bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability of double probe measurements in nanodusty plasmas
Authors: Xiong Zichang , Held Julian , Kortshagen Uwe
Published: February 2023

Nonthermal plasmas are attractive sources for nanoparticles synthesis, however, their plasma properties are notoriously difficult to assess due to the chemically reactive environment and high nanoparticle concentrations. Here, we are using a floating double probe to measure the plasma properties of a nanoparticle-forming argon:silane plasma. We demonstrate good stability of current–voltage characteristics over several minutes of operation. However, unexpectedly larger electron temperatures are measured with increasing the silane mole fraction. To test the validity of these results, we developed a zero-dimensional global model to investigate the effect of the presence of nanoparticles on the plasma properties. Using this model, we show that increasing particle concentration leads to an increasing electronegativity of the plasma, causing an increase of the reduced electric field. However, this causes only a moderate increase in mean electron energy, in contrast to the much larger increase measured by the double probe. We argue that these large electron temperatures are based on the fact that a double probe measures an ‘apparent’ electron temperature, which is defined by the negative inverse slope of the logarithm of the electron energy probability function (EEPF) at an energy corresponding to the probe’s floating potential. As the silane mole fraction is increased, the plasma becomes more electronegative and the probe’s floating potential moves closer to the plasma potential. Combined with the strong non-Maxwellian EEPF, this leads to the large apparent electron temperatures obtained by the probe. Thus, the apparent electron temperatures measured with the double probe do not follow the trends in mean electron energy.
Preparation and characterization of CZTS thin films by vacuum-assisted spray pyrolysis and fabrication of Cd-free heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Aabel P , Anupama A , Santhosh Kumar M C
Published: February 2023

The quaternary chalcogenide material Cu2ZnSnS4 (copper zinc tin sulphide [CZTS]) has received much attention owing to its excellent photovoltaic conversion properties. We report the deposition of CZTS thin films by vacuum spray pyrolysis and explore the structural, elemental, optical and electrical properties and its use as an absorber layer in the fabrication of a cadmium-free solar cell device. The thin films were deposited at various substrate temperatures ranging from 325 °C to 400 °C using the vacuum spray pyrolysis technique. Structural analysis shows a crystalline nature with a CZTS kësterite phase formed at 375 °C. FESEM analysis reveals the presence of coral-reef-like morphology. XPS measurements were carried out to confirm the elemental composition. UV–vis measurements indicate that the optical band gap of the as-deposited films is 1.5 eV with a high absorption coefficient of 105 cm−1, which is close to the ideal value for an absorber layer. Hall effect measurement confirms the p-type nature of the samples. A simple heterojunction is fabricated with a device structure  using CZTS as the absorber layer and Al:ZnO as the window layer. The estimated solar cell parameters are V
oc = 0.85 V, I
sc = 16.68 mA, fill factor = 36.54% and efficiency, η = 2.87%.
Effect of a V-Shaped Groove on the Performance of a Circular-Cylinder Energy Harvester
Authors: Siritham Thannit , Kittichaikarn Chawalit
Published: February 2023

The effect of a V-shaped groove on the performance of a circular-cylinder energy harvester was investigated in this study. The experiments were conducted in a closed-loop wind tunnel at a wind speed ranging from 1 to 7 m/s. A standard circular-cylinder bluff body was modified to have the V-shaped groove at the front. The angle θ of the half V-shaped groove was adjusted from 15° to 45°. The experimental results demonstrate that the groove angle between 2θ = 45° and 68° can sustain energy harvesting when the wind speed increases continuously and provide higher performance on the power output than that in other cases. However, at a wind speed of 7 m/s in the V-shaped groove of 2θ = 68°, it can provide a maximum root-mean-square power output of 20.33 mW, which is about 140 times that of a standard circular cylinder. Furthermore, particle image velocimetry was used to visualize the flow field around the V-shaped groove bluff body. It showed that the groove angle and wind speed had a direct effect on the bluff body’s degree of vibration. The results can be used to improve the energy harvester’s efficiency.
Selective region medical image encryption algorithm based on cascade chaos and two-dimensional Joseph traversal
Authors: Chen Rong , Li Xiaomeng , Teng Lin , Wang Xingyuan
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the problem that medical image information is easy to be stolen, tampered and maliciously destroyed in the transmission process, a selective region medical image encryption algorithm based on cascade chaos is proposed. The encryption algorithm consists of two stages: region of interest (ROI) encryption and full image encryption. First, the Cubic map is cascaded with an improved Cosine map. Through the analysis of dynamic characteristics, the cascade map has better chaotic performance than the traditional chaotic systems. The key sequence is generated by the cascade map and the image. Then edge detection is performed on the image to determine ROI. ROI is divided into multiple image blocks, and a new gradient algorithm is used to label the sub-blocks containing important information. A modified two-dimensional Joseph traversal method is used to scramble the positions of pixels in each sub-block, and further modify their pixel values with a round of diffusion. Finally, we use a block V-shape scrambling method to scramble the entire image. The final encrypted image is obtained through a round of bidirectional diffusion of all pixels using chaotic sequences. Simulation results and security analysis show that the algorithm has large key space and sufficient security. It can effectively resist various malicious attacks.
Phase field modeling of precipitation in Zr-1%Nb-1%Sn alloy: A study of statistical properties and mechanical response
Authors: Kharchenko Vasyl , Kong Xianggang , Xin Tianyuan , Wu Lu , Shchokotova Olha , Kharchenko Dmitrii O , Kokhan Serhiy
Published: February 2023

We develop the phase field model to simulate precipitation of secondary phase in ternary alloys with extra-small content of doping. This approach is applied to study $\beta$-phase precipitation in the model system of commercial alloy Zr-Nb-Sn at thermal treatment. An analysis of local rearrangement of doping and equilibrium vacancies during precipitation has shown that the dissolved Tin is mostly segregated around phase interface by trapping vacancies. Kinetics of precipitation, size and distribution of the precipitates, concentration of the species in precipitates and matrix are studied where it is revealed that Lifshits-Slyozov-Wagner distribution can be used to predicate statistical properties of precipitates. Mechanical response including the plastic deformations in precipitated solid is discussed. It is shown that yield strength change increases during precipitation. Yield and ultimate stresses are studied at different shear rates for the annealed alloy. A transition to plastic flow is described by means of dislocation structure evolution. Formation and growth of slip planes and dislocation loop-precipitate interaction governed by elastic moduli difference is analyzed. It is shown that emergence of dislocation loops around precipitates follows the Orowan mechanism.
Role of f(\mathcal{R},\mathbf{T}^{2}) Theory on Charged Compact Stars
Authors: Sharif M. , Gul Muhammad
Published: February 2023

The main purpose of this paper is to examine the viable attributes of charged compact stellar objects with anisotropic matter configuration in the framework of $f(\mathcal{R},\mathbf{T}^{2})$ theory. For this purpose, we use Tolman V solution and consider a specific functional form of this modified theory to examine the geometry of compact stars. The values of unknown parameters are found by the smooth matching of interior (static spherical metric) and exterior (modified Reissner-Nordstrom metric) spacetimes. We investigate the behavior of effective matter variables, anisotropy, equation of state parameters and energy bounds in the interior of the charged stellar objects. The stability of the compact stars is examined by speed of sound and adiabatic index. We find that the considered stars are viable as well as stable with all the required conditions in this modified theory of gravity.
Nonlocal symmetries and interaction solutions for the (n + 1)-dimensional generalized Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Cui Wenying , Liu Yinping
Published: February 2023

The (n + 1)-dimensional generalized KdV equation is presented in this paper, and we further investigate its nonlocal symmetries by different methods. It can be seen that the symmetrical transformations obtained by different nonlocal symmetries are usually equivalent. Based on the obtained Lie point symmetry as well as the mth finite symmetrical transformations, we obtain its soliton molecules and multiple soliton solutions. Additionally, for the case of n = 4 various types of interaction solutions among solitons and periodic waves are obtained by the similarity reduction method.
High throughput particle sorting based on traveling surface acoustic wave (TSAW) is realized by coupling spiral microchannel and a novel arc electrode
Authors: Wang Yongsheng , Ji Miaomiao , Liu Yukai , Duan Junping , Zhang Jie , Hou Shuyue , Zhang Binzhen
Published: February 2023

Acoustofluidic technology is an ideal tool for biomedical applications. However, the sorting performance and flux of acoustofluidic chips cannot be achieved simultaneously. In this paper, we propose a method for coupling a novel arc gold interdigital transducer (IDT) with a spiral microchannel. A spiral microchannel is used to focus the target particle (20 μm) inertially to improve the sorting efficiency of the chip. The channel uses a Y-shaped inlet to bind small particles (5 μm) in a fixed stream beam to improve the sorting efficiency of the chip. The fit of arc electrode and spiral flow channel enlarges the acoustic control area, so that the target particles can still be separated effectively at high flow velocity. The results show that when the signal source frequency is 33.7 MHz and the voltage is 5 V, the designed chip can effectively separate the target particles at the flow rate of 25–65 μl min−1, and the sorting purity is 100%. The sorting efficiency decreased with the increase of flow rate, 25 μl min−1: 100 %, 35 μl min−1: 100 %, 45 μl min−1: 94 .8% (within 1.2% error), 55 μl min−1: 92 % (within 1% error), 65 μl min−1: 83 .4% (within 2.4% error). This chip provides an idea for achieving high throughput, high purity and high efficiency cell sorting.
Theoretical study of low-energy electron collision with normal-pentane using R-matrix method
Authors: jiang xianwu , Liu Nan , Chen Jie , Chen Qi , Zhang Ya , Jiang Wei , Zhang Lidong , Liu Hainan
Published: February 2023

Low-energy electron collisions with normal-pentane (n-C5H12) that initiate the plasma to assist combustion are critical in understanding the underlying physics and chemistries. In the present work, we studied this collisional process using the R-matrix method at the static-exchange plus polarization and close-coupling model levels. The scattering calculation was performed by running the UKRmol+ code using the Quantemol Electron Collision interface to obtain elastic differential, momentum transfer, integral, and electronic excitation cross sections up to 20 eV and ionization cross sections up to 1000 eV. Our computed cross-section data are in better agreement with the available experimental results both regarding the magnitude and shape. We also demonstrated the importance of using a diffuse basis set in describing the scattering due to the Rydberg nature of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals of n-C5H12.
Bionic microchannels for step lifting transpiration
Authors: Wang Zhaolong , Yin Qiu , Zhan Ziheng , Li Wenhao , Xie Mingzhu , Duan Huigao , Cheng Ping , Zhang Ce , Chen Yongping , Dong Zhichao
Published: February 2023

Highlights

Various cross-sectional bionic microchannels were fabricated by PµSL based 3D printing technique.

Strong precursor effects are induced by sharp corners of those bionic microchannels.

Ultra-long distance antigravity step lifting of water is realized by employing bionic microchannels.

Mimicked transpiration based on step lifting of bionic microchannels is well achieved.
Target recognition using rotating ultrasonic sensor for an amphibious ROV
Authors: Yang Jiangfei , Liu Boshen , Ma Fei , Jiao Qian
Published: February 2023

Recognition and tracking of nearby obstacle targets in the inshore environment are necessary for the driving of amphibious remotely operated vehicles (ROV). In this study, the underwater target recognition and tracking in front of the ROV was conducted with a cost-effective waterproof rotating ultrasonic sensing system. An empirical detection model was developed to establish the detection characteristics of the ultrasonic sensor in the turbid underwater environment. The feature extraction of the underwater targets was performed with the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise. The maximum relative error of targets geometric feature recognition is 3.85%. The target tracking algorithm was designed based on the Kalman filter. The rotating ultrasonic sensing system was further applied and validated on a full size amphibious tracked ROV in the turbid underwater environment. The experimental results show that the maximum recognition error during the straight movement is less than 5% after Kalman filter processing. The validity of the DBSCAN and Kalman filtering algorithms is verified during the driving of the amphibious ROV.
OWEFE—open modeling framework for integrated water, energy, food, and environment systems
Authors: Fleischmann Julian , Blechinger Philipp , Ribbe Lars , Nauditt Alexandra , El Achkar Jean H , Tiwari Kapil , Kuleape Richmond , Platzer Werner
Published: February 2023

The integrated approach to managing the fundamental resources for human life, namely, water, energy, food, and the environment as their irreplaceable foundation, presents a profound opportunity for sustainable development. However, despite their huge potential, integrated water, energy, food, and environment systems (iWEFEs) are rarely put into practice because of, among others, complexity and a lack of uniform and openly available models to describe, configure and simulate such systems. To fill this gap, we present the open modeling framework for integrated water, energy, food, and environment systems (OWEFEs) based on the open energy modeling framework. OWEFE follows an open, cross-sectoral, and modular design approach to address crucial challenges for the project development of iWEFEs. In this study, we apply OWEFE for the first time to model a wastewater biogas system and an agrivoltaics system. The results of the OWEFE-based models are in the range of a conventional approach respectively of on-site measurements indicating the framework’s capability to model diverse iWEFEs. The wide application of the framework can improve the assessment, planning, and configuration of iWEFEs for sustainable and integrated infrastructure development.
Finite-Gap Solutions of the Mikhalëv Equation
Authors: Smirnov A. , Pavlov M. , Matveev V. , Gerdjikov V.
Published: February 2023

Two classes of multi-phase algebro-geometric solutions of Mikhalëv equation are constructed. The first class of solutions is associated with the Korteweg-de-Vries (KdV) equation. The second one is related to the solutions of the Kaup-Boussinesq (KB) equation. We have established interrelations among the multi-soliton, trigonometric, rational, elliptic and other known solutions of the KdV and KB equations and the solutions of Mikhalëv equations. We show that the number of linearly independent finite-gap solutions of Mikhalëv system is equal to the number of phases of these solutions. For each class of solutions we have constructed examples of explicit solutions of Mikhalëv equation. In the previous works cited below the solutions of the Mikhalëv system were described implicitly, being reduced to the solutions of appropriate Jacobi inversion problems. Here, to solve the Mikhalëv system explicitly, we used the formalism of Baker-Akhiezer functions.
Dispersive shocks in diffusive-dispersive approximations of elasticity and quantum-hydrodynamics
Authors: Bolbot Daria , Mitsotakis Dimitrios , Tzavaras Athanasios
Published: February 2023

The aim is to assess the combined effect of diffusion and dispersion on shocks in the moderate dispersion regime. For a diffusive dispersive approximation of the equations of one-dimensional elasticity (or p-system), we study convergence of traveling waves to shocks. The problem is recast as a Hamiltonian system with small friction, and an analysis of the length of oscillations yields convergence in the moderate dispersion regime

ε
,
δ
→
0

\varepsilon , \delta \to 0

with

δ
=
o
(
ε
)

\delta = o(\varepsilon )

, under hypotheses that the limiting shock is admissible according to the Liu E-condition and is not a contact discontinuity at either end state. A similar convergence result is proved for traveling waves of the quantum hydrodynamic system with artificial viscosity as well as for a viscous Peregrine-Boussinesq system where traveling waves model undular bores, in all cases in the moderate dispersion regime.
For an African elenchus: colonial and postcolonial misprisions and Classics in Africa
Authors: van Schoor David
Published: February 2023

This paper reflects on the god Dionysus in the context of African explorations of the role and meaning of Classical traditions in and for Africa. The problem of decolonization entails the creative challenge to conceive an African modernity, but how we shall recognize what that is to mean remains open. Knowledge as claim and contestation are foregrounded with Dionysus and in his presence. He is a figure who is chronically misprised, so that misprision itself becomes a feature of his experience and meaning. Offering examples of two kinds of popular interpretive stances and arguing that they represent typical but weak readings, the idea is developed that Africa requires elenchus as hermeneutic ideal, an epistemic pessimism and commitment to seeking as it finds its own way. It ought not, from a peripheral position, to adopt or reject the popular and low-yielding misprisions and cultural contestations that obtain in the Western academy and offer little to a flowering African Humanities.
Multiparameter 2-D viscoelastic full-waveform inversion of Rayleigh waves: a field experiment at Krauthausen test site
Authors: Gao Lingli , Pan Yudi , Rieder Andreas , Bohlen Thomas , Mao Weijian
Published: February 2023

Full-waveform inversion (FWI) has been proven to be an effective tool for high-resolution multiparameter imaging of the shallow subsurface. It has been shown that the Gauss–Newton (GN) optimization method uses the off-diagonal information contained in the Hessian matrix and can increase resolution and mitigate crosstalk in multiparameter viscoelastic FWI. In this work, we demonstrate the advantages of GN viscoelastic FWI over the conventional FWI with a conjugate gradient optimization method by using synthetic examples. We also investigate the potential of shallow seismic-wave 2-D viscoelastic FWI as a method for high-resolution hydrogeological characterization. The GN viscoelastic FWI is applied to two orthogonal profiles acquired at the Krauthausen natural laboratory (Germany). The groundwater table is located at around 2 m, which nicely agrees with an abrupt increase of P-wave velocity in the inverted results. FWI also reveals a low S-wave velocity layer at the depth of 4–6 m with high Poisson’s ratio values close to 0.5, which corresponds to a saturated sand layer known from previous studies. A K-mean cluster analysis is used to further analyse the multiparameter FWI results. By considering the derived Poisson’s ratio, P- and S-wave velocities, we convert the complex relationship between the multivariate data into a lithological meaningful zonation of the shallow subsurface. By comparing the lithological units in the alluvial aquifer with the cone penetration tests clusters, we conclude that the divided facies describe valuable characterization information about the heterogeneity and connectivity of the aquifer. This experiment indicates that the multiparameter models derived by viscoelastic FWI contain useful information for high-resolution aquifer characterization, and the potential of multiparameter FWI combined with cluster analysis in shallow subsurface characterization is encouraging.
Enablers and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in an urban slum in Lagos, Nigeria: informing vaccine engagement strategies for the marginalized
Authors: Ozoh Obianuju B , Akinkugbe Ayesha O , Olukoya Morayo A , Adetifa Ifedayo M O
Published: February 2023

Background

Vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a cost-effective mitigation strategy against the pandemic. As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes more available, low uptake is now a global threat and understanding the underpinnings in local contexts is a priority for intervention development. We aimed to evaluate behavioural determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance that could inform engagement strategies to improve vaccine uptake in Makoko, an urban slum in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods

A population-based case–control study utilized the barrier analysis (BA) approach to evaluate the beliefs and behaviours of 45 ‘doers’ and 45 ‘non-doers’. The standardized BA tabulation sheet was used to assess differences in the proportions between the two groups to identify significant factors that could be addressed through a behaviour change strategy.

Results

Perceived social norms (family, friend, healthcare workers) that approve the vaccine and expected vaccine protection against diseases among doers were determinants of behaviour. Perceived poor accessibility, safety concerns, lack of trust, low vaccine efficacy and low susceptibility to the infection were the most important determinants of behaviour among non-doers.

Conclusions

Measures to improve COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Makoko should include improvement in accessibility and exposing myths and misinformation through clear, concise and evidence-based community education delivered by trusted persons such as healthcare workers and religious leaders.
Biclonal Gammopathies in South Tunisia: Clinical and Biological Characteristics
Authors: Jerbi Ameni , Hachicha Hend , Charfi Aida , Kallel Faten , Feki Sawsan , Ben Ayed Mourad , Ayadi Faten , Akrout Rim , Frikha Faten , Amouri Ali , Kammoun Khaoula , Mdhaffar Moez , Ben Hmida Mohamed , Tahri Nabil , Bahloul Zouheir , Baklouti Sofien , Elloumi Moez , Masmoudi Hatem
Published: February 2023

Objective

Biclonal gammopathies (BGs) are rare situations characterized by the production of 2 monoclonal proteins. There are no available data on BGs in North Africa. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of BGs in our population and describe their clinical and laboratory features.

Methods

We conducted a 31-year retrospective study including patients with persistent double monoclonal bands based on the results of immunofixation/immunoelectrophoresis.

Results

A total of 35 patients with available clinical data (sex ratio, M/F = 1.53; mean age, 70 ± 10.87 years [range, 45–90 years]) were included. The main associated conditions were multiple myeloma (MM) (40%), BG of undetermined significance (BGUS) (34%), and lymphoproliferative diseases (23%). Only one-third of the patients had 2 monoclonal spikes on serum protein electrophoresis. The most common paraprotein combinations were immunoglobulin (Ig)G-IgG (25%) and IgG-IgA (23%) with different light chains in one-half of the cases. The mean follow-up was 25.6 months (median, 12 months). No BGUS evolved into a malignant disease.

Conclusion

BGs are rare in clinical laboratory routine but must be accurately identified by the pathologist. Our cohort is characterized by a high prevalence of BGUS compared with MM.
Modelling the formation of two stellar generations in massive star clusters: the case of 30 Doradus
Authors: Domínguez R , Pellegrini Eric W , Klessen Ralf S , Rahner Daniel
Published: February 2023

We study the evolution of embedded star clusters with the goal to reproduce 30 Doradus, specifically the compact star cluster known as R136 and its surrounding stellar envelope, which is believed to be part of an earlier star formation event. We employ the high-precision stellar dynamics code Nbody6+ + GPU to calculate the dynamics of the stars embedded in different evolving molecular clouds modelled with the 1D cloud/clusters code warpfield. We explore clouds with initial masses of Mcloud = 3.16 × 105 M⊙ that (re)-collapse allowing for the birth of a second generation. We explore different star formation efficiencies to find the best set of parameters that can reproduce the observations. Our best-fit models correspond to a first generation of stars with a total mass M in the range $1.26 \!-\! 2.85\times \,\,10^4\,$ M⊙. As the initial stellar feedback is insufficient to unbind the parental cloud, the gas re-collapses after about 2–4 million years and builds up a second generation of stars with M ≈ 6.32 × 104 M⊙. We can match the observed stellar ages, the radius of the shell of swept up cloud material, and the fact that the second generation of stars is more concentrated than the first one. This is independent of the cluster starting out with mass segregation or without. By comparing with recent measurements of mass segregation and density profile in the central region of the cluster we again find close agreement, providing further evidence for a re-collapse scenario building up multiple generations of stars in 30 Doradus.
Galaxy Zoo: kinematics of strongly and weakly barred galaxies
Authors: Géron Tobias , Smethurst Rebecca J , Lintott Chris , Kruk Sandor , Masters Karen L , Simmons Brooke , Mantha Kameswara Bharadwaj , Walmsley Mike , Garma-Oehmichen L , Drory Niv , Lane Richard R
Published: February 2023

We study the bar pattern speeds and corotation radii of 225 barred galaxies, using integral field unit data from MaNGA and the Tremaine–Weinberg method. Our sample, which is divided between strongly and weakly barred galaxies identified via Galaxy Zoo, is the largest that this method has been applied to. We find lower pattern speeds for strongly barred galaxies than for weakly barred galaxies. As simulations show that the pattern speed decreases as the bar exchanges angular momentum with its host, these results suggest that strong bars are more evolved than weak bars. Interestingly, the corotation radius is not different between weakly and strongly barred galaxies, despite being proportional to bar length. We also find that the corotation radius is significantly different between quenching and star-forming galaxies. Additionally, we find that strongly barred galaxies have significantly lower values for $\mathcal {R}$, the ratio between the corotation radius and the bar radius, than weakly barred galaxies, despite a big overlap in both distributions. This ratio classifies bars into ultrafast bars ($\mathcal {R} \lt $ 1.0; 11 per cent of our sample), fast bars (1.0 $\lt \mathcal {R} \lt $ 1.4; 27 per cent), and slow bars ($\mathcal {R} \gt $ 1.4; 62 per cent). Simulations show that $\mathcal {R}$ is correlated with the bar formation mechanism, so our results suggest that strong bars are more likely to be formed by different mechanisms than weak bars. Finally, we find a lower fraction of ultrafast bars than most other studies, which decreases the recently claimed tension with Lambda cold dark matter. However, the median value of $\mathcal {R}$ is still lower than what is predicted by simulations.
Headache, Loss of Smell, and Visual Disturbances: Symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 Infection? A Case Report
Authors: Maselli Filippo , Storari Lorenzo , Mourad Firas , Barbari Valerio , Signorini Manuel , Signorelli Francesco
Published: February 2023

Objective

The purpose of this case report is to describe the main components of the history and physical examination that led to idiopathic intracranial hypertension differential diagnosis, which initially was investigated as COVID-19.

Methods (Case Description)

A 28-year-old woman complaining of constant headache and loss of smell and taste was suspected as SARS-CoV-2 infection by her general practitioner. She underwent 3 molecular swab tests, all negative, then decided to seek her physical therapist for relieving headache.

Results

The full cranial nerve examination revealed impaired olfactory (CNI), abducens (CN VI), and facial (CN VII) nerves, leading the physical therapist to refer the patient to a neurosurgeon for a suspected central nervous system involvement. The neurosurgeon prescribed a detailed MRI and an ophthalmologic examination, which allowed for the final diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Conclusion

An urgent lumbo-peritoneal shunting surgery resolved the patient’s symptoms and saved her sight. Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, health care professionals must pay attention to properly investigating patients’ signs and symptoms using comprehensive clinical reasoning, considering the screening for referral to specialist medical attention.

Impact

A thorough physical examination is required for every patient even if patients’ signs and symptoms are in line with apparent common and widespread pathologies. Cranial nerve evaluation is an essential component of the physical therapist assessment and decision-making process. The ongoing pandemic highlighted the fundamental assistance of physical therapists toward physicians in the screening and management of musculoskeletal diseases.
Does Genital Self-image Correspond with Sexual Health before and after Vaginoplasty?
Authors: Kloer Carmen , Blasdel Gaines , Shakir Nabeel , Parker Augustus , Itzel Gómez Antía , Zhao Lee C. , Bluebond-Langner Rachel
Published: February 2023

Background:

Patient-reported outcomes regarding sexual health are lacking or have not been validated for transgender patients following vaginoplasty. The aim of this study is to further characterize the difference in sexual health, genital self-image, and the relationship between them for patients who were pre- and postvaginoplasty.

Methods:

A community advisory board informed an anonymous online survey utilizing patient-reported outcomes. Pre- and postvaginoplasty respondents were recruited online. Survey measures included the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System sexual health measures. Welch approximation t tests were performed for FGSIS and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System questions, using Bonferroni correction.

Results:

A total of 690 respondents prevaginoplasty (n = 525; 76%) and postvaginoplasty (n = 165; 24%) participated. The postoperative cohort, compared with the preoperative cohort, reported higher scores for orgasm (P = 0.0003), satisfaction (P = 0.001), and pleasure (P = 0.002). FGSIS total score was higher among postoperative respondents (79.4% ± 17.1%) than preoperative respondents (50.6% ± 15.1%) (P < 0.0001). Using Spearman rho, no significant correlation between FGSIS total score and any Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System subsectional measures was observed for the postoperative cohort, but a correlation (P <0.001) was observed for the preoperative cohort.

Conclusions:

Individuals who are contemplating vaginoplasty have worse sexual health and genital self-image than those who underwent vaginoplasty, yet genital self-image does not correlate directly with sexual health. Sexual health is multimodal for each person.
Cross-institutional Virtual Mock Oral Examination: A New Paradigm?
Authors: Manisundaram Arvind D. , Sathyanarayanan Sairandri , Govande Janhavi V. , Marques Erik S. , Nguyen Phuong D.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Mock oral examinations (MOEs) are shown to be valuable in preparation for national board oral examinations. Although traditionally conducted in-person, improved technological advances have supported exploring virtual alternatives. Furthermore, the cornoavirus disease 2019 pandemic has necessitated virtual learning. We hypothesized that the virtual platform would improve and expand the MOE experience to include collaborative institutions while approximating a board examination environment.

Methods:

Sixteen senior plastic surgery residents and 14 faculty from three separate programs participated in a cross-institutional virtual MOE. Over a single day, each trainee was evaluated by two faculty from a separate institution on six scenarios, including digitally interactive photographs. Immediate postexamination debriefing with feedback was performed. All participants were subsequently invited to complete an anonymous survey regarding MOE experience, accuracy, and stress level, with responses graded on a Likert scale (1–5).

Results:

Twenty-three participants completed the survey, with 87% having prior MOE experience; however, only 26.1% of participants had virtual MOE experience. Most found the virtual platform more convenient (4.18 + 1.18; 5—far more convenient, 1—far less convenient) and less stressful (2.32 + 0.65; 5—far more stressful, 1—far less stressful) than in-person. All participants found the examination fair, and participants found the examination valuable (4.65 + 0.57) in preparing trainees for the American Board of Plastic Surgery oral examination.

Conclusions:

The majority of participants found the virtual MOE experience valuable and comparable to in-person. These results reinforce that a virtual MOE provides an acceptable alternative with greater convenience and improved cross-institutional collaborative efforts.
Prolonged administration of a secretin receptor antagonist inhibits biliary senescence and liver fibrosis in Mdr2−/− mice
Authors: Wu Nan , Zhou Tianhao , Carpino Guido , Baiocchi Leonardo , Kyritsi Konstantina , Kennedy Lindsey , Ceci Ludovica , Chen Lixian , Wu Chaodong , Kundu Debjyoti , Barupala Nipuni , Franchitto Antonio , Onori Paolo , Ekser Burcin , Gaudio Eugenio , Francis Heather , Glaser Shannon , Alpini Gianfranco
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims:

Secretin (SCT) and secretin receptor (SR, only expressed on cholangiocytes within the liver) play key roles in modulating liver phenotypes. Forkhead box A2 (FoxA2) is required for normal bile duct homeostasis by preventing the excess of cholangiocyte proliferation. Short-term administration of the SR antagonist (SCT 5–27) decreased ductular reaction and liver fibrosis in bile duct ligated and Mdr2−/− [primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), model] mice. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and risks of long-term SCT 5–27 treatment in Mdr2−/− mice.

Approach and Results:

In vivo studies were performed in male wild-type and Mdr2−/− mice treated with saline or SCT 5–27 for 3 months and human samples from late-stage PSC patients and healthy controls. Compared with controls, biliary SCT/SR expression and SCT serum levels increased in Mdr2−/− mice and late-stage PSC patients. There was a significant increase in ductular reaction, biliary senescence, liver inflammation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, biliary expression of TGF-β1/VEGF-A axis, and biliary phosphorylation of protein kinase A and ERK1/2 in Mdr2−/− mice. The biliary expression of miR-125b and FoxA2 decreased in Mdr2−/− compared with wild-type mice, which was reversed by long-term SCT 5–27 treatment. In vitro, SCT 5–27 treatment of a human biliary PSC cell line decreased proliferation and senescence and SR/TGF-β1/VEGF-A axis but increased the expression of miR-125b and FoxA2. Downregulation of FoxA2 prevented SCT 5–27–induced reduction in biliary damage, whereas overexpression of FoxA2 reduced proliferation and senescence in the human PSC cell line.

Conclusions:

Modulating the SCT/SR axis may be critical for managing PSC.
An open-label randomized noninferior study of generic name and brand name of propafenone for rhythm control in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chin Chye-Gen , Hsieh Yu-Cheng , Lin Wei-Shiang , Lin Yenn-Jiang , Chiou Chuen-Wang , Lin Tsung-Hsien , Huang Chien-Lung , Hung Yuan , Lin Yung-Kuo , Chang Shih-Lin , Yeh Tong-Chen , Lee Hsiang-Chun , Lai Wen-Ter , Hsieh Ming-Hsiung
Published: February 2023

Background:

Propafenone is a class IC antiarrhythmic agent that is commonly used as the first-line therapy for patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) in Taiwan. This study compared the efficacy and safety of generic (Rhynorm) and brand name (Rytmonorm) propafenone for rhythm control of paroxysmal AF in Taiwan.

Methods:

This was an open-label randomized multicenter noninferior study conducted in Taiwan. We enrolled 76 patients with AF. To investigate the efficacy of propafenone, we used a wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) event recorder to evaluate the daily burden of AF episodes in patients for 24 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the frequency of AF with clinical significance, which was indicated by AF duration ≥30 seconds. The safety endpoints included proarrhythmic or hemodynamic adverse events.

Result:

To analyze the efficacy and safety of these agents, 71 patients (five patients with screen failure) were randomized to two groups, specifically a Rhynorm group (n = 37) and a Rytmonorm group (n = 34), for 24 weeks of the treatment period. The baseline patient characteristics were comparable between the groups. However, the Rhynorm group was older (65.4 ± 8.40 vs 59.8 ± 10.8 years; p = 0.02). The primary efficacy endpoint at week 24 decreased by 4.76% ± 18.5% (from 24.3% ± 33.9% to 19.0% ± 28.7%; p = 0.13) in the Rhynorm group and by 3.27% ± 15.2% (from 16.9% ± 26.4% to 13.6% ± 19.2%; p = 0.22) in the Rytmonorm group, with an intergroup difference of 1.5% ± 17.0%; p = 0.71. This finding indicates that Rhynorm is not inferior to Rytmonorm (p = 0.023 for noninferiority). The safety profile of the agents was comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Our results verified that Rhynorm was noninferior to Rytmonorm in terms of efficacy and safety for treating paroxysmal AF in Taiwan (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03674658).
Combining 99mTc-GSA single-photon emission-computed tomography and Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for staging liver fibrosis
Authors: Tokorodani Ryotaro , Kume Toshiaki , Daisaki Hiromitu , Hayashi Naoya , Iwasa Hitomi , Yamagami Takuji
Published: February 2023

Preoperative assessment of the degree of liver fibrosis is important to determine treatment strategies. In this study, galactosyl human serum albumin single-photon emission-computed tomography and ethoxybenzyl (EOB) contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to assess the changes in hepatocyte function after liver fibrosis, and the standardized uptake value (SUV) was combined with gadolinium EOB-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid to evaluate its added value for liver fibrosis staging.

A total of 484 patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent liver resection between January 2010 and August 2018 were included. Resected liver specimens were classified based on pathological findings into nonfibrotic and fibrotic groups (stratified according to the Ludwig scale). Galactosyl human serum albumin-single-photon emission-computed tomography and EOB contrast-enhanced MRI examinations were performed, and the mean SUVs (SUVmean) and contrast enhancement indices (CEIs) were obtained. The diagnostic value of the acquired SUV and CEIs for fibrosis was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, SUV + CEI showed the highest AUC in both fibrosis groups. In particular, in the comparison between fibrosis groups, SUV + CEI showed significantly higher AUCs than SUV and CEI alone in discriminating between fibrosis (F3 and 4) and no or mild fibrosis (F0 and 2) (AUC: 0.879, vs SUV [P = 0.008], vs. CEI [P = 0.023]), suggesting that the combination of SUV + CEI has greater diagnostic performance than the individual indices.

Combining the SUV and CEI provides high accuracy for grading liver fibrosis, especially in differentiating between grades F0 and 2 and F3–4. SUV and gadolinium EOB-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid-enhanced MRI can be noninvasive diagnostic methods to guide the selection of clinical treatment options for patients with liver diseases.
Comparison of Feng spinal mobilization with Maitland mobilization in management of chronic nonspecific low back pain: A cohort study
Authors: Gong Cheng , Dai Shiyin , Jin Bing , Xie Ying
Published: February 2023

Feng spinal mobilization (FSM) is one of the most widely practiced techniques in traditional Chinese osteopathy, especially in China. However, whether this FSM technique is more effective than the Maitland posteroanterior mobilization (MM), which is widely used all over the world, is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze and compare the efficacy of these 2 treatments in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) as to provide a basis for the clinical treatment of chronic low back pain. A total of 83 patients, including 43 patients in the FSM group and 40 in the MM group, were enrolled in this cohort study. FSM or MM was performed on patients 3 times during a period of 2 weeks. Changes in the subjective and objective measurements were measured before and after the third treatment. The subjective symptoms recorded included the visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9. The objective symptoms, including the lumbar range of motion (ROM), and straight leg raise (SLR) height were also checked for any changes. The VAS scores were reassessed at the 1-year follow-up visit. The results showed that 2 weeks of FSM treatment significantly improved CNLBP patients modified Schober test (P < .05), extension ROM (P < .01), and SLR height (P < .05) while MM treatment did not. Both treatments significantly decreased the values of VAS, Oswestry disability index, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (P < .01). Compared to the MM treatment, the FSM treatment showed a much more significant improvement in VAS score (P < .01), range of motion of extension (P < .01), and SLR of both sides (P < .05). At the 1-year follow-up, VAS scores in both groups decreased significantly compared to pretreatments; however, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups. Our data suggested that the FSM treatment can provide better efficacy than MM in CNLBP patients, improving the VAS scores, lumbar extension ROM, and SLR height in a shorter time.
Extensive Extramedullary Involvement at Presentation in B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Sharma Siddharth , Singh Vijay , Ora Manish , Nazar Aftab Hasan , Gambhir Sanjay
Published: February 2023

Extensive extramedullary involvement as presentation is uncommon in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A 7-year-old boy was diagnosed with painless parotid gland enlargement. He had pancytopenia and significantly raised serum lactate dehydrogenase. Fine-needle aspiration cytology from the parotid was suggestive of lymphoid malignancy. Flow cytometry and bone marrow biopsy suggested B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.18F-FDG PET/CT revealed extensive bone marrow disease and the involvement of the spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and the parotid, submandibular, and lacrimal glands. He had negligible physiological brain uptake.
The health of influenza surveillance and pandemic preparedness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Daniels Rodney Stuart , McCauley John William
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic is the first to have emerged when Next Generation Sequencing was readily available and it has played the major role in following evolution of the causative agent, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. Response to the pandemic was greatly facilitated though use of existing influenza surveillance networks: World Health Organization (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), focussing largely on human influenza, and the OFFLU network of expertise on avian influenza established by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). Data collection/deposition platforms associated with these networks, notably WHO’s FluNet and the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) were/are being used intensely. Measures introduced to combat COVID-19 resulted in greatly decreased circulation of human seasonal influenza viruses for approximately 2 years, but circulation continued in the animal sector with an upsurge in the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N1 with large numbers of wild bird deaths, culling of many poultry flocks and sporadic spill over into mammalian species, including humans, thereby increasing pandemic risk potential. While there are proposals/implementations to extend use of GISRS and GISAID to other infectious disease agents (e.g. Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Monkeypox), there is need to ensure that influenza surveillance is maintained and improved in both human and animal sectors in a sustainable manner to be truly prepared (early detection) for the next influenza pandemic.
Impact of neuromodulation on post-stroke aphasia: a multimodal randomized controlled study
Authors: Zheng Zhong Sheng , Wang Kevin Xing-Long , Millan Henry , Lee Sharon , Howard Melissa , Rothbart Aaron , Frohlich Joel , Rosario Emily , Schnakers Caroline
Published: February 2023

Background

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with speech and language therapy (SLT) may increase the effectiveness of recovery in post-stroke aphasia. However, inconsistent responses have been observed, in part due to small sample sizes, limited comprehensive assessments, and poor mechanistic understanding of intervention related recovery.

Methods

Using a double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled design, we investigated the efficacy of anodal Broca’s tDCS combined with SLT over five 20-minute daily sessions in 45 chronic stroke patients. EEG and DTI were used to explore treatment-mediated neuroplastic mechanisms. The primary outcome measures were linguistic skills evaluated by the Western Aphasia Battery-Revised before and after the intervention.

Results

Compared to sham (SLT + placebo), tDCS patients improved significantly more in aphasia quotient, auditory verbal comprehension, and spontaneous speech. While tDCS improved both expressive and receptive domains, sham only improved expressive language. EEG showed recovery in both groups to rely predominantly on the contralesional side, particularly the right middle temporal area (T4). While tDCS induced recovery correlated with changes in the faster frequencies (e.g., alpha, beta), sham mediated recovery correlated with changes in the slower frequencies (e.g., theta, delta). Furthermore, reduced beta coherence between T3 and T4 was associated with repetition gains specific to tDCS. Furthermore, improved spontaneous speech in tDCS was associated with decreased mean diffusivity in superior cerebellar peduncle. Given this region’s connectivity with contralateral cortical regions, this finding extends and aligns with the EEG signatures of neuroplasticity in right-lateralized cortical regions, highlighting the role of cerebro-cerebellar connections in language recovery.

Conclusions

Our findings support the use of anodal Broca’s tDCS for enhancing both expressive and receptive language domains in chronic aphasia. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first multimodal neuroimaging (EEG, DTI) study to uncover mechanistic differences between tDCS and behavioral mediated aphasia recovery, and the first to identify a cerebellar white matter marker of language recovery following tDCS.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov[NCT03699930]