bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The scale, forms and distribution of volunteering amongst refugee youth populations in Uganda
Authors: Fadel Bianca , Baillie Smith Matt , Mills Sarah , Rogerson Daniel , Sahasranaman Aarti , Okech Moses , Turyamureeba Robert , Tukundane Cuthbert , Ahimbisibwe Frank , Boyle Owen , Kanyandago Peter
Published: September 2024

Geographies of volunteering have examined the relationships between people, places and forms of voluntary action, but there has been limited geographical scholarship on the scales, forms and distribution of volunteering amongst specific populations in different settings, particularly in the global South. While in the global North there are some established quantitative data sets, often produced by humanitarian and development organisations, these are largely absent in the South. Where they do exist, they often reflect Western‐centric ideas and concepts, meaning that volunteering behaviours that do not fit Western norms—such as amongst young refugees in the global South—can be excluded, or captured in ways that are partial or unrepresentative. This paper provides an important challenge to existing geographies of volunteering, expanding them through an account of volunteering amongst young refugees in Uganda, and how it articulates with social inequalities within and between the spaces and places where young refugees live. We analyse quantitative data from 3053 young refugees surveyed on their volunteering experiences in rural and urban settings in Uganda. The data provides new evidence of who these volunteers are, beyond their refugee status, why, where and how they conduct their activities, and reveals how these are connected to livelihoods and community development. Through this survey analysis, the paper argues for the need to establish grounded conceptualisations of volunteering that consider the scales, distribution, and various forms of volunteering within specific groups. In doing so, the paper offers a new framework for better understanding the relationships between volunteering and refugee lives through four interlocking factors: place, (im)mobility, income and gender. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for wider geographies of volunteering and research on refugee youth and displaced populations.
Monitoring defects on products' surface by incorporating scan statistics into process monitoring procedures
Authors: Bersimis Sotirios , Sachlas Athanasios , Economou Polychronis
Published: September 2024

Monitoring the number of defects in constant‐size units is a well‐defined problem in the industrial domain and usually, the control chart is used for monitoring the total number of defects in a product or a sample of products. The c‐chart tracks the total number of defects in each case by assuming that the underlying number of defects (single or several different types of defects) follows approximately the Poisson distribution. An interesting class of problems where the ‐chart is used is when the number of defects in a surface is of interest. Although the number of defects on the surface of products characterizes the quality of the products, it is especially important how concentrated the defects are in specific parts of the product. In this paper, we introduce a scan‐based monitoring procedure, which simultaneously combines control charts for monitoring the evolvement of the number of defects (in general, events) through time and scan statistics for exploring the spatial distribution of defects. The numerical illustration showed that the new procedure has excellent performance under different scenarios.
Development of an UPLC‐MS/MS approach to detect and quantify N‐nitroso mirabegron in mirabegron
Authors: Uppala Ravi , Prabhu Rakesh Chandrakant , Maruthapillai Arthanareeswari , Venkatasubbaiah Bandaru , Senadi Gopal Chandru , Devikala Sundaramurthy
Published: September 2024

In the mirabegron (MIR) synthesis, the N‐nitroso mirabegron (NNM) is obtained during synthetic process of MIR; water is being used in reaction under acidic condition. Nitrite source is from water, and secondary amine source is from MIR as it has secondary amine; NNM is generated as an impurity during the synthesis of MIR. The presence of NNM in MIR could potentially affect its effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to establish a Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) methodology to identify NNM in MIR samples. The method for NNM analysis was developed on Acquity HSS T3 (100*2.1) mm 1.8 μm column with gradient elution using mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid in water (mobile phase A) and 0.1% formic acid in methanol (mobile phase B). Mass spectrometer with electrospray ionization operated in the MRM mode was used in the analysis of NNM (m/ z 426.20 → 170.00). The UPLC‐MS/MS methodology proposed showed a good linearity (0.02 to 0.72 ppm), good system precision (RSD = 0.57%), good method precision (RSD = 0.87%), acceptable accuracy (94.5–116.5%), low detection limit (0.006 ppm) and low quantification limit (0.02 ppm) for NNM. The UPLC‐MS/MS methodology proposed can be utilized to assess the quality of MIR sample for the presence of NNM impurity.
Research on anti‐saturation horizontal vibration model and neural network adaptive integral terminal sliding mode control strategy for high‐speed elevator car system
Authors: Zhao Zichun , Zhang Ruijun , Su Xiaolei , Zhang Shengnan , He Qin
Published: September 2024

A neural network adaptive integral terminal sliding mode control method with input saturation is proposed for the horizontal vibration problem of high‐speed elevator car systems caused by uncertainties such as guideway excitation and shaft piston wind change. First, considering the input saturation problem existing in the elevator control actuator, a class of smooth functions is introduced to approximate the nonlinearity of switching saturation, and an eight‐degree‐of‐freedom asymmetric anti‐saturation nonlinear system model of the high‐speed elevator car is established; second, in order to solve the singularity problem existing in the terminal sliding‐mode control, a nonlinear term is introduced into the sliding‐mode design, and a neural network is utilized for the fitting of the complex unknown function, and the design of the an adaptive integral terminal sliding mode controller (AITSMC), which enables the state variables of the system to achieve finite time convergence and proves the stability of the system by using Lyapunov theory; finally, under the action of two typical guide excitations, the proposed controller is compared with the passive control and adaptive control (AC), and the results show that, after adopting the proposed control method, the vibration acceleration eigenvalue is reduced by more than 60%, which effectively suppresses the horizontal vibration of the car system and verifies the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Regulating Conformational Locking in Covalent Organic Framework for Selective and Recyclable Photocatalytic Transformation
Authors: Xie Qiujian , Chen Anqi , Gao Zhu , Gu Shuai , Wei Baosheng , Liang Rongran , Zhang Fupeng , Zhao Yanli , Tang Juntao , Pan Chunyue , Yu Guipeng
Published: September 2024

The exploration of new properties and functionality of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) rely mostly on the covalent modification of the starting building blocks or linkages. Noncovalent forces that guide the assembly and adhesion of layers to develop two‐dimensional (2D) COFs and improve their bulk properties and functionalities, however, are rarely explored. Herein, the “conformational lock” (CL) effect in 2D hydrazine‐linked COFs with intralayer F–H interaction is discovered and regulated to stabilize interlayer adhesion and develop a facile strategy to increase their stability, promote selectivity and efficiency in reactive singlet oxygen (1O2)‐triggered photocatalytic transformation when acting as photocatalysts. The CL strategy endows the fluorinated COFs with an efficient intersystem crossing process for 1O2 generation and strong interlayer π–π stacking interaction. The 4F‐COF with the strongest F–H noncovalent interaction exhibits the highest photocatalytic conversion and selectivity (exceeding 98%) in typical 1O2‐dependent transformations, even over 7 continuous photocatalytic cycles. This work demonstrates that promoting intralayer noncovalent interaction in 2D‐COFs can impart high photocatalytic activity and stability, and would vigorously inspire their developments in heterogeneous catalysis.
Organic Thiolate as Multifunctional Salt for Rechargeable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Sang Pengfei , Tang Shuai , Li Fengli , Si Yubing , Fu Yongzhu
Published: September 2024

The practical application of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is hindered by the severe shuttle effect of soluble polysulfide intermediates and the unstable lithium anode interface. Conventional lithium salts (e.g., LiPF6, LiTFSI) just serve as conducting salts to provide necessary free lithium cations for internal ion transport, lacking full utilization of the anions. Herein, lithium 4‐fluorobenzenethiolate (F‐PhSLi) as a multifunctional salt for rechargeable Li–S batteries, which is able to chemically react with sulfur to alter the redox pathway of sulfur cathode, accelerate the sulfur redox kinetics, and inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides is reported. Meanwhile, due to the redox activity of F‐PhSLi, the reactive electrolyte can offer additional capacity. In addition, it also can construct a stable LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interface layer on the lithium metal anode. Such reactive electrolyte endows Li–S batteries with ultrahigh discharge specific capacity, improved sulfur utilization, long‐term storage ability, enhanced rate capability, and outstanding low‐temperature performance. This work presents a new solution for developing high performance Li–S batteries.
Strain Field Around Individual Dislocations Controls Failure
Authors: Gammer Christoph , Issa Inas , Minor Andrew M. , Ritchie Robert O. , Kiener Daniel
Published: September 2024

Understanding material failure on a fundamental level is a key aspect in the design of robust structural materials, especially for metals and alloys capable to undergo plastic deformation. In the last decade, significant progress is made in quantifying the stresses associated with failure in both experiments and simulations. Nonetheless, the processes occurring on the most essential level of individual dislocations that govern semi‐brittle and ductile fracture are still experimentally not accessible, limiting the failure prediction capabilities. Therefore, in the present work, a one‐of‐a‐kind nanoscale fracture experiment is conducted on a single crystalline Cr bending beam in situ in the transmission electron microscope and for the first time quantify the transient strains around individual dislocations, as well as of the whole dislocation network during crack opening. The results reveal the importance of both pre‐existing and newly emitted dislocations for crack‐tip shielding via their intrinsic strain field and provide guidelines to design more damage tolerant materials.
Cattle and sheep anthelmintics: reporting suspected lack of expected efficacy
Authors: Swinson Vanessa , Jewell Natalie
Published: September 2024

This focus article was adapted by Vanessa Swinson and Natalie Jewell of the APHA from one written collaboratively by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, APHA, British Cattle Veterinary Association, Sheep Veterinary Society and National Office of Animal Health.
Improving vet student wellbeing: workload
Authors: Sears Pip
Published: September 2024

Veterinary students have reported feeling overwhelmed by the volume of content they are required to learn during their undergraduate training, which is also exacerbated by a lack of time to consolidate their learning. Here Pip Sears discusses some of the issues and solutions that could be considered.
Alan John Charles Rhodes
Authors: Ritchie Janet
Published: September 2024

Loved and appreciated by his clients, he enjoyed watching and participating in sport. His gregarious personality made him an enthusiastic member of the local community.
Modeling heat‐mass transport for MHD bio‐convection Carreau nanofluid with Joule heating containing both gyrotactic microbes and nanoparticles diffusion
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Anwar Muhammad Shoaib , Alghamdi Metib , Khan Masood , Muhammad Taseer
Published: September 2024

The study of a bio‐convection is a natural progression that happens as microbes transport unsystematically in single‐celled or colony‐like environments; as they live ubiquitously, individuals, as in rodents, and plant forms. They're so much denser than liquid, owing to which, microbes develop a basis of bio‐convection. Gyrotactic microbes are individuals that dip up‐stream in contradiction of gravity in motionless liquid, producing the higher portion of the deferment to be thicker than the lesser part. Bioconvection's significance can be realized in a diversity of bio‐microsystems, for instance, bio‐tech allied to mass transport, biofuels, enzyme biosensors and fraternization. Together with nanofluids, a mixture of bioconvective is working to progress the structure's thermal enactment which has uses in diverse scientific structures. Recent study has related the progress of extrusion features, radiative heat progression and biofuel fabrication to the use of nanoparticles. The essential plans of the modern scrutinization are to examine the magneto bioconvection flow of nonlinear radiative Carreau fluid persuades by the nanofluid and Joule heating. Additionally, Convective conditions of heat, mass and motile microorganism with heat sink/source and chemical reaction have been explored. By means of similarity alteration to alter the nonlinear partial differential equations into nonlinear Ordinary differential equations (ODE). The solutions of subjected equations have been attained by exploiting the bvp4c algorithm. Homotopic algorithm has been also executed for comparison of bvp4c results and former studies. The impacts of relatable factors on diverse fields are sketched in graphic form. The study explores temperature field enhancement for thermo Biot and Brownian motion factors. Furthermore, the fluid concentration exaggerates for mass Biot and chemical reaction factor; however, declines for Brownian motion factor. The motile density field decays with the rising values for Peclet number and intensifies for motile density Biot factor. The comparison tables of current work and previous work also have been presented for the authentication of work with two different techniques.
Landscape-Aware Automated Algorithm Configuration Using Multi-output Mixed Regression and Classification
Authors: Long Fu Xing , Frenzel Moritz , Krause Peter , Gitterle Markus , Bäck Thomas , Stein Niki van
Published: September 2024

In landscape-aware algorithm selection problem, the effectiveness of feature-based predictive models strongly depends on the representativeness of training data for practical applications. In this work, we investigate the potential of randomly generated functions (RGF) for the model training, which cover a much more diverse set of optimization problem classes compared to the widely-used black-box optimization benchmarking (BBOB) suite. Correspondingly, we focus on automated algorithm configuration (AAC), that is, selecting the best suited algorithm and fine-tuning its hyperparameters based on the landscape features of problem instances. Precisely, we analyze the performance of dense neural network (NN) models in handling the multi-output mixed regression and classification tasks using different training data sets, such as RGF and many-affine BBOB (MA-BBOB) functions. Based on our results on the BBOB functions in 5d and 20d, near optimal configurations can be identified using the proposed approach, which can most of the time outperform the off-the-shelf default configuration considered by practitioners with limited knowledge about AAC. Furthermore, the predicted configurations are competitive against the single best solver in many cases. Overall, configurations with better performance can be best identified by using NN models trained on a combination of RGF and MA-BBOB functions.
Myanmar: Aligning and Linking Policies, Plans and Institutional Arrangements for Effective Rural Teacher Development
Authors: Drinan Florence Helen , Hardman Frank
Published: September 2024

Myanmar is one of the poorest countries in the Southeast Asian region. With an estimated
Uganda: Improving the Quality of Rural Education Through Standard-Based Teacher Development and Management Reforms
Authors: Mavanhuma Balyogera Patrick
Published: September 2024

Uganda is a landlocked country bordered by Kenya in the East, South Sudan in the North, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the West, Rwanda in the Southwest and Tanzania in the South.
Analytic NNLO QCD corrections to top quark pair production in electron-positron collisions
Authors: Chen Long-Bin , Wang Jian , Wang Yefan
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We present the analytic total cross section of top quark pair production in electron-positron annihilation at next-to-next-to-leading order (NNLO) in Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD). By utilizing the optical theorem, the NNLO corrections are related to the imaginary parts of three-loop self-energy Feynman diagrams, of which the master integrals are calculated with canonical differential equations. The analytic results for the NNLO corrections are expressed in terms of multiple polylogarithms as well as elliptic functions. We discuss the asymptotic expansions near the threshold and in the high energy limit in detail. Numerical results are provided for the total cross section of top quark pair production at future lepton colliders.
Feynman integral reductions by intersection theory with orthogonal bases and closed formulae
Authors: Crisanti Giulio , Smith Sid
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We present a prescription for choosing orthogonal bases of differential n-forms belonging to quadratic twisted period integrals, with respect to the intersection number inner product. To evaluate these inner products, we additionally propose a new closed formula for intersection numbers beyond d log forms. These findings allow us to systematically construct orthonormal bases between twisted period integrals of this type. In the context of Feynman integrals, this represents all diagrams at one-loop.
Constructive holography
Authors: de Mello Koch Robert , Van Zyl Hendrik J. R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We consider the collective field theory description of the singlet sector of a free and massless matrix field in d dimensions. The k-local collective fields are functions of (d − 1)k + 1 coordinates. We provide a map between the collective fields and fields in the dual gravitational theory defined on AdSd+1 spacetime. The coordinates of the collective field have a natural interpretation: the k-local collective field is a field defined on an AdSd+1×Sk−1×S(d−2)(k−2)×Sd−3 spacetime. The modes of a harmonic expansion on the Sk−1×S(d−2)(k−2)×Sd−3 portion of the spacetime leads to the spinning bulk fields of the dual gravity theory.
Axion relic pockets — a theory of dark matter
Authors: Carenza Pierluca , Eby Joshua , Iarygina Oksana , Marsh M. C. David
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We propose a new theory of dark matter based on axion physics and cosmological phase transitions. We show that theories in which a gauge coupling increases through a first-order phase transition naturally result in ‘axion relic pockets’: regions of relic false vacua stabilised by the pressure from a kinematically trapped, hot axion gas. Axion relic pockets provide a viable and highly economical theory of dark matter: the macroscopic properties of the pockets depend only on a single parameter (the phase transition temperature). We describe the formation, evolution and present-day properties of axion relic pockets, and outline how their phenomenology is distinct from existing dark matter paradigms. We briefly discuss how laboratory experiments and astronomical observations can be used to test the theory, and identify gamma-ray observations of magnetised, dark-matter-dense environments as particularly promising.
An innovative process chain for the production of antibiofouling polymer parts using ultrafast laser texturing
Authors: Oubellaouch Keltoum , Orazi Leonardo , Brun Paola , Lucchetta Giovanni , Pelaccia Riccardo , Sorgato Marco
Published: September 2024

Polymers are versatile materials widely used in various industries, with significant applications in biomedicine where biofouling on polymer surfaces presents major health and economic challenges. Biofouling, initiated by bacterial adhesion, can be mitigated by modifying surface properties through laser micro- and nano-texturing, an approach that offers advantages over chemical treatments. This study introduces an economical mass production process for textured polymeric components using injection molding to replicate hierarchical textures. Testing revealed that all textured samples significantly reduced bacterial adhesion compared to untextured surfaces across different designs and bacteria types after 24 h of culture. The study examined factors like wettability, nanoscale roughness, and pattern dimensions to explain these outcomes, comparing them with existing studies. Despite all textured samples showing decreased wettability and roughness, these factors alone did not ensure reduced bacterial adhesion. The most effective anti-adhesive performance was observed in surfaces with parallel ridge patterns, which segmented the surface into isolated areas that limited bacterial interaction and hindered micro-colony formation, highlighting the importance of specific surface patterning in combating biofouling.
A precise and efficient exceedance-set algorithm for detecting environmental extremes
Authors: Suesse Thomas , Brenning Alexander
Published: September 2024

Inference for predicted exceedance sets is important for various environmental issues such as detecting environmental anomalies and emergencies with high confidence. A critical part is to construct inner and outer predicted exceedance sets using an algorithm that samples from the predictive distribution. The simple currently used sampling procedure can lead to misleading conclusions for some locations due to relatively large standard errors when proportions are estimated from independent observations. Instead we propose an algorithm that calculates probabilities numerically using the Genz–Bretz algorithm, which is based on quasi-random numbers leading to more accurate inner and outer sets, as illustrated on rainfall data in the state of Paraná, Brazil.
Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of shear wave elastography with transient elastography in adult nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy
Authors: Yamaguchi Ruri , Oda Tetsuro , Nagashima Kengo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of shear wave elastography (SWE) to that of transient elastography (TE) for liver fibrosis grade assessment in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease adults.

Methods

MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched. Inclusion criteria were primary studies examining DTA of TE, point SWE (pSWE), two-dimensional SWE (2D-SWE), or magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) with liver biopsy. Network meta-analysis was conducted using a Bayesian bivariate mixed-effects model.

Results

For fibrosis grade 2 or higher, 15 studies with 25 observations (16 observations for TE, 1 for MRE, 4 for pSWE and 2D-SWE; 2,066 patients) were included; the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.79 (95% credible interval (CrI) 0.70–0.86; 95% prediction interval (PI) 0.36–0.96) and 0.73 (95% CrI 0.62–0.82; 95% PI 0.23–0.96) for TE, 0.68 (95% CrI 0.48–0.83; 95% PI 0.23–0.94) and 0.75 (95% CrI 0.53–0.88; 95% PI 0.24–0.97) for pSWE, 0.85 (95% CrI 0.70–0.93; 95% PI 0.40–0.98) and 0.72 (95% CrI 0.49–0.86; 95% PI 0.20–0.96) for 2D-SWE, respectively. The proportion of studies classified as unclear in QUADAS-2 was high, and the results were heterogeneous.

Conclusion

2D-SWE could be recommended as TE is for liver fibrosis assessment.

The protocol of this systematic review and network meta-analysis has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022327249). All included primary papers have already been published and the information and data can be used freely.
Liposomal delivery enhances absorption of vitamin C into plasma and leukocytes: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial
Authors: Purpura Martin , Jäger Ralf , Godavarthi Ashok , Bhaskarachar Dhananjaya , Tinsley Grant M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

L-Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in various physiological functions, including immune health. The stability of vitamin C in the gastrointestinal tract its bioavailability is limited. This study aimed to investigate if a liposomal form of vitamin C can increase absorption compared to standard vitamin C.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover fashion, 19 males and 8 females (n = 27; 36.0 ± 5.1 years, 165.0 ± 6.9 cm, 70.6 ± 7.1 kg) ingested a single-dose of placebo (PLA), 500 mg vitamin C (VIT C), and 500 mg liposomal vitamin C (LV-VIT C, LipoVantage®, Specnova, LLC, Tyson Corner, VA, USA). Venous blood samples were collected 0, 0.5-, 1-, 1.5-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 12-, and 24-hours after ingestion and were analyzed for plasma and leukocyte vitamin C concentration.

Results

VIT C and LV-VIT C demonstrated significantly greater Cmax and AUC0 − 24 in plasma and in leukocytes compared to placebo (p < 0.001). Additionally, LV-VIT C had significantly higher Cmax (plasma + 27%, leukocytes + 20%, p < 0.001) and AUC0 − 24 (plasma + 21%, leukocytes + 8%, p < 0.001) values as compared to VIT C.

Conclusion

Liposomal formulation of vitamin C increases absorption into plasma and leukocytes.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials Registry - India (CTRI/2023/04/051789).
The influence of decisional conflict on treatment decision in pelvic organ prolapse—data from the SHADE-POP trial
Authors: Drost Larissa E. , de Jong Rachel D. M. , Stegeman Marjan , Franx Arie , Vos M. Caroline
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse are facing the choice between several treatment options and a potentially difficult decision. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of decisional conflict, patient characteristics and other decision-related factors on treatment decision in women with pelvic organ prolapse.

Methods

Data from the SHADE-POP trial were used. Women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse who visited their gynaecologist for (new) treatment options were included. In all participants, demographical characteristics and validated questionnaires concerning decisional conflict (DCS), shared decision making (SDM-Q-9), information provision (SCIP-B), anxiety and depression (HADS) and satisfaction with care (PSQ-18) were collected 2 weeks after the visit. Analyses were performed using univariate and multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses.

Results

Ninety six women with pelvic organ prolapse facing a treatment decision were included. An increase in decisional conflict as experienced by patients was related to the choice of more conservative treatment, such as pelvic floor muscle training or pessary, instead of surgery (p = 0.02). Shared decision making, better information provision and satisfaction with care were related to lower levels of decisional conflict (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Decisional conflict in women with pelvic organ prolapse favours conservative treatment instead of surgery. Gaining knowledge on the effect of decisional conflict, patient characteristics and other decision-related factors on treatment decision in pelvic organ prolapse will be a step towards a better-guided treatment decision and better patient-reported outcomes for this group of patients. NL 55737.028.15, 30-10-2016.
Predictors of injection laryngoplasty volume for glottic insufficiency
Authors: Roitman Ariel , Venkatraman Anumitha , Thibeault Susan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Volume injected for glottic insufficiency is paramount in achieving desired outcome. Factors that determine the required volume have not been thoroughly investigated and may correlate with outcome. The first objective of this investigation was to evaluate the association between injectable volume and various parameters, including lifestyle characteristics, pre-procedural factors, and voice measures, while the second aim assessed the correlation of volume to clinical outcomes in patients who underwent injection laryngoplasty.

Methods

For the first objective, a one-way ANOVA and univariate linear regression were used to analyze data from 124 patients (injected material, pre-operative diagnosis, previous voice therapy, age etc.). One-sample t-tests and Pearson correlational coefficients were employed for statistical analysis of aim 2 in a subgroup of 28 patients that had pre- and post-injection voice evaluations (e.g., acoustic and aerodynamic analysis, perceptual assessment, questionnaires).

Results

Average injection volume was 0.39 ± 0.062 mL (range: 0.1–1.6mL). No pre-procedural or lifestyle factor significantly affected injection volume (p > 0.05). There was no relationship between pre-procedural voice outcomes and injection volume (p > 0.05). Of the factors that were significantly improved post-injection laryngoplasty (GFI, VHI, and GRBAS), there were no significant correlations between the magnitude of improvement in these measures and injection volume (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Injection volume does not appear to be affected by pre-procedural or lifestyle factors. In addition, injection volume does not significantly impact clinical outcomes assessed through voice analysis or patient-reported questionnaires. Our results underscore the complexity of factors at play in injection laryngoplasty for glottic insufficiency.
How I do it: implantation of Osia® 2 system under local anesthesia
Authors: Posta Bálint , Rovó László , Bere Zsófia
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Reviewing the literature, Osia 2 system implantation is predominantly performed under general anesthesia (GA). Although in the pediatric population GA is inevitable, in adult cases, especially with high anesthesiological risks, local anesthesia (LA) is an obvious solution.

Method

The aim of this article is to provide a detailed demonstration of Osia 2 implantation under LA. In our case series of five adult implant recipients, the surgical procedure was carried out without encountering any difficulties during or after the operation.

Conclusion

Based on our experiences, implantation of the Osia® 2 System under local anesthesia is an easy and safe method for patients.
Four odorants for olfactory training are enough: a pilot study
Authors: Power Guerra Nicole , Kruschwitz Emely , Krautwurst Dietmar , Hummel Thomas
Published: September 2024

Background: Olfactory training (OT) is commonly used for the treatment of olfactory disorders. Nevertheless, there is an ongoing debate about the most effective OT regimen. We aimed to compare the effects of OT with 7 items (rose, lemon, eucalyptus, cloves, stewed apple, balm, mint) to 4-item-OT (rose, lemon, eucalyptus, cloves) over 3 months. Methods: Participants were 40 patients with olfactory dysfunction receiving 4-item-OT or 7-item-OT and 60 gender- and age-matched individuals with normal sense of smell receiving no OT, 4-item-OT, or 7-item-OT. Before and after the OT we assessed n-butanol odor thresholds, discrimination, and identification (TDI score), additionalthresholds for (R)-(-)-carvone, β-damascenone, salicyclic acid benzylester, the degree of phantosmia and parosmia, cognitive function, and ratings of olfactory function. Results: In both patient groups, the TDI score increased with the use of OT, regardless of the number of odors used (p < 0.001; 3.48 ± 4.21 and lower than control groups). The clinically significant increase of 5.5 points in TDI score correlated with change of ratings of parosmia (r 0.62; p < 0.01) and with ratings of olfactory dysfunction (r = 0.51; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Concluding, OT over a 3-months period with 4 or 7 odors appears to produce similar results, although the sample size has to be considered.
Perioperative and postoperative management of tympanostomy tube insertion: a survey of otorhinolaryngologists in Israel
Authors: Dudkiewicz Dean , Bismuth Efrat Miryam , Tsur Nir , Gilony Dror , Hod Roy
Published: September 2024

Background

Tympanostomy tube insertion is a standard surgical procedure in children to address middle ear infections and effusion-related hearing and speech development issues. Perioperative treatments like ear drops containing antibiotics, steroids, and tube irrigation with saline aim to prevent complications, yet no universal gold standard treatment exists. Despite guidelines, practice preferences among ENT specialists vary, motivating this study to investigate perioperative management practices in Israel.

Method

A survey was distributed among ENT surgeons, collecting data on their main workplace, sub-specialty, preoperative hearing test requirements, tube irrigation practices, tube selection criteria, and timing of tube removal. Distribution and association with main workplaces were examined.

Results

The survey achieved a response rate of 27.33%. Most participants routinely required preoperative hearing tests, with a preference for conducting them within three months prior to surgery (62.2%). Tube irrigation during the procedure was less common among surgeons in the public system (p = 0.007). In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of respondents maintained their established practices (96.3%), while a small proportion (3.7%) adapted by replacing two in-person meetings with one virtual session. Variations in tube removal timing based on the main workplace were noted, with private practitioners opting for earlier removal (p = 0.002) and were less permissive in water deprivation practices (p = 0.053).

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the practices and preferences of ENT surgeons in tympanostomy tube insertion procedures in Israel. Adherence to standardized practices was observed, with variations influenced by the primary workplace. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, minimal changes were made to established practices. Further research and consensus are necessary to optimize patient outcomes and develop tailored guidelines in this field.
Automated algorithms for seizure forecast: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Carmo Ana Sofia , Abreu Mariana , Baptista Maria Fortuna , de Oliveira Carvalho Miguel , Peralta Ana Rita , Fred Ana , Bentes Carla , da Silva Hugo Plácido
Published: September 2024

This study aims to review the proposed methodologies and reported performances of automated algorithms for seizure forecast. A systematic review was conducted on studies reported up to May 10, 2024. Four databases and registers were searched, and studies were included when they proposed an original algorithm for automatic human epileptic seizure forecast that was patient specific, based on intraindividual cyclic distribution of events and/or surrogate measures of the preictal state and provided an evaluation of the performance. Two meta-analyses were performed, one evaluating area under the ROC curve (AUC) and another Brier Skill Score (BSS). Eighteen studies met the eligibility criteria, totaling 43 included algorithms. A total of 419 patients participated in the studies, and 19442 seizures were reported across studies. Of the analyzed algorithms, 23 were eligible for the meta-analysis with AUC and 12 with BSS. The overall mean AUC was 0.71, which was similar between the studies that relied solely on surrogate measures of the preictal state, on cyclic distributions of events, and on a combination of these. BSS was also similar for the three types of input data, with an overall mean BSS of 0.13. This study provides a characterization of the state of the art in seizure forecast algorithms along with their performances, setting a benchmark for future developments. It identified a considerable lack of standardization across study design and evaluation, leading to the proposal of guidelines for the design of seizure forecast solutions.
Thrombospondin-4 as potential cerebrospinal fluid biomarker for therapy response in pediatric spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Dobelmann Vera , Roos Andreas , Hentschel Andreas , Della Marina Adela , Leo Markus , Schmitt Linda-Isabell , Maggi Lorenzo , Schara-Schmidt Ulrike , Hagenacker Tim , Ruck Tobias , Kölbel Heike
Published: September 2024

Background and purpose

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) as the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in childhood is characterized by the deficiency of survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein leading predominantly to degeneration of alpha motor neurons and consequently to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. Besides some biomarkers like SMN2 copy number therapeutic biomarkers for SMA with known relevance for neuromuscular transmission are lacking. Here, we examined the potential of Thrombospondin-4 (TSP4) to serve as a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker, which may also indicate treatment response.

Methods

We used untargeted proteomic analyses to determine biomarkers in CSF samples derived from pediatric pre-symptomatic (n = 6) and symptomatic (n = 4) SMA patients. The identified biomarker TSP4 was then validated in additional 68 CSF samples (9 adult and 24 pediatric SMA patients, 5 adult and 13 pediatric non-disease controls in addition to 17 pediatric disease controls) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) as an additional analytical approach.

Results

Untargeted proteomic analyses of CSF identified a dysregulation of TSP4 and revealed a difference between pre-symptomatic SMA patients and patients identified after the onset of first symptoms. Subsequent ELISA-analyses showed that TSP4 is decreased in pediatric but not adult SMA patients. CSF of pediatric patients with other neurological disorders demonstrated no alteration of TSP4 levels. Furthermore, CSF TSP4 levels of pediatric SMA patients increased after first dose of Nusinersen.

Conclusions

We found that TSP4 levels are exclusively reduced in CSF of pediatric SMA patients and increase after treatment, leading us to the hypothesis that TSP4 could serve as a CSF biomarker with the potential to monitor treatment response in pediatric SMA patients. Moreover, TSP4 enable to distinguish pre-symptomatic and symptomatic patients suggesting a potential to serve as a stratification marker.
The complex neurochemistry of the cockroach antennal heart
Authors: Agricola Hans , Bräunig Peter
Published: September 2024

The innervation of the antennal heart of the cockroach Periplaneta americana was studied with immunocytochemical techniques on both the light and electron microscopic levels. The antennal heart is innervated by two efferent systems, both using one biogenic amine in combination with neuropeptides. In one, we found co-localization of serotonin with proctolin and allatostatin. These fibers most likely originate from paired neurons located in the suboesophageal ganglion. In the second system, we found octopamine co-localized with the short neuropeptide F. The source of this second system is dorsal unpaired median (DUM) neurons, also located in the suboesophageal ganglion. The possible effects of these neuromediators on different targets are discussed.
Eine stark korrodierte Römische Münze aus Kupfer-Blei von Carnuntum
Authors: Pronina Angelina , Strobl Susanne , Haubner Roland
Published: September 2024

Eine stark korrodierte Römische Kupfermünze aus Carnuntum, Österreich, ist Gegenstand der Untersuchung. Es könnte sich um eine Münze des Kaisers Gratian oder des Kaisers Magnus Maximus handeln. Eine Besonderheit der Münze ist, dass sie aus einer Kupfer-Blei Legierung ohne weitere Legierungszusätze besteht.

Eine ausgeprägte Längsstruktur und ein feines Kupfergefüge lassen vermuten, dass nach der Herstellung des Münzrohlings keine Glühbehandlung mehr erfolgte.

Zuguterletzt wurde noch die korrosionsbedingte Entstehung von PbCl2 nachgewiesen.
Vortioxetine in children and adolescents with major depressive disorder: 6-month and 18-month open-label, flexible-dose, long-term extension studies
Authors: DelBello Melissa P. , Findling Robert L. , Huss Michael , Necking Oscar , Petersen Maria L. , Schmidt Simon N. , Rosen Monika
Published: September 2024

Children and adolescents with severe or relapsing major depressive disorder (MDD) may require long-term antidepressant use, but safety and tolerability data on long-term treatment are limited. In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in children and another in adolescents, vortioxetine and placebo groups showed improvement in MDD symptoms without statistically significant differences between groups. To gain insights on long-term safety and tolerability of vortioxetine in pediatric patients, participants from these two studies were enrolled in two long-term extension studies: 6 months (NCT02871297) followed by another 18 months (NCT03108625). Key safety measures included adverse events (AEs) and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS); effectiveness measures included depression symptom severity, cognitive function, and overall functioning. Among the 662 patients in the 6-month extension, 61% experienced a treatment-emergent AE (TEAE), with the most common being nausea (20.8%); 2.1% had a serious AE (SAE), and 6% withdrew because of TEAEs. In the following 18-month extension (n = 94), 51% of patients experienced a TEAE, with the most common being headache (13.8%); no SAEs were reported. Based on the C-SSRS, 94% and 96% of patients reported no suicidal ideation or behavior in the 6- and 18-month studies, respectively. During the extension studies, patients continued to show improvement in depressive symptoms and cognitive and overall functioning, with > 50% of patients in remission at the end of each study, regardless of study treatment in the lead-in trial. Overall, vortioxetine remained well tolerated in pediatric patients with MDD who continued in the long-term extension studies with no observed increased risk in suicidal ideation.
Modelling a storage system of a wind farm with a ramp-rate limitation: a semi-Markov modulated Brownian bridge approach
Authors: Azze Abel , D’Amico Guglielmo , D’Auria Bernardo , Vergine Salvatore
Published: September 2024

We propose a new methodology to simulate the discounted penalty applied to a wind-farm operator by violating ramp-rate limitation policies. It is assumed that the operator manages a wind turbine plugged into a battery, which either provides or stores energy on demand to avoid ramp-up and ramp-down events. The battery stages, namely charging, discharging, or neutral, are modeled as a semi-Markov process. During each charging/discharging period, the energy stored/supplied is assumed to follow a modified Brownian bridge that depends on three parameters. We prove the validity of our methodology by testing the model on 10 years of real wind-power data and comparing real versus simulated results.
Assessing Callous-Unemotional Traits Across Early Adolescence: Further Evaluation of Short Versions
Authors: Corbelli Giuseppe , Levantini Valentina , Muratori Pietro , Senese Vincenzo Paolo , Bravaccio Carmela , Pisano Simone , Catone Gennaro , Paciello Marinella
Published: September 2024

Literature on the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional (ICU) traits has suggested different versions of the instrument for assessing these traits during development. However, consensus on the instrument version and the best factorial solution remains a matter of debate, with only a few studies having validated ICU versions from a longitudinal perspective. The current study aims to contribute to the literature by comparing ICU models in a longitudinal sample of early adolescents (N = 739; 70.6% of eligible subjects, 371 females and 368 males, in the 6th grade at baseline assessment and in the 8th grade at the second assessment). We tested the validity of various versions of the ICU scales and their respective dimensions by conducting a series of confirmatory factor analyses to verify the factor structure, alongside assessments of internal consistency. For the best-fitting structure, we then analyzed gender and longitudinal invariance in addition to construct and predictive validity, using internalizing and externalizing criteria as well as prosocial behavior. From the comparative analysis, it emerged that the abbreviated 11-item ICU scale version displayed overall better data fit than the full 24-item version. Moreover, its confirmed gender invariance underscores its applicability across genders within the studied age group. With regard to longitudinal invariance, our findings advise caution when comparing ICU scores across early adolescence. Practical implications are discussed.
Convergence of a quasi-Newton method for solving systems of nonlinear underdetermined equations
Authors: Vater N. , Borzì A.
Published: September 2024

The development and convergence analysis of a quasi-Newton method for the solution of systems of nonlinear underdetermined equations is investigated. These equations arise in many application fields, e.g., supervised learning of large overparameterised neural networks, which require the development of efficient methods with guaranteed convergence. In this paper, a new approach for the computation of the Moore–Penrose inverse of the approximate Jacobian coming from the Broyden update is presented and a semi-local convergence result for a damped quasi-Newton method is proved. The theoretical results are illustrated in detail for the case of systems of multidimensional quadratic equations, and validated in the context of eigenvalue problems and supervised learning of overparameterised neural networks.
Charting the BRIC countries’ connection of political stability, economic growth, demographics, renewables and CO2 emissions
Authors: Oprea Simona-Vasilica , Georgescu Irina Alexandra , Bâra Adela
Published: September 2024

This research examines the impact of economic policy uncertainty, GDP, population and renewable energy consumption on CO2 emissions in BRIC countries from 1991 to 2023. The objective is to understand the long-term relationships among these variables and provide relevant insights. Using fully modified ordinary least squares and dynamic ordinary least squares econometric methods, the findings reveal that GDP and population growth significantly increase CO2 emissions, while renewable energy consumption reduces them. The panel autoregressive distributed lag results highlight the need for policies promoting renewable energy and managing population growth to mitigate environmental impacts. Notably, economic policy uncertainty also contributes to higher emissions, underscoring the importance of stable economic policies.
Assessing the Readiness of Rural Public Librarians to Implement Public Health Programs
Authors: Lenstra Noah , Franklin Heather , Dieckmann Nathan F. , Andreyeva Elena , Maddock Jay , Seguin-Fowler Rebecca A. , Winkle Jim , Perry Cynthia K.
Published: September 2024

Although health promotion is not the primary function of public libraries, it is well documented that many libraries engage in health promotion activities, even when resources are constrained. Less understood is the readiness of the public library workforce, particularly in rural communities, to implement evidence-based health promotion programs. This study uses a modified version of the Competency Assessment for Tier 2 Public Health Professionals to assess the readiness of a small sample (n = 21) of Oregon rural library managers to implement evidence-based health initiatives. Results show that outside of communication skills, most rural library workers do not consider themselves to have proficiency in core health promotion competencies. Although some slight differences were found among librarians based on socio-demographic factors, those differences were not statistically significant. Implications include the need for strengthened support to build the capacity for rural public library workers who are interested in delivering evidence-based health promotion programs.