bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the scrotal thermal environment and the testicular sizes in prepubertal hemiscrotal agenesis without cryptorchidism
Authors: Nishio Hidenori , Mizuno Kentaro , Matsumoto Daisuke , Kamisawa Hideyuki , Kurokawa Satoshi , Nakane Akihiro , Iwatsuki Shoichiro , Maruyama Tetsuji , Yasui Takahiro , Hayashi Yutaro
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Hemiscrotal agenesis is a rare scrotal developmental disorder. Orchiopexy on the opposite side of the scrotum with rugae or scrotoplasty combined with orchiopexy is usually performed as a surgical treatment for hemiscrotal agenesis with cryptorchidism. Till date, there are only eight published case studies of hemiscrotal agenesis.

Case presentation

A 6‐year‐old boy, who had been previously treated for infantile hemangiomas, was referred by a pediatrician to our hospital for the follow‐up of hemiscrotal agenesis without cryptorchidism. Thermography demonstrated that the temperature of the right scrotal skin with no rugae was higher than that of the left scrotal skin with rugae. The patient's parent declined scrotoplasty because the hemiscrotal agenesis was to be followed up without scrotoplasty and scrotal ultrasonography revealed no abnormal findings in both testes.

Conclusion

High‐temperature environment may not impair the testicular growth in prepubertal hemiscrotal agenesis without cryptorchidism.
QGIS‐based support tools to simplify the complex design challenges of subsurface drainage systems
Authors: Falasy Anamelechi , Cooke Richard
Published: August 2024

We developed a comprehensive set of tools to simplify the design and layout of subsurface drainage systems. These tools, which utilize publicly available LiDAR (light detection and ranging) datasets, may also be used for other applications. The tool streamline operations include harmonizing geographic information system (GIS) layers into a single State Plane or Universal Transverse Mercator Coordinate System, clipping and thinning LiDAR data within a defined boundary, generating drainage networks with contour lines and laylines for surface flow visualization, identifying depressions and creating gridlines with user‐specified angles and spacings. To showcase their use, an illustrative example using a diverse dataset from the University of Illinois’ South Farm is provided. These user‐friendly tools, optimized for compatibility with all versions of QGIS3 (quantum geographic information system 3), are freely accessible for download or installation from the official QGIS plugin repository. A user manual with step‐by‐step instructions is available online on the Illinois Drainage Guide website.
Associations between stress, perfectionism, and imposter phenomenon among dental hygiene students
Authors: Alderton Deborah K. , Boyd Linda D. , Adams Jaymi‐Lyn , Vineyard Jared
Published: August 2024

Purpose/objective

Imposter phenomenon (IP) depicts the feeling of being a fraud. Stress and perfection are associated with IP, impairing professional and academic performance and negatively impacting mental health. The purpose of this study was to explore the prevalence of IP and perfectionism in dental hygiene students and the relationship with stress.

Methods

This study used cross‐sectional survey research with a nonprobability sampling of dental hygiene students (n = 258). The study used three validated instruments: the Imposter Profile (IPP30) with six subscales, the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale Brief with two subscales, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS10). Descriptive, correlation, and linear regression were used for analysis.

Results

The completion rate was 74.8% (n = 193). Linear regression analysis found the competence doubt (CD) subscale of the Imposter‐Profile and perfectionistic striving (PS) were the only statistically significant predictors of stress (F = 10.01, p < .001, R2 = .16). CD (b = 0.36, p < 0.001) was twice as strong as PS (b = 0.15, p < 0.05) in predicting stress in dental hygiene students.

Conclusion

In this sample of dental hygiene students, the doubt about competence aspect of imposter phenomenon increased stress more than the striving for perfectionism. Faculty may minimize stress and support students by identifying the feelings associated with imposter phenomenon and highlighting student achievements to build confidence and feelings of self‐efficacy.
Strategic tillage of no‐till decreased surface and subsurface losses of dissolved phosphorus
Authors: Uusitalo Risto , Lemola Riitta , Šuštar Mira , Kurkilahti Mika , Kaseva Janne , Turtola Eila
Published: August 2024

Enrichment of soluble P on the surface layer of long‐term no‐till (NT) soils, and consequent increase in dissolved P losses, is a concern for which occasional plowing has been suggested as a remedy. We measured the effect of such strategic tillage (ST) on surface and subsurface P losses from 0.5‐ha field plots on clay soil for 4 years. Two NT plots had discharged threefold dissolved molybdate‐reactive P (DRP) losses compared to annually plowed soil conventional tillage (CT). ST by plowing to 20‐cm depth was applied on one of the NT plots, whereas the other remained under NT. ST done in July was sown with canola (Brassica napus ssp. oleifera) to establish plant cover before winter. Summed 4‐year DRP loss from ST treatment was 60% lower compared to NT (0.78 vs. 1.96 kg ha−1), accompanied with 11% higher particulate P (PP) loss (4.39 vs. 3.97 kg ha−1). CT plots produced slightly lower DRP losses (0.53–0.76 kg ha−1) than ST, but higher PP losses (6.02–7.96 kg ha−1). Bioavailable P (BAP) losses from ST were lower than from the other treatments if >7% of PP turns bioavailable. After ST, soil P stratification first vanished, but started to develop again when NT was resumed. Occasional tillage of NT soils mitigates DRP losses over several years, and it was at the study site the preferred mitigation option in reducing BAP losses.
Temporal patterns of asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among pediatric population in Japan: A 3‐year analysis
Authors: Kozawa Kei , Higashimoto Yuki , Kawamura Yoshiki , Miura Hiroki , Hattori Fumihiko , Mihara Yuka , Nakai Hidetaka , Nishimura Naoko , Ozaki Takao , Ihira Masaru , Yoshikawa Tetsushi
Published: August 2024

To elucidate the seroprevalence and rate of asymptomatic infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in Japanese children, serological analysis was performed using serum samples collected from March 2020 to February 2023. A total of 1493 serum samples were collected during the first study period (March 2020 to February 2021). None of the serum samples was positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody. In the second period (March 2021 to February 2022), seven of the 1055 patients (0.7%) experienced SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The third period (March 2022 to February 2023) was divided into three terms: from March to June 30, 2022; from July to October 2022; and from November 2022 to February 2023. The seroprevalence gradually increased throughout this period, with rates of 6.0%, 18.6%, and 30.4% in the three terms, respectively. Pediatric cases of asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection occurred after the surge of Omicron variants. Since none of the SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody‐positive patients had a previous history of coronavirus disease 2019, the seroprevalence rate in this study may represent the rate of asymptomatic infection.
Cover Image
Authors: Zhang Ruyuan , Corstens Meinou , Luo Zisheng , Cao Jiarui , Schroen Karin
Published: August 2024

The cover image is based on the article Effect of pH on the emulsifying performance of protein‐polysaccharide complexes by Ruyuan Zhang et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.13601.

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Surgical parameters influence paediatric knee kinematics and cartilage stresses in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Navigating subject‐specific variability using neuromusculoskeletal‐finite element modelling analysis
Authors: Dastgerdi Ayda Karimi , Esrafilian Amir , Carty Christopher P. , Nasseri Azadeh , Barzan Martina , Korhonen Rami K. , Astori Ivan , Hall Wayne , Saxby David John
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is increasingly common in paediatric and adolescent populations, typically requiring surgical ACL reconstruction (ACLR) to restore knee stability. However, ACLR substantially alters knee biomechanics (e.g., motion and tissue mechanics) placing the patient at elevated risk of early‐onset knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

This study employed a linked neuromusculoskeletal (NMSK)‐finite element (FE) model to determine effects of four critical ACLR surgical parameters (graft type, size, location and pre‐tension) on tibial articular cartilage stresses in three paediatric knees of different sizes during walking. Optimal surgical combinations were defined by minimal kinematic and tibial cartilage stress deviations in comparison to a corresponding intact healthy knee, with substantial deviations defined by normalized root mean square error (nRMSE) > 10%.

Results

Results showed unique trends of principal stress deviations across knee sizes with small knee showing least deviation from intact knee, followed by large‐ and medium‐sized knees. The nRMSE values for cartilage stresses displayed notable variability across different knees. Surgical combination yielding the highest nRMSE in comparison to the one with lowest nRMSE resulted in an increase of maximum principal stress on the medial tibial cartilage by 18.0%, 6.0% and 1.2% for small, medium and large knees, respectively. Similarly, there was an increase of maximum principal stress on lateral tibial cartilage by 11.2%, 4.1% and 12.7% for small, medium and large knees, respectively. Knee phenotype and NMSK factors contributed to deviations in knee kinematics and tibial cartilage stresses. Although optimal surgical configurations were found for each knee size, no generalizable trends emerged emphasizing the subject‐specific nature of the knee and neuromuscular system.

Conclusion

Study findings underscore subject‐specific complexities in ACLR biomechanics, necessitating personalized surgical planning for effective restoration of native motion and tissue mechanics. Future research should expand investigations to include a broader spectrum of subject‐specific factors to advance personalized surgical planning.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
A Month of Vestibular Migraine: Symptom Characterization Using Ecological Momentary Assessment
Authors: Saroya Jasmeet , Humwell Max , Gardi Adam , Chae Ricky , Wong Daniel , Allen Isabel , Sharon Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2024

Objective(s)

This study investigated the frequency and intensity of vestibular migraine (VM) symptoms using Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA). This approach was intended to provide insights into the day‐to‐day experiences of individuals with VM, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of this condition.

Methods

Participants reported symptoms to an automated text system, rating their dizziness over the prior 24 h as none, mild, moderate, or severe. Definitive Dizzy Days (DDDs) were defined as days with moderate or severe dizziness. A student's independent group t‐test was used to compare the number of DDDs between VM and probable VM subjects.

Results

Sixty‐six subjects were included, with an average of 29 days of pre‐intervention data (SD = 1.4). The average number of days with no dizziness was 3.5 (SD = 6.5), mild dizziness was 9.1 (SD = 6.7), moderate dizziness was 11 (SD = 6.1), and severe dizziness was 5.4 (SD = 6.3). Out of the 66 patients, 52 were classified as VM and 14 as pVM. The average number of DDDs was not significantly different between VM (17.0, SD = 8.3) and pVM (15.3, SD = 10.0) patients, with a two‐tailed p‐value of 0.44.

Conclusion

With EMA, we found that the average subject with VM had some degree of dizziness almost every day, and more than 15 DDDs per month.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 2024
Lentils: A Recent Review on Global Trade and Popular Regional Cuisines
Authors: Shaikh Marium , Sunooj Kappat Valiyapeediyekkal , Rahman Md. Hafizur , Navaf Muhammed , Ali Tahira Mohsin
Published: August 2024

Lentils that are considered powerhouse of healthy calories are traditionally consumed in different regions of the world. With the increasing awareness regarding lentils' health‐related benefits, it is getting popular among people of all ages. The rising demand also necessitated the increase in global lentil production with Canada grabbing the top rank among the global producers. This review discussed lentil's trade‐related statistics, along with in depth details of various popular cuisines, and consumption patterns observed in Asia, Middle East, Africa, the United States, Canada, Europe, and Mediterranean region. Lentils are added as ingredient in soups, rice cuisines, pasta, flat breads, salads, nuggets, and burger patties and thus carry its name throughout the food menus from appetizers and salads to main course meals.
Efficient Reversible Upconversion Luminescence Modulation based on Photochromism of Lanthanides‐Doped BaMgSiO4 Glass Ceramics Toward Optical Storage Application
Authors: Zi Yingzhu , Huang Anjun , Zhao Heping , Bai Xue , Xu Zan , Ullah Asad , Liu Yue , Cun Yangke , Song Zhiguo , Qiu Jianbei , Tatiana Cherkasova , Shen Yang , Yang Zhengwen
Published: August 2024

Transparent glass with photochromic and luminescent properties has recently garnered considerable interest in optical storage, while the photochromic transparent glass system is still limited. Herein, it is proposed that combining transparent glass matrix with photochromic nanocrystals is an efficient strategy to develop a broader range of photochromic luminescent glass systems. The Yb3+/Tb3+ co‐doped BaMgSiO4 glass ceramics are successfully prepared by a two‐step melt‐quenching approach followed by a thermal treatment in a reducing atmosphere. The glass ceramics exhibit high transparency and distinct coloration, showing a color change between colorless and pink by alternating irradiation between 365 nm ultraviolet light and 473 nm laser. The formation of color centers in the BaMgSiO4 nanoparticles drives the coloration of such glass ceramics. Based on their photochromic and photobleaching behavior, the efficient reversible upconversion luminescence modulation can be implemented with the maximum luminescence modulation rate of 79.83%. The excellent reproducibility and anti‐fatigue of such upconversion luminescence modulation demonstrate the promising application of Yb3+/Tb3+ co‐doped BaMgSiO4 glass ceramics as an optical storage medium.
The effect of tempering time and cooling environment on the corrosion behavior of AA5083‐H111 alloy
Authors: Karagöz İ. , Buğdaycı M. , Öncel L.
Published: August 2024

The tempering process can increase the mechanical properties of the material, such as hardness and impact strength, as well as enhance the corrosion resistance. Therefore, the selection of appropriate tempering time and cooling environment is crucial. This study aims to investigate changes in properties such as hardness, tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and microstructure of AA5083‐H111 alloy after a brief tempering process (30 minutes, 45 minutes and 60 minutes) at 320 °C, followed by cooling in air and water environments. The study found that tempering time and cooling environment significantly affect the mechanical properties and corrosion rate. The results show that samples labeled as S30 and S60 have the highest hardness and impact strength, but the best corrosion resistance is achieved in the S60 sample. This study demonstrates that even after a limited‐term tempering process, the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of AA5083‐H111 alloy can be improved. This information is crucial data for use in the production and application of alloys. The findings of this study could have important implications for the production and application of AA5083‐H111 alloy in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine engineering.
Sound absorption characteristics of 3‐dimensional printed biodegradable structure backed with luffa fiber
Authors: Tyagi R. , Jha N. K. , Tripathi A. , Ranjan N. , Srivastava A. K. , Kumar S. , Kumar R.
Published: August 2024

In this work, an investigation has been carried out on the sound absorption properties of the microperforated composites prepared by filling natural luffa fiber and synthetic luffa fiber. These composite structures are created by 3‐dimensional printing of polylactic acid, which exhibits excellent biodegradability. After preparing the structure, the micro‐perforation is done at the top of the composite with the help of a heated cylindrical drill. During the printing process, the infill density (printing parameter) and type of luffa fiber (natural and synthetic) have been varied to find out its effect on acoustic properties. Finally, a comparative study is carried out among natural luffa fiber and without using natural luffa fiber. The results showed excellent sound absorption of luffa filled structure compared to an unfilled structure. Out of three different infilled densities, the density of 5 % revealed a maximum amount of absorption, suggesting the potential applications of these structures in the field of sound absorption.
Global existence and uniform boundedness in a diffusive food chain model with direct and indirect prey‐taxis
Authors: Ahn Inkyung , Choi Wonhyung , Yoon Changwook
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we propose a food chain model in which the primary predator moves directly toward areas of high prey density. Simultaneously, the primary predator, which serves as the prey for the secondary predator, indirectly influences the directional movements of the secondary predator through cues such as chemical signals, scents, or excretions. We investigate whether the distinct influences of direct taxis and indirect taxis, as observed in prey–predator dynamics, are also manifested in the proposed food chain model. Our study demonstrates that the model, which incorporates both direct and indirect prey‐taxis, possesses bounded and global solutions up to three‐dimensional space.
Dynamic analysis of a class of fractional‐order dry friction oscillators
Authors: Si Jialin , Xie Jiaquan , Zhao Peng , Wang Haijun , Wang Jinbin , Hao Yan , Ren Jiani , Shi Wei
Published: August 2024

This article investigates a class of Duffing nonlinear dynamic systems with fractional‐order dry friction and conducts in‐depth research on the stability, chaotic characteristics, and erosion of the safety basin of this system; the results are verified through numerical simulation. First, the average method is used to approximate the amplitude–frequency relationship of the system, and the accuracy of the analytical results is verified through numerical experiments. Second, the Melnikov method is used to obtain the conditions for the system to enter chaos in the Smale horseshoe sense, and the Melnikov curve is drawn for further verification. Then, bifurcation diagrams are drawn for the changes in various parameters in the system, with a focus on analyzing the influence of friction factors on chaotic bifurcation. By applying the definition and calculation principle of the maximum Lyapunov exponent, and drawing and utilizing the maximum Lyapunov exponent graph, the chaotic state that the system enters under different parameters is more clearly defined. Finally, the evolution law of the safety basin under various parameter changes, especially dry friction changes, is analyzed, and the erosion and bifurcation mechanism of the safety basin is studied. Comparing with the bifurcation diagram, it reveals that chaos primarily contributes to the erosion of the safety basin.
Testing the hypothesis of a nested block covariance matrix structure with applications to medicine and natural sciences
Authors: Coelho Carlos A. , Norouzirad Mina , Marques Filipe J.
Published: August 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of testing the hypothesis of what the authors call a nested block circular‐compound symmetric (NBCCS) covariance structure for the population covariance matrix. This is a covariance structure which has an outer block compound symmetric structure, where the diagonal blocks are themselves block circular matrices, while the off‐diagonal blocks are formed by all equal matrices. The NBCCS null hypothesis is decomposed into sub‐hypotheses, allowing this way for a simpler way to obtain a likelihood ratio test and its associated statistic. The exact moments of this statistic are derived, and its distribution is carefully examined. Given the complicated nature of this distribution, highly precise near‐exact distributions were developed. Numerical studies are conducted to assess the proximity between these near‐exact distributions and the exact distribution, highlighting the performance of these approximations, even in the case of very small sample sizes. Furthermore, three datasets, on bone mineral content, metabolic rates of glucose, and soil moisture are used to exemplify the practical application of the methodology derived in this study.
Velocity of cerebrospinal fluid in the aqueduct measured by phase‐contrast MRI in rat
Authors: Ding Guangliang , Li Lian , Chopp Michael , Zhang Li , Li Qingjiang , Luo Hao , Wei Min , Zhang Jing , Boyd Edward , Zhang Zhenggang , Jiang Quan
Published: August 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation plays a key role in cerebral waste clearance via the glymphatic system. Although CSF flow velocity is an essential component of CSF dynamics, it has not been sufficiently characterized, and particularly, in studies of the glymphatic system in rat. To investigate the relationship between the flow velocity of CSF in the brain aqueduct and the glymphatic waste clearance rate, using phase‐contrast MRI we performed the first measurements of CSF velocity in rats. Phase‐contrast MRI was performed using a 7 T system to map mean velocity of CSF flow in the aqueduct in rat brain. The effects of age (3 months old versus 18 months old), gender, strain (Wistar, RNU, Dark Agouti), anesthetic agents (isoflurane versus dexmedetomidine), and neurodegenerative disorder (Alzheimer’ disease in Fischer TgF344‐AD rats, males and females) on CSF velocity were investigated in eight independent groups of rats (12 rats per group). Our results demonstrated that quantitative velocities of CSF flow in the aqueduct averaged 5.16 ± 0.86 mm/s in healthy young adult male Wistar rats. CSF flow velocity in the aqueduct was not altered by rat gender, strain, and the employed anesthetic agents in all rats, also age in the female rats. However, aged (18 months) Wistar male rats exhibited significantly reduced the CSF flow velocity in the aqueduct (4.31 ± 1.08 mm/s). In addition, Alzheimer's disease further reduced the CSF flow velocity in the aqueduct of male and female rats.
Enhancing Health Literacy: Evaluating the Readability of Patient Handouts Revised by ChatGPT's Large Language Model
Authors: Swisher Austin R. , Wu Arthur W. , Liu Gene C. , Lee Matthew K. , Carle Taylor R. , Tang Dennis M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To use an artificial intelligence (AI)‐powered large language model (LLM) to improve readability of patient handouts.

Study Design

Review of online material modified by AI.

Setting

Academic center.

Methods

Five handout materials obtained from the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery websites were assessed using validated readability metrics. The handouts were inputted into OpenAI's ChatGPT‐4 after prompting: “Rewrite the following at a 6th‐grade reading level.” The understandability and actionability of both native and LLM‐revised versions were evaluated using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT). Results were compared using Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests.

Results

The mean readability scores of the standard (ARS, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery) materials corresponded to “difficult,” with reading categories ranging between high school and university grade levels. Conversely, the LLM‐revised handouts had an average seventh‐grade reading level. LLM‐revised handouts had better readability in nearly all metrics tested: Flesch‐Kincaid Reading Ease (70.8 vs 43.9; P < .05), Gunning Fog Score (10.2 vs 14.42; P < .05), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (9.9 vs 13.1; P < .05), Coleman‐Liau (8.8 vs 12.6; P < .05), and Automated Readability Index (8.2 vs 10.7; P = .06). PEMAT scores were significantly higher in the LLM‐revised handouts for understandability (91 vs 74%; P < .05) with similar actionability (42 vs 34%; P = .15) when compared to the standard materials.

Conclusion

Patient‐facing handouts can be augmented by ChatGPT with simple prompting to tailor information with improved readability. This study demonstrates the utility of LLMs to aid in rewriting patient handouts and may serve as a tool to help optimize education materials.

Level of Evidence

Level VI.
Oral plasmablastic lymphoma in HIV‐infected individuals—A systematic review
Authors: Sundararajan Kavina , Bose Divya , Dineshkumar Thayalan , Annasamy Rameshkumar , Krishnan Rajkumar
Published: August 2024

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an uncommon and aggressive large B‐cell lymphoma that affects immunocompromised individuals. The orofacial region is the most commonly affected site. The primary aim of the article was to review systematically, the cases of oral PBL and consolidate their clinic‐pathological, and molecular characteristics, rehabilitation, and outcome in Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected individuals. An electronic literature search was done and 28 articles with a total of 32 cases, of which 27 patients were adults and 5 were pediatrics were included in the review based on the inclusion criteria. Oral PBL was found to be common in HIV‐affected males, frequently involving the gingiva. Histopathology revealed monomorphic neoplastic atypical cells with plasmablastic features and cohesive growth patterns. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong positivity for CD138, and CD 79a. The prognosis of oral PBL in patients with HIV was poor in both adult and pediatric age groups, however, pediatric age groups showed a worse prognosis. Hence, it is crucial to correctly diagnose oral PBL, surgically treat the patients along with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, and start ART in HIV‐positive individuals.
Preparation of a starch derivative bearing chloroaniline groups and the evaluation of its hemolytic, cytotoxic and antibacterial activities
Authors: Valdez‐Valdés María Fernanda , Enríquez‐Medrano Francisco Javier , Zugasti‐Cruz Alejandro , Sierra‐Rivera Crystel Aleyvick , Martínez‐Mora Eder Iván , Sosa‐Santillán Gerardo de Jesús , Oyervides‐Muñoz Ernesto
Published: August 2024

A new starch derivative with antibacterial properties and non‐hemolytic effect was synthesized through the chemical grafting of 4‐chloroaniline onto the backbone of potato starch. In a first step, starch was extracted from potatoes grown in the region of Coahuila, Mexico, using the water steeping method. The hydroxyl groups (C5‐C6) of the native starch were oxidized using sodium periodate. The resulting dialdehyde was then chemically modified through a Schiff base reaction with 4‐chloroaniline. The chemical structure of this starch derivative was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR spectroscopies, the thermal properties were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis without finding significant changes and the product showed antibacterial activity against Gram‐negative E. coli and Gram‐positive S. aureus strains. Finally, the hemolytic and cytotoxic effects of native starch and its derivative were studied, showing no hemolytic effect on isolated human red blood cells and no cytotoxic effect; therefore, it can be considered biocompatible. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Electrodiagnosis for mitigating false‐negative non‐responsiveness in electrical evoked contractions: A case series exploring probable polyneuromyopathy induced by nonuse
Authors: Flamarion‐dos‐Santos Bruno , Borges David Lobato , Martins Henrique Resende , Fachin‐Martins Emerson
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The revised international standards for neurological classification of spinal cord injury (ISNCSCI) have facilitated the documentation of non‐spinal cord injury‐related impairments, such as chronic peripheral nerve injuries and muscle weakness due to immobility. This advancement addresses potential biases in muscle strength examinations. Utilizing electrically evoked contractions from paralyzed muscles, enhanced by electrodiagnosis, holds promise in identifying false‐negative diagnoses of non‐responsiveness to neuromuscular electrical stimulation. This concept prompts the exploration of polyneuromyopathy arising from nonuse in paralyzed muscles.

Case Series Presentation

To substantiate our hypothesis, we recruited nine participants for a case series aimed at elucidating the potential benefits of incorporating the stimulus electrodiagnostic test (SET) to mitigate non‐responsiveness during preparation for functional electrical stimulation (FES)‐assisted cycling. In our convenience sample (n = 5), we conducted neurological mapping based on ISNCSCI and applied SET on the quadriceps. The SET guided optimal dosimetry for evoking contractions and revealed responses similar to those observed in peripheral neuropathies, with α coefficients equal to or lower than 2.00. This observation is likely attributable to nonuse of paralyzed muscles, indicative of an ongoing polyneuropathy in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Discussion

Among the nine initially recruited subjects, seven exhibited responsiveness to neuromuscular electrical stimulation (78% responsiveness), with two participants excluded based on exclusion criteria. In the final five reported cases, all displayed α coefficient values indicating impaired neuromuscular accommodation, and one presented no α coefficient within the normal range. The inclusion of electrodiagnosis appears effective in averting non‐responsiveness, suggesting the presence of ongoing polyneuropathies in paralyzed muscles.
Porous egg microparticles for controllable drug delivery and oncotherapy
Authors: Yan Dan , Wang Wei , Xie ZhengZheng
Published: August 2024

Baicalein (BAI) extracted from Chinese herb has been proved to increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to gemcitabine (GEM) and effectively solve the problem of drug resistance of tumor cells. Nevertheless, intravenous administration often leads to intolerance of patients and side effects. In this paper, we introduced egg‐based porous microparticles for controllable drug delivery and oncotherapy, which avoided frequent intravenous administration. The interconnected porous structure endowed the microparticles with the capacity of loading sufficient drugs and releasing in a controllable way by adjusting the concentration and proportion of egg white and yolk. We have demonstrated that the cell viability of drug delivery system group was less than 50%, while the single drug group was more than 70%, which indicated that the co‐delivery of GEM and BAI could significantly reduce the proliferation of cells. These features indicated that the egg porous microparticles are ideal for controllable drug delivery and oncotherapy.
Predictors of gentamicin therapy failure in neonates with sepsis
Authors: Singu Bonifasius Siyuka , Pieper Clarissa Hildegard , Verbeeck Roger Karel , Ette Ene I.
Published: August 2024

Sepsis is a common disease with high morbidity and mortality among newborns in intensive care units world‐wide. Gram‐negative bacillary bacteria are the major source of infection in neonates. Gentamicin is the most widely used aminoglycoside antibiotic in empiric therapy against early‐onset sepsis. However, therapy failure may result due to various factors. The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of gentamicin therapy failure in neonates with sepsis. This was a prospective cross‐sectional study at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Windhoek Central Hospital over a period of 5 months in 2019. Neonates received intravenous gentamicin 5 mg/kg/24 h in combination with either benzylpenicillin 100 000 IU/kg/12 h or ampicillin 50 mg/kg/8 h. Logistic regression modeling was performed to determine the predictors of treatment outcomes. 36% of the 50 neonates were classified as having gentamicin treatment failure. Increasing treatment duration by 1 day resulted in odds of treatment failure increasing from 1.0 to 2.41. Similarly, one unit increase in CRP increases odds of gentamicin treatment failure by 49%. The 1 kg increase in birthweight reduces the log odds of treatment failure by 6.848, resulting in 99.9% decrease in the odds of treatment failure. One unit increase in WBC reduces odds of gentamicin treatment failure by 27%. Estimates of significant predictors of treatment failure were precise, yielding odds ratios that were within 95% confidence interval. This study identified the following as predictors of gentamicin therapy failure in neonates: prolonged duration of treatment, elevated C‐reactive protein, low birthweight, and low white blood cell count.
Application of sulfur‐based products reduces Halyomorpha halys infestation and damage in pome fruit orchards
Authors: Scaccini Davide , Fornasiero Diego , Lombardo Veronica , Galli Giulia , Mirandola Enrico , Pozzebon Alberto
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is an invasive pest that causes economic damage on crops, decreasing fruit yield and quality. Conventional insecticides are frequently used to reduce infestations, but these are often with a limited residual effect, besides being costly and detrimental to nontarget organisms and the environment. In integrated pest management, novel strategies against H. halys are proposed, such as the use of alternative substances with an effect on insect behaviour and mobility. As one of the oldest multi‐site fungicides applied against fungal pathogens and as an insecticide and acaricide to control scales and mites, sulfur is proposed here to reduce H. halys infestation in fruit orchards.

RESULTS

Field experiments were performed to evaluate the effect of repeated wettable sulfur applications on H. halys in apple and pear orchards. Sulfur‐induced plant phytotoxicity effects and quanti‐qualitative parameters on apple fruits were also recorded. Halyomorpha halys infestation was significantly reduced in sulfur‐treated compared to untreated pears and apples. Furthermore, sulfur sprays reduced fruit damage caused by H. halys. Besides, sulfur‐mediated phytotoxicity such as symptoms on leaves and fruit drop were not observed. Fruit quality was not influenced by sulfur treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Wettable sulfur seems to be a promising formulation given the low phytotoxicity, considering the technical aspects for an effective use of sulfur‐based products to counteract H. halys in pome fruit orchards. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
‘It hurts my heart’: Afghan women in London negotiating family relationships and (im)mobility regimes across borders
Authors: Ryan Louise , Lopez Maria , Rasa Mursal
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to contribute new insights into transnational care relationships by drawing on qualitative longitudinal data, to explore the complexities and nuances of Afghan women's dynamic family relations across multiple countries and continents. Rather than treating transnational families as a homogeneous unit, we present rich case studies to explore relationships with particular relatives, such as mothers, sisters and in‐laws, to understand the different dynamics within specific familial ties. Paying attention to the specificities of spatial contexts and infrastructures in framing opportunities and obstacles to transnational care, we apply the concept of immobility regimes. Beyond a simple bi‐national focus on countries of origin and residence, we explore how the women navigate these regimes, across multiple countries and different visa regimes to arrange in‐person visits with geographically dispersed kin. We consider the role of ICTs and the limitations of poor connectivity, especially in countries like Afghanistan, and the gender power dynamics that may limit women's access to technologies.
Neutrophil extracellular traps: Potential targets for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with traditional Chinese medicine and natural products
Authors: Liu Yuan , Qu Yuan , Liu Chuanguo , Zhang Di , Xu Bing , Wan Yakun , Jiang Ping
Published: August 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease. Abnormal formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) at the synovial membrane leads to the release of many inflammatory cytokines, including IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. Elastase, histone H3, and myeloperoxidase, which are carried by NETs, damage the soft tissues of the joints and aggravate the progression of RA. The balance of NET formation coordinates the pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory effects and plays a key role in the development of RA. Therefore, when NETs are used as effector targets, highly targeted drugs with fewer side effects can be developed to treat RA without damaging the host immune system. Currently, an increasing number of studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicines and natural products can regulate the formation of NETs through multiple pathways to counteract RA, which shows great potential for the treatment of RA and has a promising future for clinical application. In this article, we review the latest biological progress in understanding NET formation, the mechanism of NETs in RA, and the potential targets or pathways related to the modulation of NET formation by Chinese medicines and natural products. This review provides a relevant basis for the use of Chinese medicines and natural products as natural adjuvants in the treatment of RA.
A dual scale spatio‐temporal control for complex distributed parameter systems
Authors: Zhao Yaru , Li Han‐Xiong
Published: August 2024

It is very difficult to control the distributed parameter system (DPS) for consistent spatial performance. In this paper, a dual scale spatio‐temporal control is designed for the DPS to achieve a consistent performance across the entire workspace under unknown exogenous disturbances. First, the generalized “spatial observer” should be designed under spectral decomposition/synthesis, to act as the nominal model of the DPS, through which the spatial mismatch between the model and the process could be estimated. Then a distributed disturbance compensator can be constructed to suppress all the undesirable spatial disturbance through the inner loop, and the compensated system will become closer to the nominal model and easier to control. Third, a dual controller will be designed in the outer loop for the final consistent spatial performance. Since the spatial performance is mainly affected by the dominant dynamics on the slow scale, a convex optimization algorithm can be effectively established in terms of nonlinear matrix inequalities for the dual controller. In this way, the nonlinear optimization problem is solved by converting it into the problem of a linear matrix inequalities with constraints. Besides, the spatio‐temporal state variable of the controlled plant is demonstrated to converge in Hilbert space. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control method are verified by temperature control of a catalytic rod, a benchmark in chemical reactors.
Bipartite tracking for Euler–Lagrange systems via prescribed‐time hierarchical control based on the matrix‐weighted signed digraphs
Authors: Gu Ren‐Jie , Han Tao , Xiao Bo , Zhan Xi‐Sheng , Yan Huaicheng
Published: August 2024

The goal of this article is to investigate the bipartite tracking control problem using a prescribed‐time convergence method for Euler–Lagrange systems (ELSs) with external disturbances. Agent interactions are represented by a matrix‐weighted signed directed graph. There are not only cooperative but also adversarial interactions. An essential component of the system, the prescribed‐time hierarchical control (PTHC) algorithm, including a more general time‐varying function, is newly developed to guarantee that all agents converge to the same leader state but with opposite signs within a prescribed time. The salient feature of the introduced method lies in the fact that the convergence time of the control objective can be prespecified by the user. The state transformation, the property of the matrix‐weighted Laplacian, and the generalized Lyapunov stability argument are employed to theoretically validate the proposed algorithms. Finally, the effectiveness of the algorithm is confirmed through the execution of numerical examples.
Advances in Spin‐Modulated Electrocatalysis of Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Taspya Tabassum , Snigdha Rowshan Yeasmin , Islam Md. Mominul
Published: August 2024

Electrochemical splitting of water for hydrogen generation has emerged as a potential strategy for transitioning towards renewable energy sources and mitigating the environmental impact of fossil fuel dependence. However, the efficiency of water splitting is mainly hindered by oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode side, which involves kinetically sluggish four proton‐coupled electron‐transfer steps. Recent studies on OER demonstrate that a spin‐dependent mechanism governs the reaction kinetics, wherein the electronic exchange interactions in the catalytic activity of transition metals can provide a spin‐selective channel to filter out electron spins with the right orientation during the formation of O2. Maximizing efficiency and stability of such catalysts require optimization the geometric and electrical structures of transition metal systems. In addition, it is vital to understand the OER mechanism with spin considerations to be familiar with the connection between spin, charge, orbital, and lattice characteristics. This review focuses on current developments in understanding and the use of the spin‐related effect in the OER mechanism.
Structural Evolution of Manganese Prussian Blue Analogue in Aqueous ZnSO4 Electrolyte
Authors: Li Min , Maisuradze Mariam , Mullaliu Angelo , Carlomagno Ilaria , Aquilanti Giuliana , Plaisier Jasper Rikkert , Giorgetti Marco
Published: August 2024

Among different Prussian Blue Analogues (PBAs), manganese hexacyanoferrate (MnHCF), with open framework and two abundant electroactive metal sites, exhibits high potential for the grid‐scale aqueous rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries (ARZIBs) application. Until now, the intercalation mechanism of Zn2+ into MnHCF has not been clearly illustrated. In this work, combining different synchrotron X‐ray techniques, the structural and microscopic evolution of MnHCF in 3 m ZnSO4 electrolyte is comprehensively studied, and a thorough understanding of the intercalation/release dynamic, in terms of local and long‐range domain, is provided. The elemental distribution and structural information of Fe, Mn, Zn inside MnHCF electrodes is obtained from the X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) elemental maps and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). The in‐depth analysis of extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) signals confirm that the rearrangement of Mn site, evidencing the cleavage of the Mn─N bond with the formation of a Mn─O bond, in an octahedral environment. The phase transformation of MnHCF takes place exclusively during the 1st cycle, and a mixture of rhombohedral and cubic zinc hexacynoferrate (ZnHCF) phases are formed during the first charge process. Thereafter, the newly formed cubic ZnHCF phase becomes the only stable one, existing in the subsequent cycles and exhibiting excellent electrochemical stability.
On quasi-linear reaction diffusion systems arising from compartmental SEIR models
Authors: Yang Juan , Morgan Jeff , Tang Bao Quoc
Published: August 2024

The global existence and boundedness of solutions to quasi-linear reaction-diffusion systems are investigated. The system arises from compartmental models describing the spread of infectious diseases proposed in Viguerie et al. (Appl Math Lett 111:106617, 2021); Viguerie et al. (Comput Mech 66(5):1131–1152, 2020), where the diffusion rate is assumed to depend on the total population, leading to quasilinear diffusion with possible degeneracy. The mathematical analysis of this model has been addressed recently in Auricchio et al. (Math Methods Appl Sci 46:12529–12548, 2023) where it was essentially assumed that all sub-populations diffuse at the same rate, which yields a positive lower bound of the total population, thus removing the degeneracy. In this work, we remove this assumption completely and show the global existence and boundedness of solutions by exploiting a recently developed $$L^p$$

L
p

-energy method. Our approach is applicable to a larger class of systems and is sufficiently robust to allow model variants and different boundary conditions.
Deep learning for autosegmentation for radiotherapy treatment planning: State-of-the-art and novel perspectives
Authors: Erdur Ayhan Can , Rusche Daniel , Scholz Daniel , Kiechle Johannes , Fischer Stefan , Llorián-Salvador Óscar , Buchner Josef A. , Nguyen Mai Q. , Etzel Lucas , Weidner Jonas , Metz Marie-Christin , Wiestler Benedikt , Schnabel Julia , Rueckert Daniel , Combs Stephanie E. , Peeken Jan C.
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has gained importance, with many tools already entering our daily lives. The medical field of radiation oncology is also subject to this development, with AI entering all steps of the patient journey. In this review article, we summarize contemporary AI techniques and explore the clinical applications of AI-based automated segmentation models in radiotherapy planning, focusing on delineation of organs at risk (OARs), the gross tumor volume (GTV), and the clinical target volume (CTV). Emphasizing the need for precise and individualized plans, we review various commercial and freeware segmentation tools and also state-of-the-art approaches. Through our own findings and based on the literature, we demonstrate improved efficiency and consistency as well as time savings in different clinical scenarios. Despite challenges in clinical implementation such as domain shifts, the potential benefits for personalized treatment planning are substantial. The integration of mathematical tumor growth models and AI-based tumor detection further enhances the possibilities for refining target volumes. As advancements continue, the prospect of one-stop-shop segmentation and radiotherapy planning represents an exciting frontier in radiotherapy, potentially enabling fast treatment with enhanced precision and individualization.
Vanishing of Long Time average p-enstrophy Dissipation Rate in the Inviscid Limit of the 2D Damped Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Wagner Raphael
Published: August 2024

In Constantin and Ramos (Commun Math Phys 275(2), 529–551, 2007), Constantin and Ramos proved a result on the vanishing long time average enstrophy dissipation rate in the inviscid limit of the 2D damped Navier–Stokes equations. In this work, we prove a generalization of this for the p-enstrophy, $$1< p < \infty $$

1
<
p
<
∞

, sequences of distributions of initial data and sequences of strongly converging right-hand sides. We simplify their approach by working with invariant measures on the global attractors which can be characterized via bounded complete solution trajectories. Then, working on the level of trajectories allows us to directly employ some recent results on strong convergence of the vorticity in the inviscid limit.