bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value of automated breast ultrasound in screening: Standalone and as a supplemental to digital breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Aribal Erkin , Seker Mustafa Ege , Guldogan Nilgün , Yilmaz Ebru
Published: July 2024

We aimed to determine the value of standalone and supplemental automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) in detecting cancers in an opportunistic screening setting with digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and compare this combined screening method to DBT and ABUS alone in women older than 39 years with BI‐RADS B‐D density categories. In this prospective opportunistic screening study, 3466 women aged 39 or older with BI‐RADS B‐D density categories and with a mean age of 50 were included. The screening protocol consisted of DBT mediolateral‐oblique views, 2D craniocaudal views, and ABUS with three projections for both breasts. ABUS was evaluated blinded to mammography findings. Statistical analysis evaluated diagnostic performance for DBT, ABUS, and combined workflows. Twenty‐nine cancers were screen‐detected. ABUS and DBT exhibited the same cancer detection rates (CDR) at 7.5/1000 whereas DBT + ABUS showed 8.4/1000, with ABUS contributing an additional CDR of 0.9/1000. Standalone ABUS outperformed DBT in detecting 12.5% more invasive cancers. DBT displayed better accuracy (95%) compared to ABUS (88%) and combined approach (86%). Sensitivities for DBT and ABUS were the same (84%), with DBT + ABUS showing a higher rate (94%). DBT outperformed ABUS in specificity (95% vs. 88%). DBT + ABUS exhibited a higher recall rate (14.89%) compared to ABUS (12.38%) and DBT (6.03%) (p < .001). Standalone ABUS detected more invasive cancers compared to DBT, with a higher recall rate. The combined approach showed a higher CDR by detecting one additional cancer per thousand.
Synthesis of biocompatible Ti‐6Al‐4V composite reinforced with ZrO2 and bioceramic produced by powder metallurgy: Morphological, structural, and biocompatibility analysis
Authors: Pul Muharrem , Erdem Ümit , Bozer Büşra Moran , Şimşek Tuncay , Yılmazel Rüstem , Erten Mustafa Yasin
Published: July 2024

In this experimental study, the initial phase involved preparing composite structures with various mix ratios using the Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy, widely used in clinical applications, in conjunction with ZrO2 and hydroxyapatite (HA) synthesized via the precipitation method, employing powder metallurgy techniques. Subsequently, the microstructures of the resultant hybrid composite materials were imaged, and x‐ray diffraction (XRD) phase analyses were conducted. In the final phase of the experimental work, tests were performed to determine the biocompatibility properties of the hybrid composites. For this purpose, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assays were carried out. The tests and examinations revealed that structures compatible both morphologically and elementally were obtained with no phase transformations that could disrupt the structure. The incorporation of ZrO2 into the Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy was observed to enhance cell viability values. The value of 98.25 ± 0.42 obtained by adding 20% ZrO2 gave the highest cell viability result. The addition of HA into the hybrid structures further increased the cell viability values by approximately 10%. All viability values for both HA‐added and HA‐free groups were obtained above the 70% viability level defined in the standard. According to the genotoxicity test results, the highest cytokinesis‐block proliferation index values were obtained as 1.666 and 0.620 in structures containing 20% ZrO2 and 10% ZrO2 + 10% HA, respectively. Remarkably, all fabricated composite and hybrid composite materials surpassed established biocompatibility standards and exhibited nontoxic and nongenotoxic properties. This comprehensive study contributes vital insights for future biomechanical and other in vitro and in vivo experiments, as it meticulously addresses fundamental characterization parameters crucial for medical device development.

Research Highlights

Support of optimum doping rates ions on hybrid composites and concentrations.

Development of uniform surface appearance and distributions/orientations of microcrystals on ceramic compounds

Improvement of cell viability and desired increase in biocompatibility with the doping of HA.
Investigation of four nickel titanium endodontic instruments, with cyclic fatigue resistance, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy
Authors: Ertuğrul İhsan Furkan , Arslan Havva Kübra
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to compare of four different nickel‐titanium (Ni‐Ti) endodontic files and evaluate in terms of cyclic fatigue resistance and metallurgical properties. Four different type Ni‐Ti root canal files Protaper Next X2 (PTN) (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), One Curve (OC) #25.06 (Micro Mega, Besancon, France), EndoPlus Flex Plus Gold X2 (EPG) (Turkuaz Dental, Denizli, Turkey), and EndoPlus Flex Plus Blue #25.06 (EPB) (Turkuaz Dental, Denizli, Turkey) files were tested for cyclic fatigue resistance (n = 20). During experiments artificial zirconia block canal was used. The artificial canal designed with curvature 60° and 5‐mm radius. The number of cyclic to fracture (NCF) was noted. Fractured length (FL) parts of Ni‐Ti files were recorded to assessment of fracture volumetric point. All fractured surfaces of Ni‐Ti files were assessed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) to confirm the type of fractures. Descriptive evaluation become accomplished for the fundamental composition of units with the aid of using energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). NCF data were evaluated via Bonferroni test with post hoc multiple comparison method. OC showed the highest NCF values (p < .05). The standardization of the study was confirmed as the FL of files was statistically similar in length (p > .05). SEM analysis confirmed that all scanned samples were fractured due to cyclic fatigue. EDX analysis confirmed that EPB established the poorest Ni content file.

Research Highlights

The cyclic fatigue‐related failure of One Curve was significantly more resistant than Protaper Next and EndoPlus files.

Scanning electron microscopy images showed that One Curve and Protaper Next have round tips

Energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy showed that all four endodontic instruments mainly have Nickel and Titanium elements
Merkel cell polyomavirus pan‐T antigen knockdown reduces cancer cell stemness and promotes neural differentiation independent of RB1
Authors: Lei Kuan Cheok , Srinivas Nalini , Chandra Mitalee , Kervarrec Thibault , Coyaud Etienne , Spassova Ivelina , Peiffer Lukas , Houben Roland , Shuda Masahiro , Hoffmann Daniel , Schrama David , Becker Jürgen C.
Published: July 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive skin cancer associated with integration of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV‐encoded T‐antigens (TAs) are pivotal for sustaining MCC's oncogenic phenotype, i.e., repression of TAs results in reactivation of the RB pathway and subsequent cell cycle arrest. However, the MCC cell line LoKe, characterized by a homozygous loss of the RB1 gene, exhibits uninterrupted cell cycle progression after shRNA‐mediated TA repression. This unique feature allows an in‐depth analysis of the effects of TAs beyond inhibition of the RB pathway, revealing the decrease in expression of stem cell‐related genes upon panTA‐knockdown. Analysis of gene regulatory networks identified members of the E2F family (E2F1, E2F8, TFDP1) as key transcriptional regulators that maintain stem cell properties in TA‐expressing MCC cells. Furthermore, minichromosome maintenance (MCM) genes, which encodes DNA‐binding licensing proteins essential for stem cell maintenance, were suppressed upon panTA‐knockdown. The decline in stemness occurred simultaneously with neural differentiation, marked by the increased expression of neurogenesis‐related genes such as neurexins, BTG2, and MYT1L. This upregulation can be attributed to heightened activity of PBX1 and BPTF, crucial regulators of neurogenesis pathways. The observations in LoKe were confirmed in an additional MCPyV‐positive MCC cell line in which RB1 was silenced before panTA‐knockdown. Moreover, spatially resolved transcriptomics demonstrated reduced TA expression in situ in a part of a MCC tumor characterized by neural differentiation. In summary, TAs are critical for maintaining stemness of MCC cells and suppressing neural differentiation, irrespective of their impact on the RB‐signaling pathway.
SVT quest: The adventure diagnosing narrow QRS tachycardia
Authors: Nagashima Koichi , Michaud Gregory F. , Ho Reginald T. , Okumura Yasuo
Published: July 2024

In the field of cardiac electrophysiology, there is a universal desire: the discovery of a flawless diagnostic maneuver for supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs). This is not merely a wish but a shared odyssey. To improve diagnostic accuracy and achieve sufficient sensitivity and specificity, numerous diagnostic maneuvers have been proposed. However, each has its limitations and prompts a search for new diagnostic techniques. This continuous cycle of discovery and refinement, which we titled “SVT Quest” is reviewed in chronological sequence. This adventure in diagnosing narrow QRS tachycardia unfolds in 3 steps: Step 1 involves differentiating atrial tachycardia from other SVTs based on the observations such as V‐A‐V or V‐A‐A‐V response, ΔAA interval, VA linking, the last entrainment sequence, and response to the atrial extrastimulus. Step 2 focuses on differentiating orthodromic reciprocating tachycardia from atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia based on the observations such as tachycardia reset upon the premature ventricular contraction during His refractoriness, uncorrected/corrected postpacing interval, differential ventricular entrainment, orthodromic His capture, transition zone analysis, and total pacing prematurity. Step 3 characterizes the concealed nodoventricular/nodofascicular pathway and His‐ventricular pathway‐related tachycardia based on observations such as V‐V‐A response, ΔatrioHis interval, and paradoxical reset phenomenon. There is no single diagnostic maneuver that fits all scenarios. Therefore, the ability to apply multiple maneuvers in a case allows the operator to accumulate evidence to make a likely diagnosis. Let's embark on this adventure!
Holocene climate evolution and human activity as recorded by the sediment record of lake Diss Mere, England
Authors: Boyall Laura , Martin‐Puertas Celia , Tjallingii Rik , Milner Alice M. , Blockley Simon P. E.
Published: July 2024

Lake sediments are ideal archives to evaluate the interactions between climatically driven environmental responses and human activity on seasonal to multi‐decadal timescales. This study focuses on the unique sediments of Diss Mere, the only lake in England providing an annually laminated (varved) record for most of the Holocene. We combine microfacies analysis with X‐ray core scanning data to explore the influence of natural and human‐led changes on sediment deposition over the past 10 200 years and evaluate the sensitivity of the lake sediments to climate variability through time. Variability of titanium (Ti), calcium (Ca) and silica (Si) explain most of the lithological changes observed in the sediment and we identify three stages with low (10 290–2070 cal a bp), intermediate (2070–1040 cal a
bp) and intensified (1040 cal a
bp – present) human influence. During the first stage, where varved sediments are preserved, Ti is low due to the minimal detrital input into the lake. Ca and Si during this stage reveal high‐amplitude variability responding to seasonal changes in sediment deposition. The termination of varved sediment preservation and increases in sedimentation rates coincide with a major rise in Ti after this first stage, marking the intensification of human activity around the lake. Ca is used here as an indicator of temperature‐included calcite precipitation, and the long‐term variability of the Ca profile resembles Holocene temperature evolution. This continues during periods of intensified human activity, suggesting that the Diss Mere sediments remain sensitive to climate through time.
Achieving High Quantum Efficiency in Mn5+ Activated Phosphors for NIR‐II Deep Bioimaging Application
Authors: Zhang Quan , Yang Zetian , Zhou Xinquan , Delaey Maxime , Wang Mingyuan , Fu Ruining , Lei Shuangying , Vrielinck Henk , Poelman Dirk
Published: July 2024

Mn5+ emission is a promising candidate for imaging deep tissue structures (e.g., vessels, tumors) in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II, 1000–1350 nm) region. However, its practical application is impeded by the limited quantum efficiency of the available phosphors due to the unstable valence state of Mn5+. Herein, a novel strategy involving site competition is proposed to stabilize the Mn5+ state by the introduction of valence‐unstable Bi2+/3+. The results demonstrate that Bi3+ ions tend to occupy two different Ca2+ ion sites within the Ca6Ba(PO4)4O lattice. The incorporation of a small amount of Bi3+ effectively suppresses the amount of Mn2+ in Ca2+ sites. This is also confirmed by spectroscopic experiments and density function theory calculations. Notably, an ultra‐high internal quantum efficiency of 82.3% is achieved under excitation at 653 nm, surpassing more than twofold the previously reported value of 37.5% in Ca6Ba(PO4)4O: Mn5+. As a proof of concept, deep tissue imaging with a penetration depth of ≈2.8 cm is achieved using a self‐produced NIR‐II light‐emitting diodes device embedded with Ca6Ba(PO4)4O: 0.003Mn5+/0.003Bi3+ powder. These findings provide valuable insights into improving the luminescent properties associated with Mn5+ ions and pave the way for deep tissue imaging with high spatiotemporal resolution.
Thermosensitive Hydrogels as Targeted and Controlled Drug Delivery Systems: Potential Applications in Transplantation
Authors: Anggelia Madonna Rica , Cheng Hui‐Yun , Lin Cheng‐Hung
Published: July 2024

Drug delivery in transplantation plays a vital role in promoting graft survival, preventing rejection, managing complications, and contributing to positive patient outcomes. Targeted and controlled drug delivery can minimize systemic effects. Thermosensitive hydrogels, due to their unique sol‐gel transition properties triggered by thermo‐stimuli, have attracted significant research interest as a potential drug delivery system in transplantation. This review describes the current status, characteristics, and recent applications of thermosensitive hydrogels for drug delivery. Studies aimed at improving allotransplantation outcomes using thermosensitive hydrogels are then elaborated on. Finally, the challenges and opportunities associated with their use are discussed. Understanding the progress of research will serve as a guide for future improvements in their application as a means of targeted and controlled drug delivery in translational therapeutic applications for transplantation.
Estimating Disability in Patients with Essential Tremor: Comparison of Tremor Rating Scale, Spiral Drawing, and Accelerometric Tremor Power
Authors: Hollý Petr , Hubená Tereza , Čihák Martin , Pavlíková Aneta , Kemlink David , Ulmanová Olga , Rusz Jan , Jech Robert , Krupička Radim , Růžička Evžen
Published: July 2024

Background

Although performance rating scales, spiral drawing, water pouring, and accelerometry are commonly used to assess tremor severity, the extent to which their results correlate with impairment in activities of daily living (ADL) remains unclear.

Objective

The aim was to identify the most effective predictors of ADL in essential tremor (ET).

Methods

Forty ET patients were examined using The Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale (TETRAS), spiral drawing, volume of water spilled, and accelerometric tremor power. Root‐mean‐square error, R2, and F‐test were calculated for models predicting TETRAS ADL subscore.

Results

TETRAS Performance Subscale explained the variability in TETRAS ADL with an R2 value of 0.686. Models incorporating spiral rating and accelerometric tremor power (R2 = 0.731) and water spillage volume (R2 = 0.756) were not statistically superior.

Conclusions

TETRAS performance subscore predicted nearly 70% ADL impairment in ET patients. Incorporating the spiral rating, accelerometric tremor power, and water pouring test did not enhance ADL estimation.
Improved gradient echo magnitude‐ and phase‐based mapping of T2$$ {\mathrm{T}}_2 $$ using multiple RF spoiling increments at 3T and 7T
Authors: Wang Difei , Stirnberg Rüdiger , Stöcker Tony
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The transverse relaxation time T holds significant relevance in clinical applications and research studies. Conventional T mapping approaches rely on spin‐echo sequences, which require lengthy acquisition times and involve high radiofrequency (RF) power deposition. An alternative gradient echo (GRE) phase‐based T mapping method, utilizing steady‐state acquisitions at one small RF spoil phase increment, was recently demonstrated. Here, a modified magnitude‐ and phase‐based T mapping approach is proposed, which improves estimations by simultaneous fitting of and signal amplitude () at three or more RF spoiling phase increments, instead of assuming a fixed value.

Methods

The feasibility of the magnitude‐phase‐based method was assessed by simulations, in phantom and in vivo experiments using skipped‐CAIPI three‐dimensional‐echo‐planar imaging (3D‐EPI) for rapid GRE imaging. , and PD estimations obtained by our method were compared to of the phase‐based method and and PD of spoiled GRE‐based multi‐parameter mapping using a multi‐echo version of the same sequence.

Results

The agreement of the proposed with ground truth and reference values was higher than that of phase‐based in simulations and in phantom data. While phase‐based overestimation increases with actual and , the proposed method is accurate over a large range of physiologically meaningful and values. At the same time, precision is improved. In vivo results were in line with these observations.

Conclusion

Accurate magnitude‐phase‐based T mapping is feasible in less than 5 min scan time for 1 mm nominal isotropic whole‐head coverage at 3T and 7T.
Interspecific hybridization in a large-river population of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: A 20-year programmatic evaluation
Authors: Hargrove John S. , Campbell Matthew R. , Gunnell Kelly , High Brett , Johnson Clark , Kennedy Patrick A. , Loxterman Janet L. , Ptacek Margaret B. , Seiler Steven M. , Keeley Ernest R.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Hybridization between native and nonnative fishes represents a global threat to biodiversity. Understanding how hybridization changes in response to management actions is critical to evaluating the efficacy of conservation efforts.

Methods

We quantified changes in levels of hybridization between Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus virginalis bouvieri and Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in the South Fork Snake River watershed, where a multipronged approach has been implemented to protect the evolutionary distinctiveness of one of the last remaining large-river populations of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout.

Result

Over a 20-year period, we observed an increase in the number of sample reaches without hybrids in the South Fork Snake River watershed; however, contrasting patterns were noted in main-stem and tributary reaches. Through time, hybrid abundance increased at main-stem reaches of the South Fork Snake River below Palisades Dam but decreased in tributaries. Efforts to reduce hybridization in spawning tributaries, including both suppression and selective passage weirs, were effective at preventing the expansion of hybridization in resident and migratory populations. Multimodel inference was used to understand factors affecting levels of hybridization, and year, sampling reach, and the interaction thereof was identified as the best-fit model but explained only a small percentage of the overall variation, suggesting that other factors not captured in our model were driving patterns in hybridization.

Conclusion

Changes in hybridization in the South Fork Snake River watershed are likely the result of multiple processes, namely management actions to reduce Rainbow Trout and hybrids in tributaries, as well as demographic changes in Rainbow Trout in the main-stem river below Palisades Dam. Our results suggest that Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout populations in the South Fork Snake River watershed have not experienced widespread interspecific hybridization with Rainbow Trout but that proactive management will be necessary to ensure long-term conservation.
Don't count your eggs before they resorb: Early collection of ovarian follicles influences estimates of Lake Trout fecundity in Yellowstone Lake
Authors: Treanor Hilary B. , Koel Todd M. , Puchany Andriana R. , Detjens Colleen R. , Webb Molly A. H.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Understanding recruitment dynamics is necessary to predict population-level responses to exploitation, management actions, or anthropogenic influences. Fecundity is commonly used as a metric of recruitment dynamics and can guide successful management of fisheries. However, an individual female's fecundity is not constant over time; females resorb ovarian follicles to regulate fecundity as they approach spawning. This suggests that sampling for fecundity too early may produce inaccurate estimates of relative fecundity. In Yellowstone National Park, suppression of invasive Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush reduced the abundance of mature fish by 92% between 2012 and 2022. The continued efficacy of this suppression effort requires accurate assessments of reproductive potential of the population that remains.

Methods

We sought to determine whether the timing of ovarian follicle collection affected estimates of mean relative fecundity. We collected ovarian follicles from female Lake Trout, which are autumn spawners, between mid-August and early October in 2021 and 2022. The number of ovarian follicles per sample was counted to obtain estimates of relative fecundity for each female.

Result

We observed a 13% decline in estimated mean relative fecundity between individuals that were sampled before mid-September and those that were sampled after mid-September.

Conclusion

Our data support strategic timing of fecundity sampling to best capture the true reproductive capability of a population, which is a key metric used in models that guide adaptive management of fishes.
Yellow Perch length estimated from filleted, head, and mandible length measurements
Authors: Knight Carey T. , Montague Graham F. , Shoup Daniel E.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Yellow Perch Perca flavescens are popular sport fish; however, obtaining adequate length data can be problematic during low-abundance years. Using fish from the sport fishery cleaning stations provides a possible source of data, but fish from this source have already been filleted, making length data questionable, and may not have intact backbones, so lengths cannot be determined. Therefore, we tested if Yellow Perch total length measured from filleted fish are similar to the total length measured before filleting and we also developed regression equations to predict total length from filleted fish length, head length, or mandible lengths and compared their accuracy to known total lengths.

Methods

Yellow Perch were collected from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources standardized bottom trawl survey. Each fish was measured for total length using a measuring board, and head and mandible lengths were measured with digital calipers. A subset of fish (N = 46) was filleted, and total length was again measured to see if filleting altered length measurements. We used linear regression with 10-fold cross validation to estimate the total length of Yellow Perch from filleted fish length, head length, and mandible length.

Result

Our results show that all three measurements were good predictors (R2 > 0.98) of fish total length, with precision being greatest for filleted length, followed by head length (mandible length had notably lower precision). Filleted fish lengths were significantly longer than intact total length, but we provide a regression equation that can be used to estimate unfilleted length using filleted fish length.

Conclusion

We recommend estimating total length from filleted length regression or head length regression in cases when total length cannot be directly measured. Our mandible length regression can also be used, but it was slightly less precise than the head length regression, which should be used instead when practical.
Comparing costs associated with management of antibiotic‐recalcitrant recurrent urinary tract infections for one year pre‐ and post‐electrofulguration
Authors: Gaitonde Shivani , Kuprasertkul Amy , Christie Alana L. , Alhalabi Feras , Crivelli Joseph J. , Zimmern Philippe E.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

To quantify and compare recurrent urinary tract infection costs between 1 year before and 1 year after electrofulguration.

Methods

Following IRB approval, a well‐characterized cohort of non‐neurogenic women with >3 symptomatic urinary tract infections (UTIs)/year, a negative upper and lower urinary tract evaluation, and inflammatory bladder lesions (cystitis) on office cystoscopy who underwent fulguration of these lesions was analyzed. Cost of visits, imaging, labs, and medications were summed for 1‐year pre‐ and post‐fulguration using the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, local pharmacy pricing, and institutional expenses. Before fulguration, all patients underwent clinic visit, noninvasive flow study, and flexible cystoscopy, and post‐fulguration, 6‐week follow‐up visit and 6‐month cystoscopy.

Results

Ninety‐three women met study criteria (mean age 64), with 100% 1‐year follow‐up. Before fulguration, 73% of patients used daily antibiotic suppression, 6% self‐start antibiotics, and 5% postcoital prophylaxis. Some also used vaginal estrogens (17%), urinary analgesics (13%), and cranberry or d‐mannose supplements (7%). At 1 year post‐fulguration, 82% had 0–1 infections and no cystoscopy evidence of cystitis, while 14% required additional fulguration for new cystitis sites and recurrent infections. Patients had on average 0.7 infections in the 1‐year post‐fulguration, which was significantly lower than pre‐fulguration (p < 0.05). Mean 1‐year pre‐fulguration cost was $1328 (median $1071, range $291–$5564). Mean 1‐year post‐fulguration cost was $617 (median $467, range $275–$4580). On average, post‐fulguration costs were $710 lower than pre‐EF (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

For women with antibiotic‐refractory recurrent urinary tract infections and cystoscopy evidence of cystitis, fulguration was associated with a significant reduction in UTI‐related costs in the 1‐year post‐fulguration.
Why are continent catheterizable channels continent? A stomal pressure profilometry feasibility study
Authors: Christiaans Coen H. H. , Polm Pepijn D. , van Steenbergen Thomas R. F. , Wyndaele Michel I. A. , de Kort Laetitia M. O.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A continent catheterizable channel (CCC) may be a solution for patients with impaired bladder emptying and difficult transurethral access. Leakage of the CCC is a common complication. To prevent leakage, the pressure in the CCC has to be higher than the reservoir (bladder/pouch) pressure in at least one location. It has not been clearly defined through which mechanism(s) the CCC achieves continence. In this feasibility study, we measured the CCC pressure profile in adult patients with various types of CCC's with and without stomal leakage.

Methods

Adult patients with a CCC on a (augmented) bladder or pouch who underwent a urodynamic investigation between January and March 2023 were included. Next to the standard urodynamic investigation, a continuous stomal pressure measurement (CSP) and stomal pressure profilometry with empty bladder (SPP‐1) and with filled bladder (SPP‐2) of the CCC were performed.

Results

A total of 17 patients were included. It was technically possible to perform SPP‐1 and SPP‐2 in all patients, and to measure the CSP in 16/17 patients. The median maximum stomal pressures in SPP‐1 and SPP‐2 were 112 (interquartile range [IQR], 76–140) cmH2O and 120 (IQR, 92–140) cmH2O, respectively. Nine patients had stomal leakage during the urodynamic investigation. In five patients, the detrusor leak point pressure (dLPP) was low (<20 cmH2O). A pressure peak at the beginning of SPP‐2 was absent in all patients with stomal leakage at low dLPP.

Conclusion

SPP and CSP measurement in CCCs are feasible. We found differences in SPP‐2 between patients with and without leakage at low dLPP, indicative of a role of the intravesical tunnel in continence or high dLPP. The results of this study may improve our understanding of the physiology and dynamics of CCCs as well as the management of CCC‐related complications.
Mobility in a globalised world: How countries regulate mobility with passports and visas
Authors: Ullah A. K. M. Ahsan , Chattoraj Diotima , Kathy Arju Afrin
Published: July 2024

Citizenship has a significant impact on migrants' freedom to travel. While citizens of the Global North can travel without major problems, citizens of the Global South have to queue at consulates to obtain a visa before they can travel. They may have to wait in long queues at the border or at the airport, where they may be subjected to unpleasant interrogations. The aim of this article is to uncover how a passport becomes powerful or weak depending on the country that issues it, and what impact this has on the (geographical and professional) mobility of passport holders. We explore why some countries impose visa restrictions while others allow visa‐free travel. We interviewed 32 people who had travelled on a number of occasions for professional reasons or as tourists. The externalities created by visa regulations may lead to an increase in the number of alternative destinations in lockstep, even if countries' policies remain unchanged. This study has critical policy implications for both source and destination countries.
Enhancing electrochemical degradation resistance in EPDM/CB composites: A comprehensive approach to achieve optimal physico‐mechanical properties for automotive applications
Authors: Buhari Sudheer , Vinayak Manikkedath V. , Keerthi Mohan A. , Rhee Kyong Yop , Asif A.
Published: July 2024

In the present study, a peroxide‐cured ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber composite with a non‐conductive path achieved through the use of a special‐grade carbon black, resistant to electrochemical degradation, for automotive applications, especially in the manufacturing of radiator coolant hoses, has been developed. The most significant aspect of this study is that the developed composite exhibits optimized physico‐mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength, elongation at break, and compression set, along with considerable thermal stability and cold flexibility. Both sulfur‐cured and peroxide‐vulcanized EPDM composites were prepared, and the final validation of the composite was obtained through a comprehensive comparison of these properties. The composite's stability was confirmed through heat aging measurements and glycol‐water coolant immersion tests. Furthermore, the thermal behavior of the composite was analyzed using thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The novel composite was characterized through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) studies, and its surface morphology was examined via Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM). The cold flexibility crack formation test was conducted in accordance with ASTM D 2137, and the electrochemical degradation (ECD) resistance test was carried out following SAE J 1684 method 2. The results indicate that the developed composite remained free from crack formation during these tests.

Highlights

Novel EPDM composite resists ECD in radiator hoses.

Optimized physico‐mechanical properties achieved.

Thorough validation of sulfur versus peroxide curing.

Successful prevention of crack formation.

Comprehensive analysis: TGA, DSC, FE‐SEM, FTIR.
New York cystic fibrosis consortium newborn screening quality improvement: Development and implementation of a statewide consensus recommendations for management of infants with CFTR‐related metabolic syndrome
Authors: Choudhary Saroj , Muise Eleanor D. , Hammouda Soumia , Goetz Danielle , Giusti Robert
Published: July 2024

Background

New York (NY) State implemented a new cystic fibrosis (CF) newborn screen (NBS) algorithm in December 2017 with improvement in positive predictive value and unanticipated increased identification of infants with cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)‐related metabolic syndrome (CRMS). Repeat sweat testing is recommended in infants with CRMS. During the COVID‐19 pandemic infants with CRMS were lost to follow up. With this quality improvement (QI) initiative, we aimed to perform repeat sweat testing in 25% of infants lost to follow up. We also describe consensus recommendations for CRMS from the NY CF NBS Consortium.

Methods

Our QI team identified the primary drivers contributing to absent follow up, outreached to families, and created a questionnaire to evaluate parental understanding of CRMS using QI‐based strategies.

Results

Of 350 infants diagnosed with CRMS during the study period, 179 (51.1%) infants were lost to follow up. A total of 31 (17.3%) were scheduled for repeat sweat tests and followed up at CF Centers. Families reported high satisfaction with the CRMS knowledge questionnaire.

Conclusions

With this QI‐based approach, we effectively recaptured infants with CRMS previously lost to follow up during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Ongoing concerns about infection risk and lack of understanding on the part of families and pediatricians likely contributed to patients with CRMS lost to follow up. Consensus recommendations for CRMS include annual visits with repeat sweat testing until 2–6 years of age and education for adolescents about clinical and reproductive implications of CRMS.
Natural hypoglycaemic bioactives: Newer avenues and newer possibilities
Authors: Paul Rakesh Kumar , Raza Kaisar
Published: July 2024

The incidences of endocrine and metabolic disorders like diabetes have increased worldwide. Several proposed molecular pathways mechanisms for the management of diabetes have been identified, but glycaemic control is still a challenging task in the drug discovery process. Most of the drug discovery processes lead to numerous scaffolds that are prominent in natural products. The review deals with the natural bioactives as an α‐amylase inhibitors, α‐glucosidase inhibitors, protein tyrosine phosphatase‐1B inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitors, G‐protein coupled receptors‐40 agonists, PPAR‐γ agonists and the activators of 5′‐adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase and glucokinase. So, in this review, we focused on the hypoglycaemic bioactives, which will assist scientific developers, traditional medicinal practitioners, and readers to discover some potent antidiabetic molecules. Strategies like chemometric approaches, scaffold hopping, and total synthesis of natural products by group modification or ring opening/closing mechanism could be useful for the development of novel hit/lead antidiabetic molecules. The study concludes that each phyto molecule inherits a potential to get explored by repurposing techniques for various antidiabetic targets and offer an alternative antidiabetic therapeutic medicinal potential.
Developing δ15N and δ13C isoscapes using whole blood from Magellanic penguins, Spheniscus magellanicus
Authors: Gonzalez Juliana F. , Sánchez‐Carnero Noela , Frere Esteban , Yorio Pablo , Ciancio Javier E.
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Understanding the migration of marine animals is hindered by the limitations of traditional tracking methods. It is therefore crucial to develop alternative methods. Stable isotope‐based tracking has proven useful for this task, although it requires detailed isoscapes in the focal area. Here, we present predator‐based isoscapes of the coastal zone of the Patagonian Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem (PSLME), which offers a novel tool for geolocation.

Methods

Whole‐blood samples from breeding Magellanic penguins nesting at 11 colonies were used to create δ15N and δ13C isoscapes. Isotopic values were assigned to random positions inside their corresponding foraging area. Spatial analysis and data interpolation resulted in δ15N and δ13C isoscapes for the coastal zone of the PSLME, which were validated through cross‐validation.

Results

The isoscapes mean standard error ranged from 0.05 to 0.41 for δ15N and from 0.07 to 0.3 for δ13C, similar to the error range of the mass spectrometer used for measuring isotope ratios. Predictive surfaces reflected the latitudinal trends, with δ13C and δ15N values increasing northwards. δ13C values showed a strong latitudinal gradient, while δ15N values had two distinct domains, with higher values in the north. The error surface indicated the highest certainty within 130 km from the shore and within the reported Magellanic penguin foraging areas.

Conclusions

Both isoscapes revealed strong spatial variation. The δ13C isoscape showed a latitudinal gradient, consistent with patterns in other oceans. The δ15N isoscape clearly separated northern and southern colonies, likely influenced by nitrogen sources. The error obtained fell within the measurement error ranges, adding credibility to the models.
Controlled Fabrication of Metallic MoO2 Nanosheets towards High‐Performance p‐Type 2D Transistors
Authors: Li Tianchi , Jiang Wengui , Wu Yonghuang , Zhou Liang , Ye Huanyu , Geng Yuchen , Hu Minghui , Liu Kai , Wang Rongming , Sun Yinghui
Published: July 2024

Two‐dimensional (2D) semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are extensively employed as channel materials in advanced electronic devices. The electrical contacts between electrodes and 2D semiconductors play a crucial role in the development of high‐performance transistors. While numerous strategies for electrode interface engineering have been proposed to enhance the performance of n‐type 2D transistors, upgrading p‐type ones in a similar manner remains a challenge. In this work, significant improvements in a p‐type WSe2 transistor are demonstrated by utilizing metallic MoO2 nanosheets as the electrode contact, which are controllably fabricated through physical vapor deposition and subsequent annealing. The MoO2 nanosheets exhibit an exceptional electrical conductivity of 8.4 × 104 S m‒1 and a breakdown current density of 3.3 × 106 A cm‒2. The work function of MoO2 nanosheets is determined to be ≈5.1 eV, making them suitable for contacting p‐type 2D semiconductors. Employing MoO2 nanosheets as the electrode contact in WSe2 transistors results in a notable increase in the field‐effect mobility to 92.0 cm2 V‒1 s‒1, which is one order of magnitude higher than the counterpart devices with conventional electrodes. This study not only introduces an intriguing 2D metal oxide to improve the electrical contact in p‐type 2D transistors, but also offers an effective approach to fabricating all‐2D devices.
Fully Printed Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors Based on High‐k Perovskite Nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Pengxiang , Dang Feng , Zhang Xin , Nan Ce‐Wen , Li Bao‐Wen
Published: July 2024

Printing technology enables the integration of chemically exfoliated perovskite nanosheets into high‐performance microcapacitors. Theoretically, the capacitance value can be further enhanced by designing and constructing multilayer structures without increasing the device size. Yet, issues such as interlayer penetration in multilayer heterojunctions constructed using inkjet printing technology further limit the realization of this potential. Herein, a series of multilayer configurations, including Ag/(Ca2NaNb4O13/Ag)n and graphene/(Ca2NaNb4O13/graphene)n (n = 1–3), are successfully inkjet‐printed onto diverse rigid and flexible substrates through optimized ink formulations, inkjet printing parameters, thermal treatment conditions, and rational multilayer structural design using high‐k perovskite nanosheets, graphene nanosheets and silver. The dielectric performance is optimized by fine‐tuning the number of dielectric layers and modifying the electrode/dielectric interface. As a result, the graphene/(Ca2NaNb4O13/graphene)3 multilayer ceramic capacitors exhibit a remarkable capacitance density of 346 ± 12 nF cm−2 and a high dielectric constant of 193 ± 18. Additionally, these devices demonstrate moderate insulation properties, flexibility, thermal stability, and chemical sensitivity. This work shed light on the potential of multilayer structural design in additive manufacturing of high‐performance 2D material‐based ceramic capacitors.
Ant Lion Optimizer Based on Spatial Information
Authors: Weng Nian‐Feng , Liu Yi , Zheng Qi‐Bin , Li Geng‐Song , Li Hong‐Mei
Published: July 2024

Optimization problems widely exist in different real‐world applications. Ant lion optimizer (ALO) is an effective optimization algorithm that simulates the hunting behavior of antlions, but it will easily fall into local optima. To address this issue, this paper proposes a modified version of ALO called spatial ant lion optimizer (SALO). SALO makes full use of spatial informations of solutions to promote its searchability. It utilizes a distance‐based indicator instead of objective fitness to choose ant lions for updating solutions. Besides, it maintains a candidate enhanced archive by a distance‐based updating approach and implements a hybrid‐enhanced strategy in the archive to search for better solutions. Exhaust experiments are carried out through six classic benchmark functions and seven state‐of‐the‐art compared algorithms, and the results validate the superior performance of SALO. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
The Nordic Municipal CEO Model: Stability in Change
Authors: Hlynsdóttir Eva Marín , Cregård Anna , Hansen Morten Balle , Sandberg Siv , Solli Rolf , Torjesen Dag Olaf , Torsteinsen Harald
Published: July 2024

In this concluding chapter of the book Managing Nordic Local Governments: Paradoxes and Challenges of the Municipal Chief Executive, we present the main findings in relation to the Nordic municipal chief executive officer (MCEO) model of embeddedness. The MCEO role is discussed in relation to each of the seven conditions: the local–national welfare state, the governance model, regional dynamics and disparities, political–administrative organizations, leadership expectations, public servants, and career systems. Each of the seven conditions is put into context with the demands, constraints, and choices of the MCEO position to demonstrate the entangled institutional web of the position of the Nordic MCEO. The chapter concludes by discussing the research questions of the book. The main findings of the book suggest that the fundamentals of the MCEO position remain relatively stable over the study period, demonstrating incremental rather than major changes. In sum, the role of the Nordic MCEO has a long tradition, and its importance does not seem to be diminishing; rather, it is the opposite.
Optimal Dispatch of Power Grid Load
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Many power plants export electricity to the public grid, delivering it to factories and homes. We should optimize.
Optimal Control of Electric Transportation Vehicles Such as High-Speed Rail
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Many electric transportation vehicles such as locomotives, subways, electric cars, ships, etc. are jointly driven by multiple electric motors. In these occasions and fields, there are optimization problems of how multiple motors or multiple engines output power and how to determine the number of operating units.
Efficiency Optimization of Wind Power Hydrogen Production System
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Due to the involvement of chemical reactions, fission reactions and other factors, the energy output by some systems is not all converted from the energy consumed by the system.
Other Commonly Used Energy-Saving Operation Methods
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Some of the electrical equipment used in the industry are resistive loads, such as resistance heating furnaces, reactor heating.
Three-particle formalism for multiple channels: the ηππ + $$ K\overline{K}\pi $$ system in isosymmetric QCD
Authors: Draper Zachary T. , Sharpe Stephen R.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We generalize previous three-particle finite-volume formalisms to allow for multiple three-particle channels. For definiteness, we focus on the two-channel ηππ and $$ K\overline{K}\pi $$
K

K
¯

π
system in isosymmetric QCD, considering the positive G parity sector of the latter channel, and neglecting the coupling to modes with four or more particles. The formalism we obtain is thus appropriate to study the b1(1235) and η(1295) resonances. The derivation is made in the generic relativistic field theory approach using the time-ordered perturbation theory method. We study how the resulting quantization condition reduces to that for a single three-particle channel when one drops below the upper ($$ K\overline{K}\pi $$
K

K
¯

π
) threshold. We also present parametrizations of the three-particle K matrices that enter into the formalism.
Two-loop master integrals for leading-color $$ pp\to t\overline{t}H $$ amplitudes with a light-quark loop
Authors: Cordero F. Febres , Figueiredo G. , Kraus M. , Page B. , Reina L.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We compute the two-loop master integrals for leading-color QCD scattering amplitudes including a closed light-quark loop in $$ t\overline{t}H $$
t

t
¯

H
production at hadron colliders. Exploiting numerical evaluations in modular arithmetic, we construct a basis of master integrals satisfying a system of differential equations in ϵ-factorized form. We present the analytic form of the differential equations in terms of a minimal set of differential one-forms. We explore properties of the function space of analytic solutions to the differential equations in terms of iterative integrals which can be exploited for studying the analytic form of related scattering amplitudes. Finally, we solve the differential equations using generalized series expansions to numerically evaluate the master integrals in physical phase space. As the first computation of a set of two-loop seven-scale master integrals, our results provide valuable input for analytic studies of scattering amplitudes in processes involving massive particles and a large number of kinematic scales.
Ladder symmetries and Love numbers of Reissner-Nordström black holes
Authors: Rai Mudit , Santoni Luca
Published: July 2024

Abstract

It is well known that asymptotically flat black holes in general relativity have vanishing tidal Love numbers. In the case of Schwarzschild and Kerr black holes, this property has been shown to be a consequence of a hidden structure of ladder symmetries for the perturbations. In this work, we extend the ladder symmetries to non-rotating charged black holes in general relativity. As opposed to previous works in this context, we adopt a more general definition of Love numbers, including quadratic operators that mix gravitational and electromagnetic perturbations in the point-particle effective field theory. We show that the calculation of a subset of those couplings in full general relativity is affected by an ambiguity in the split between source and response, which we resolve through an analytic continuation. As a result, we derive a novel master equation that unifies scalar, electromagnetic and gravitational perturbations around Reissner-Nordström black holes. The equation is hypergeometric and can be obtained from previous formulations via nontrivial field redefinitions, which allow to systematically remove some of the singularities and make the presence of the ladder symmetries more manifest.