bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limited impact of vector control on the population genetic structure ofGlossina fuscipes fuscipesfrom the sleeping sickness focus of Maro, Chad
Authors: Ravel Sophie , Ségard Adeline , Mollo Brahim Guihini , Mahamat Mahamat Hissène , Argiles-Herrero Rafael , Bouyer Jérémy , Rayaisse Jean-Baptiste , Solano Philippe , Pèka Mallaye , Darnas Justin , Belem Adrien Marie Gaston , Yoni Wilfrid , Noûs Camille , de Meeûs Thierry
Published: March 2024

Tsetse flies (genusGlossina) transmit deadly trypanosomes to human populations and domestic animals in sub-Saharan Africa. Some foci of Human African Trypanosomiasis due toTrypanosoma brucei gambiense(g-HAT) persist in southern Chad, where a program of tsetse control was implemented against the local vectorGlossina fuscipes fuscipesin 2018 in Maro. We analyzed the population genetics ofG. f. fuscipesfrom the Maro focus before control (T0), one year (T1), and 18 months (T2) after the beginning of control efforts. Most flies captured displayed a local genetic profile (local survivors), but a few flies displayed outlier genotypes. Moreover, disturbance of isolation by distance signature (increase of genetic distance with geographic distance) and effective population size estimates, absence of any genetic signature of a bottleneck, and an increase of genetic diversity between T0 and T2 strongly suggest gene flows from various origins, and a limited impact of the vector control efforts on this tsetse population. Continuous control and surveillance of g-HAT transmission is thus recommended in Maro. Particular attention will need to be paid to the border with the Central African Republic, a country where the entomological and epidemiological status of g-HAT is unknown.
Green design strategies for sustainable supply chain considering channel leadership
Authors: Yao Fengmin , Yan Yingluo , Liu Likun , Sun Jiayi
Published: March 2024

We have observed from practice that to create new economic and environmental values, both the upstream and downstream firms in sustainable supply chain are motivated to invest in green design. Channel leadership as an important factor affecting the channel profit distribution will reshape the investment motivation of enterprises. In this paper, we construct six kinds of pricing and green design decision models to explore the optimal green design strategies for sustainable supply chain consisting of one manufacturer and one retailer under different channel leadership, and investigate the interaction between channel leadership and green design strategy, and their impacts on sustainable supply chain performance, environment and consumer surplus. We find that regardless of the channel leadership, the wholesale and retail prices of products under different green design strategies are always affected by the cost effect of green design. In terms of boosting the green design level and market demand, increasing the consumer surplus and enterprises profits, only when the manufacturer is the channel leader and the green design cost effect is small, the retailer can implement green design better. Moreover, when the manufacturer implements green design, the better channel structure between the retailer-led and Nash equilibrium game depends on the green design cost effect, but both are better than the manufacturer-led. However, when the retailer implements green design, the channel structure of Nash equilibrium game is always better. We finally illustrate that under different channel leadership, which green design strategy is more conducive to reducing the total environment impact of products depends on the joint effect of green design cost effect and green design environment effect.
Epidemiology of Injuries in Olympic Sports
Authors: Lambert Christophe , Ritzmann Ramona , Akoto Ralph , Lambert Maxime , Pfeiffer Thomas , Wolfarth Bernd , Lachmann Danlel , Shafizadeh Sven
Published: March 2024

Injuries effect the performance of athletes. Severity of injuries is determined by time loss and sporting performance reduction. To treat injuries adequately, it is necessary to get an overview of varied injuries types in different sports disciplines. In a retrospective study 7.809 athletes from Germany, Switzerland and Austria competing in competitive or recreational levels of sports were included. Injury prevalence was highest in team sports (75 %), followed by combat (64 %), racquet (54 %) and track and field (51 %). Knee (28 %) and shoulder (14 %) were the most at risk joints. Time loss in sporting activity after injury was longest in the region of knee (26 weeks). Of all reported injuries, 48 % were accompanied by a reduced level of performance. The highest injury prevalence occurred in the year 2016 (45 %). More injuries occurred during training (58 %) compared to competition (42 %). Across Olympic disciplines, a large number of injuries occurred during training sessions. Injury frequency increased as the Olympic games drew closer. Knee and shoulder injuries were the most severe injuries with respect to time loss and reduction sporting performance.
Lückenschluss bei Aplasie der bleibenden zweiten Prämolaren im
Unterkiefer mittels Mentoplate – ein Fallbericht
Authors: Utz J. F. , Kutz J.
Published: March 2024

Die kieferorthopädische Behandlung von Patienten mit Zahnaplasien im
Unterkieferseitenzahnbereich in Kombination mit einer progenen Tendenz stellt
eine große Herausforderung dar. Der vorliegende Fall zeigt, dass eine
strukturierte Analyse und Auswertung der Befunde in Kombination mit einem guten
Verankerungsmanagement die Grenzen der modernen Kieferorthopädie erweitern und
sowohl eine dentale Kompensation als auch ein erfolgreicher Lückenschluss im
Seitenzahngebiet gleichzeitig angegangen werden können.
Möglichkeiten der modernen Kieferorthopädie: Von der
Ausgangssituation bis zur Eingliederung – Der digitale Workflow
für herausnehmbare und festsitzende
CAD/CAM-Apparaturen
Authors: Şen Sinan , Puchert Kathrin , Töckelt Ödön
Published: March 2024

Die rasante Entwicklung der Informationstechnologie und die fortschreitende
Digitalisierung haben in den letzten Jahren den Fachbereich der
Kieferorthopädie grundlegend verändert. Durch den Einsatz
digitaler Techniken im Bereich der Diagnostik und der Behandlungsplanung
eröffnen sich für die Patienten effizientere und
präzisere Versorgungsmöglichkeiten [1, 2].

Die Etablierung der CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided-Design/
Computer-Aided-Manufacturing)-Technologie hat maßgeblich Einfluss auf
den Workflow in der kieferorthopädischen Fachpraxis genommen. Dieser
Artikel soll einen Überblick über den derzeitigen digitalen
Workflow bei der Herstellung von herausnehmbaren und festsitzenden
CAD/CAM-Apparaturen schaffen.
Möglichkeiten der modernen Kieferorthopädie:
Einsatzmöglichkeiten und Wirkungsweisen von CAD/CAM-Apparaturen
anhand von vier Fallbeispielen
Authors: Şen S. , Puchert K. , Töckelt Ö.
Published: March 2024

Die Integration von CAD/CAM-Technologien in den Praxisalltag beeinflusst
nicht nur maßgeblich den Workflow am Behandlungsstuhl und im
zahntechnischen Labor, sondern eröffnet auch neuartige Perspektiven
hinsichtlich der individuellen Behandlungsplanung.

Dieser zweite Teil der Serie beabsichtigt, anhand von vier Fallbeispielen, die
vielfältigen Möglichkeiten der Nutzung von
CAD/CAM-Apparaturen in der kieferorthopädischen Therapie
darzustellen. Auch Einschränkungen bzw. Problemfelder sollen gezeigt
werden.
Goldkörner in der Homöopathie
Authors: Albrecht Daniela
Published: March 2024

In der Homöopathie nach Bönninghausen werden Symptome, die einen direkt auf ein
Mittel hinweisen, auch „Goldkörner“ genannt. Diese besonders hilfreichen Symptome
finden wir selten, aber wenn wir sie gefunden haben, sind sie wahre Schätze für die
erfolgreiche Verordnung. Ähnliche „Goldkörner“ für unsere Behandlung, Praxis,
unseren Werdegang finden wir eher zufällig, z. B. durch ein Gespräch mit einem
Kollegen, der einem oft unbewusst eine neue Anregung gibt. Manchmal auch, wenn man
danach sucht und alle Hebel in Bewegung setzt, um eine Lösung für ein Problem oder
einen Patienten zu finden. Auch Sie haben sicher schon einmal jeden Stein für einen
Patienten umgedreht, um ein Mittel, eine Behandlungsmethode oder auch ein kleines
Wunder aufzuspüren.
Die homöopathische Behandlung von HNO-Erkrankungen in der Praxis:
Tipps, Tricks und Fallstricke
Authors: Mayer-Brix Joachim
Published: March 2024

Es wird über die homöopathische Behandlung von HNO-Erkrankungen in der Arztpraxis
berichtet. Typische Missverständnisse und Fallstricke in der Diagnostik und
Therapie werden anhand von Praxisbeispielen erläutert und hilfreiche sowie
irreführende Rubriken werden erläutert.
Comparison of Vaginal Pessaries to Standard Care or Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Treating Postpartum Urinary Incontinence: a Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lange Sören , Lange Rainer , Tabibi Elham , Hitschold Thomas , Müller Veronika I. , Naumann Gert
Published: March 2024

To compare three conservative treatment options, standard care, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), and vaginal pessaries, for postpartum urinary incontinence (UI) that are accessible to most patients and practitioners in a generalizable cohort.

A multicenter, open-label, parallel group, pragmatic randomized controlled clinical trial comparing standard care, PFMT, and vaginal cube pessary for postpartum urinary incontinence was conducted in six outpatient clinics. Sample size was based on large treatment effects (Cramers’ V > 0.35) with a power of 80% and an alpha of 0.05 for a 3 × 3 contingency table, 44 patients needed to be included in the trial. Outcomes were analyzed according to the intention-to-treat principle. Group comparisons were made using analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal-Wallis, and chi-square test as appropriate. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Of the 516 women screened, 111 presented with postpartum UI. Of these, 52 were randomized to one of three treatment groups: standard care (n = 17), pelvic floor muscle training (n = 17), or vaginal cube pessary (n = 18). After 12 weeks of treatment, treatment success, as measured by patient satisfaction, was significantly higher in the vaginal pessary group (77.8%, n = 14/18), compared to the standard care group (41.2%, n = 7/17), and the PFMT (23.5%, n = 4/17; χ2
2,n = 52 = 14.55; p = 0.006, Cramer-V = 0.374). No adverse events were reported. SUI and MUI accounted for 88.4% of postpartum UI.

Vaginal pessaries were superior to standard care or PFMT to satisfyingly reduce postpartum UI symptoms. No complications were found.
Comparison of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration and fine-needle biopsy to generate pancreatic cancer organoids: Randomized trial
Authors: Wiessner Johannes Roman , Orben Felix , Schäfer Arlett , Fricke Lisa , Schneider Günter , Reichert Maximilian , Herner Alexander , Mayr Ulrich , Phillip Veit , Treiber Matthias , von Figura Guido , Abdelhafez Mohamed , Schmid Roland M. , Schlag Christoph
Published: March 2024

Background and study aims The prognosis for pancreatic cancer remains poor. Molecular diagnostics and customized therapies are becoming increasingly important in clinical routine. Patient-derived, predictive model systems such as organoids have the potential to substantially increase the depth of information from biopsy material by functional and molecular characterization. We compared the extent to which the use of fine-needle aspiration needles (FNA, 22G) or fine-needle biopsy needles (FNB, 22G) influences the generation of pancreatic cancer patient-derived organoids (PDOs) to establish endoscopic standards of organoid technology.

Patients and methods Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided punctures by EUS-FNA and EUS-FNB of pancreatic masses highly suspicious for adenocarcinoma (detected by computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging) were prospectively evaluated. Consecutive patients received EUS-FNA and EUS-FNB in a randomized order without the need to exchange the needle shaft (only the inner needle type (FNA/-B) was exchanged) between the passes. With each needle type, the specimens for histological analysis and for PDOs were obtained separately.

Results Fifty patients were enrolled in the study. Histology revealed malignancy in 42 of 50 cases (84%). In total PDOs were generated from 17 patients (34%). Of these, nine were established by FNB only, two by FNA only, and six by both FNA and FNB. Histology revealed malignancy in 13 of 17 PDO cases (76%). In two histologically false-negative cases, PDOs could be established.

Conclusions EUS-FNB was superior to EUS-FNA in terms of successful generation of PDOs, although it failed to show statistical significance.
Cannabinoids for Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia: An
Overview
Authors: Broers Barbara , Bianchi Federica
Published: March 2024

Dementia, with loss of memory, cognitive abilities, and independent daily
functioning, is increasing worldwide, related to an aging population. Currently,
there is no curative treatment for dementia. Treatment of the frequently
occurring behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) is partially
effective and associated with significant side effects.

Cannabinoids are lipophilic molecules acting on the CB1 end CB2 receptors,
essential for main biological processes such as sleep, appetite, memory, and
pain. Cannabinoids might have a positive impact on amyloid formation in
Alzheimer’s disease, the main form of dementia, and on BPSD symptoms. Most
knowledge currently concerns delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol
(CBD). In the context of dementia and BPSD, THC might be beneficial for
associated spasticity and possible pain or lack of appetite and CBD probably
works better on sleep, agitation, and anxiety.

This overview of prospective clinical studies and randomized clinical trials,
published between 2005 and April 2023, using cannabinoids for BPSD suggests that
older studies using low-dose oral synthetic THC showed no positive results.
Still, more recent studies using THC/CBD-based oral medication at higher doses
show promising results and are feasible and safe in this elderly polymedicated
population. Several RCTs are ongoing and planned worldwide, and we hope other
trials will follow to establish clinical efficiency and optimal dosing, as well
as other outcomes such as deprescribing other medications and facilitation of
care. We suggest that researchers also address the more sociological aspects of
prescribing cannabinoids for dementia and BPSD in their specific context.
Salivary Cortisol Measurement Contamination After Oral
Hydrocortisone: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Chihaoui Melika , Mouelhi Yasmine , Hammami Bessem , Oueslati Ibtissem , Khessairi Nadia , Chaker Fatma , Yazidi Meriem , Feki Moncef
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to evaluate salivary cortisol (SC) contamination and determine
the associated factors in secondary adrenal insufficiency (SAI) patients treated
with hydrocortisone (Hc). A randomized crossover trial involved SAI patients. SC
was measured before the morning Hc dose, then at one, two, and four hours after.
The procedure was performed twice on two days of a week: one day while taking Hc
in tablet form (tablet set) and one day while taking Hc in capsule form (capsule
set). Area under the curve (AUC) of SC levels over time was calculated in each
participant for the two sets. SC contamination was defined as AUCtablet above
the 95th percentile of AUCcapsule. Thirty-four patients (24 females and 10
males) with a median age of 48 years were enrolled. Post-Hc dose SC levels were
higher in tablet than in capsule set, particularly at one hour. Prevalence and
extent of SC contamination were estimated to 32% and 88%, respectively. In
capsule set, SC measured two hours after Hc intake showed the strongest
correlation with AUC (r=0.88, p<0.001). In multivariate analysis, serum
potassium≥3.9 mEq/l was the only predictor for SC contamination [multi-adjusted
OR (95% CI): 7.1 (1.4–36.1); p=0.018]. SC measured during the two hours after Hc
intake is inaccurate for glucocorticoid replacement therapy assessment in SAI
patients treated with Hc in tablet form.
Use of Postpartum Hemorrhage Checklist during Vaginal Deliveries: A Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Bruce Katharine E. , Desai Shivani , Reilly Kelly , Keil Arianna , Swanson Michelle , Cobb Benjamin , Zahn Katelin , McKenzie Christine , Coviello Elizabeth , Mallampati Divya , Tully Kristin P. , Kolarczyk Lavinia , Maaske Shannon , Quist-Nelson Johanna
Published: March 2024

Objective Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) protocols improve patient safety and reduce utilization of blood products; however, few data exist on sustainability of PPH checklist use, how use affects care delivery, and variation of use among patient subgroups. This study aimed to (1) examine compliance with PPH checklist use during vaginal deliveries, (2) evaluate whether checklist use varied by patient and/or care team characteristics, and (3) evaluate whether checklist use was associated with increased use of recommended medications/interventions.

Study Design This was a quality improvement study performed from April 2021 through June 2023. A multidisciplinary team developed a revised PPH checklist and used quality improvement methodology to increase checklist use following vaginal birth. Data were collected from medical records and clinician survey. Control charts were generated to track checklist use and evaluate special cause variation. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to evaluate variation in medications/interventions and across subgroups.

Results During the study period, there were 342 cases of PPH at the time of vaginal birth. The checklist was used in 67% of PPH cases during the 20-month period after implementation in a setting where no checklist was previously being used. We found no statistically significant differences in checklist use by patient or health care team characteristics. Use of tranexamic acid, carboprost, and misoprostol were significantly associated with checklist use.

Conclusion This study demonstrated successful implementation of a checklist protocol where no checklist was previously being used, with sustained use in an average of 67% of PPH cases over 20 months. Checklist use was consistent across subgroups and was associated with higher use of interventions shown to lower blood loss.

Key Points
Advances on the Synthesis of C-Aryl-glycosides Since 2019
Authors: Jiang Xuefeng , Li Jiagen
Published: March 2024

Aryl-glycosides represent a significant subclass of crucial glycosidic compounds, increasingly capturing the attention of pharmaceutical developers as bioelectronic motifs embedded within glycosides. Their outstanding resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis bestows a distinctive advantage in the field of drug development, particularly in therapeutic domains such as diabetes treatment, where pharmaceuticals based on the C-aryl-glycoside architecture manifest compelling therapeutic efficacy. As a result, researchers in the realm of synthetic chemistry have diligently explored and devised a plethora of streamlined and efficacious synthetic methodologies. This comprehensive account systematically delineates methodologies employed in recent years for the efficient synthesis of C-aryl-glycosides, offering insights into three primary directions: transition-metal catalysis, radical strategies, and metal-free catalysis processes.

1 Introduction

2 Glycosylation via Transition-Metal Catalytic Approaches

3 Glycosylation via Glycosyl Radical Approaches

4 Glycosylation via Metal-Free Catalytic Approaches

5 Conclusion and Outlook
A Practical Method for the Synthesis of Mesoionic 1,3-Diaryltetrazolium Derivatives Bearing a para-Substituted Phenyl Group at the 1- or 3-Position from Anilines
Authors: Matsukawa Yuta , Hirashita Tsunehisa
Published: March 2024

A simple, economical, and safe method for the synthesis of mesoionic 1,3-diaryltetrazolium derivatives bearing a para-substituted phenyl group at the 1- or 3-position via thiosemicarbazides was established. Such compounds were directly obtained from the corresponding para-substituted anilines instead of aryl isothiocyanates and arylhydrazines. The newly synthesized mesoionic compounds were successfully converted into the corresponding nitrosotetrazolium salts, which were utilized as catalysts for oxidation of an aliphatic alcohol and analyzed by cyclic voltammetry to determine the correlation between the catalytic efficiencies and redox potentials. The proposed method can be widely applied and is valuable for investigating the substituent effects in mesoionic and related compounds.
Transformation of Benzaldehydes to Benzonitriles via Cyanophosphates without One-Carbon Homologation
Authors: Yoneyama Hiroki , Okada Ayami , Hayama Noboru , Harusawa Shinya , Usami Yoshihide
Published: March 2024

The transformation of benzaldehydes into benzonitriles via cyanophosphates (CPs) with tetrabutylammonium azide (Bu4N·N3) was found to afford a range of benzonitriles in modest-to-high yields. As the CN-carbon of benzonitriles arises from the formyl-carbon of benzaldehydes, this is a new type of CP-reaction, distinctly different from the past one-carbon nitrile homologation. In contrast, the reaction of ketone- or aliphatic aldehyde-CPs with Bu4N·N3 resulted in mono-deethylaton forming tetrabutylammonium salts.
Role of free tissue transfer in management of chronic venous ulcer
Authors: Reddy K. Murali Mohan , Reddy D. Mukunda
Published: March 2024

Most of the venous ulcers will heal with the treatment of primary venous problem. But a few patients will have refractory, recurrent chronic venous ulcers causing inconvenience to the patients in terms of loss of productive working hours. There is no standard method available for treatment of this chronic problem. Our modality of treatment includes wide excision of ulcer, ligation of incompetent perforators and coverage of defect with we!! vascularized tissue by free tissue transfer. We have analyzed this form of treatment in five patients with satisfactory result.
De-epithelialised fasciocutaneous turnover flap: An alternative for defects in lower thigh and knee joint
Authors: Sharma R. K. , Nanda Vipul , Makkar Surinder , Parasher Atul
Published: March 2024

We describe the use of proximally based de-epithelialised fasciocutaneous flap for coverage of defects in the lower thigh and knee joint. These flaps are based on a number of perforators around the knee joint and can be based either posteriorly, posteromedially or posterolaterally depending upon the location of the defect. The whole of the flap including the bridge segment is de-epithelialised and turned over by 180 degrees and a split thickness graft is placed over the flap and the donor site. The flaps can be raised quickly, have minimum morbidity and are reliable even in the presence of extensive injuries. These flaps have remained stable and trouble free during a follow up period of 2-4 years.
Discovery of Topoisomerase I Inhibitor Nitidine Derivatives with IL-10 Enhancing Activity for the Treatment of Sepsis
Authors: Liu Siyu , Pang Yanting , Zhao Zeng , Sun Qingyan
Published: March 2024

Nitidine chloride (NC) is a natural product that promotes the expression of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in macrophages by inhibiting topoisomerase I (TopoI) under stimulation by lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and can be used in the treatment of sepsis. However, NC's poor water solubility limits its applications. This study aimed to design and synthesize a series of derivatives by simplifying the A- and E-rings in the structure of NC and introducing oxygen-containing groups, using NC as the lead compound. In this work, the ability of NC and its derivatives to induce IL-10 secretion and inhibit TopoI was evaluated. The water solubility of the compounds was determined in phosphate-buffered saline. An LPS-induced sepsis in mice was prepared to assess the activity of the compounds in vivo. Our data suggested that compound 6F showed better activity in inducing IL-10 secretion and inhibiting TopoI, and its water solubility was at least 500-fold higher than that of NC. When septic mice were given 6F (3 mg/kg), their survival rate was comparable to those treated with NC. Based on our findings, 6F may be a new drug candidate for the treatment of sepsis.
Expanding Critical Care Delivery beyond the Intensive Care Unit: Determining the Design and Implementation Needs for a Tele-Critical Care Consultation Service
Authors: Abraham Joanna , Kandasamy Madhumitha , Fritz Bradley , Konzen Lisa , White Jason , Drewry Anne , Palmer Christopher
Published: March 2024

Background Unplanned intensive care unit (ICU) admissions from medical/surgical floors and increased boarding times of ICU patients in the emergency department (ED) are common; approximately half of these are associated with adverse events. We explore the potential role of a tele-critical care consult service (TC3) in managing critically ill patients outside of the ICU and potentially preventing low-acuity unplanned admissions and also investigate its design and implementation needs.

Methods We conducted a qualitative study involving general observations of the units, shadowing of clinicians during patient transfers, and interviews with clinicians from the ED, medical/surgical floor units and their ICU counterparts, tele-ICU, and the rapid response team at a large academic medical center in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. We used a hybrid thematic analysis approach supported by open and structured coding using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results Over 165 hours of observations/shadowing and 26 clinician interviews were conducted. Our findings suggest that a tele-critical care consult (TC3) service can prevent avoidable, lower acuity ICU admissions by offering a second set of eyes via remote monitoring and providing guidance to bedside and rapid response teams in the care delivery of these patients on the floor/ED. CFIR-informed enablers impacting the successful implementation of the TC3 service included the optional and on-demand features of the TC3 service, around-the-clock availability, and continuous access to trained critical care clinicians for avoidable lower acuity (ALA) patients outside of the ICU, familiarity with tele-ICU staff, and a willingness to try alternative patient risk mitigation strategies for ALA patients (suggested by TC3), before transferring all unplanned admissions to ICUs. Conversely, the CFIR-informed barriers to implementation included a desire to uphold physician autonomy by floor/ED clinicians, potential role conflicts with rapid response teams, additional workload for floor/ED nurses, concerns about obstructing unavoidable, higher acuity admissions, and discomfort with audio-visual tools. To amplify these potential enablers and mitigate potential barriers to TC3 implementation, informed by this study, we propose two key characteristics—essential for extending the delivery of critical care services beyond the ICU—underlying a telemedicine critical care consultation model including its virtual footprint and on-demand and optional service features.

Conclusion Tele-critical care represents an innovative strategy for delivering safe and high-quality critical care services to lower acuity borderline patients outside the ICU setting.
Type 2 Diabetes: Platelets and Long-Term Metabolic Control as Estimated from Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)
Authors: Edvardsson M. , Oweling M. , Järemo P.
Published: March 2024

In type 2 diabetes, platelets are likely affected by impaired long-term glycaemic control, but such pathophysiological links are poorly understood. This study thus compares platelet reactivity (i.e. agonist-evoked platelet reactions) in vitro with glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), a measure commonly used for monitoring long-term metabolic control of type 2 diabetes. Elders with type 2 diabetes (n = 35) were divided according to HbA1c into groups (HbA1c—low and high) consisting of 17 and 18 subjects, respectively. For estimating mitochondria disintegration, a flow cytometer determined mitochondrial transmembrane potentials after whole blood agonist stimulation. The activating agents used were α-thrombin (10 μM) and collagen (0.15 μg/mL). The same apparatus analysed the fibrinogen receptor activity, lysosomal exocytosis (surface lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1), and platelet procoagulant characteristics (membrane-attached annexin V) after stimulation. In type 2 diabetes, after in vitro agonist stimulation, platelet mitochondria injury was higher in the HbA1c-high group. The fibrinogen receptor, lysosomal secretion, and the creation of procoagulant platelets proved to be uninfluenced by HbA1c.
Bilateral Foramina Parietalia Permagna – A Calvarial Defect Caused by Haploinsufficiency of the Msh Homeobox 2 Gene: A Case Report and Current Literature Review
Authors: Kahl Niklas , Lüsebrink Natalia , Schubert-Bast Susanne , Freiman Thomas M. , Kieslich Matthias
Published: March 2024

Foramina parietalia permagna (FPP) is a rare anatomical defect that affects the parietal bones of the human skull. FPP is characterized by symmetric perforations on either side of the skull, which are caused by insufficient ossification during embryogenesis. These openings are typically abnormally large and can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Enlarged foramina are often discovered incidentally during anatomical or radiological examinations and in most cases left untreated unless symptoms develop. Although this calvarial defect is usually asymptomatic, it may be accompanied by neurological or vascular conditions that can have clinical significance in certain cases. FPP is an inherited disorder and arises due to mutations in either Msh homeobox 2 (MSX2) or aristaless-like homeobox 4 (ALX4) genes. In almost all cases, one parent is affected. Clinical findings and diagnostic imaging typically contribute to determine the diagnosis.
Continuous Neuromuscular Blockade for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Johnson Emily D. , Keppel Kristopher , McNamara LeAnn , Collaco Joseph M. , Boss Renee D.
Published: March 2024

Objective Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common late morbidity for premature infants. Continuous neuromuscular blockade (CNMB) is suggested for the most unstable phase of BPD, despite no outcome data. We explored the association between duration of CNMB for severe BPD and mortality.

Design Medical record review of children <5 years old admitted from 2016 to 2022 with BPD and one or more course of CNMB for ≥14 days.

Results Twelve children received a total of 20 episodes of CNMB for ≥14 days (range 14–173 d) during their hospitalization. Most (10/12) were born at <28 weeks' gestation and most (11/12) with birth weight <1,000 g; 7/12 were of Black race/ethnicity. All were hospitalized since birth. Most (10/12) were initially transferred from an outside neonatal intensive care unit (ICU), typically after a >60-day hospitalization (9/12). Half (6/12) of them had a ≥60-day stay in our neonatal ICU before transferring to our pediatric ICU for, generally, ≥90 days (8/12). The primary study outcome was survival to discharge: 2/12 survived. Both had shorter courses of CNMB (19 and 25 d); only one child who died had a course ≤25 days. Just two infants had increasing length Z-scores during hospitalization; only one infant had a final length Z-score > − 2.

Conclusion In this case series of infants with severe BPD, there were no survivors among those receiving ≥25 days of CNMB. Linear growth, an essential growth parameter for infants with BPD, decreased in most patients. These data do not support the use of ≥25 days of CNMB to prevent mortality in infants with severe BPD.

Key Points
The Diagnostics and Management of Bronchopulmonary Sequestration: An International Survey among Specialized Caregivers
Authors: Kersten C.M. , Jansen M.D.G. , Zuidweg M.J.P. , Wijnen R.M.W.H. , Krasemann T.B. , Schnater J.M.
Published: March 2024

Background Our objective was to explore the treatment preferences for bronchopulmonary sequestration (BPS) among an international group of specialized caregivers.

Methods Sixty-three participants from 17 countries completed an online survey concerning the diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up. Recruitment took place among members of the Collaborative Neonatal Network for the first European Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation Trial Consortium and through the Association for European Pediatric and Congenital Cardiology working group database.

Results Most of the 63 participants were pediatric surgeons (52%), followed by pediatric pulmonologists (22%), and pediatric cardiologists (19%). The majority (65%) treated more than five cases per year and 52% standardly discussed treatment in a multidisciplinary team. Half of the participants (52%) based the management on the presence of symptoms, versus 32% on the intralobar or extralobar lesion localization. Centers with both surgical and interventional cardiac/radiological facilities (85%) preferred resection to embolization in symptomatic cases (62 vs. 15%). In asymptomatic cases too, resection was preferred over embolization (38 vs. 9%); 32% preferred noninterventional treatment, while 11% varied in preference. These treatment preferences were significantly different between surgeons and nonsurgeons (p < 0.05). Little agreement was observed in the preferred timing of intervention as also for the duration of follow-up.

Conclusions This survey demonstrates a variation in management strategies of BPS, reflecting different specialist expertise. Most centers treat only a handful of cases per year and follow-up is not standardized. Therefore, management discussion within a multidisciplinary team is recommended. Recording patient data in an international registry for the comparison of management strategies and outcomes could support the development of future guidelines.

Level of Evidence: Level IV.
Collimated hot electron generation from sub-wavelength grating target irradiated by a femtosecond laser pulse of relativistic intensity
Authors: Jana Kamalesh , Lad Amit D. , Zhang Guo-Bo , Li Bo-Yuan , Kumar V. Rakesh , Shaikh Moniruzzaman , Ved Yash M. , Chen Min , Kumar G. Ravindra
Published: March 2024

We investigate the production of hot electrons from the interaction of relativistically intense (I>1018 W/cm2) ultrashort (25 fs) laser pulses with sub-wavelength grating target. We measure the hot electron angular distribution and energy spectra for grating target and compare them with those from a planar mirror target. We observe that hot electrons are emitted in a collimated beam along the specular direction of the grating target. From the measurements, we see fast electron temperature and flux for grating are higher than those for mirror due to a stronger coupling with the laser. We performed numerical simulations, which are in good agreement with experimental results, and offer insights into the acceleration mechanism by resulting electric and magnetic fields. Such collimated fast electron beams have a wide range of applications in applied and fundamental science.
Multi-microscopy characterization of threading dislocations in CVD-grown diamond films
Authors: Yan H. , Postelnicu E. , Nguyen T. , Corujeira Gallo S. , Stacey A. , Mukherjee K.
Published: March 2024

We present site-coincident imaging of a high dislocation density boron-doped chemical vapor deposition-grown homoepitaxial (001) diamond film using electron channeling contrast imaging (ECCI), cathodoluminescence, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). With growing interest in large area heteroepitaxial substrates, we show that ECCI is a promising technique to accurately evaluate dislocations in diamond films. We find the electron backscatter yield is sufficient to distinguish individual threading dislocations in ECCI despite the low atomic number of carbon, and we have generally good agreement between dislocations observed in ECCI and TEM of the same region. Importantly, relying on luminescence in the 430 nm dislocation-related A-band alone results in an underestimation of the defect density as we find only 20%–40% of the threading dislocations luminesce. We further show that dislocations do not perturb the spatial uniformity of boron doping measured by SIMS, even when the dislocations are clustered with high density, and we can tentatively rule out strong segregation effects at the dislocations. Our results establish the complementary use of microscopy and microanalysis methods to rapidly characterize and understand the impact of dislocations in diamond thin films.
Enhanced coalescence-induced droplet jumping on superhydrophobic surfaces with stepped structures
Authors: Yin Cuicui , Wang Tianyou , Che Zhizhao , Wang Juan , Sun Kai
Published: March 2024

The coalescence-induced droplet jumping is a self-propelled water removal phenomenon on superhydrophobic surfaces, which has attracted considerable attention due to its potential in a wide range of applications such as self-cleaning and anti-icing/frosting. Improving the energy conversion efficiency, from the excessive surface energy to the kinetic energy, is pivotal to facilitate droplet jumping. In this study, we numerically investigated the dynamics of droplet coalescence on superhydrophobic surfaces with macro-stepped structures, with particular interest in understanding the role of the stepped structure on the droplet jumping process. Three-dimensional simulations were performed by using the lattice Boltzmann method, with the pseudopotential multiphase model and the multiple-relaxation-time collision operator being adopted to achieve high liquid–gas density/viscosity ratios. A wide range of nondimensional height difference of the stepped structure (0–1.5) and droplet radius ratio (0.5–2) was covered. Results show that adding macro-stepped structures can significantly enhance the droplet-wall interaction, thus yielding increased droplet velocity. The enhancement of droplet jumping is more remarkable for droplets of similar sizes, and the dimensionless height difference of the stepped structure is required to exceed a threshold of approximately 0.5. Among the present simulations, the maximum dimensionless droplet jumping velocity reaches 0.66, corresponding to an energy conversion efficiency of 35%. The present findings are helpful for the development of novel superhydrophobic surfaces that pursue efficient droplet removal.
Calibration of MAJIS (Moons And Jupiter Imaging Spectrometer). III. Spectral calibration
Authors: Haffoud Paolo , Poulet François , Vincendon Mathieu , Filacchione Gianrico , Barbis Alessandra , Guiot Pierre , Lecomte Benoit , Langevin Yves , Piccioni Giuseppe , Dumesnil Cydalise , Rodriguez Sébastien , Carter John , Stefania Stefani , Tommasi Leonardo , Tosi Federico , Pilorget Cédric
Published: March 2024

The Moons And Jupiter Imaging Spectrometer (MAJIS) is the visible and near-infrared imaging spectrometer onboard the European Space Agency (ESA)’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer mission. Before its integration into the spacecraft, the instrument undergoes an extensive ground calibration to establish its baseline performances. This process prepares the imaging spectrometer for flight operations by characterizing the behavior of the instrument under various operative conditions and uncovering instrumental distortions that may depend on instrumental commands. Two steps of the on-ground calibration campaigns were held at the instrument level to produce the data. Additional in-flight measurements have recently been obtained after launch during the Near-Earth Commissioning Phase. In this article, we present the analyses of these datasets, focusing on the characterization of the spectral performances. First, we describe and analyze the spectral calibration datasets obtained using both monochromatic sources and polychromatic sources coupled with solid and gas samples. Then, we derive the spectral sampling and the spectral response function over the entire field of view. These spectral characteristics are quantified for various operational parameters of MAJIS, such as temperature and spectral binning. The derived on-ground performances are then compared with in-flight measurements obtained after launch and presented in the framework of the MAJIS performance requirements.
Seepage disturbance mechanism and interface force of cylindrical barrier in fracture
Authors: Ma Haichun , Wei Xianfa , Hu Guangqing , Ding Hai , Qian Jiazhong
Published: March 2024

The fluid flow in the crack is disturbed by the contact area. The parallel-plate model with a circular cylindrical contact area is regarded as an idealization of the real contact fracture, and a computational fluid dynamics simulation is performed on it to analyze the interaction between the contact area and the flow around it. The size of the contact area controls the disturbance intensity to the flow velocity magnitude and the disturbance range to the velocity direction. Due to the existence of viscosity, the flow near the wall has a larger shear rate. The intermediate transition region is located between the contact area and the fracture lateral wall and does not contain the region with strong viscous friction caused by the wall. The flow velocity magnitude in the intermediate transition zone changes exponentially in space and has a peak value near the contact area. After the flow bypasses the contact area, the inertial effect caused by the increase in flow velocity magnitude in the local flow channel controls the generation and development of the low-velocity region and the asymmetric degree of the velocity direction distribution. Both the mechanical aperture and the inlet flow velocity affect the stress distribution on the surface of the contact area. The occurrence of the nonlinear flow behavior of fracture seepage and nonlinear change trend of logarithmic drag coefficient curve can be predicted with the same critical Reynolds number. These results provide a useful guide for further exploring the local flow and the surface stress distribution of the local interior geometric property in a single rough-walled fracture on the mesoscopic scale.
Nonlinear periodic ion-acoustic waves in nonthermal plasmas
Authors: Verheest Frank , Olivier Carel P.
Published: March 2024

A Sagdeev pseudopotential analysis is developed for the propagation of nonlinear periodic ion-acoustic waves in a plasma comprising cold fluid ions and various models of nonthermal electron descriptions. In plasma nonlinear wave studies, whether addressing solitary or periodic modes, the more common nonthermal distributions are the Cairns, kappa, and Tsallis models. A mathematically and physically consistent description incorporates three evident properties: there is conservation per cycle of ion and electron densities in addition to ion flux, the solutions reduce for very small amplitudes to linear waves, and the nonlinear periodic structures are generated by a perturbation of the undisturbed equilibrium. After establishing the corresponding general analytical methodology, a numerical analysis is given, with illustrative graphs, for the nonthermal Cairns, superthermal kappa, and nonextensive Tsallis distributions.
Electromagnetic emission from plasma with counter-streaming electron beams in the regime of oblique instability dominance
Authors: Annenkov V. V. , Volchok E. P. , Timofeev I. V.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigate the generation of electromagnetic emission near the second harmonic of the plasma frequency induced by pairs of counter-propagating electron beams. Such systems can naturally occur in cosmic plasmas when particle acceleration regions are closely spaced, and they can also be implemented in a laboratory device. We specifically focus on the regime where the oblique beam–plasma instability dominates. The emission mechanism relies on the coalescence of counter-propagating plasma waves with different transverse structures. It has been demonstrated that the parameters of the system necessary for efficient radiation generation can be determined using the exact linear theory of beam–plasma instability. Through particle-in-cell numerical simulations, we show that a high beam-to-radiation conversion efficiency can be achieved when the beams excite small-scale oblique plasma oscillations. Importantly, we find that the efficiency and spectral characteristics of the radiation are not dependent on the thickness of the beams. We explore two scenarios involving pairs of symmetric beams: one with relativistic beams having a directed velocity of vb=0.9c and another with sub-relativistic beams at vb=0.7c. Additionally, we consider the injection of two beams with different velocities. In all cases considered, the beam-to-radiation power conversion efficiency reaches a level of a few percent, a sufficiently high value for beam–plasma systems.
Effectiveness of inhibitors to prevent asphaltene aggregation: Insights from atomistic and molecular simulations
Authors: Vatti Anoop Kishore , Divi Srikanth , Dey Poulumi
Published: March 2024

The technological landscape for industrial processes handling asphaltene is evolving at a rapid pace due to the increase in the extraction of heavy crude oil. The main underlying challenges in this regard are the flow assurance, the recovery of the spent solvent, and the sophisticated extractor setup required to develop the process to an industrial scale. The number of studies focused on the handling of the asphaltene at the atomic and molecular scales is growing enormously in order to identify new sustainable solvents for the effective extraction of asphaltene from heavy crude oil or oil-bearing sands. This Perspective focuses on the importance of density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulations to explore the broader range of asphaltene inhibitors, e.g., nanoparticles, ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents, to prevent asphaltene precipitation. We provide a concise overview of the major accomplishments, analyze the aspects that require attention, and highlight the path-breaking studies having a significant impact on the process of chemical enhanced oil recovery from heavy crude oil reservoirs primarily based on atomistic and molecular simulations.
Spatio-temporal dynamics of superstructures and vortices in turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard convection
Authors: Sharifi Ghazijahani Mohammad , Cierpka C.
Published: March 2024

Understanding turbulent thermal convection is essential for modeling many natural phenomena. This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics of the vortical structures in the mid-plane of turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard convection in SF6 via experiments. For this, a Rayleigh–Bénard cell of aspect ratio 10 is placed inside a pressure vessel and pressurized up to 1, 1.5, and 2.5 bar in order to reach Rayleigh numbers of Ra = 9.4×105,2.0×106, and 5.5×106, respectively. For all three cases, the Prandtl number is Pr =0.79 and ΔT≈7 K. Then, stereoscopic particle image velocimetry is conducted to measure the three velocity components in the horizontal-mid-plane for 5.78×103 free fall times. For the given aspect ratio, the flow is no longer dominated by the side walls of the cell and turbulent superstructures that show a two-dimensional repetitive organization form. These superstructures show diverse shapes with faster dissipation rates as Ra increases. Out-of-plane vortices are the main feature of the flow. As Ra increases, the number of these vortices also increases, and their size shrinks. However, their total number is almost constant for each Ra through the measurement period. Furthermore, their occurrence is random and does not depend on whether the flow is upward-heated, downward-cooled, or horizontally directed. Vortex tracking was applied to measure lifetime, displacement, and traveled distance of these structures. The relation between lifetime and traveled distance is rather linear. Interestingly, in the vortex centers, the out-of-plane momentum transport is larger in comparison to the bulk flow. Therefore, these vortices will play a major role in the heat transport in such flows.