bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Virtual Reality in Rehabilitation of Executive Functions in Children (VREALFUN) – Study Protocols for Randomized Control Trials
Authors: Nikula Merja , Mäntymaa Mirjami , LaValle Steven M. , Pouttu Ari , Jaekel Julia , Aronen Eeva T. , Pokka Tytti , Salmi Juha , Uusimaa Johanna 
Published: May 2024

AbstractChildren with attention and executive function disabilities often have a long-lasting need for rehabilitation to support their functional ability. Yet the availability of rehabilitation services is insufficient, regionally unevenly distributed, and unequal in terms of access to rehabilitation. There is a need for easily accessible services. In this paper, we present the VREALFUN project where the major aim is to develop a novel Virtual Reality (VR) rehabilitation method for children with deficits in attention and executive functions. This ongoing Randomized Control Study (RCT) includes two arms, one in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the other in children with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Out-of-time-ordered correlators in the IP matrix model
Authors: Iizuka Norihiro , Nishida Mitsuhiro 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
We study the out-of-time-ordered correlators (OTOCs) in the IP matrix model [1]. It was shown in [2] that OTOCs do not grow when the adjoint is massless. We generalize the analysis of OTOCs to general nonzero masses m > 0 for the adjoint, where we give a new prescription for analytic continuation in time such that we can evaluate OTOCs numerically using the retarded Green function. Despite the fact that the behaviors of the two-point functions, spectral density, and the Krylov complexity change drastically depending on whether the adjoint is massless or not, in the parameter ranges we study, we do not see the exponential growth of OTOCs for the massive adjoint cases. We end with a discussion of the comparison of this model with the SYK model and possible modification of the model.
Probing the interference between non-linear, axionic and space-time-anisotropy effects in the QED vacuum
Authors: Paixão J. M. A. , Ospedal L. P. R. , Neves M. J. , Helayël-Neto J. A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
In this paper, we pursue the investigation of a generic non-linear extension of axionic electrodynamics in a Carroll-Field-Jackiw (CFJ) scenario that implements Lorentz-symmetry violation (LSV). The model we inspect consists of an arbitrary non-linear electrodynamic action coupled to the axion field in presence of an anisotropy four-vector that realizes the breaking of Lorentz symmetry under the particle point of view. For the sake of our considerations, the non-linear electromagnetic field is expanded around a constant and uniform magnetic background up to second order in the propagating photon field. The focus of our attention is the study of the material properties of the vacuum in the particular case of a space-like CFJ 4-vector. The dispersion relations associated to the plane wave solutions are explicitly worked out in two situations: the magnetic background perpendicular and parallel to the wave direction. We extend these results to consider the analysis of the birefringence phenomenon in presence of non-linearity, the axion and the LSV manifested through the spatial anisotropy. Three specific proposals of non-linear electrodynamics are contemplated: Euler-Heisenberg (EH), Born-Infeld (BI) and the Modified Maxwell electrodynamics (ModMax). Throughout the paper, we shall justify why we follow the unusual path of connecting, in a single Lagrangian density, three pieces of physics beyond the Standard Model, namely, non-linearity, axions and LSV. We anticipate that we shall not be claiming that the simultaneous introduction of these three topics beyond the Standard Model will bring new insights or clues for the efforts to detect axions or to constrain parameters associate to both non-linear electrodynamics and LSV physics. Our true goal is to actually inspect and describe how axionic, non-linear and LSV effects interfere with one another whenever physical entities like group velocity, refraction indices, birefringence and effective masses of physical excitations are computed in presence of an external constant and homogeneous magnetic field.
Minimal flavour deconstruction
Authors: Barbieri Riccardo , Isidori Gino 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
We construct two concrete examples of flavour non-universal gauge theories which, after the inclusion of all d ≤ 4 gauge invariant operators, allow to describe the observed pattern of flavour in the charged fermion sector without any small Yukawa coupling (y ≳ 0.1). Guided by the criterium of minimality, we assume that flavour non universality is confined to the Abelian sector of the gauge group: the universal hypercharge emerges after a sequence of symmetry-breaking steps characterised by two high mass scales, Λ[23]< Λ[12], where the second and the first fermion generations get their mass respectively. At least in one of the two models the smaller of these scales can be in the 10 TeV range, consistently with current bounds from flavour observables. Both models are extended to include as well neutrino masses and mixings.
Three-loop inverse scotogenic seesaw models
Authors: Abada Asmaa , Bernal Nicolás , Cárcamo Hernández A. E. , Kovalenko Sergey , de Melo Téssio B. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
We propose a class of models providing an explanation of the origin of light neutrino masses, the baryon asymmetry of the Universe via leptogenesis and offering viable dark matter candidates. In these models the Majorana masses of the active neutrino are generated by the inverse seesaw mechanism with the lepton number violating right-handed Majorana neutrino masses μ arising at three loops. The latter is ensured by the preserved discrete symmetries, which also guarantee the stability of the dark matter candidate. We focus on one of these models and perform a detailed analysis of the phenomenology of its leptonic sector. The model can successfully accommodate baryogenesis through leptogenesis in both weak and strong washout regimes. The lightest heavy fermion turns out to be a viable dark matter candidate, provided that the entries of the Majorana submatrix μ are in the keV to MeV range. The solutions are consistent with the experimental constraints, accommodating both mass orderings for active neutrinos, in particular charged-lepton flavor violating decays μ → eγ, μ → eee, and the electron-muon conversion processes get sizable rates within future sensitivity reach.
Three evolution problems modeling the interaction between acoustic waves and non-locally reacting surfaces
Authors: Vitillaro Enzo 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe paper deals with three evolution problems arising in the physical modeling of small amplitude acoustic phenomena occurring in a fluid, bounded by a surface of extended reaction. The first one is the widely studied wave equation with acoustic boundary conditions, but its derivation from the physical model is mathematically not fully satisfactory. The other two models studied in the paper, in the Lagrangian and Eulerian settings, are physically transparent. In the paper the first model is derived from the other two in a rigorous way, also for solutions merely belonging to the natural energy spaces.
Insights into fluid evolution and Re enrichment by mineral micro-analysis and fluid inclusion constraints: Evidence from the Maronia Cu-Mo ± Re ± Au porphyry system in NE Greece
Authors: Falkenberg Jan J. , Keith Manuel , Melfos Vasilios , Hohl Max , Haase Karsten M. , Voudouris Panagiotis , Höss Alica , Wenske Julia , Klemd Reiner , Beier Christoph , Kutzschbach Martin , Strauss Harald 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPorphyry-epithermal veins hosting Re-rich molybdenite and rheniite (ReS2) from the Maronia Cu-Mo ± Re ± Au porphyry in Thrace, NE Greece, provide new insights into the hydrothermal processes causing extreme Re enrichment. Quartz trace element chemistry (Al/Ti, Ge/Ti), Ti-in-quartz thermometry, and cathodoluminescence imaging reveal multiple quartz generations in consecutive hydrothermal quartz-sulfide veins associated with potassic, sericitic, and argillic alteration. Fluid inclusions in different quartz generations indicate that phase separation and fluid cooling are the main ore-forming processes in the porphyry stage (~ 500 – 350 °C), whereas mixing of a vapor-rich fluid with metalliferous (e.g., Pb, Zn, Au) meteoric water forms the epithermal veins (~ 280 °C). These processes are recorded by trace element ratios in pyrite that are sensitive to changes in fluid temperature (Se/Te), fluid salinity (As/Sb, Co/As), and mixing between fluids of magmatic and meteoric origin (Se/Ge). Highly variable intra-grain δ34S values in pyrite record S isotope fractionation during SO2 disproportionation and phase separation, emphasizing the importance of in situ δ34S analysis to unravel ore-forming processes. High δ34S (~ 4.5‰) values of sulfides are indicative of low SO42−/H2S fluid ratios buffered by the local host rocks and mixing of the magma-derived fluid with meteoric water. The formation of Re-rich molybdenite (~ 6600 ppm) is favored by cooling and reduction of a magma-derived, high-temperature (~400 °C), oxidized, and Re-rich fluid triggering efficient Re precipitation in early veins in the potassic alteration zone. The systematic temporal fluid evolution therefore reveals that coeval cooling and reduction of oxidized Re-rich fluids cause extreme Re enrichment at the Maronia porphyry system.
Comparative analysis of late gadolinium enhancement assessment techniques for monitoring fibrotic changes in myocarditis follow-up
Authors: Károlyi Mihály , Polacin Malgorzata , Kolossváry Márton , Sokolska Justyna M. , Matziris Ioannis , Weber Lucas , Alkadhi Hatem , Manka Robert 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Objectives
To compare the repeatability and interrelation of various late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) assessment techniques for monitoring fibrotic changes in myocarditis follow-up.

Materials and methods
LGE extent change between baseline and 3-month cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) was compared in patients with acute myocarditis using the full width at half maximum (FWHM), gray-scale thresholds at 5 and 6 standard deviations (SD5 and SD6), visual assessment with threshold (VAT) and full manual (FM) techniques. In addition, visual presence score (VPS), visual transmurality score (VTS), and a simplified visual change score (VCS) were assessed. Intraclass-correlation (ICC) was used to evaluate repeatability, and methods were compared using Spearman’s correlation.

Results
Forty-seven patients (38 male, median age: 27 [IQR: 21; 38] years) were included. LGE extent change differed among quantitative techniques (p < 0.01), with variability in the proportion of patients showing LGE change during follow-up (FWHM: 62%, SD5: 74%, SD6: 66%, VAT: 43%, FM: 60%, VPS: 53%, VTS: 77%, VCS: 89%). Repeatability was highest with FWHM (ICC: 0.97) and lowest with SD5 (ICC: 0.89). Semiquantitative scoring had slightly lower values (VPS ICC: 0.81; VTS ICC: 0.71). VCS repeatability was excellent (ICC: 0.93). VPS and VTS correlated with quantitative techniques, while VCS was positively associated with VPS, VTS, VAT, and FM, but not with FWHM, SD5, and SD6.

Conclusion
FWHM offers the least observer-dependent LGE follow-up after myocarditis. VPS, VTS, and VCS are practical alternatives, showing reliable correlations with quantitative methods. Classification of patients exhibiting either stable or changing LGE relies on the assessment technique.

Clinical relevance statement
This study shows that LGE monitoring in myocarditis is technique-dependent; the FWHM method yields the most consistent fibrotic tracking results, with scoring-based techniques as reliable alternatives.

Key Points

Recognition of fibrotic changes during myocarditis follow-up is significantly influenced by the choice of the quantification technique employed.

The FWHM technique ensures highly repeatable tracking of myocarditis-related LGE changes.

Segment-based visual scoring and the simplified visual change score offer practical, reproducible alternatives in resource-limited settings.
Fair group decisions via non-deterministic proportional consensus
Authors: Heitzig Jobst , Simmons Forest W. , Constantino Sara M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Are there group decision methods which (i) give everyone, including minorities, an equal share of effective decision power even when voters act strategically, (ii) promote consensus and equality, rather than polarization and inequality, and (iii) do not favour the status quo or rely too much on chance? We describe two non-deterministic group decision methods that meet these criteria, one based on automatic bargaining over lotteries, the other on conditional commitments to approve compromise options. Using theoretical analysis, agent-based simulations and a behavioral experiment, we show that these methods prevent majorities from consistently suppressing minorities, which can happen in deterministic methods, and keeps proponents of the status quo from blocking decisions, as in other consensus-based approaches. Our simulations show that these methods achieve aggregate welfare comparable to common voting methods, while employing chance judiciously, and that the welfare costs of fairness and consensus are small compared to the inequality costs of majoritarianism. In an incentivized experiment with naive participants, we find that a sizable fraction of participants prefers to use a non-deterministic voting method over Plurality Voting to allocate monetary resources. However, this depends critically on their position within the group. Those in the majority show a strong preference for majoritarian voting methods.
Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) for pediatric low-grade glioma—case presentations and lessons learned
Authors: Strauss Ido , Gabay Segev , Roth Jonathan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The surgical treatment of brain tumors has developed over time, offering customized strategies for patients and their specific lesions. One of the most recent advances in pediatric neuro-oncological surgery is laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT). However, its effectiveness and indications are still being evaluated. The aim of this work is to review the current literature on LITT for pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGG) and evaluate our initial results in this context.

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed our pediatric neurosurgery database for patients who received LITT treatment between November 2019 and December 2023. We collected data on the indications for LITT, technical issues during the procedure, and clinical and radiological follow-up.

Results
Three patients underwent 5 LITT procedures for pLGG. The lesion was thalamo-peduncular in one patient, cingulate in one, and deep parietal in one patient. Two patients had a previous open resection done and were diagnosed with pLGG. One patient underwent a stereotaxic biopsy during the LITT procedure that was non-diagnostic. The same patient underwent a later open resection of the tumor in the cingulate gyrus. There were no surgical complications and all patients were discharged home on the first post-operative day. The follow-up period was between 20 and 40 months. Radiological follow-up showed a progressive reduction of the tumor in patients with LGG.

Conclusion
Laser interstitial thermal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that shows promise in treating deep-seated pLGG in children. The treatment has demonstrated a reduction in tumor volume, and the positive results continue over time. LITT can be used as an alternative treatment for tumors located in areas that are difficult to access surgically or in cases where other standard treatment options have failed.
Ankle fracture surgery performed by orthopaedic residents without supervision has comparable outcomes to surgery performed by fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons
Authors: Tenenbaum Shay A. , Shenkar Yorye , Fogel Itay , Maoz Or , Balziano Snir , Barzilai Yuval , Prat Dan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Unstable fractures often necessitate open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), which generally yield favourable outcomes. However, the impact of surgical trainee autonomy on healthcare quality in these procedures remains uncertain. We hypothesized that surgery performed solely by residents, without supervision or participation of an attending surgeon, can provide similar outcomes to surgery performed by trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons.

Methods
A single-center cohort of an academic level-1 trauma center was retrospectively reviewed for all ankle ORIF between 2015 and 2019. Data were compared between surgery performed solely by post-graduate-year 4 to 6 residents, and surgery performed by trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained surgeons. Demographics, surgical parameters, preoperative and postoperative radiographs, and primary (mortality, complications, and revision surgery) and secondary outcome variables were collected and analyzed. Univariate analysis was performed to evaluate outcomes.

Results
A total of 460 ankle fractures were included in the study. Nonoperative cases and cases operated by senior orthopaedic surgeons who are not trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons were excluded. The average follow-up time was 58.4 months (SD ± 12.5). Univariate analysis of outcomes demonstrated no significant difference between residents and attendings in complications and reoperations rate (p = 0.690, p = 0.388). Sub-analysis by fracture pattern (Lauge-Hansen classification) and the number of malleoli involved and fixated demonstrated similar outcomes. surgery time was significantly longer in the resident group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion
The current study demonstrates that ankle fracture surgery can be performed by trained orthopaedic surgery residents, with similar results and complication rates as surgery performed by fellowship-trained attendings. These findings provide valuable insights into surgical autonomy in residency and its role in modern clinical training and surgical education.

Level of evidence
Level III – retrospective cohort study.
Comparison of virtual reality and computed tomography in the preoperative planning of complex tibial plateau fractures
Authors: Colcuc Christian , Miersbach Marco , Cienfuegos Miguel , Grüneweller Niklas , Vordemvenne Thomas , Wähnert Dirk 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Preoperative planning is a critical step in the success of any complex surgery. The pur-pose of this study is to evaluate the advantage of VR glasses in surgical planning of complex tibial plateau fractures compared to CT planning.

Materials and methods
Five orthopedic surgeons performed preoperative planning for 30 fractures using either conventional CT slices or VR visualization with a VR headset. Planning was performed in a randomized order with a 3-month interval between planning sessions. A standardized questionnaire assessed planned operative time, planning time, fracture classification and understanding, and surgeons’ subjective confidence in surgical planning.

Results
The mean planned operative time of 156 (SD 47) minutes was significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the VR group than in the CT group (172 min; SD 44). The mean planning time in the VR group was 3.48 min (SD 2.4), 17% longer than in the CT group (2.98 min, SD 1.9; p = 0.027). Relevant parameters influencing planning time were surgeon experience (-0.61 min) and estimated complexity of fracture treatment (+ 0.65 min).

Conclusion
The use of virtual reality for surgical planning of complex tibial plateau fractures resulted in significantly shorter planned operative time, while planning time was longer compared to CT planning. After VR planning, more surgeons felt (very) well prepared for surgery.
Patient satisfaction and sexual issues in vulvar lichen sclerosus treatment: a monocentric certified dysplasia unit survey analysis
Authors: Meyer-Wilmes Philipp , Wittenborn Julia , Kupec Tomáš , Caspers Rebecca , Stickeler Elmar , Iborra Séverine 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Objective
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is an underestimated chronic disease. It can cause significant symptom burden and sexual dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction and current challenges in the management of VLS in a certified dysplasia unit, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
This survey analyzed patients who had been diagnosed with VLS and treated at our DKG-certified dysplasia unit. The study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at the University of Aachen. The questionnaire contained 43 questions on general treatment, diagnostic delays, disease education, psychologic and sexual issues, and specific questions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaires were distributed between January 2021 and September 2023.

Results
This study included 103 patients diagnosed with VLS, who were treated at our certified dysplasia unit. Overall, 48% of the patients were satisfied with the success of the therapy. Most participants reported psychologic problems (36.8%), fear of cancer (53.3%), or sexual restrictions (53.3%). Among the patients, 38% were bothered by the regular application of topical cortisone. However, 72% were willing to undergo treatment for more than 24 months. The COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020 had a significant negative impact on general VLS care from the patient’s perspective (3.83/5 before vs. 3.67/5 after; p = 0.046). There was a general request for booklets to inform and educate the patients about their disease. Furthermore, the respondents demanded a telephone hotline to answer the questions and wished for follow-up visits via e-mail to cope better with their current situation.

Conclusion
This study highlights the need for more effective treatments for VLS and an increased awareness of psychologic and sexual distress. To ensure patient well-being and satisfaction, it is imperative to offer individualized care with adequate disease education in a team of specialists from various disciplines.
Is breathing frequency a potential means for monitoring exercise intensity in people with atrial fibrillation and coronary heart disease when heart rate is mitigated?
Authors: Buckley John P. , Terada Tasuku , Lion Anna , Reed Jennifer L. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is safe and beneficial in atrial fibrillation (AF) and coronary heart disease (CHD). Irregular or rapid heart rates (HR) in AF and other heart conditions create a challenge to using HR to monitor exercise intensity. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential of breathing frequency (BF) to monitor exercise intensity in people with AF and CHD without AF.

Methods
This observational study included 30 AF participants (19 Male, 70.7 ± 8.7 yrs) and 67 non-AF CHD participants (38 Male, 56.9 ± 11.4 yrs). All performed an incremental maximal exercise test with pulmonary gas exchange.

Results
Peak aerobic power in AF ($${\dot{\text{V}}}$$

V
˙

O2peak; 17.8 ± 5.0 ml.kg−1.min−1) was lower than in CHD (26.7 ml.kg−1.min−1) (p < .001). BF responses in AF and CHD were similar (BF peak: AF 34.6 ± 5.4 and CHD 36.5 ± 5.0 breaths.min−1; p = .106); at the 1st ventilatory threshold (BF@VT-1: AF 23.2 ± 4.6; CHD 22.4 ± 4.6 breaths.min−1; p = .240). %$${\dot{\text{V}}}$$

V
˙

O2peak at VT-1 were similar in AF and CHD (AF: 59%; CHD: 57%; p = .656).

Conclusion
With the use of wearable technologies on the rise, that now include BF, this first study provides an encouraging potential for BF to be used in AF and CHD. As the supporting data are based on incremental ramp protocol results, further research is required to assess BF validity to manage exercise intensity during longer bouts of exercise.