bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving calibration of groundwater flow models using headwater streamflow intermittence
Authors: Abhervé Ronan , Roques Clément , de Dreuzy Jean‐Raynald , Datry Thibault , Brunner Philip , Longuevergne Laurent , Aquilina Luc
Published: June 2024

Non‐perennial streams play a crucial role in ecological communities and the hydrological cycle. However, the key parameters and processes involved in stream intermittency remain poorly understood. While climatic conditions, geology and land use are well identified, the assessment and modelling of groundwater controls on streamflow intermittence remain a challenge. In this study, we explore new opportunities to calibrate process‐based 3D groundwater flow models designed to simulate hydrographic network dynamics in groundwater‐fed headwaters. Streamflow measurements and stream network maps are considered together to constrain the effective hydraulic properties of the aquifer in hydrogeological models. The simulations were then validated using visual observations of water presence/absence, provided by a national monitoring network in France (ONDE). We tested the methodology on two pilot unconfined shallow crystalline aquifer catchments, the Canut and Nançon catchments (Brittany, France). We found that both streamflow and stream network expansion/contraction dynamics are required to calibrate models that simultaneously estimate hydraulic conductivity and porosity with low uncertainties. The calibration allowed good prediction of stream intermittency, both in terms of flow and spatial extent. For the two catchments studied, Canut and Nançon, the hydraulic conductivity is close reaching 1.5 × 10−5 m/s and 4.5 × 10−5 m/s, respectively. However, they differ more in their storage capacity, with porosity estimated at 0.1% and 2.2%, respectively. Lower storage capacity leads to higher groundwater level fluctuations, shorter aquifer response times, an increase in the proportion of intermittent streams and a reduction in perennial flow. This new modelling framework for predicting headwater streamflow intermittence can be deployed to improve our understanding of groundwater controls in different geomorphological, geological and climatic contexts. It will benefit from advances in remote sensing and crowdsourcing approaches that generate new observational data products with high spatial and temporal resolution.
Youth mental health in a Canadian community sample during COVID‐19: Exploring the role of perceived sense of belonging
Authors: Brown Benjamin , Browne Dillon T. ,   The Child and Youth Planning Table of Waterloo Region
Published: June 2024

Research has linked broad societal changes related to the COVID‐19 pandemic and poorer mental health in young people. There remains a pressing need for studies examining the factors that are associated with better mental health and well‐being. The current study addresses this gap using a community‐based survey called the Waterloo Region Youth Impact Survey. It was designed in partnership with local youth and the Canadian Index of Well‐Being in accordance with United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund guidelines. Using a convenience sampling methodology, this survey was developed to explore the domains, rates, and correlates of well‐being and mental health among youth during the pandemic (N = 297). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to identify dimensions related to children's social environment (friends, school, family), sense of belonging, mental health, and well‐being. Subsequently, a mediation model was tested. The relationship between children's environments and mental health and well‐being operated via perceived sense of belonging. Findings shed light on patterns of youth mental health and well‐being during the pandemic, illustrating the role of belonging as a promotive factor with public health relevance.
Response of soil microbial glycoside hydrolase family 6 cellulolytic population to lignocellulosic biochar reveals biochar stability toward microbial degradation
Authors: Halmi Muhammad Farid Azlan , Simarani Khanom
Published: June 2024

Biochar produced from lignocellulosic biomass offers an opportunity to recycle waste into a valuable soil amendment. The application of biochar has been proposed to mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil. However, the field impact of biochar treatment on the cellulolytic microbial populations involved in the earlier steps of cellulose degradation is poorly understood. A field trial spanning three consecutive crop cycles of Zea mays was conducted in a degraded tropical Ultisol of Peninsular Malaysia. The soil was amended with two contrasting biochar made from oil palm kernel shells (pyrolyzed at 400°C) and rice husks (gasified at 800°C) with or without fertilizer supplementation. Soil samples were taken at each harvesting stage and analyzed for total organic carbon, labile active organic carbon, total cellulase, and β‐glucosidase. Microbial glycoside hydrolase family 6 (GH6) cellulase genes and transcripts, involved in the early steps of cellulose degradation, were quantified from the extracted soil deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA), respectively. Total organic carbon, labile active organic carbon, and β‐glucosidase activity were significantly increased, while no effect on total cellulase activity was found. Both biochars stimulated the total population (DNA‐derived) abundance of soil microorganisms harboring the GH6 cellulase genes. The biochar amendment did not affect the active population (RNA‐derived) of the GH6 cellulolytic community, showing no significant changes in transcript expression. This indirectly corroborates the role of biochar as a potential carbon sequester in the soil.
Milk‐derived extracellular vesicles functionalized with anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐α nanobody and anti‐microbial peptide alleviate ulcerative colitis in mice
Authors: Jing Renwei , Zhang Leijie , Li Ruibin , Yang Zhongqiu , Song Jun , Wang Qian , Cao Nan , Han Gang , Yin HaiFang
Published: June 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) manifests clinically with chronic intestinal inflammation and microflora dysbiosis. Although biologics can effectively control inflammation, efficient delivery to the colon and colon epithelial cells remains challenging. Milk‐derived extracellular vesicles (EV) show promise as an oral delivery tool, however, the ability to load biologics into EV presents challenges to therapeutic applications. Here, we demonstrate that fusing cell‐penetrating peptide (TAT) to green fluorescent protein (GFP) enabled biologics loading into EV and protected against degradation in the gastrointestinal environment in vitro and in vivo after oral delivery. Oral administration of EV loaded with anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) nanobody (VHHm3F) (EVVHH) via TAT significantly reduced tissue TNF‐α levels and alleviated pathologies in mice with acute UC, compared to VHH alone. In mice with chronic UC, simultaneously introducing VHH and an antimicrobial peptide LL37 into EV (EVLV), then administering orally improved intestinal barrier, inflammation and microbiota balance, resulted in relief of UC‐induced depression and anxiety. Collectively, we demonstrated that oral delivery of EVLV effectively alleviated UC in mice and TAT efficiently loaded biologics into EV to confer protection from degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. This therapeutic strategy is promising for UC and is a simple and generalizable approach towards drug‐loaded orally‐administrable EV treatment for other diseases.
Combination of N‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole and 4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole for the synthesis of high performing explosives
Authors: Bhatia Prachi , Jangra Pooja , Ghule Vikas D. , Kumar Dheeraj
Published: June 2024

In an attempt to cultivate energy‐stability balance, a series of nitrogen and oxygen‐rich high energy density materials were synthesized based on N‐substituted 4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole and methylene‐linked N‐amino‐1,2,4‐bridges. The hydroxy substituent contributed to oxygen content, hydrogen bonding, and tunability via salt formation. On the other hand, the triazole bridge delivered high nitrogen content and thermal stability. All the synthesized compounds were characterized with multinuclear NMR, FTIR, HRMS, and elemental analysis, and their physicochemical and energetic properties were analyzed. Energetic materials 1–5 showed high detonation performance and adequate overall stabilities. Compound 1 exhibited higher density (1.84 g/cm3) and detonation performance (Dv = 8103 m/s, P = 26.9 GPa) in comparison to its reported amino derivative.
Deep postnatal phenotyping of a new mouse model of nonketotic hyperglycinemia
Authors: Swanson Michael A. , Jiang Hua , Busquet Nicolas , Carlsen Jessica , Brindley Connie , Benke Tim A. , Van Hove Roxanne A. , Friederich Marisa W. , MacLean Kenneth N. , Mesches Michael H. , Van Hove Johan L. K.
Published: June 2024

Nonketotic hyperglycinemia due to deficient glycine cleavage enzyme activity causes a severe neonatal epileptic encephalopathy. Current therapies based on mitigating glycine excess have only limited impact. An animal model with postnatal phenotyping is needed to explore new therapeutic approaches. We developed a Gldc p.Ala394Val mutant model and bred it to congenic status in two colonies on C57Bl/6J (B6) and J129X1/SvJ (J129) backgrounds. Mutant mice had reduced P‐protein and enzyme activity indicating a hypomorphic mutant. Glycine levels were increased in blood and brain regions, exacerbated by dietary glycine, with higher levels in female than male J129 mice. Birth defects were more prevalent in mutant B6 than J129 mice, and hydrocephalus was more frequent in B6 (40%) compared to J129 (none). The hydrocephalus rate was increased by postnatal glycine challenge in B6 mice, more so when delivered from the first neonatal week than from the fourth. Mutant mice had reduced weight gain following weaning until the eighth postnatal week, which was exacerbated by glycine loading. The electrographic spike rate was increased in mutant mice following glycine loading, but no seizures were observed. The alpha/delta band intensity ratio was decreased in the left cortex in female J129 mice, which were less active in an open field test and explored less in a Y‐maze, suggesting an encephalopathic effect. Mutant mice showed no evidence of memory dysfunction. This partial recapitulation of human symptoms and biochemistry will facilitate the evaluation of new therapeutic approaches with an early postnatal time window likely most effective.
Development and trend of dairy cleaning agents
Authors: Su Hong , Chai Jing , Li Xiang , Kong Yangzhi , Zhang Yanling , Kang Jing , Dong Alideertu
Published: June 2024

The quality and safety of dairy products are highly valued by consumers and dairy manufacturers, which is mainly ensured by thorough cleaning of dairy production equipment. Milk fouling can cause pipes to clog and reduce transmission. Incomplete cleaning can cause microbial breeding, which will affect the quality and safety of dairy products. To achieve efficient and rapid cleaning of dairy processing equipment, cleaning agents have always been a necessary choice for dairy and food enterprises. This paper describes the production mechanism of milk fouling, the cleaning mechanism by cleaning agents, and the cleaning process. Development of cleaning agents are introduced in detail, include compound alkaline/acid/neutral cleaning agents, enzyme cleaning agents and cleaning additives. The factors affecting cleaning efficiency are also viewed, which include type and dosage of cleaning agents, cleaning process (cleaning time, cleaning liquid temperature, cleaning fluid flow rate), and other influencing factors (cleaning fluid pressure, Reynolds number and shear stress, surface types). Four aspects are reviewed in this manuscript, include cleaning objects (milk fouling), cleaning substances (cleaning agents), how to clean (cleaning mechanism) and how to clean efficiently (cleaning influencing factors), which provides a valuable reference for the improvement of the dairy cleaning process.
Nonanatomic femoral tunnel placement increases the risk of subsequent meniscal surgery after ACLR: Part II—Patients without recurrent ACL injury
Authors: Inoue Jumpei , Giusto Joseph D. , Dadoo Sahil , Nukuto Koji , Lesniak Bryson P. , Musahl Volker , Hughes Jonathan D.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for subsequent meniscal surgery following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) in patients without recurrent ACL injury.

Methods

Patients aged ≥14 years who underwent primary ACLR with minimum 1‐year follow‐up and without recurrent ACL injury were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics and surgical data at the time of ACLR were collected. Postoperative radiographs were used to measure femoral and tibial tunnel position, and posterior tibial slope. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for subsequent meniscal surgery.

Results

Of 629 ACLRs that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, subsequent meniscal surgery was performed in 65 [10.3%] patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that medial meniscal repair at the time of ACLR, younger age, anterior femoral tunnel position and distal femoral tunnel position were significantly associated with subsequent meniscal surgery (p < 0.001, p = 0.016, p = 0.015, p = 0.035, respectively). The frequency of femoral tunnel placement >10% outside of the literature‐established anatomic position was significantly higher in those who underwent subsequent meniscal surgery compared to those who did not (38.3% vs. 20.3%, p = 0.006). Posterior tibial slope and ACL graft type were not significantly associated with subsequent meniscal surgery.

Conclusion

Medial meniscal repair at the time of ACLR, younger age and nonanatomic femoral tunnel placement were risk factors for subsequent meniscal surgery in patients without recurrent ACL injury. Femoral tunnel placement <10% outside of the native anatomic position is important to reduce the risk of subsequent meniscal surgery.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Clinical Effect Analysis of Fire‐needle Acupuncture at Neiyingxiang Treating Persistent Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Ai Jianwei , Guo Suying , Wang Yaqin , Kang Yuezhi , Wang Man , Zhao Jingyi , Huang Shaoting , Wang Junge
Published: June 2024

Objectives

We conducted the first trial to evaluate the effect that fire‐needle acupuncture at Neiyingxiang (ExHN 9) in patients with moderate to severe persistent AR.

Methods

This was a randomized, single‐center, sham, and placebo‐controlled rial. Patients were kept blinded to their group assignment. All participants were equally assigned to the fire‐needle acupuncture (FA) treatment group, sham fire‐needle acupuncture (SFA) group, or loratadine group. The trial was designed with an acupuncture intervention once a week for 4 weeks and follow‐up 4 weeks. The Total Nasal Symptom Scores (TNSS), Total Non‐Nasal Symptom Scores (TNNSS), Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ), Allergic Rhinitis Control Test (ARCT), and total nasal resistance of 150 Pa were evaluated as outcome measures.

Results

A total of 180 participants were enrolled, and 175 participants completed the trials. At 2 and 4 weeks, the TNSS, TNNSS, and RQLQ scores of the FA and loratadine groups were significantly lower than those of the SFA group. At 8 weeks, the scores of loratadine group increased compared with the FA group (Cohen's d >0.80, p < 0.01). The ACRT score of the FA treatment group rose gradually. After treatment, the total nasal resistance of the FA group was significantly decreased and was lower than that of the other two groups (Cohen's d >0.80, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Fire‐needle acupuncture at Neiyingxiang (ExHN 9) is effective for improving nasal allergy symptoms and quality of life in patients with moderate and severe persistent AR, and the duration of its effects is long.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:4471–4479, 2024
Preparation of Autoclavable and Injectable Silk Fibroin Cryogels for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Han Hongjuan , Li Haiyan , Wang Lu , Zhu Yong , Guan Haoqing , Yao Jingzhi , Xiao Wenqian , Li Bo , Liao Xiaoling
Published: June 2024

A cryogel is a supermacroporous gel network that is generated at subzero temperatures by polymerizing monomers or gelating polymeric precursors. Since cryogels possess inherent characteristics such as interconnected macroporous structures, excellent mechanical properties, and high resistance to autoclave sterilization, they are highly desirable for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Silk fibroin, a natural protein obtained from Bombyx mori silkworms, is an excellent raw material for cryogel preparation. The aim of this study is to establish a controlled method for preparing silk fibroin cryogels with suitable properties for application as tissue engineering scaffolds. Using a dual crosslinking strategy consisting of low‐temperature radical polymerization coupled with methanol‐induced conformational transformation, porous cryogels are prepared. The cryogels display many unique characteristics, such as an interconnected macroporous structure, a high water absorption capacity, water‐triggered shape memory, syringe injectability, and strong resilience to autoclave sterilization. Furthermore, the cryogels demonstrate excellent biocompatibility and cell affinity, facilitating cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. The interconnected supermacroporous architecture resembling the native extracellular matrix, together with their unique physical properties and autoclaving stability, suggests that cryogels are promising candidate scaffolds for tissue engineering and cell therapy.
Fabrication of Triblock Elastomer Foams and Gelation Studies for Oil Spill Remediation
Authors: Lee Hyejin , Trinh Binh M. , Mekonnen Tizazu H.
Published: June 2024

Polymeric foamed materials are among the most widely utilized technologies for oil spill accidents and releases of oil‐contaminated wastewater oil due to their porosity to absorb and separate oil/water effectively. However, a major limitation of traditional polymeric foams is their reliance on an ad/absorption mechanism as the sole method of oil capture, leading to potential oil leakage once their saturation point is exceeded. Tri‐block polymer styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene (SEBS) is a fascinating absorbent material that can bypass this limitation by both capturing oil and providing a sealing mechanism via gelation to prevent oil leakage due to its unique chemical structure. SEBS foams are produced via simultaneous crosslinking and foaming that results in an impressive expansion ratio of up to 15.2 with over 93% porosity. Most importantly, the SEBS foams show great potential as oil absorbents in spill remediation, demonstrating rapid and efficient oil absorption coupled with superhydrophobic properties. Moreover, the unique interaction between the oil and SEBS enables the formation of a physical gel, acting as an effective barrier against oil leakage. These findings indicate the potential for commercializing SEBS foam as a viable option for geotextiles to mitigate oil spill concerns from infrastructures.
PROteolysis‐Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) in leukemia: overview and future perspectives
Authors: Vicente André T. S. , Salvador Jorge A. R.
Published: June 2024

Leukemia is a heterogeneous group of life‐threatening malignant disorders of the hematopoietic system. Immunotherapy, radiotherapy, stem cell transplantation, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy are among the approved leukemia treatments. Unfortunately, therapeutic resistance, side effects, relapses, and long‐term sequelae occur in a significant proportion of patients and severely compromise the treatment efficacy. The development of novel approaches to improve outcomes is therefore an unmet need. Recently, novel leukemia drug discovery strategies, including targeted protein degradation, have shown potential to advance the field of personalized medicine for leukemia patients. Specifically, PROteolysis‐TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are revolutionary compounds that allow the selective degradation of a protein by the ubiquitin–proteasome system. Developed against a wide range of cancer targets, they show promising potential in overcoming many of the drawbacks associated with conventional therapies. Following the exponential growth of antileukemic PROTACs, this article reviews PROTAC‐mediated degradation of leukemia‐associated targets. Chemical structures, in vitro and in vivo activities, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical trials of PROTACs are critically discussed. Furthermore, advantages, challenges, and future perspectives of PROTACs in leukemia are covered, in order to understand the potential that these novel compounds may have as future drugs for leukemia treatment.
Torque fault compensation in electric vehicle switched reluctance motor drives: A jellyfish search optimization method
Authors: Anita S. , Sukhi Y. , Jeyashree Y. , Manoj Kumar N.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, an enhanced indirect instantaneous‐torque‐control is proposed based on the torque sharing function approach of switched reluctance motor drives for electric vehicles by employing the jelly fish search. The major goal is to attain vehicle desires that include minimal torque ripple, maximum torque per ampere (MTPA), and huge performance and extend speed limit. First, a simplest analytic design is developed a determine more proficient turn‐on angle for the torque product. Second, an altered torque sharing function (TSF) is used for compensating the faults of torque tracking. The proposed technique is calculated to represent an accurate switched reluctance motor and its magnetized features. They have worked to create the machine model and execute the necessary transmits. The torque fault is evaluated and compensated inside the torque sharing function. The adapting TSF is compensates for the torque fault with receiving the phase because it is the minimal flux rate connecting variation. Finally, the jellyfish search technique is accepted to determine the optimal control parameters. The proposed strategies are done in MATLAB and its performance is contrasted with different existing strategies. According to the simulation result, the proposed strategy‐based accuracy is 94.2% at 50 iteration and 80% at 100th iteration which is higher than the existing methods. From this analyses, it proved that the proposed technique gives superior performance to existing one.
Factors Associated with Head and Neck Cancer Postoperative Radiotherapy Delays: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Duckett Kelsey A. , Kassir Mohamed Faisal , Nguyen Shaun A. , Brennan Emily A. , Chera Bhisham S. , Sterba Katherine R. , Halbert Chanita Hughes , Hill Elizabeth G. , McCay Jessica , Puram Sidharth V. , Jackson Ryan S. , Sandulache Vlad C. , Kahmke Russel , Osazuwa‐Peters Nosayaba , Ramadan Salma , Nussenbaum Brian , Alberg Anthony J. , Graboyes Evan M.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Initiating postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) within 6 weeks of surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is included in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clincal Practice Guidelines and is a Commission on Cancer quality metric. Factors associated with delays in starting PORT have not been systematically described nor synthesized.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL.

Review Methods

We included studies describing demographic characteristics, clinical factors, or social determinants of health associated with PORT delay (>6 weeks) in patients with HNSCC treated in the United States after 2003. Meta‐analysis of odds ratios (ORs) was performed on nonoverlapping datasets.

Results

Of 716 unique abstracts reviewed, 21 studies were included in the systematic review and 15 in the meta‐analysis. Study sample size ranged from 19 to 60,776 patients. In the meta‐analysis, factors associated with PORT delay included black race (OR, 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28‐1.67), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 1.37, 95% CI, 1.17‐1.60), Medicaid or no health insurance (OR, 2.01, 95% CI, 1.90‐2.13), lower income (OR, 1.38, 95% CI, 1.20‐1.59), postoperative admission >7 days (OR, 2.92, 95% CI, 2.31‐3.67), and 30‐day hospital readmission (OR, 1.37, 95% CI, 1.29‐1.47).

Conclusion

Patients at greatest risk for a delay in initiating guideline‐adherent PORT include those who are from minoritized communities, of lower socioeconomic status, and experience postoperative challenges. These findings provide the foundational evidence needed to deliver targeted interventions to enhance equity and quality in HNSCC care delivery.
Simultaneous versus Sequential Cochlear Implantation in Adults: Quantitative and Qualitative Outcomes
Authors: Schauwecker Natalie , Patro Ankita , Holder Jourdan , Moberly Aaron C. , Perkins Elizabeth
Published: June 2024

Objective

To compare speech recognition and quality of life outcomes between bilateral sequentially and simultaneously implanted adult cochlear implant (CI) recipients who initially qualify for a CI in both ears.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Methods

Retrospective chart review identified adults who underwent bilateral CI, either simultaneously or sequentially, at a high‐volume center between 2012 and 2022. Sequentially implanted patients were only included if the second ear qualified for CI in quiet (defined as best‐aided AzBio quiet testing <60%), at time of initial CI evaluation.

Results

Of 112 bilateral CI patients who qualified in both ears at initial evaluation, 95 underwent sequential implantation and 17 simultaneous. Age, duration, and etiology of hearing loss, and CI usage were similar between groups. Preoperatively, the sequential group had lower pure‐tone average (PTA) in the 1st ear than the simultaneously implanted group (P = <.001) but, no difference in 2nd ear PTA (P = .657). Preoperative speech recognition scores were significantly higher for the sequential group; however, this was not true for postoperative scores. There was no difference in the proportion of patients showing significant CI‐only or bilateral performance improvement between the groups. Both groups demonstrated similar benefit in quality of life measures.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate both simultaneous and sequential cochlear implantation are effective in improving hearing performance and quality of life. Thus, bilateral versus simultaneous implantation should be discussed and tailored for each individual patient.
Hearing Loss: Self‐Reported Onset and Etiology Among Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Gallagher Tyler J. , Russel Ziphron , Choi Janet S.
Published: June 2024

This study investigated self‐reported age of onset and etiology of hearing loss among older adults in the United States. Study cohort included older adult (≥70 years) survey respondents from the 2017 to 2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 797). Overall, 51.1% [95% confidence interval [CI]: 46.1‐56.1] of older adults self‐reported hearing loss. Among older adults who reported hearing loss, the most reported age of onset was age 70 or older (41.7% [95% CI: 38.1%‐45.3%]), followed by sequentially younger age brackets including ages 60 to 69 years (27.3% [95% CI: 23.6%‐31.3%]) and ages 40 to 59 years (15.7% [95% CI: 12.9%‐19.0%]). The most common etiology of hearing loss was aging (66.3% [95% CI: 60.8%‐71.4%]) followed by loud long‐term noise (30.3% [95% CI: 26.2%‐34.9%]) and loud brief noise (13.8% [95% CI: 10.3%‐18.4%]). Our study describes the most common age of onset and etiologies of hearing loss among a representative sample of United States older adults.
Patient Questions Surrounding Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation for Chronic Rhinitis
Authors: Gorelik Daniel , Razmi Samuel E. , Sims Robert Kenneth , Dhanda Aatin K. , Takashima Masayoshi , Brissett Ella S. , Rowan Nicholas R. , Yim Michael T. , Khan Najm , Fox Meha G. , Ahmed Omar G.
Published: June 2024

Objective

In‐office ablation of the posterior nasal nerve (PNN) has emerged as an effective treatment option for chronic rhinitis patients. This study explored questions patients commonly search online regarding this therapy and the quality of content available.

Study Design

A retrospective analysis of online search criteria and sources was performed with subsequent analysis of results.

Setting

Search and data acquisition was in September of 2023.

Methods

Most common search terms related to cryotherapy and radiofrequency neurolysis of the PNN were identified with associated People Also Ask (PAA) questions. Questions were categorized and organized into subtopics and sources evaluated using readability and quality metrics.

Results

A total of 255 unique PAA questions and 175 unique websites were identified. The most common subtopics were related to facts about chronic rhinitis (26.7%) and rhinitis treatment options (25.1%). Nearly a quarter (24.3%) of websites were from commercial sources. Quality metrics indicate difficult‐to‐read and low‐quality materials.

Conclusion

Existing online resources need improvement to provide patients material that is easier to read. Physicians counseling patients should be aware of these areas for adequate shared decision making.
Eculizumab for management of hyperhemolysis syndrome in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease: A single‐center case series
Authors: Lapite Ajibike , Bhar Saleh , Fasipe Titilope
Published: June 2024

Chronic hemolytic anemia and vascular occlusion are hallmarks of sickle cell disease (SCD). Blood transfusions are critical for supportive and preventive management of SCD complications. Patients with SCD are at risk for hyperhemolysis syndrome (HHS), a subtype of delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions. HHS management includes intravenous immunoglobulin, corticosteroids, and avoidance of further transfusions. Not all patients respond to first‐line agents. Eculizumab, which blocks terminal complement activation, has been proposed as second‐line management of HHS. We describe two patients who received eculizumab for refractory HHS. In our experience, eculizumab is a safe and effective option for refractory pediatric HHS.
“A very difficult conversation”: Challenges and opportunities for improvement in pediatric oncology clinician communication about late effects
Authors: Carpenter Kendall , Revette Anna C. , Scavotto Madison , Mack Jennifer W. , Greenzang Katie A.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Current approaches to communicating the potential late effects of pediatric oncology treatments leave many patients and families feeling unaware of risks and unprepared for the future. We aimed to identify provider perspectives on early communication about late effects.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with pediatric oncology providers at Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center from December 2021 to March 2022. Purposeful sampling ensured a diversity of clinical roles. Thematic analysis was conducted using deductive and inductive codes.

Results

We interviewed nine pediatric oncology providers; all expressed discomfort discussing potential late effects in early treatment conversations. Barriers to late effects communication included (i) social‐emotional factors, including lack of perceived importance to families, worry about emotional burden on families, and provider feelings of helplessness/wanting to provide hope; and (ii) suboptimal set‐up/resources, including limitations of consent forms, time constraints, and lack of available data. All providers supported the creation of a communication tool to assist early discussions of late effects.

Conclusions

Communicating about late effect risks poses unique challenges to providers because of the perceived impact on families and the limitations of current practices and available resources. These findings support the need for a late effects communication tool to assist in early communication about late effects risks.
Management of acute appendicitis in pediatric patients with acute leukemia: Insights from a single‐center study
Authors: Keidar Hila Rosenfeld , Manisterski Michal , Orenstein Michal , Sukhotnik Igor , Elhasid Ronit
Published: June 2024

Acute appendicitis (AA) in pediatric patients with acute leukemia mandates prompt treatment. Diagnosis presents challenges, relying on clinical and radiological assessments, often leading to treatment delays that may disrupt leukemia management. Our study on 14 such cases underscores the pivotal role of swift intervention. While conservative AA treatment may pose no risk to healthy children, our findings mandate the performance of laparoscopic appendectomy within 24 hours of diagnosis. This strategy yielded successful surgical outcomes while ensuring uninterrupted leukemia care. Our experience contributes important insights to the limited understanding of navigating this complex clinical scenario.
Phenotypic and genotypic analysis of 11 fetal cases with Bardet–Biedl syndrome
Authors: Yu Qiu‐Xia , Liu Na , Zhen Li , Lin Xiao‐Mei , Wen Yun‐Jing , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: June 2024

Objective

To present the prenatal sonographic features and genomic spectrum of pregnancies with fetal Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 11 cases with BBS diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound and confirmed by genetic testing. Clinical and laboratory data were collected and reviewed for these cases, including maternal demographics, prenatal sonographic findings, molecular testing sequencing results, and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

All cases had unremarkable first‐trimester ultrasound scans without reporting limb malformations. All had second‐trimester abnormal ultrasounds: postaxial polydactyly in nine cases (9/11), renal abnormalities in seven (7/11), reduced amniotic fluid volume in two (2/11), central nervous system anomalies in two (2/11), and ascites in three (3/11). Ten fetuses presented with at least two‐system anomalies, and one (Case 11) presented with only postaxial polydactyly. Variants were detected in five genes, including BBS2, ARL6/BBS3, BBS7, CEP290/BBS14 and IFT74/BBS22. Ten pregnancies were terminated in the second trimester, while one continued to term.

Conclusion

Enlarged hyperechogenic kidneys and postaxial polydactyly are the two most common sonographic features of fetal BBS. Prenatal diagnosis of BBS can be done with ultrasound and genetic testing although the diagnosis may be made in the second trimester.
How does culture fit into de‐implementation? A scoping review of empirical research
Authors: Clinkscales Andryce , Barrett Courtenay A. , Endres Bryn
Published: June 2024

Research indicates that racially and ethnically minoritized populations are more likely to receive low‐value services in comparison to White populations. It is crucial to de‐implement (i.e., replace or discontinue use of) these practices to make room for more effective alternatives and reduce disparities in outcomes. However, there is limited understanding of how, when, and why practices are de‐implemented. De‐implementation has been shown to improve client outcomes through a variety of mechanisms, such as improved service quality. This scoping review had two aims. First, we examined empirical articles related to de‐implementation to determine whether culture (the practitioner's or client's values and beliefs) and race/ethnicity were assessed or reported. Second, we examined how these factors were considered throughout the de‐implementation process. A total of 20 empirical studies were identified. Results suggested there is a gap in the literature regarding how culture and race/ethnicity may impact de‐implementation and ensuing outcomes. We translated research across settings to highlight the importance of considering culture and race/ethnicity when engaging in de‐implementation. Lastly, we provide suggestions for future research and discuss implications for practitioners.
Intraspecific differences in the photosynthetic responses to chloroplast CO2 and photon flux density at different leaf temperatures of four grapevine cultivars grown in common outdoor conditions
Authors: Greer Dennis H.
Published: June 2024

Comparative measurements of four Vitis vinifera cultivars were undertaken to assess assimilation tolerance to the high growth temperatures currently pervading Australian and other wine growing regions. The cultivars, cvs. Chardonnay, Merlot, Semillon, and Shiraz, were all grown in common growth conditions, and an hypothesis promulgated genotypic variation in assimilation and in the leaf temperature dependency. Assimilation responses to varying light intensity and to varying chloroplast CO2 at a range of leaf temperatures (15–45°C) were measured in leaves of each cultivar in mid‐summer. Light response curves revealed marked genotype differences in maximum assimilation, but temperature effects also varied. Semillon leaves were most sensitive to temperature, with marked and steep differences in assimilation at different temperatures while Chardonnay and Merlot were least sensitive, with relatively flat responses. There were also marked cultivar differences in response to CO2 and significant effects of leaf temperature. CO2‐saturated assimilation varied markedly, with Semillon and Merlot leaves most responsive to temperature, although there were differences in optimum temperatures and maximum rates. Chardonnay leaves remained least tolerant, with lowest rates of assimilation across most temperatures. Assimilation at 45°C also separated the cultivars and two cultivars had higher rates than at 15°C while Chardonnay and Merlot leaves had higher rates at 15°C. There were no cultivar differences in the temperature dependency of Ribulose 1,5‐bisphosphate (RuBP) carboxylation, but Semillon had a much steeper temperature dependency on RuBP regeneration than the other cultivars. All these responses confirmed the hypothesis and concluded the high‐temperature tolerance of Semillon and Shiraz and the poor adaptability of Chardonnay and possibly Merlot to perform in the current high‐temperature growth conditions.
Critical parameters for robust Agrobacterium‐mediated transient transformation and quantitative promoter assays in Catharanthus roseus seedlings
Authors: Cole‐Osborn Lauren F. , Meehan Emma , Lee‐Parsons Carolyn W. T.
Published: June 2024

Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression methods are widely used to study gene function in both model and non‐model plants. Using a dual‐luciferase assay, we quantified the effect of Agrobacterium‐infiltration parameters on the transient transformation efficiency of Catharanthus roseus seedlings. We showed that transformation efficiency is highly sensitive to seedling developmental state and a pre‐ and post‐infiltration dark incubation and is less sensitive to the Agrobacterium growth stage. For example, 5 versus 6 days of germination in the dark increased seedling transformation efficiency by seven‐ to eight‐fold while a dark incubation pre‐ and post‐infiltration increased transformation efficiency by five‐ to 13‐fold. Agrobacterium in exponential compared with stationary phase increased transformation efficiency by two‐fold. Finally, we quantified the variation in our Agrobacterium‐infiltration method in replicate infiltrations and experiments. Within a given experiment, significant differences of up to 2.6‐fold in raw firefly luciferase (FLUC) and raw Renilla luciferase (RLUC) luminescence occurred in replicate infiltrations. These differences were significantly reduced when FLUC was normalized to RLUC values, highlighting the utility of including a reference reporter to minimize false positives. Including a second experimental replicate further reduced the potential for false positives. This optimization and quantitative validation of Agrobacterium infiltration in C. roseus seedlings will facilitate the study of this important medicinal plant and will expand the application of Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation methods in other plant species.
Application of subharmonic‐aided pressure estimation in a patient with giant hepatic cyst: A case report
Authors: Lu Xiuyun , Cao Jiaying , Liu Yaozu , Ma Jingqin , Luo Jianjun , Dong Yi , Wang Wenping
Published: June 2024

Giant hepatic cysts may lead to impaired liver function by compressing surrounding tissue, resulting in symptoms such as nausea or portal hypertension. Subharmonic‐aided pressure estimation (SHAPE) offers a noninvasive method for quantitatively estimating pressure and monitoring interstitial fluid pressure. A 55‐year‐old female patient with giant hepatic cysts was admitted to our hospital with elevated protein electrophoretic gamma levels, likely caused by compression of important liver vessels by the cysts. Before surgery, B‐mode ultrasound (BMUS) revealed multiple anechoic cystic lesions with thin, smooth walls in the right lobe. In SHAPE, the curve of the portal vein was lower than that of the hepatic vein, which is absolutely different from a healthy volunteer in our previous SHAPE study. It suggested that the patient may have had portal hypertension. Three days after laparoscopic fenestration and drainage of hepatic cysts, the size of the largest cyst had decreased on BMUS and protein electrophoretic gamma levels had normalized. While the curve of the portal vein remained lower than that of the hepatic vein, the difference between them had decreased compared to presurgery levels. SHAPE shows promise as a tool for noninvasively estimating portal hypertension and improving prognosis assessment in patients.
Comprehensive cross cancer analyses reveal mutational signature cancer specificity
Authors: Xin Rui , Jiang Limin , Yu Hui , Yan Fengyao , Tang Jijun , Guo Yan
Published: June 2024

Mutational signatures refer to distinct patterns of DNA mutations that occur in a specific context or under certain conditions. It is a powerful tool to describe cancer etiology. We conducted a study to show cancer heterogeneity and cancer specificity from the aspect of mutational signatures through collinearity analysis and machine learning techniques. Through thorough training and independent validation, our results show that while the majority of the mutational signatures are distinct, similarities between certain mutational signature pairs can be observed through both mutation patterns and mutational signature abundance. The observation can potentially assist to determine the etiology of yet elusive mutational signatures. Further analysis using machine learning approaches demonstrated moderate mutational signature cancer specificity. Skin cancer among all cancer types demonstrated the strongest mutational signature specificity.
Hydropneumothorax in a non‐small cell lung cancer patient after lobectomy due to surgical stump air leak
Authors: Saowapa Sakditad , Chaisrimaneepan Nattanicha , Polpichai Natchaya , Siladech Pharit , Tijani Lukman
Published: June 2024

Key message

Hydropneumothorax following lobectomy or pneumonectomy is relatively uncommon, with an incidence of 1%–5%. It involves air and fluid in the pleural cavity, often due to intraoperative injury, infection, bronchopleural fistula, or mechanical ventilation. Careful management, including drainage and addressing the underlying cause, is essential to prevent serious outcomes.
The student staffing advantage: Data Science Consulting Service at NC State University Libraries
Authors: Marchesoni Joddy , Freeman Kate , Tezbasaran Alp , Ricci Shannon W.
Published: June 2024

The primarily peer‐to‐peer, graduate student‐staffed Data Science Consulting Service at NC State University Libraries, within the Data & Visualization Services (DVS) department and collaborating closely with the Data Science Academy (DSA), has established a sustainable service and staffing model focused on providing broad data science analytic support to researchers across the university community. The service addresses the needs of university researchers who possess domain knowledge in their fields of study but a skills gap in the data science competencies required for research. The literature shows that it has been difficult for libraries to cover these needs with existing staffing models. Few universities follow the model practiced at NC State University, so a scan of the current landscape of data science consulting at universities across the country was performed to establish context. The support model and its advantages are described, including partnership with the DSA, student success, model sustainability and future directions for the service. Through a summary of the DVS assessment and needs evaluation process, the service's advantages in staying ahead of patron needs are illustrated. This scalable, sustainable, student‐focused model could be implemented by similar research institutions to expand the capacity of their technical research services.
Freedom of Expression of Athletes and Players: The Current and Potential Role of the European Court of Human Rights as a Watchdog in Sport
Authors: Rietiker Daniel
Published: June 2024

Professional athletes enjoy many privileges, but their special status in society imposes on them duties that go far beyond the responsibilities of ordinary citizens. For example, they are generally expected to abstain from certain political statements (principle of political neutrality) and might face disciplinary sanctions for infringing that prohibition. This chapter focuses on the European Court of Human Rights’ current and future contribution as a watchdog with a view to protect the right of athletes to freedom of expression (Article 10 ECHR).

In Part 1 of this chapter, cases that have already been decided by the Court in the field of sport will be analyzed. The case of Šimunić v. Croatia indicates that freedom of expression, within Article 10 ECHR, is not unlimited. Three recent judgments related to Turkey, delivered in 2021, will also be addressed; these concern sports sanctions and financial penalties imposed by the Turkish Football Federation on account of statements made by athletes to the media or messages posted and/or shared on social media.

In Part 2, the chapter will discuss the potential role of the ECtHR in securing the freedom of expression of athletes in the future in light of the principle of political neutrality in sport, which has yet to be addressed by the Court.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport under Human Rights Scrutiny: The Role of the Swiss Federal Tribunal and the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Duval Antoine , Viret Marjolaine
Published: June 2024

This chapter sets out to map how human rights (and more specifically, the ECHR) have been applied by the Swiss Federal Tribunal (SFT) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) to the CAS and its awards. It is based on a comprehensive review of the decisions of both courts related to the CAS. In doing so, the chapter traces the morphing role of the ECHR as a normative resource to check the CAS’ judicial authority. Section 2 is dedicated to analyzing more than 20 years of the SFT’s case law on appeal against CAS awards, and to showing how the supreme court of Switzerland has been conferring (limited) relevance to the ECHR in the framework of this control. Section 3 provides an analysis of the more recent case-law of the ECtHR on the compatibility of the CAS and its awards with the ECHR.