and infarct size: area at risk (median) was 22.0% (interquartile range [IQR]: 12.0–39.8%) in T1, 21.0% (IQR: 11.0–37.1%) in T2, and 26.0% (IQR: 14.9–45.0%) of the left ventricle in T3 (p = 0.003); final infarct sizes after 7 to 14 days were as follows: 10.0% (IQR: 2.0–21.0%) in T1, 9.0% (IQR: 2.0–20.7%) in T2, and 12.0% (IQR: 3.0–27.3%) of the left ventricle in T3 (p = 0.015) as serial imaging revealed. At 1 year, 16 all-cause deaths occurred in T1, 5 in T2, and 22 in T3 (log-rank test, p = 0.006). After adjustment, T1 and T3 were associated with all-cause 1-year mortality (T1: hazard ratio [HR] = 3.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23–9.54, p = 0.02; T3: HR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.23–9.78, p = 0.01) compared with T2. At 5 years, all-cause mortality remained numerically higher in the T1 and T3.

Conclusions In patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI, low and high blood platelet levels on admission were associated with increased long-term mortality (Fig. 1).
Surveillance bei Watch-and-Wait nach neoadjuvanter Therapie beim Rektumkarzinom
Authors: Wiegering Armin , Kastner Carolin , Meir Michael , Flemming Sven , Reibetanz Joachim , Germer Christoph Thomas
Published: October 2024

Rund ein Drittel aller kolorektalen Karzinome (KRK) sind im Rektum lokalisiert. Im Rahmen
eines multimodalen Therapiekonzeptes wird durch eine neoadjuvante Therapie in 50–60% der Fälle
ein Downstaging des Tumors und in 10–30% der Fälle eine sog. Complete Clinical Response (cCR),
definiert als klinisch (und radiologisch) nicht mehr detektierbarer Residualtumor nach
Abschluss der neoadjuvanten Therapie, erzielt.

Vor dem Hintergrund perioperativer Morbidität und Mortalität einer radikalen
Rektumresektion, mit u. a. Auftreten des Symptomkomplexes des sog. Low Anterior Resection
Syndrome (LARS) sowie der zumindest passager gegebenen Notwendigkeit zur Deviation, wird die
Frage nach einer Nutzen-Risiko-Abwägung einer Organresektion bei Vorliegen eines cCR
aufgeworfen. In diesem Zusammenhang trat das therapeutische Konzept eines
„Watch-and-Wait“-Vorgehens mit Unterlassung einer unmittelbaren Organresektion und Einschluss
in ein strukturiertes Surveillance-Regime in den Vordergrund.

Zur sicheren, onkologischen Durchführung dieser Option ist es notwendig, Standards in der
Definition einer geeigneten Patientenklientel sowie der Umsetzung des Konzepts zu erarbeiten.
Dabei ist das inhärente Ziel neben der zunächst korrekten Selektion der Patientengruppe, die
sich für ein primär nicht chirurgisches Vorgehen eignet, die frühzeitige und suffiziente
Detektion eines Tumorwiederauftretens (sog. Local Regrowth) während der Phase des
„Watch-and-Wait“ (Surveillance).

In diesem Zusammenhang adressieren wir in dieser Arbeit die Fragen: 1. nach dem optimalen
Zeitpunkt des initiales Re-Stagings, 2. nach den Kriterien zur Beurteilung des klinischen
Ansprechens und der Selektion der geeigneten Patientenklientel, 3. nach Rhythmus und
Ausgestaltung des Surveillance-Protokolls.
Acceptance and feasibility of an augmented reality-based navigation system with optical tracking for percutaneous procedures in interventional radiology – a simulation-based phantom study
Authors: Rohmer Karl , Becker Mathias , Georgiades Marilena , March Christine , Melekh Bohdan , Sperka Piotr , Spinczyk Dominik , Wolińska-Sołtys Anna , Pech Maciej
Published: October 2024

Augmented reality (AR) projects additional information into the user’s field of view during interventions. The aim was to evaluate the acceptance and clinical feasibility of an AR system and to compare users with different levels of experience. A system was examined that projects a CT-generated 3D model of a phantom into the field of view using a HoloLens 2, whereby the tracked needle is displayed and navigated live. A projected ultrasound image is used for live control of the needle positioning. This should minimize radiation exposure and improve orientation.

The acceptance and usability of the AR navigation system was evaluated by 10 physicians and medical students with different levels of experience by performing punctures with the system in a phantom. The required time was then compared and a questionnaire was completed to assess clinical acceptance and feasibility. For statistical analysis, frequencies for qualitative characteristics, location and dispersion measures for quantitative characteristics and Spearman rank correlations for correlations were calculated.

9 out of 10 subjects hit all 5 target regions in the first attempt, taking an average of 29:39 minutes for all punctures. There was a significant correlation between previous experience in interventional radiology, years in the profession, and the time required. Overall, the time varied from an average of 43:00 min. for medical students to 15:00 min. for chief physicians. All test subjects showed high acceptance of the system and rated especially the potential clinical feasibility, the simplification of the puncture, and the image quality positively. However, the majority require further training for sufficient safety in use.

The system offers distinct advantages for navigation and orientation, facilitates percutaneous interventions during training and enables professionally experienced physicians to achieve short intervention times. In addition, the system improves ergonomics during the procedure by making important information always directly available in the field of view and has the potential to reduce the radiation exposure of staff in particular by combining AR and sonography and thus shortening CT-fluoroscopy times.
Echocardiographic and Clinical Outcomes of Concomitant Secondary Chordal Cutting to Surgical Myectomy in Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Heeringa Tijn Julian Pieter , Hegeman Romy R.M.J.J. , Houwelingen Len van , Hoogewerf Marieke , Stecher David , Kelder Johannes C. , Harst Pim van der , Swaans Martin J. , Mokhles Mostafa M. , Vaartjes Ilonca , Klein Patrick , Kaaij Niels P. van der
Published: October 2024

In patients who underwent surgical myectomy for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), additional mitral valve repair may offer additional benefits in terms of further reducing left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradients, systolic anterior motion (SAM), and mitral regurgitation (MR). We performed a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the evidence of surgical myectomy with additional secondary chordal cutting in patients with HOCM. A systematic literature search in MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed until April 2024. The primary outcome studied was postoperative echocardiographic LVOT gradient. A random effects meta-analysis of means was performed for the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes studied were postoperative residual MR grade, 30-day new permanent pacemaker implantation, and in-hospital mortality. From 1,911 unique publications, a total of 6 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and comprised 471 patients with a pooled mean preoperative resting LVOT gradient of 84 mm Hg (95% confidence interval [CI]: 76–91). The postoperative pooled mean LVOT gradient was 11 mm Hg (95% CI: 10–12) with a low heterogeneity (I
2 = 44%). The residual LVOT gradient exceeding 30 mm Hg was present in nine (1%) patients. MR grade 3 or 4 at hospital discharge was present in seven (1%) patients. The 30-day new permanent pacemaker implantation rate was 7% and the in-hospital mortality was 0.4%. This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that combining surgical myectomy with secondary chordal cutting can be performed safely and effectively eliminate LVOT obstruction in HOCM patients. Further studies are needed to determine the additive effectiveness of additional secondary chordal cuttings.