bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voice as a Biomarker in Health‐Tech: Mapping the Evolving Landscape of Voice Biomarkers in the Start‐Up World
Authors: Evangelista Emily G. , Bélisle‐Pipon Jean‐Christophe , Naunheim Matthew R. , Powell Maria , Gallois Hortense ,   Bridge2AI‐Voice Consortium, Bensoussan Yael
Published: June 2024

Objective

The vocal biomarkers market was worth $1.9B in 2021 and is projected to exceed $5.1B by 2028, for a compound annual growth rate of 15.15%. The investment growth demonstrates a blossoming interest in voice and artificial intelligence (AI) as it relates to human health. The objective of this study was to map the current landscape of start‐ups utilizing voice as a biomarker in health‐tech.

Data Sources

A comprehensive search for start‐ups was conducted using Google, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. A review of the research was performed using company website, PubMed, and Google Scholar.

Review Methods

A 3‐pronged approach was taken to thoroughly map the landscape. First, an internet search was conducted to identify current start‐ups focusing on products relating to voice as a biomarker of health. Second, Crunchbase was utilized to collect financial and organizational information. Third, a review of the literature was conducted to analyze publications associated with the identified start‐ups.

Results

A total of 27 start‐up start‐ups with a focus in the utilization of AI for developing biomarkers of health from the human voice were identified. Twenty‐four of these start‐ups garnered $178,808,039 in investments. The 27 start‐ups published 194 publications combined, 128 (66%) of which were peer reviewed.

Conclusion

There is growing enthusiasm surrounding voice as a biomarker in health‐tech. Academic drive may complement commercialization to best achieve progress in this arena. More research is needed to accurately capture the entirety of the field, including larger industry players, academic institutions, and non‐English content.
Symptom‐Free Intervals Following Laser Wedge Excision for Recurrent Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Xie Katherine Z. , Bowen Andrew J. , O'Byrne Thomas J. , Wallerius Katherine P. , Awadallah Andrew S. , Aden Aisha A. , Bayan Semirra L. , Edell Eric S. , Vassallo Robert , Kasperbauer Jan L. , Ekbom Dale C.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Analyze the duration of symptom‐free intervals following laser wedge excision (LWE) for recurrent idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS). Secondary aim includes evaluating the influence of patient‐related or disease factors.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Tertiary center.

Methods

Review of iSGS patients who underwent LWE between 2002 and 2021. LWE patients without prior airway surgery were labeled LWE primary (LWEP) and those with prior history of dilation were labeled LWE secondary (LWES). A conditional frailty repeated events model was used to analyze the median time to recurrence (MTR) for each nth recurrence. Secondary analysis included stratification by use of medical therapy and initial preoperative characteristics of scar (Myer‐Cotton grade, distance between the glottis and superior‐most aspect of scar, DGS; length of scar, DL).

Results

Two hundred and ten iSGS patients underwent LWE (131 LWEP, 79 LWES). The proportion of patients experiencing at least 1, 3, 6, and 12 recurrences, respectively, was 68.0% (n = 143), 40.7% (n = 85), 20.0% (n = 42), and 5.2% (n = 11). There was exponential time‐shortening from the 1st to 12th recurrence (P < .0001). While MTR was 4.1 years after the first LWE, this fell to 2.8, 1.7, 1.0, and 0.7 years for the 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 12th recurrences. Furthermore, LWEP patients experienced longer MTR than LWES counterparts within the first 6 recurrences (P < .01). There was no significant relationship between intersurgical interval and medication adherence, DL, DGS, or grade for recurrences beyond the first (P = .207, P = .20, P = .43, P = .16).

Conclusion

Symptom‐free intervals in iSGS shorten with each subsequent recurrence and LWE. The difference in MTR between LWEP and LWES groups was significant within the first 6 recurrences with LWEP having longer MTR.

Level of Evidence

3.
Association of COVID‐19 Vaccination With Changes in Smell and Taste
Authors: Gallagher Tyler J. , Parikh Miti , Herrera Kevin , Lin Matthew E. , Hur Kevin
Published: June 2024

Since the introduction of vaccines for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in the United States, there has been significant vaccine hesitancy, in part due to fear of adverse effects. We sought to investigate the rates of smell and taste changes after COVID‐19 vaccination compared to other common vaccines. Our study cohort included individuals identified by Current Procedural Terminology code in the TriNetX database receiving the COVID‐19 first series, COVID‐19 booster, influenza, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (TDAP), or pneumococcal vaccines between December 15, 2020, and August 15, 2023. After 1:1 propensity score matching, postvaccination incidence of disturbance of smell and taste was significantly less likely after COVID‐19 first series vaccine compared to influenza (odds ratios, OR: 0.27 [95% confidence interval, CI: 0.20‐0.36]), TDAP (OR: 0.35 [95% CI: 0.26‐0.47]), and pneumococcal vaccines (OR: 0.17 [95% CI: 0.09‐0.32]). Similarly, incidence of disturbance of smell and taste was significantly less likely after COVID‐19 booster vaccine compared to the influenza (OR: 0.60 [95% CI: 0.48‐0.76]), TDAP (OR: 0.63 [95% CI: 0.47‐0.85]), and pneumococcal vaccines (OR: 0.44 [95% CI: 0.28‐0.68]). This study builds upon the literature demonstrating the safety of COVID‐19 vaccination.
Early Adverse Respiratory Outcomes in Obese Pediatric Tonsillectomy Patients
Authors: Wie Kathryn , Zaccor Nicholas , Zou Jonathan , Vandjelovic Nathan , Faria John
Published: June 2024

Objective

To determine if body mass index (BMI) is predictive of adverse respiratory events (ARE) in the obese pediatric population undergoing tonsillectomy.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Single institution academic otolaryngology practice.

Methods

All patients 3 to 12 years old with BMI ≥95th percentile that underwent tonsillectomy March 1, 2011 to July 15, 2020 were included. The study excluded patients with comorbidities that warranted admission independent of BMI, including Trisomy 21, gross developmental delay, neuromuscular disorders, and congenital heart disease. Perioperative AREs following tonsillectomy were recorded. AREs were defined as postoperative desaturation (SpO2 < 90%), intubation, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or new O2 requirement for >2 hours.

Results

Eighteen patients (8%) had at least 1 ARE. There were no children age 5 and older with a BMI 95th percentile to 98.9th percentile who had an early adverse respiratory outcome. Preoperative polysomnogram (PSG) metrics, obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index (oAHI), and oxygen saturations (SpO2) nadir was significantly different between patients with and without AREs (mean oAHI 54.3 vs 17.4, P = .02; mean SpO2 nadir 73.1% vs 84.5%, P = .05). There was no significant difference in the BMI z score (2.88 vs 2.45, P = .09) between groups.

Conclusion

AREs requiring inpatient management are uncommon in obese children after tonsillectomy. BMI is a poor independent indication for admission except at BMI extremes. We found significantly higher oAHI and lower SpO2 nadir on PSG indicate a higher risk for AREs and can guide admission postoperatively. There may be a subset of obese tonsillectomy patients who can be safely discharged home on the day of surgery.
Effect of adding diaphragmatic breathing to corrective exercises on kyphotic angle and diaphragmatic excursion in postmenopausal kyphotic women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rashed Samia S. , Okeel Fahema M. , Yousef Amel M. , Kamel Khaled M. , Osman Doaa A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Age‐related thoracic kyphosis can impair posture, diaphragmatic excursion, respiratory function, and overall quality of life (QoL).

Purpose

This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of corrective exercises alone versus combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises on thoracic kyphosis, diaphragmatic excursion, thoracic pain, and QoL in postmenopausal kyphotic women.

Methods

Forty postmenopausal women diagnosed with thoracic kyphosis were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received corrective exercises for 12 weeks (n = 20), while Group B received both diaphragmatic breathing exercises and corrective exercises for the same duration (n = 20). Primary outcome measures were thoracic kyphosis angle and diaphragmatic excursion, while secondary outcome measures were thoracic pain and QoL. Both groups were assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention using a flexible curve ruler for the thoracic kyphosis angle, ultrasonography for the diaphragmatic excursion, the visual analog scale for thoracic pain, and the Arabic version of the QoL Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis for QoL.

Results

Both groups showed significant within‐group improvements in all measures post‐intervention (p < 0.05). Between‐group comparisons post‐intervention revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) except for diaphragmatic excursion, where Group B showed significantly greater improvement (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

A 12‐week program of corrective exercises alone or combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises significantly improved kyphosis angle, thoracic pain, and QoL in postmenopausal kyphotic women. The addition of diaphragmatic breathing exercises provided further benefits by increasing diaphragmatic excursion to a greater degree compared with corrective exercises alone.
A cultural‐historical study of how educators create conditions for infant and toddler learning in science
Authors: Fleer Marilyn , March Sue , Suryani Anne
Published: June 2024

Calls to bring more equity into science education research (McWayne and Melzi, 2023) are most notable for early childhood. We know very little about the teaching of science to infants and toddlers, yet this is where science education begins. To address the dearth in research, we undertook an in‐depth intervention study in an Australian early childhood center with six educators working with 11 infants and toddlers learning science (1.1–2.0 years; mean 1.6) to identify how educators support science education for infants and toddlers in a play‐based setting over 10 sessions. Specifically, our research question was how do educators create the conditions and interact with infants and toddlers in play‐based setting to support the learning of science. We found a form of co‐operation between educators and infants that centered on educator sensitivity to infants and toddlers noticing the science, educators generating rather than following infant interest, focused thinking spaces, use of scientific language by the educators, planned conceptual progression, and the use of props as placeholders for scientific meaning that acted as pivots and prompts for infants in imaginary situations. We argue that under the conditions of an intervention study where educators planned and taught science to infants, that greater insights into how to teach science to such young children was possible, thereby making available evidence‐informed practice in an under researched area to guide educators working with infants and toddlers.
The effect of number of clusters and magnitude of within‐cluster homogeneity in outcomes on the performance of four variance estimators for a marginal multivariable Cox regression model fit to clustered data in the context of observational research
Authors: Austin Peter C.
Published: June 2024

Researchers often estimate the association between the hazard of a time‐to‐event outcome and the characteristics of individuals and the clusters in which individuals are nested. Lin and Wei's robust variance estimator is often used with a Cox regression model fit to clustered data. Recently, alternative variance estimators have been proposed: the Fay–Graubard estimator, the Kauermann–Carroll estimator, and the Mancl–DeRouen estimator. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we found that, when fitting a marginal Cox regression model with both individual‐level and cluster‐level covariates: (i) in the presence of weak to moderate within‐cluster homogeneity of outcomes, the Lin–Wei variance estimator can result in estimates of the SE with moderate bias when the number of clusters is fewer than 20–30, while in the presence of strong within‐cluster homogeneity, it can result in biased estimation even when the number of clusters is as large as 100; (ii) when the number of clusters was less than approximately 20, the Fay–Graubard variance estimator tended to result in estimates of SE with the lowest bias; (iii) when the number of clusters exceeded approximately 20, the Mancl–DeRouen estimator tended to result in estimated standard errors with the lowest bias; (iv) the Mancl–DeRouen estimator used with a t‐distribution tended to result in 95% confidence that had the best performance of the estimators; (v) when the magnitude of within‐cluster homogeneity in outcomes was strong or very strong, all methods resulted in confidence intervals with lower than advertised coverage rates even when the number of clusters was very large.
Ruddlesden–Popper 2D Perovskite‐MoS2 Hybrid Heterojunction Photocathodes for Efficient and Scalable Photo‐Rechargeable Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ansari Rashid M. , Chamola Shubham , Ahmad Shahab
Published: June 2024

Photo‐rechargeable batteries (PRBs) can provide a compact solution to power autonomous smart devices located at remote sites that cannot be connected with the grid. The study reports the Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) metal halide perovskite (MHP) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) hybrid heterojunction‐based photocathodes for Li‐ion photo‐rechargeable battery (Li‐PRB) applications. Hybrid Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have demonstrated an average discharge specific capacity of 144.46 and 129.17 mAhg−1 for 50 cycles when operating at 176 and 294 mAg−1, respectively compared to the pristine LIBs which have shown specific capacity of 37.48 and 25.60 mAhg−1 under similar conditions. Hybrid Li‐PRB has achieved an average dark discharge specific capacities of 128.66 mAhg−1 (capacity retention: 96.56%) which enhanced to 180.67 mAhg−1 under illumination (capacity retention: 97.39%; photo‐enhancement: 40.42%) at 64 mAg−1. Excellent performance of hybrid Li‐PRB is attributed to the formation of type‐II heterojunction that leads to improved crystallinity and film morphology. The PRB has demonstrated a high photo conversion and storage efficiency (PC‐SE) of 0.52% under standard 1 Sun illumination, which outperforms other previously reported MHP based LIBs and PRBs. This work provides a novel approach of harnessing the potential of MHPs for PRBs and offers new avenues for MHP photocathodes for various applications beyond PRBs.
Electrode and Electrolyte Co‐Energy‐Storage Electrochemistry Enables High‐Energy Zn‐S Decoupled Batteries
Authors: He Ze , Hui Yuheng , Yang Yixu , Xiong Fangyu , Li Shidong , Wang Jiajing , Cao Ruyue , Tan Shuangshuang , An Qinyou
Published: June 2024

In the search for next‐generation green energy storage solutions, Cu‐S electrochemistry has recently gained attraction from the battery community owing to its affordability and exceptionally high specific capacity of 3350 mAh gs−1. However, the inferior conductivity and substantial volume expansion of the S cathode hinder its cycling stability, while the low output voltage limits its energy density. Herein, a hollow carbon sphere (HCS) is synthesized as a 3D conductive host to achieve a stable S@HCS cathode, which enables an outstanding cycling performance of 2500 cycles (over 9 months). To address the latter, a Zn//S@HCS alkaline‐acid decoupled cell is configured to increase the output voltage from 0.18 to 1.6 V. Moreover, an electrode and electrolyte co‐energy storage mechanism is proposed to offset the reduction in energy density resulting from the extra electrolyte required in Zn//S decoupled cells. When combined, the Zn//S@HCS alkaline‐acid decoupled cell delivers a record energy density of 334 Wh kg−1 based on the mass of the S cathode and CuSO4 electrolyte. This work tackles the key challenges of Cu‐S electrochemistry and brings new insights into the rational design of decoupled batteries.
Multi‐Component Lithiophilic Alloy Film Modified Cu Current Collector for Long‐Life Lithium Metal Batteries by a Novel FCVA Co‐Deposition System
Authors: Zhang Lan , Wu Shuai , Gao Jianshu , Wu Jie , Chen Lin , Wu Jiakun , Cheng Wei , Zhang Xu , Ying Minju , Wang Junfeng , Li Yunliang , Liao Bin
Published: June 2024

Surface modification of Cu current collectors (CCs) is proven to be an effective method for protecting lithium metal anodes. However, few studies have focused on the quality and efficiency of modification layers. Herein, a novel home‐made filtered cathode vacuum arc (FCVA) co‐deposition system with high modification efficiency, good repeatability and environmental friendliness is proposed to realize the wide range regulation of film composition, structure and performance. Through this system, ZnMgTiAl quaternary alloy films, which have good affinity with Li are successfully constructed on Cu CCs, and the fully enhanced electrochemical performances are achieved. Symmetrical cells constructed with modified CCs maintained a fairly low voltage hysteresis of only 13 mV after 2100 h at a current density of 1 mA cm−2. In addition, the capacity retention rate is as high as 75.0% after 100 cycles in the full cells. The influence of alloy films on the dynamic evolution process of constructing stable artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer is revealed by in situ infrared (IR) spectroscopy. This work provides a promising route for designing various feasible modification films for LMBs, and it displays better industrial application prospects than the traditional chemical methods owing to the remarkable controllability and scale‐up capacity.
Strategy for pattern recognition‐driven optical chemosensing based on polythiophene
Authors: Mohan Binduja , Sasaki Yui , Minami Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2024

Polythiophenes (PTs) with flexible backbones possess inherent polymer behaviors, including molecular wire effects and dynamic structural changes in π‐conjugated systems. The chemical sensing at the functionalized side chains can manipulate such polymer characteristics, resulting in various optical patterns depending on the analyte structures and their concentrations. The unique optical patterns derived from polymer properties contribute to group categorization over a wide concentration range for pattern recognition. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the potential of PT chemosensor arrays using actual sensing examples in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and food analysis. Furthermore, this review summarizes the methodologies that use polymer gels to realize practical chemosensor array chips for onsite analysis.
The Flow of Investments in the LLM Space
Authors: Maréchal Loïc
Published: June 2024

The development of Large Language Models (LLMs) is heavily dependent on the resources available to the teams working on them, and investments play a crucial role in determining the success of these models. The recent trend in media coverage of LLMs focuses on the investment amount raised. Microsoft’s promise to renew and increase its stake in OpenAI with a $10 billion series or Amazon’s recent new stake of $4 billion in Anthropic are examples of the significant investment that can affect the growth of LLMs. The share of funding in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) sectors has increased significantly over the last year. Conversely, uncovering a trend in the founding of text analytics is challenging. The post-money valuations in the AI and ML sectors have also increased from virtually inexistent to up to 15% of the total valuations (in the private sector, two types of valuations are generally available: the one done before an investment round, the pre-money valuation, and that done after the post-money valuation. Since the latter incorporates the latest information, it is generally used to compute returns and other metrics on investment rounds). However, this increase is accompanied by significant volatility, likely due to uncertainties regarding investors’ expectations. The log distribution of investment amount in each field shows significant outliers, and the majority of investors and investees are present in the US.
Exploring the Dual Role of LLMs in Cybersecurity: Threats and Defenses
Authors: Bryce Ciarán , Kalousis Alexandros , Leroux Ilan , Madinier Hélène , Pasche Thomas , Ruch Patrick
Published: June 2024

Large Language Models(LLMs) pose risks for cybersecurity since they facilitate minimal cost creation of malware, phishing messages, and malicious chatbots. At the same time, LLMs can help defend against cyberattacks. This chapter reviews security research around the risks and benefits of LLMs.
“ICT for Inclusion” for Educational Leaders: Inclusive and Digital Distributed Leadership
Authors: Mertens Claudia , Schaper Franziska , Kamin Anna-Maria
Published: June 2024

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape “Information & Communication Technology” (ICT) has gained a pivotal role for inclusion. ICT is transforming the way we teach and learn, but also the way we administer educational institutions. Yet up to now, there are hardly any concepts for inclusive digital leadership in schools – even less so for distributed inclusive digital leadership. As school principals grapple with the complexities of managing their educational institutions in the digital age, the leadership dimensions “design of teaching concepts”, “strategic development of their organization”, “fostering cooperation”, “developing ICT concepts”, and “human resources development” (adapted by Eickelmann & Gerick, 2017 from Holtappels & Rolff, 2010) have become integral components of responsibility. In the era of digital transformation, the effective integration of ICT is essential for fostering inclusion: Heads of schools play a crucial role in leveraging the potential of ICT for inclusion, making it imperative for them to adapt to technological changes. Therefore, the above-mentioned tasks of digital leadership must be strategically combined with the idea of inclusion in a concept of inclusive digital leadership. And these inclusive digital leadership tasks should be shared among multiple stakeholders in the faculty staff in a concept of distributed inclusive digital leadership.
Krylov complexity of density matrix operators
Authors: Caputa Pawel , Jeong Hyun-Sik , Liu Sinong , Pedraza Juan F. , Qu Le-Chen
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Quantifying complexity in quantum systems has witnessed a surge of interest in recent years, with Krylov-based measures such as Krylov complexity (CK) and Spread complexity (CS) gaining prominence. In this study, we investigate their interplay by considering the complexity of states represented by density matrix operators. After setting up the problem, we analyze a handful of analytical and numerical examples spanning generic two-dimensional Hilbert spaces, qubit states, quantum harmonic oscillators, and random matrix theories, uncovering insightful relationships. For generic pure states, our analysis reveals two key findings: (I) a correspondence between moment-generating functions (of Lanczos coefficients) and survival amplitudes, and (II) an early-time equivalence between CK and 2CS. Furthermore, for maximally entangled pure states, we find that the moment-generating function of CK becomes the Spectral Form Factor and, at late-times, CK is simply related to NCS for N ≥ 2 within the N-dimensional Hilbert space. Notably, we confirm that CK = 2CS holds across all times when N = 2. Through the lens of random matrix theories, we also discuss deviations between complexities at intermediate times and highlight subtleties in the averaging approach at the level of the survival amplitude.
Space-time generalization of mutual information
Authors: Glorioso Paolo , Qi Xiao-Liang , Yang Zhenbin
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The mutual information characterizes correlations between spatially separated regions of a system. Yet, in experiments we often measure dynamical correlations, which involve probing operators that are also separated in time. Here, we introduce a space-time generalization of mutual information which, by construction, satisfies several natural properties of the mutual information and at the same time characterizes correlations across subsystems that are separated in time. In particular, this quantity, that we call the space-time mutual information, bounds all dynamical correlations. We construct this quantity based on the idea of the quantum hypothesis testing. As a by-product, our definition provides a transparent interpretation in terms of an experimentally accessible setup. We draw connections with other notions in quantum information theory, such as quantum channel discrimination. Finally, we study the behavior of the space-time mutual information in several settings and contrast its long-time behavior in many-body localizing and thermalizing systems.
The rise and fall of the Standard-Model Higgs: electroweak vacuum stability during kination
Authors: Laverda Giorgio , Rubio Javier
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this paper we investigate the vacuum stability of the non-minimally coupled Standard-Model Higgs during a phase of kinetic domination following the end of inflation. The non-minimal coupling to curvature stabilises the Higgs fluctuations during inflation while driving them towards the instability scale during kination, when they can classically overcome the potential barrier separating the false electroweak vacuum from the true one at super-Planckian field values. Avoiding the instability of the Standard-Model vacuum sets an upper bound on the inflationary scale that depends both on the strength of the non-minimal interaction and on the top quark Yukawa coupling. Classical vacuum stability is guaranteed if the gravitationally-produced energy density is smaller than the height of barrier in the effective potential. Interestingly enough, thanks to the explosive particle production in the tachyonic phase, the Higgs itself can be also appointed to the role of reheaton field responsible for the onset of the hot Big Bang era, setting an additional lower bound on the inflationary scale $$ {\mathcal{H}}_{\textrm{inf}} $$

H
inf

≳ 105.5 GeV. Overall, these constraints favour lower masses for the top quark, in agreement with the current measurements of the top quark pole mass. We perform our analysis semi-analytically in terms of the one-loop and three-loop running of the Standard-Model Higgs self-coupling and make use of lattice-based parametric formulas for studying the (re)heating phase derived in arXiv:2307.03774. For a specific choice of mt = 171.3 GeV we perform also an extensive numerical scanning of the parameter space via classical lattice simulations, identifying stable/unstable regions and supporting the previous analytical arguments. For this fiducial value, the heating of the Universe is achieved at temperatures in the range 10−2–109 GeV.
Trace operators on bounded subanalytic manifolds
Authors: Valette Anna , Valette Guillaume
Published: June 2024

We prove that if $$M\subset {\mathbb {R}}^n$$

M
⊂

R

n

is a bounded subanalytic submanifold of $${\mathbb {R}}^n$$

R

n

such that $${\textbf{B}}(x_0,\varepsilon )\cap M$$

B
(

x
0

,
ε
)
∩
M

is connected for every $$x_0\in {{\overline{M}}}$$

x
0

∈

M
¯

and $$\varepsilon >0$$

ε
>
0

small, then, for $$p\in [1,\infty )$$

p
∈
[
1
,
∞
)

sufficiently large, the space $${\mathscr {C}}^\infty ( {{\overline{M}}})$$

C

∞

(

M
¯

)

is dense in the Sobolev space $$W^{1,p}(M)$$

W

1
,
p

(
M
)

. We also show that for p large, if $$A\subset {{\overline{M}}}\setminus M$$

A
⊂

M
¯

\
M

is subanalytic then the restriction mapping $$ {\mathscr {C}}^\infty ( {{\overline{M}}})\ni u\mapsto u_{|A}\in L^p(A)$$

C

∞

(

M
¯

)

∋
u
↦

u

|
A

∈

L
p

(
A
)

is continuous (if A is endowed with the Hausdorff measure), which makes it possible to define a trace operator, and then prove that compactly supported functions are dense in the kernel of this operator. We finally generalize these results to the case where our assumption of connectedness at singular points of $$ {{\overline{M}}}$$

M
¯

is dropped.
Apixaban plasma concentrations in patients with obesity
Authors: Al-Aieshy Fadiea , Skeppholm Mika , Fyrestam Jonas , Johansson Fredrik , Pohanka Anton , Malmström Rickard E.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Routine therapeutic drug monitoring of apixaban is currently not recommended but may however be warranted in some situations and for some patient groups to provide better and safer treatment. Due to limited data on apixaban concentrations in different subpopulations, it is still unclear which group of patients could possibly gain from monitoring. The purpose of this study was to examine apixaban exposure in patients with obesity compared with normal-weight patients.

Methods

Forty patients with obesity (mean BMI 39.4 kg/m2) and 40 controls with normal weight (mean BMI 23.4 kg/m2), treated with apixaban 5 mg twice daily were included. The patients were matched for age, sex, and renal function. Trough and peak apixaban concentrations were measured with LC‒MS/MS methodology.

Results

The median trough concentrations in patients with obesity (58.7, range 10.7–200.7 ng/ml) were slightly higher than those in patients with normal weight (52.0, range 31.0–150.9 ng/ml) (p < 0.05). Notably, the variability in trough concentration was considerably higher in patients with obesity. Peak concentrations were similar in both groups, with a median of 124.5 ng/ml (range 82.0–277.5) and 113.5 ng/ml (range 75.5–334.6) in patients with obesity and normal weight, respectively.

Conclusion

Apixaban exposure did not vary substantially between obese and normal weight matched controls, implying that general dose adjustments are not required. However, vast interindividual variability was observed in patients with obesity, suggesting that measuring the concentrations could be valuable for specific patients. Further research is needed to identify which specific patients may benefit from this approach.
Impact of fixation method on femoral bone loss: a retrospective evaluation of stem loosening in first-time revision total hip arthroplasty among two hundred and fifty five patients
Authors: Wagener Nele , Pumberger Matthias , Hardt Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Implant loosening represent the most common indication for stem revision in hip revision arthroplasty. This study compares femoral bone loss and the risk of initial revisions between cemented and uncemented loosened primary stems, investigating the impact of fixation method at primary implantation on femoral bone defects.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed 255 patients who underwent their first revision for stem loosening from 2010 to 2022, receiving either cemented or uncemented stem implants. Femoral bone loss was preoperatively measured using the Paprosky classification through radiographic evaluations. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated the survival probability of the original stem, and the hazard ratio assessed the relative risk of revision for uncemented versus cemented stems in the first postoperative year and the following two to ten years.

Results

Cemented stems showed a higher prevalence of significant bone loss (type 3b and 4 defects: 32.39% vs. 2.72%, p < .001) compared to uncemented stems, which more commonly had type 1 and 2 defects (82.07% vs. 47.89%, p < .001). In our analysis of revision cases, primary uncemented stems demonstrated a 20% lower incidence of stem loosening in the first year post-implantation compared to cemented stems (HR 0.8; 95%-CI 0.3-2.0). However, the incidence in uncemented stems increased by 20% during the subsequent years two to ten (HR 1.2; 95%-CI 0.7–1.8). Septic loosening was more common in cemented stems (28.17% vs. 10.87% in uncemented stems, p = .001). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated a modestly longer revision-free period for cemented stems within the first ten years post-implantation (p < .022).

Conclusion

During first-time revision, cemented stems show significantly larger femoral bone defects than uncemented stems. Septic stem loosening occurred 17.30% more in cemented stems.
Antibacterial activity of 3D printed thermoplastic elastomers doped with carbon quantum dots for biomedical applications
Authors: Shaalan Mohamed , Vykydalová Anna , Švajdlenková Helena , Kroneková Zuzana , Marković Zoran M. , Kováčová Mária , Špitálský Zdenko
Published: June 2024

3D printing provides a lot of varieties for the manufacturing of personalized biomedical devices. Incorporation of the nanoparticles with potential antibacterial activity to the printed materials is another added value. One example of such nanoparticles are hydrophobic carbon quantum dots (hCQDs), which are zero-dimensional redox-active materials with high chemical stability and low production costs. They produce singlet oxygen only when activated by a specific wavelength of visible blue light which allows for controlled antibacterial action and minimizes the chances of bacterial resistance emergence. We prepared and characterized polymer composites based on thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) doped with hCQDs (TPE/hCQDs). The composites were 3D printed using fused deposition modeling method. In the first set of samples, a filament of pure TPE was immersed in a solution of hCQDs (0.5 mg/mL), then 3D printed, and compared with unmodified TPE filament. The mechanical properties, swelling behavior, hardness, and thermal stability of TPE/hCQDs were compared with the pure TPE printed samples. The production of singlet oxygen was confirmed by the electron paramagnetic resonance method. The antibacterial activity of the samples was tested according to ISO 22196 against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli after one hour of exposure to blue light, which completely inhibited bacterial growth. Besides, the cytotoxicity of samples was evaluated by MTT assay, and no significant effect of the materials on cell viability was observed. 3D printed materials with antibacterial activity represent a perspective for the future, especially in the field of personalized medicine, as well as in products for other industries.
Infrared thermography techniques for boundary layer state visualisation
Authors: Davis William , Atkins Nicholas R.
Published: June 2024

The rapid decarbonisation of the power generation and aviation sectors will require a move away from incremental development, exposing designers and researchers to the risk of unexpected results from uncertainty in boundary layer state. This problem already exists for parts developed with fully turbulent assumptions, but in novel design spaces the risk increases for both real components, where previous knowledge of similar designs may be inapplicable, and particularly in experimental testing of scaled models, where reducing Reynolds number can result in a drastic change in flow topology that skews the conclusions of a test. Computational methods struggle to reliably predict boundary layer state so experimental techniques for diagnosing boundary layer state are needed. Infrared thermography (IR) is a non-invasive technique that offers simple, fast visualisation of boundary layer state with no additional instrumentation. IR is relatively uncommon in the literature and there is minimal information available on the best practices for its use. This paper aims to encourage the adoption of IR as a diagnostic tool by demonstrating routes for optimisation and pointing out pitfalls to avoid. A low-order model is developed and used to predict how the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of an IR visualisation changes depending on the thermal design of the test piece. It is shown that in low-speed flows with active heating from the surface the SNR is maximised through a suitable choice of surface insulation, while in high-speed flows, where passive temperature differences are used, there is a crossover between heat transfer and recovery temperature effects that results in an SNR of zero, an effect that can arise in both steady-state and transient experiments. Experimental validation of the 1D model in both flow regimes is shown alongside two case studies on the use of IR in sub-scale testing where uncertainty in boundary layer state results in critical differences from the full-scale flow.
Intralesional acyclovir versus intralesional Hepatitis-B vaccine in treatment of resistant plantar warts: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gharib Khalid , Taha Aya , Elradi Mona
Published: June 2024

Treating plantar warts is still a challenging problem with a long list of diverse treatment options that none of them seems to be definitive. To evaluate the effectiveness of intralesional acyclovir versus intralesional Hepatitis-B vaccine (HBV) in treatment of multiple resistant plantar warts. Forty-eight patients with resistant plantar warts completed the study with no dropouts. They were randomized into 3 groups; group(A) receiving intralesional HBV, group (B) receiving intralesional acyclovir and group (C) receiving intralesional saline as a control group over 5 biweekly sessions or until wart clearance. Clinical outcome was assessed through sequential digital lesion photographing upon each visit. Treatment related adverse reactions were recorded. 43.8%, 37.5% & 18.7% of Groups A, B &C respectively showed a complete response. pain was obvious in 100% and 56.3% of cases receiving intralesional acyclovir and HBV respectively. Up to the 6 month follow up period, none of the complete responders in all groups returned with a recurrence. Both acyclovir and HBV showed comparable efficacy and seem to be promising options for treating plantar warts being safe, affordable, and theoretically safe in immunocompromised cases.
Atypical localized Mongolian spots in dark pigmented skin - a challenge for forensic medical examination
Authors: Schlepper Stefanie , Hagen M. , Schulz R. , Schmeling A.
Published: June 2024

The assessment of skin changes in the context of possible child abuse is an important task in forensic medicine. This requires knowledge of pigmentation variants and pigmentation disorders such as congenital dermal melanocytosis, which includes Mongolian spots. Particularly in the case of atypical localization and dark pigmented skin, the differentiation from hematomas can be challenging. A case of two Nigerian siblings with extensive and atypically localized Mongolian spots is reported. The 1.5-year-old girl showed Mongolian spots on her back and the right side of her trunk. The 8-year-old boy showed Mongolian spots only on the back of his thighs. The authors are not aware of any case in which so called Mongolian spots were present exclusively on the back of the thighs and this case is all the more noteworthy as the back of the thigh is a common localization of blunt force trauma.
Presence of Cryptosporidium parvum in pre-washed vegetables from different supermarkets in South East England: A pilot study
Authors: Suleiman Aisha Jamo , Mavrides Daphne E. , Maxamhud Sadiya , Gentekaki Eleni , Tsaousis Anastasios D.
Published: June 2024

Cryptosporidium is an important water-borne and food-borne parasite with a high burden of disease. This organism has been shown to contaminate various leafy vegetables; however, studies assessing the presence of Cryptosporidium spp in pre-washed and ready-to-eat vegetables are limited. Routine surveillance in the UK revealed a nationwide exceedance of human cases of Cryptosporidium. Therefore, this study aims to assess the presence of this parasite in pre-washed vegetables from supermarkets in the UK. A total of 36 samples were purchased from four different supermarkets. A nested PCR targeting the SSU rRNA was carried out on 24 samples, 58% were PCR-positive for Cryptosporidium. Sanger sequencing confirmed that, of these sequences, 4/24 (17%) produced significant similarities to Cryptosporidium parvum. This study provides evidence for the presence of C. parvum in pre-washed and ready-to-eat vegetables. Future work to identify the point of contamination is required.
Review: Andesitic aquifers—hydrogeological conceptual models and insights relevant to applied hydrogeology
Authors: Baud B. , Lachassagne P. , Dumont M. , Toulier A. , Hendrayana Heru , Fadillah Arif , Dorfliger N.
Published: June 2024

Research on the hydrogeology of andesitic volcanic aquifers in subduction areas is reviewed. Andesitic aquifers are of high interest in volcanic arc islands and subduction zones, where they constitute a strategic water resource. This review gathers a compilation of worldwide results and case studies to propose a generic hydrogeological conceptual model (GHCM). It is based on the geological conceptual model splitting the volcanic edifice, from upstream to downstream, into central, proximal, medial and distal zones. In this geological structure, the GHCM identifies where the main aquifer types (fractured lava, pyroclastic flows, and the volcano-sedimentary basins downstream) and the typical aquitards (lahars, fine pyroclastic falls and surges, indurated pyroclastic flow, and weathered rocks) are structured and organized. To integrate the evolution of volcanoes and some specific volcanic activities, a specific GHCM for old andesitic volcanoes or andesitic shield volcanoes is detailed. The paper also describes how the GHCM results are of use to hydrogeologists in terms of scale (from the lithological units to the regional scale), to effectively site water wells, and to sustainably manage groundwater resources in such aquifers. Among these various scales, the volcanic “flank continuum” is presented as the most adapted to support groundwater resources management. Several ways to improve this GHCM are suggested, notably to better consider the geological complexity of these aquifers.
Anthracene detoxification by Laccases from indigenous fungal strains Trichoderma lixii FLU1 and Talaromyces pinophilus FLU12
Authors: Egbewale Samson O. , Kumar Ajit , Olasehinde Tosin A. , Mokoena Mduduzi P. , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: June 2024

The persistence and ubiquity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the environment necessitate effective remediation strategies. Hence, this study investigated the potential of purified Laccases, TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L, from two indigenous fungi Trichoderma lixii FLU1 (TlFLU1) and Talaromyces pinophilus FLU12 (TpFLU12), respectively for the oxidation and detoxification of anthracene. Anthracene was degraded with vmax values of 3.51 ± 0.06 mg/L/h and 3.44 ± 0.06 mg/L/h, and Km values of 173.2 ± 0.06 mg/L and 73.3 ± 0.07 mg/L by TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L, respectively. The addition of a mediator compound 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) to the reaction system significantly increased the degradation of anthracene, with up to a 2.9-fold increase in vmax value and up to threefold decrease in Km values of TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L. The GC–MS analysis of the metabolites suggests that anthracene degradation follows one new pathway unique to the ABTS system—hydroxylation and carboxylation of C-1 and C-2 position of anthracene to form 3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, before undergoing dioxygenation and side chain removal to form chromone which was later converted into benzoic acid and CO2. This pathway contrasts with the common dioxygenation route observed in the free Laccase system, which is observed in the second degradation pathways. Furthermore, toxicity tests using V. parahaemolyticus and HT-22 cells, respectively, demonstrated the non-toxic nature of Laccase-ABTS-mediated metabolites. Intriguingly, analysis of the expression level of Alzheimer’s related genes in HT-22 cells exposed to degradation products revealed no induction of neurotoxicity unlike untreated cells. These findings propose a paradigm shift for bioremediation by highlighting the Laccase-ABTS system as a promising green technology due to its efficiency with the discovery of a potentially less harmful degradation pathway, and the production of non-toxic metabolites.
On optimal three-impulse Earth–Moon transfers in a four-body model
Authors: Grossi Guido , Buonagura Carmine , Giordano Carmine , Topputo Francesco
Published: June 2024

Within the emerging age of lunar exploration, optimizing transfer trajectories is a fundamental measure toward achieving more economical and efficient lunar missions. This study addresses the possibility of reducing the fuel cost of two-impulse Earth–Moon transfers in a four-body model with the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun as primaries. Lawden’s primer vector theory is applied within this framework to derive a set of necessary conditions for a fuel-optimal trajectory. These conditions are used to identify which trajectories from an existing database could benefit from the insertion of an additional intermediate impulse. More than 10,000 three-impulse transfers are computed with a direct numerical optimization method. These solutions contribute to enriching the database of impulsive trajectories, useful to perform trade-off analyses. While the majority of trajectories exhibit only marginal improvements, a significant breakthrough emerges for transfers featuring an initial gravity assist at the Moon. Implementing a corrective maneuver after the lunar encounter yields substantial reductions in fuel costs.
Astrocyte-Specific Inhibition of the Primary Cilium Suppresses C3 Expression in Reactive Astrocyte
Authors: Muhamad Nor Atiqah , Masutani Kohei , Furukawa Shota , Yuri Shunsuke , Toriyama Michinori , Matsumoto Chuya , Itoh Seiya , Shinagawa Yuichiro , Isotani Ayako , Toriyama Manami , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

C3-positive reactive astrocytes play a neurotoxic role in various neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms controlling C3-positive reactive astrocyte induction are largely unknown. We found that the length of the primary cilium, a cellular organelle that receives extracellular signals was increased in C3-positive reactive astrocytes, and the loss or shortening of primary cilium decreased the count of C3-positive reactive astrocytes. Pharmacological experiments suggested that Ca2+ signalling may synergistically promote C3 expression in reactive astrocytes. Conditional knockout (cKO) mice that specifically inhibit primary cilium formation in astrocytes upon drug stimulation exhibited a reduction in the proportions of C3-positive reactive astrocytes and apoptotic cells in the brain even after the injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, the novel object recognition (NOR) score observed in the cKO mice was higher than that observed in the neuroinflammation model mice. These results suggest that the primary cilium in astrocytes positively regulates C3 expression. We propose that regulating astrocyte-specific primary cilium signalling may be a novel strategy for the suppression of neuroinflammation.

Graphical Abstract

The primary cilium of astrocytes are required for the C3 expression in reactive astrocytes. Furthermore, the potentiation of calcium signalling appears to be involved in the promotion of C3 expression in reactive astrocytes.