bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evidence of lateralised white matter plasticity: A longitudinal study of balance performance in nonexpert healthy adults
Authors: Im Sun , Oh Jeehae , Jun So Yeon , Chang So‐youn , Kim Youngkook 
Published: May 2023

AbstractTraining‐induced plasticity by practicing expert skills has been of particular interest; however, little is known about white matter plasticity for improving a fundamental element of body function, such as balance or postural control. This study explored white matter plasticity in nonexpert healthy adults, based on stepwise balance training. Seventeen participants were included and performed a home‐based balance training program for 4 weeks (30 min/day, 3 days/week). Before commencing training, they underwent a baseline diffusion tensor imaging scan. A second scan was acquired at the end of the 4‐week training. Lateralised balance load was applied on the right leg to contrast any lateralised effect on the white matter tracts. The balance function was assessed using the Community Balance & Mobility Scale. We examined changes in the fractional anisotropy values of the tracts of interest between pre‐ and post‐training. After the 4‐week training, the fractional anisotropy values were enhanced in the right superior cerebellar peduncle, transverse pontine fibre, body of the corpus callosum, left fornix and left uncinate fasciculus. The Community Balance & Mobility Scale score improved after 4‐week training, but an association with changes in fractional anisotropy values cannot be evaluated due to the ceiling effect of the balance assessment tools. Balance training can strengthen the cerebro‐cerebellar and interhemispheric structural connections and induce microstructural changes in the limbic structures, including the fornix and uncinate fasciculus. The effect of a lateralised balance load could be projected to the specific white matter tracts in a lateralised manner.
A comparison between chaos theory and Lévy flights in sunflower optimization for feature selection
Authors: Pereira João Luiz Junho , Ma Benedict Jun , Francisco Matheus Brendon , Junior Ronny Francis Ribeiro , Gomes Guilherme Ferreira 
Published: May 2023

AbstractFeature selection is a knowledge discovery tool to understand the problem by analysing features. In particular, the application of feature selection in data mining can not only improve the quality of extracted patterns and knowledge but also decrease computational costs. Various techniques have been applied to this complex optimization problem, in which metaheuristics have been validated to be superior. This study introduces a new metaheuristic known for having lean and fast programming, inspired by the sunflower's motions for feature selection for the first time. It is equipped with a v‐shaped transfer function and associated with the KNN classifier to become the binary sunflower optimization (BSFO). A total of 12 variants of BSFO are designed based on the chaos theory and Lévy flights, called improved binary sunflower optimization (IBSFO). A discussion between these improvement theories for feature selection has also not been made yet, and it is performed in this paper using 15 benchmark datasets from the UCI repository. The experimental results show that all variants can advance the fitness value of BSFO, and nine of them considerably decrease the computational costs. Furthermore, the chaotic BSFO with the Chebyshev function, taking replacement to normal rand, has the lowest fitness value (−11.37%) and execution time (−9.31%) than the original BSFO. Further, IBSFO is compared with another eight metaheuristics and outperforms these competitors on average fitness value and execution time. Overall, IBSFO proved to find subsets with reduced dimension and high accuracy with meagre computational cost due to its robust explorative and exploitative capacities.
Precipitation of sugammadex with nicardipine and labetalol: A laboratory research
Authors: Han Jiwon , Oh Ah‐Young 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThere is a paucity of clinical data about whether sugammadex forms precipitates with other medications. This laboratory experimental study was performed to determine the drugs that produce precipitates with sugammadex. Samples of 1 ml of sugammadex were prepared in transparent cylinders, to which 1 ml of test drugs (rocuronium, neostigmine, glycopyrrolate, atropine, nitroglycerin, dobutamine, dopamine, epinephrine, vasopressin, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, ephedrine, esmolol, nicardipine, and labetalol) was added. The precipitation reaction was observed visually and via light microscope. The pH of each drugs before and after mixing with sugammadex was measured. White crystals were formed when sugammadex was mixed with nicardipine or labetalol. Sugammadex formed precipitate when mixed with nicardipine or labetalol. Sufficient fluid flushing is required between injections of each drug to prevent these reactions.
Secondary phase softening effect in PZT‐based ceramics by introducing the random electric fields
Authors: Guo Feifei , Zhou Qi , Chen Yifei , Yang Chao , Bai Wenqiang , Zhou Hongqiao , Qiu Ruigang , Long Wei , Fang Pinyang , Xi Zengzhe 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn this work, the random electric fields are constructed in the hard PZT ceramics by adding the ZnO particles as a secondary phase to tune the piezoelectric properties and losses. It is found that the internal bias electric field existing in the hard PZT ceramics has been tuned successfully by the random electric fields and its value reduces with the increased ZnO content. As a consequence, the piezoelectric constant d33 reaches up to 483 pC/N in the PZT/0.75 wt%ZnO composite, which is much higher than that of the hard PZT matrix. In the meantime, the electromechanical quality factor Qm, dielectric loss tan δ, and Curie temperature TC for this composite are about 1109, 0.55%, and 279°C, respectively. The promoted d33 is attributed to the small domain size and reduced internal bias electric field, whereas the low losses (large Qm and low tan δ) can be put down to the still existing nonzero internal bias electric field.
Antitachycardia pacing at the His bundle is safer than conventional right ventricular antitachycardia pacing in a canine myocardial ischemic injury model
Authors: Hirahara Annie M. , Khan Muhammad S. , Gharbia Omar A. , Lange Matthias , Ishidoya Yuki , Smego Douglas , Ranjan Ravi , Stoddard Gregory J. , Selzman Craig H. , Dosdall Derek J. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIntroductionAntitachycardia pacing (ATP) is used to terminate ventricular tachycardia (VT) by delivering rapid, low energy pacing to the right ventricle (RV). Unfortunately, ATP is not effective against all VT episodes and can result in adverse outcomes, such as VT acceleration and degeneration into ventricular fibrillation (VF). Improving ATP is therefore desirable. Our objective was to compare the efficacy and safety of ATP delivered at the His bundle to traditional ATP.MethodsSix dogs were anesthetized and pacing leads were implanted in the RV and His bundle. The left anterior descending artery was occluded for 2 h to create an ischemic injury. In a study 4–7 days later, a 128‐electrode sock was placed snugly around the ventricles and VT was induced using rapid pacing. ATP was delivered from either the His bundle or RV lead, then attempted at the other location if unsuccessful. Success rates and instances of VT acceleration and degeneration into VF were calculated.ResultsWe induced 83 runs of VT and attempted ATP 128 times. RV ATP was successful in 36% of attempts; His ATP was successful in 38% of attempts. RV ATP resulted in significantly more adverse outcomes. RV and His ATP induced VT acceleration in 9% and 3% of trains, respectively, and induced degeneration into VF in 5% and 1% of trains, respectively.ConclusionHis bundle ATP is safer, but not significantly more effective, than RV ATP.
Advanced helix‐fixation leadless cardiac pacemaker implantation techniques to improve success and reduce complications
Authors: Ip James E. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIntroductionLeadless cardiac pacemakers (LCPs) are becoming more commonly utilized because of their potential advantages (i.e., reduced short and long‐term complications, improved patient comfort) and may be the preferred option for patients with venous access problems, high‐risk for infection, previous lead fractures, or skin erosion. There are currently two types of LCP fixation mechanisms that have been FDA approved—Medtronic's Micra system has a tine‐based fixation and Abbott's Aveir system has a helix‐fixation design. This article highlights important tips and tricks for a successful implant of a helix‐fixation LCP, particularly when difficulties are encountered, and provides precautions to avoid potential complications.MethodsCases of single chamber Aveir LCP implantation were reviewed to highlight examples of procedural pitfalls and suggested methods to circumnavigate them.ResultsThere are unique procedural considerations regarding the Aveir LCP implant as well as challenges that that may be occasionally encountered. Techniques to address these—such as avoiding air embolism, maneuvering difficult entry into the right ventricle, handling complicated positioning/repositioning, evaluating proper fixation, and releasing difficult tethers—are illustrated in detail. Advice to reduce risks of perforation and to position optimally for potential retrieval and communication for dual chamber pacing are also described.ConclusionsThe advanced teaching concepts described and emphasized in this article may help improve success and prevent procedural complications, especially when physicians are learning how implant these novel helix‐fixation LCPs.
Formal recognition of host‐generalist species of dinoflagellate (Cladocopium, Symbiodiniaceae) mutualistic with Indo‐Pacific reef corals
Authors: Butler Caleb C. , Turnham Kira E. , Lewis Allison M. , Nitschke Matthew R. , Warner Mark E. , Kemp Dustin W. , Hoegh‐Guldberg Ove , Fitt William K. , van Oppen Madeleine J. H. , LaJeunesse Todd C. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe existence of widespread species with the capacity to endure diverse, or variable, environments are of importance to ecological and genetic research, and conservation. Such “ecological generalists” are more likely to have key adaptations that allow them to better tolerate the physiological challenges of rapid climate change. Reef‐building corals are dependent on endosymbiotic dinoflagellates (Family: Symbiodiniaceae) for their survival and growth. While these symbionts are biologically diverse, certain genetic types appear to have broad geographic distributions and are mutualistic with various host species from multiple genera and families in the order Scleractinia that must acquire their symbionts through horizontal transmission. Despite the considerable ecological importance of putative host‐generalist symbionts, they lack formal species descriptions. In this study, we used molecular, ecological, and morphological evidence to verify the existence of five new host‐generalist species in the symbiodiniacean genus Cladocopium. Their geographic distribution and prevalence among host communities corresponds to prevailing environmental conditions at both regional and local scales. The influence that each species has on host physiology may partially explain regional differences in thermal sensitivities among coral communities. The potential increased prevalence of a generalist species that endures environmental instability is a consequential ecological response to warming oceans. Large‐scale shifts in symbiont dominance could ensure reef coral persistence and productivity in the near term. Ultimately, these formal designations should advance scientific communication and generate informed research questions on the physiology and ecology of coral‐dinoflagellate mutualisms.
Patents and sustainable innovation in Indian Startups
Authors: Jacob Renooj , Arcot Purna Prasad 
Published: May 2023

AbstractPatents help in protecting research and development efforts in an organisation. They are known to increase valuation during merger and acquisition and act as signal for investors to make investment decisions in startups. Despite the value that patents add to a firm, vast majority of patents remain unutilised across organisations. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing is gaining popularity and investors are increasingly using ESG analysis to make investments. In this paper, we study patents filed by Indian startups which pertain to one or more ESG factors, that is, environmental, social, and governance factors. The startups selected were externally funded startups. We believe that startups having patents pertaining to ESG factors will foster sustainable innovation, responsible investments, and better patent utilisation in startups.
Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir is safe and effective in Italian patients with chronic hepatitis C aged 75 years or older: A multicentre study
Authors: Pugliese Nicola , Calvaruso Vincenza , Masarone Mario , D'Ambrosio Roberta , Battistella Sara , Licata Anna , Persico Marcello , Anolli Maria Paola , Distefano Marco , Petta Salvatore , Russo Francesco Paolo , Di Marco Vito , Aghemo Alessio 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundGlecaprevir and Pibrentasvir (G/P) determine high rates of sustained virological response (SVR) with optimal safety profile in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The efficacy and safety of G/P in Caucasian patients aged 75 years and older have not been widely analysed.MethodsThis is a retrospective multicentre real‐world study enrolling all consecutive patients 75 years and older who received G/P between October 2017 and January 2022 at five referral centres in Italy. SVR was analysed by intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol analyses (PP).ResultsA total of 570 patients met the inclusion criteria and were analysed: mean age was 80 (75–97) years, 356 (62%) were females, 52% (298/570) had HCV‐1, 44% (252/570) had HCV‐2 and 137 (24%) patients had liver cirrhosis. Four hundred and sixty‐three (81%) patients were taking at least one concomitant drug, with 144 (25%) taking ≥5 concomitant drugs. G/P was given for 8 weeks in 488 patients (86%). During treatment, 48 patients (8%) reported side effects, with 10 (2%) patients discontinuing treatment prematurely. Two patients developed treatment‐unrelated serious adverse events. Overall, the SVR rate was 97.9% (558/570) by ITT analysis and 99.6% (558/560) by PP analysis. SVR rates remained consistently high among subgroup analysis stratified by genotype, treatment duration, fibrosis stage and concomitant medications.ConclusionsTreatment with G/P achieved 97.9% SVR rates in HCV patients older than 75 years of age. Safety was optimal with only 2% of patients discontinuing early.
Development and modification of a dysphagia question prompt list to improve patient‐physician communication: Incorporating both esophageal expert and patient perspectives
Authors: Achalu Sudharshan , Berry Rani , Zhuo Justin , Bredenoord Albert J. , Clarke John O. , Fass Ronnie , Gyawali C. Prakash , Kahrilas Peter J. , Katzka David A. , Massey Benson T. , Penagini Roberto , Roman Sabine , Savarino Edoardo , Vela Marcelo F. , Kamal Afrin N. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundQuestion prompt lists (QPLs) are structured sets of disease‐specific questions, intended to encourage question‐asking by patients and enhance patient‐physician communication. To date, a dysphagia‐specific QPL has not been developed for patients with esophageal dysphagia symptoms. We aim to develop a dysphagia‐specific QPL incorporating both esophageal expert and patient perspectives, applying rigorous methodology.MethodsThe QPL content was generated applying a two‐round modified Delphi (RAND/UCLA) method among 11 experts. In round one, experts provided five answers to the prompts: “What general questions should patients ask when being seen for dysphagia?” and “What questions do I not hear patients asking but, given my experience, I believe they should be asking?” In round two, experts rated proposed questions on a 5‐point Likert scale. Responses rated as “essential” or “important”, determined by an a priori median threshold of ≥4.0, were accepted for inclusion. Subsequently, 20 patients from Stanford Health Care were enrolled to modify the preliminary QPL, to incorporate their perspectives and opinions. Patients independently rated questions applying the same 5‐point Likert scale. At the end, patients were encouraged to propose additional questions to incorporate into the QPL by open‐endedly asking “Are there questions we didn't ask, that you think we should?”Key ResultsEleven experts participated in both voting rounds. Of 85 questions generated from round one, 60 (70.6%) were accepted for inclusion, meeting a median value of ≥4.0. Questions were combined to reduce redundancy, narrowing down to 44 questions. Questions were categorized into the following six themes: 1. “What is causing my dysphagia?”; 2. “Associated symptoms”; 3. “Testing for dysphagia”; 4. “Lifestyle modifications”; 5. “Treatment for dysphagia”; and 6. “Prognosis”. The largest number of questions covered “What is causing my dysphagia” (27.3%). Twenty patients participated and modified the QPL. Of the 44 questions experts agreed were important, only 30 questions (68.2%) were accepted for inclusion. Six patients proposed 10 additional questions and after incorporating the suggested questions, the final dysphagia‐specific QPL created by esophageal experts and modified by patients consisted of 40 questions.Conclusions & InferencesIncorporating expert and patient perspectives, we developed a dysphagia‐specific QPL to enhance patient‐physician communication. Our study highlights importance of incorporating patient perspective when developing such a communication tool. Further studies will measure the impact of this communication tool on patient engagement.
Experimental models of gut‐first Parkinson's disease: A systematic review
Authors: Videlock Elizabeth J. , Xing Tiaosi , Yehya Ashwaq Hamid Salem , Travagli R. Alberto 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundThere is strong support from studies in humans and in animal models that Parkinson's disease (PD) may begin in the gut. This brings about a unique opportunity for researchers in the field of neurogastroenterology to contribute to advancing the field and making contributions that could lead to the ability to diagnose and treat PD in the premotor stages. Lack of familiarity with some of the aspects of the experimental approaches used in these studies may present a barrier for neurogastroenterology researchers to enter the field. Much remains to be understood about intestinal‐specific components of gut‐first PD pathogenesis and the field would benefit from contributions of enteric and central nervous system neuroscientists.PurposeTo address these issues, we have conducted a systematic review of the two most frequently used experimental models of gut‐first PD: transneuronal propagation of α‐synuclein preformed fibrils and oral exposure to environmental toxins. We have reviewed the details of these studies and present methodological considerations for the use of these models. Our aim is that this review will serve as a framework and useful reference for neuroscientists, gastroenterologists, and neurologists interested in applying their expertise to advancing our understanding of gut‐first PD.
Arendt's phenomenology of political forgiveness
Authors: Highlen Jared 
Published: May 2023

AbstractForgiveness is often understood as a primarily interpersonal experience, a type of moral response to a wrongdoing that has particular effects on the personal relationship between the one wronged and the wrongdoer. However, some have also attempted to defend another kind of forgiveness, one that takes place in public and applies to a wider range of practices in a specifically political context. That such a concept of forgiveness is possible is not particularly controversial. But the way that this political forgiveness is unified—if it is unified—with personal forgiveness has not been clarified. By approaching the question phenomenologically, it becomes possible to root forgiveness, both personal and political, in the more fundamental context of the shared human world. Hannah Arendt's analysis of forgiveness does just this. In so doing, Arendt accounts for both the role of forgiveness in private human relationships and the way in which this role is fundamentally political.
Analysing the influence of operating conditions on the performance of algal–bacterial granular sludge processes for wastewater treatment: A review
Authors: Sanchez‐Sanchez Celina , Baquerizo Guillermo , Moreno‐Rodríguez Ernestina 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThis article discussed the effect of the main operating parameter involved in the operation of algal–bacterial granular sludge (ABGS) systems as promising biological processes for wastewater treatment. The focus was on the operational ranges reported in the literature capable of achieving better granule properties, good stability and high removal capacities. This review identified that hydraulic retention time (HRT), light intensity (LI) and light/dark periods were the most influential operating factors on the formation, stability, settleability and organic pollutant removal efficiency of ABGS. The discussion argued that ABGS systems enhance industrial and domestic wastewater treatment due to additional advantages that provide the symbiotic interactions to process performance, maintaining lesser operating costs concerning aerobic granular sludges (AGS) and microalgae consortia. This review will improve the understanding of the operation of ABGS systems and thus further expand possible operating combinations that help to enhance microbial interactions, microalgae growth and external aeration self‐sufficiency in further research with a focus on its scaling up.