bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acquired perforating dermatosis successfully treated with dupilumab
Authors: Alwattar‐Ceballos Omar , Moro‐Bolado Fernando , Martínez‐Montalvo Laura , Herreros Fernández‐Arroyo Pablo , Ramos‐Rodríguez Claudia C. , García‐Arpa Monica 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAcquired perforating dermatosis (APD) is a disorder of transepidermal elimination of keratin, collagen or elastic fibers. APD is mainly associated with diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. We present the case of a 66‐year‐old male, poorly controlled diabetic with peripheral arterial disease, obesity, arterial hypertension, Cushing's syndrome and chronic kidney disease requiring hemodialysis who develops an acquired perforating dermatosis. Due to the patient's comorbidities, treatment with corticosteroids, cyclosporine and phototherapy is not possible. He does not respond to gabapentinoids or allopurinol. The outbreaks of skin lesions and pruritus were accentuated in situations of renal function deterioration; however, hemodialysis did not improve her dermatosis, causing a great deterioration of her quality of life. It was decided to start treatment with dupilumab with the dosage used in atopic dermatitis, achieving a complete response of both pruritus and skin lesions. With this case, we want to show how dupilumab can be an effective tool to treat acquired perforating dermatosis.
Comparison of Mechanical Forces used in Open Tracheotomy versus Percutaneous Tracheotomy Techniques
Authors: Bharathi Ramya , Rao Gopikrishna M. , Tracy Jeremiah , Groblewski Jan , Koenigs Maria 
Published: May 2023

ObjectiveTo understand the etiology of tracheotomy‐induced tracheal stenosis by comparing the differences in techniques and mechanical force applied with open tracheotomy (OT) versus percutaneous tracheotomy (PCT) placement.MethodsThis study is an unblinded, experimental, randomized controlled study in an ex‐vivo animal model. Simulated tracheostomies were performed on 10 porcine tracheas, 5 via a tracheal window technique (OT) and 5 using the Ciaglia technique (PCT). The applied weight during the simulated tracheostomy and the compression of the trachea were recorded at set times during the procedure. The applied weight during tracheostomy was used to calculate the tissue force in Newtons. Tracheal compression was measured by anterior–posterior distance compression and as percent change.ResultsAverage forces for scalpel (OT) versus trocar (PCT) were 2.6 N and 12.5 N (p < 0.01), with the dilator (PCT) it was 22.02 N (p < 0.01). The tracheostomy placement with OT required an average force of 10.7 N versus 23.2 N (p < 0.01) with PCT. The average change in AP distance when using the scalpel versus trocar was 21%, and 44% (p < 0.01), with the dilator it was 75% (p < 0.01). The trach placement with OT versus PCT had an average AP distance change of 51% and 83% respectively (p < 0.01).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that PCT required more force and caused more tracheal lumen compression when compared to the OT technique. Based on the increased force required for PCT, we suspect there could also be an increased risk for tracheal cartilage trauma.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 134:103–107, 2024
Reproductive potential of the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae Scop.) on a range of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) accessions
Authors: Skovgård Henrik , Stoddard Frederick L. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe black bean aphid is one of the main insect pests of faba bean, leading to yield losses in many countries. The aphid inflicts damage to faba bean through direct phloem feeding and indirectly by transmission of several viruses. Sources of genetic resistance or tolerance to the aphid have been hard to identify and to use in breeding because of the high environmental variability of the attack, the weak and partial nature of the resistance when found, and the low repeatability of experiments. A range of molecular genotyping tools is now available for identifying the genes underlying key traits in faba bean. Hence, we screened the responses of eight inbred lines (Columbo, Albus, Closed‐flower, Diana, Hedin/2, Icarus, ILB938/2, and Mélodie/2) of faba bean, derived from commercial cultivars and experimental germplasm, to aphid infestation in controlled (no‐choice‐test) and field (preference test) conditions. In the controlled environment, aphid performance was assessed by measuring fecundity and determining the intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm). In the field experiment, population growth was examined on Columbo, Closed‐flower, Hedin/2, and ILB938/2 during June and July. Each week, 10 plants in each plot, randomly chosen at the start, were screened for aphid colonization and number of plants attacked. For each plant, an index number was given reflecting the severity of aphid presence. Our results demonstrate a clear conformity between the results obtained from the indoor pot experiments and the field experiments. In both experiments, ILB938/2 showed partial resistance with significantly lower fecundity, rm, and field infestation when compared with the known susceptible line Columbo. The consistently strong performance of ILB938/2 against the black bean aphid suggests that it carries a factor or factors rendering it unconducive to aphid landing, feeding, and/or reproduction. Further investigation into the resistance mechanisms of ILB938/2 is planned.
Tailoring Polymerization Controllability and Dispersity Through a Photoswitchable Catalyst Strategy
Authors: Chen Zhuan , Sun Yue , Wang Xin , Zhang Weidong , Zhang Zhengbiao 
Published: May 2023

AbstractModulating on‐demand polymerization is a challenge in synthetic macromolecules. Herein, tailoring polymerization controllability and dispersity during single‐electron transfer mediated living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) is achieved. Hexaarylbiimidazole (HABI) is employed as a photoswitchable catalyst, allowing reversible control of catalytic activity between an active and inactive state. In the presence of HABI and with the light on (active state), control SET‐LRP of MMA follows first‐order kinetics, resulting in polymers with a narrow molecular weight distribution. In contrast, polymerization responds to light and reverts to their original uncontrolled state with light off (inactive state). Therefore, repeatable resetting polymerization can be easily performed. The key to photomodulating dispersity is to use an efficient molecular switch to tailor the breadths of dispersity. Besides, the mechanism of HABI‐mediated SET‐LRP with switchable ability is proposed.
Case report: Compound heterozygous nonsense PCDH15 variant and a novel deep‐intronic variant in a Chinese child with profound hearing loss
Authors: Yang Ziying , Huang Minhong , Wei Xiuxiu , Sun Jun , Zhang Fuping 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundUsher syndrome is a condition characterized by partial or total hearing loss and progressive pigmentary retinopathy. Usher syndrome type 1F is caused by biallelic loss‐of‐function variants in Protocadherin 15 (PCDH15), which encodes the PCDH15 protein that plays an important role in the morphogenesis and cohesion of stereocilium bundles and retinal photoreceptor cell maintenance and function.MethodsWe report a child with bilateral nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss who received an inconclusive diagnosis based on clinical gene panel testing, which identified a paternal heterozygous nonsense variant (NM_033056.4: c.733C>T, p.R245*) in PCDH15. This variant has been described as a founder variant in the Ashkenazi Jewish population.ResultsA novel deep‐intronic variant (NM_033056.4: c.705+3767_705+3768del) inherited from the patient's mother was identified by trio‐based whole‐genome sequencing (WGS). A minigene splicing assay revealed that c.705+3767_705+3768del results in aberrant retention of 50 or 68 bp of intron 7.ConclusionOur genetic test results provided precise genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis for this family, and our findings highlight the power of WGS for detecting deep‐intronic variants in patients with undiagnosed rare diseases. Additionally, this case expands the variant spectrum of the PCDH15 gene and our results support the extremely low carrier frequency of c.733C>T in the Chinese population.
Development and Validation of a Laryngeal Microsurgery Simulation Training System for Otolaryngology Residents
Authors: Santander María Jesús , Sepúlveda Valeria , Iribarren Javier , Rosenbaum Andrés , Albrich Diego , Varas Julian , Lagos Antonia , Napolitano Carla 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to create a synthetic laryngeal microsurgery simulation model and training program; to assess its face, content, and construct validity; and to review the available phonomicrosurgery simulation models in the literature.Study DesignNonrandomly assigned control study.SettingSimulation training course for the otolaryngology residency program at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.MethodsResident (postgraduate year 1 [PGY1]/PGY2) and expert groups were recruited. A laryngeal microsurgery synthetic model was developed. Nine tasks were designed and assessed through a set of programmed exercises with increasing difficulty, to fulfill 5 surgical competencies. Imperial College Surgical Assessment Device sensors applied to the participants' hands measured time and movements. The activities were video‐recorded and blindly assessed by 2 laryngologists using a specific and global rating scale (SRS and GRS). A 5‐point Likert survey assessing validity was completed by experts.ResultsEighteen participants were recruited (14 residents and 4 experts). Experts performed significantly better than residents in the SRS (p = .003), and GRS (p = .004). Internal consistency was demonstrated for the SRS (α = .972, p < .001). Experts had a shorter execution time (p = .007), and path length with the right hand (p = .04). The left hand did not show significant differences. The survey assessing validity resulted in a median 36 out of 40 points score for face validity; and 43 out of 45 points score, for global content validity. The literature review revealed 20 available phonomicrosurgery simulation models, only 6 with construct validity.ConclusionThe face, content, and construct validity of the laryngeal microsurgery simulation training program were established. It could be replicated and incorporated into residents' curricula.
Unraveling the central role of root morphology and anatomy in lodging of tef (Eragrostis tef)
Authors: Ben‐Zeev Shiran , Kirby Noa , Diehn Sabrina , Shtein Ilana , Elbaum Rivka , Saranga Yehoshua 
Published: May 2023

Societal Impact StatementCrop diversification is considered key to ensuring agricultural sustainability and food security. Tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) is a cereal crop grown mainly in Ethiopia, where it thrives in a wide range of environments, including stress‐prone habitats. It is considered a promising new crop and is gaining popularity in cultivation and in research worldwide. Lodging, the greatest factor limiting tef productivity and its wide adoption, was targeted in this study. The results highlight the central role of root traits in tef lodging, thus paving the way to reducing lodging and improving tef productivity, crop diversification, and food security.Summary

Lodging is the most prominent yield‐restricting problem in tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) cultivation, responsible for 30%–50% yield loss. A significant advance in lodging resistance has been achieved in various cereals by reducing plant height. In this study, we investigated the role of crown root morphology and anatomy, rather than plant height, in tef lodging.
Twenty‐eight tef lines, representing a wide diversity in lodging tendencies and major phenotypic traits, were tested under two field environments to investigate tef lodging and related traits. Four selected lines were subjected to more intense sampling as well as anatomical analysis of crown roots.
In both field studies, taller lines were associated with greater lodging shortly before flowering, but not at plant maturity, whereas crown root diameter exhibited an association with reduced lodging, which became highly significant at maturity. Moreover, a greater proportion of root cortical aerenchyma developed in lodging‐susceptible genotypes, possibly reducing plant anchorage. A positive association between grain yield and lodging presents a major challenge for tef breeding.
Our results suggest that root traits play a central role in tef lodging responses. We propose that semi‐dwarfism should be complemented by targeting root traits, to promote lodging resistance in tef.
Objective and self‐reported evidence of dextromethorphan antitussive efficacy in children, aged 6–11 years, with acute cough due to the common cold
Authors: Meeves Suzanne G. , Cruz‐Rivera Mario , Leyva Rina A. , Wilson Brenda L. , Moreira Sebastian A. , Gelotte Cathy K. , Jayawardena Shyamalie 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo determine objective and subjective endpoints most suitable for evaluating antitussive efficacy of dextromethorphan hydrobromide (DXM) in children. Spontaneous resolution of acute cough and large placebo effects are impediments to evaluating antitussive efficacy. Another impediment is paucity of age‐appropriate, validated cough assessment tools.MethodsThis was a multiple‐dose, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized, pilot clinical study in children, aged 6–11 years, with cough due to the common cold. Eligible subjects met entry criteria and qualified by completing a run‐in period where coughs were recorded with a cough monitor after they were dosed with sweet syrup. They were subsequently randomized to receive DXM or placebo over 4 days. Coughs were recorded during the initial 24 h; subjective assessments of cough severity and frequency were self‐reported daily during treatment.ResultsData from 128 evaluable subjects (67 DXM; 61 placebo) were analyzed. Total coughs over 24‐hours (primary endpoint) and cough frequency during daytime were reduced by 21.0% and 25.5%, respectively, with DXM relative to placebo. Also, greater reductions in cough severity and frequency were self‐reported with DXM. These findings were statistically significant and medically relevant. No effects were detected between treatments for nighttime cough rates or impact of cough on sleep. Multiple doses of DXM and placebo were generally well‐tolerated.ConclusionEvidence of DXM antitussive efficacy was shown in children using objective and subjective assessment tools validated in pediatric populations. Diurnal variation of cough frequency over 24 h reduced the assay sensitivity needed to detect treatment differences at nighttime, as coughs/hour decreased during sleep for both groups.
Parent and adolescent perceptions of cystic fibrosis management responsibility: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: South Katherine , Smaldone Arlene , Sadeghi Hossein , Piane Victoria , Kowal Rebecca , Wei Leanna , George Maureen 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundAdolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) and their parents must navigate changing roles and responsibilities within the family including transfer of disease management responsibilities.Aim/ObjectiveThe aim of this qualitative study was to explore how families share and transfer CF management responsibility from the perspectives of adolescents with CF and their parents.MethodsGuided by qualitative descriptive methodology, we purposively sampled adolescent/parent dyads. Participants completed two surveys measuring family responsibility (Family Responsibility Questionnaire [FRQ]) and transition readiness (Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire [TRAQ]) We conducted semistructured video or phone interviews, used a codebook to guide team coding and analyzed qualitative data using both content analysis and dyadic interview analysis.ResultsThirty participants (15 dyads) enrolled (7% Black; 33% Latina/o; 40% female; adolescent age 14.4 ± 2 years; 66% prescribed highly effective modulator therapy; 80% of parents were mothers). Parent FRQ and TRAQ scores were significantly higher than their adolescent indicating differing perceptions of responsibility and transition readiness. We inductively identified four themes: (1) CF management is a delicate balance (CF management is a routine which is easily disrupted), (2) Growing up and parenting under extraordinary circumstances (the burden of CF weighs on families as they navigate adolescence), (3) Differing Perceptions of risk and responsibility (adolescent and parent perceptions of treatment responsibility and the risks of nonadherence do not always align), and (4) Balancing independence and protection (families must weigh the benefits and risks of allowing adolescents increased independence).ConclusionsAdolescents and parents demonstrated differing perceptions of CF management responsibility, which may be related to a lack of communication between family members about this topic. To help facilitate alignment of parent and adolescent expectations, discussion of family roles and responsibility for CF management should begin early during the transition process and be discussed regularly during clinic visits.
Event‐triggered consensus Kalman filtering for time‐varying networks and intermittent observations
Authors: Priel Aviv , Zelazo Daniel 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThis work introduces an improved design approach for distributed event‐triggering consensus Kalman filtering (DETCKF). We consider a network of sensors that are able to observe a linear discrete‐time stochastic process with known dynamics. The sensors cooperate through information exchange over a possibly time‐varying communication network to obtain an estimate of the process state. We propose event‐triggering conditions and consensus gains for which the error dynamics of the filter are stable. Both are derived from a Lyapunov‐based stability analysis. We also propose an event‐triggering scheme for scenarios in which some of the agents have intermittent observability of the process—that is, they are not able to measure the process dynamics. Under mild conditions on the sensing architecture, we show that even in this case it is possible to design a stable event‐triggered estimate of the process state. We validate our results with numerical simulations and compare with other solutions in the literature.
Finite‐time stochastic dissipative output tracking control of semi‐Markov jump systems via an adaptive event‐triggered mechanism
Authors: Shi Ting , Shi Peng , Wu Zheng‐Guang 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThis work focuses on the output tracking control for a class of continuous‐time semi‐Markov jump systems (SMJSs). In the controller design, not only the finite‐time stochastic boundedness (FTSB), but also the dissipative performance over a finite‐time interval is considered. In order to save communication resources, a version of adaptive event‐triggered mechanism (AETM) is utilized. Different from the traditional static event‐triggered mechanism, the threshold coefficient in AETM is time‐varying and can be adjusted in real‐time to fit the system evolution. Moreover, the asynchronous switching between the controller modes and the plant modes is taken into account. The design objective is to synthesis an adaptive event‐triggered asynchronous state‐feedback controller such that not only the augmented closed‐loop system is FTSB with a certain level of dissipative performance, but also the communication burden can be reduced to some extent. It is the first attempt to investigate the output tracking control of SMJSs over a finite‐time interval. By constructing a plant model‐dependent Lyapunov function, a set of conditions is derived for the FTSB analysis, based on which a controller design algorithm is presented. Finally, an illustrative example is given to verify the availability of the theoretical findings.
Suicidal Behaviour in Psychodermatology Patients: Identifying Characteristics and a New Model for Referral
Authors: Lockwood Katie , Smith Kirsty , Taylor Ruth , Ahmed Alia 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
It is well known that skin disease is associated with significant psychosocial morbidity, and that patients with skin disease can present with higher rates of suicidality than the general population. Clinicians often report numerous barriers to detecting and managing suicidality in busy outpatient settings. We aimed to establish the degree of suicidality within our psychodermatology patients and establish key characteristics that may serve as additional risk factors for suicidality. We conducted a retrospective review of clinical letters, patient notes, and a clinical database, for all 69 patients that attended our psychodermatology clinic since it was founded. Two practitioners independently recorded patient baseline demographics, presenting dermatological condition, comorbidities, Dermatology Life Quality Index scores and self-reported suicidal behaviour for each patient. From this we calculated how many patients displayed signs of active suicidality, and identified common themes and characteristics within this patient group. We went onto develop a flow diagram to guide professionals when faced with an actively suicidal patient in clinic.
Thin Film Composite Membranes as a New Category of Alkaline Water Electrolysis Membranes
Authors: Choi Juyeon , Kim Hansoo , Jeon Sungkwon , Shin Min Gyu , Seo Jin Young , Park You‐In , Park Hosik , Lee Albert S. , Lee Changsoo , Kim MinJoong , Cho Hyun‐Seok , Lee Jung‐Hyun 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAlkaline water electrolysis (AWE) is considered a promising technology for green hydrogen (H2) production. Conventional diaphragm‐type porous membranes have a high risk of explosion owing to their high gas crossover, while nonporous anion exchange membranes lack mechanical and thermochemical stability, limiting their practical application. Herein, a thin film composite (TFC) membrane is proposed as a new category of AWE membranes. The TFC membrane consists of an ultrathin quaternary ammonium (QA) selective layer formed via Menshutkin reaction‐based interfacial polymerization on a porous polyethylene (PE) support. The dense, alkaline‐stable, and highly anion‐conductive QA layer prevents gas crossover while promoting anion transport. The PE support reinforces the mechanical and thermochemical properties, while its highly porous and thin structure reduces mass transport resistance across the TFC membrane. Consequently, the TFC membrane exhibits unprecedentedly high AWE performance (1.16 A cm−2 at 1.8 V) using nonprecious group metal electrodes with a potassium hydroxide (25 wt%) aqueous solution at 80 °C, significantly outperforming commercial and other lab‐made AWE membranes. Moreover, the TFC membrane demonstrates remarkably low gas crossover, long‐term stability, and stack cell operability, thereby ensuring its commercial viability for green H2 production. This strategy provides an advanced material platform for energy and environmental applications.