bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forced convective flows of Casson hybrid nanofluid and entropy production over diverging channel with variable thermophysical properties
Authors: Gnanaprasanna K. , Singh Abhishek Kumar
Published: October 2023

The heat transfer occurring on boundary layer flows during dilute suspension of Cu–Al2O3 nanoparticles-based non-Newtonian Casson hybrid nanofluid over diverging channel is to be characterized in this model. The governing equations comprise continuity, momentum, energy and concentration equations which incorporated variable viscosity and magnetic effects in the momentum equation, variable thermal conductivity, chemical reaction, thermal radiative heat flux, uniform magnetic field, Joule heating and viscous dissipative effects in the energy equation and Brownian motion and thermophoretic effects in the concentration equation. The modeled equations are nondimensionalized using nonsimilar variables and linearized using quasilinearization technique. The system of linearized partial differential equations is solved numerically using implicit finite difference and successively iterated with the help of Varga’s algorithm. The physical impacts of viscous dissipation parameter (Ec), Brownian motion ([Formula: see text]) on velocity, temperature, concentration and Schmidt number (Sc) influences on skin friction, Nusselt number, Sherwood number profiles, Bejan lines and total entropy production profiles are simulated graphically. The velocity profiles are enhanced and the temperature profile declines for augmented values of Eckert number. Moreover, for augmented values of Schmidt number the heat and mass transfer rates are enhanced and the Bejan lines dropped a decreasing trend whereas total entropy production is augmented near the wall region. The improved values of the Schmidt number physically increased Sc in the heat transfer rate. The ascending profile of the mass transfer rate with increased values of the viscous dissipation parameter Ec demonstrated that the graph is raised for larger values of the viscous dissipating parameter (Ec). The physical behavior of incremental mass transfer rate led to the conclusion that the relative diffusivity of nanoparticles is characterized by both nondimensional numbers Ec and Sc which are directly proportional to the viscous forces.
The acoustic streaming effects and transmission mechanisms of a micro-cavity acoustic black hole structure with an abrupt cross-section
Authors: Zhou Guojian , Liang Xiao , Liu Yan , Chu Jiaming , Liang Haofeng , Wu Jiuhui
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the acoustic streaming effects (ASEs) and mechanisms behind the transmittance of sound in a metallic micro-cavity acoustic black hole (ABH) structure with an abrupt cross-section and examines the sound field flow characteristics inside the micro-cavity ABH under the sound excitation, such as the velocity, acceleration and pressure fields. And the sound transmission mechanisms are characterized by the ASEs which can be obtained by solving Navier–Stokes equations. The numerical results show that the sharp increase in the velocity and acceleration at the ABH tip position is the main reason for the focusing of the sound energy. And the dramatic increase in the tip cross-section reduces the acoustic streaming velocity, which is the main reason for the attenuation of the sound energy. Additionally, the thermoviscous effect of the acoustic boundary layer can also dissipate the low-frequency sound energy. The sound insulation experiment shows that the proposed micro-cavity ABH structure has a sound transmission loss (STL) of over 15[Formula: see text]dB in the low-frequency regime. This research reveals the mechanisms of the ASE’s work on the sound transmission properties of the micro-cavity ABH and provides new insight into low-frequency sound wave suppression. The ABH structure proposed in this paper has excellent strength, bearing capacity and long lifecycle, so it can be applied in the construction industry through its integrated design of structure and performance.
Polarization-insensitive magnetically tunable perfect absorber for refractive index sensing applications
Authors: Niharika Neha , Singh Sangeeta
Published: October 2023

In this paper, a polarization-insensitive magnetic tunable perfect metamaterial absorber is analyzed which shows its functionality as a refractive index (RI) sensor. The unit cell structure of reported absorber consists of a cross-shaped Indium Arsenide (InAs) array over aluminum ground plane and has dimensions less than [Formula: see text] with thickness of 7.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and periodicity of 9[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] making it an ultra-thin absorber. The proposed absorber provides an average absorption of 99.99% on the implementation of magnetic field (B) at 0.4[Formula: see text]T. The resonance frequency and corresponding absorption rates can be controlled by varying the magnetic field from [Formula: see text]–0.4[Formula: see text]T which provides high absorption as well as shift in the frequency spectrum by 0.3[Formula: see text]THz/T. Additionally, parametric analysis has also been done to confirm the selection of the optimum value of the designed parameters of the structure. Furthermore, simulation results reveal that the proposed structure is very sensitive to the change of RI values in the surroundings thus, the proposed structure can be employed as a RI sensor high sensitivity of 1.083[Formula: see text]THz/RIU over the range of 1–1.6[Formula: see text]RI. In addition, the result shows that the sensor can detect different chemical compounds such as ethanol, gasoline, paraffin, sodium chloride, carbon disulfide with an average sensitivity of 0.925[Formula: see text]THz/RIU. Thus, the proposed absorber with obtained sensitivity can be utilized as a biochemical sensor, making it one of the best contenders for chemical industry uses in diagnosis of different hazardous chemicals as well as finding its applicability in biomedical uses.
HIDDEN COVERS (WINGS) IN THE FRACTALS OF CHAOTIC SYSTEMS USING ADVANCED JULIA FUNCTION
Authors: MARWAN MUHAMMAD , HAN MAOAN , OSMAN MAWIA
Published: October 2023

In this work, we have adopted an advanced Julia-based function that helps not only in sorting out hidden wings in the fractals of chaotic systems, but can also generate an extra wing in chaotic systems based on a single wing. For verification, two examples Lorenz and modified stretch-twist-fold (STF) systems based on more than one wing, whereas chemical reaction-based chaotic system with a unique wing is considered. The existence of another wing in chaotic systems based on a single wing was a big question mark on the creation of multi-wings in the theory of fractals, but with the aid of advanced Julia functions, we have elaborated in detail that the existence of a second wing in such systems is also possible. The stretching and squeezing in the trajectories of fractals are also integral parts of our findings. Moreover, our study has solved another problem related to fractals. In the past, authors have shown multi-wings in chaotic systems with empty space inside all the time. In this study, we have shown for the first time that these inner spaces have special meaning due to the existence of hidden wings. Furthermore, we have shown that fractals can be divided into outer and inner wings, where the inner wings reflect the answer to the question about the empty space in between the outer wings of chaotic systems. For convenience, an extra file named as MiddleSpace.pdf is attached as a supplementary file to better understand the concept of covering empty space inside fractals.
HOW DOES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AFFECT ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE ENTERPRISES’ PERFORMANCE? THE MAIN SOURCES AND INTERNAL MECHANISMS
Authors: HU DONGBIN , LIN MEI , FENG SHAN , YI GUODONG
Published: October 2023

Digital transformation is a core weapon to promote the sustainable development of environmental service enterprises. This research presents a pioneering analysis of the primary sources and internal mechanisms underlying the performance impact of digital transformation in Chinese listed environmental service companies from 2009 to 2019. The empirical results show that digital transformation can significantly improve firm performance. Furthermore, digital products, digital operations and digital talent were found to have the most significant effect, while digital services and digital marketing have a weaker effect. The mediating effect demonstrates that digital transformation can indirectly promote the performance of environmental service enterprises by improving the green technology innovation, and this influence tends to strengthen. In addition, this performance effect is affected by different enterprise types, with the effect being more pronounced in state-owned enterprises than in private enterprises. These findings have important guiding significance for the intelligent development of environmental service industry.
Annotated checklist of moths of Zambia (Insecta: Lepidoptera)
Authors: MBATA KEITH J. , PRINS JURATE DE
Published: October 2023

An annotated checklist of moths was compiled for Zambia based on intensive and extensive reviews of the literature on insects of the country and on field surveys undertaken by the study for a period of five years from March 2013 to October 2017 to confirm some of the literature review records documented. The checklist contains 1,816 species of moths, arranged into 907 genera and 35 subspecies. One hundred and fifty of these moth species are endemic in Zambia. During our biodiversity field surveys, we verified the existence in Zambia of 3.07% of moth taxa reported in the literature. Some species of moths recorded to occur in Zambia are of traditional/nutritional value to some local ethnic groupings in the country. In addition to their use in traditional medicinal concoctions with plants to treat human maladies, some moth larvae or caterpillars serve as extra sources of animal protein and are consumed as snacks and/or relish by the local people. About one percent (0.9%) of all moth species recorded to occur in Zambia and 7.59% of species of the family Saturniidae serve as extra sources of animal protein for some tribes in the country. To date, no moth species in the country has been assessed for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This present checklist will serve as a basis for future governmental decisions on the policy of environmental protection, Red List preparation, and management of natural food security issues in Zambia.
Taxonomic revision of the Neotropical genus Heteragrion Selys, 1862 (Zygoptera: Heteragrionidae): male morphology, new species and illustrated key
Authors: VILELA DIOGO SILVA , LENCIONI FREDERICO A. A. , BOTA-SIERRA CORNELIO A. , WARE JESSICA L. , BISPO PITÁGORAS C.
Published: October 2023

In this study, we have comprehensively presented taxonomic information on all 62 known species of Heteragrion Selys, 1862, which includes illustrations, photographs, diagnostic characters, and a key to males. Our analysis is based on the examination of over 900 specimens from 19 different collections worldwide, encompassing the type material for at least 42 species. Furthermore, we have described a new species, Heteragrion corderoi sp. nov. (♂, BRAZIL, São Paulo state, Campos do Jordão, Condomínio Paradise, 24.i.1999, (Coordinates: -22.7072, -45.5894, 1796 m asl), F.A.A. Lencioni leg., LABECO), which we identified from a male that was previously considered to be a paratype of H. mantiqueirae Machado, 2006 and additional specimens collected in Campos do Jordão, São Paulo state.
The LEAP checklist for laboratory evaluation and analytical performance characteristics reporting of clinical measurement procedures
Authors: Loh Tze Ping , Cooke Brian R , Tran Thi Chi Mai , Markus Corey , Zakaria Rosita , Ho Chung Shun , Theodorsson Elvar , Greaves Ronda F ,   on behalf of the IFCC Working Group on Method Evaluation Protocols (WG-MEP)
Published: October 2023

Reporting a measurement procedure and its analytical performance following method evaluation in a peer-reviewed journal is an important means for clinical laboratory practitioners to share their findings. It also represents an important source of evidence base to help others make informed decisions about their practice. At present, there are significant variations in the information reported in laboratory medicine journal publications describing the analytical performance of measurement procedures. These variations also challenge authors, readers, reviewers and editors in deciding the quality of a submitted manuscript. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine Working Group on Method Evaluation Protocols (IFCC WG-MEP) developed a checklist and recommends its adoption to enable a consistent approach to reporting method evaluation and analytical performance characteristics of measurement procedures in laboratory medicine journals. It is envisioned that the LEAP checklist will improve the standardisation of journal publications describing method evaluation and analytical performance characteristics, improving the quality of the evidence base that is relied upon by practitioners.
Effectiveness of e-Governance Initiatives in India: A Study of Telangana Palle Samagra Seva Kendralu
Authors: Mallika V. V.
Published: October 2023

Governments worldwide are compelled to transform government systems to ensure citizen-centric service delivery through innovative information and communication technologies. Use of e-governance has become a key weapon to combat the evils of mismanagement and corruption. India has witnessed more than two decades of ushering of e-governance initiatives. The present study is set in the context of the growing significance of governance, public service delivery and e-governance which highlight various issues like awareness, efficiency, transparency, responsiveness, participation and accountability. The study particularly examines the critical e-Governance parameters of Telangana Palle Samagra Seva Kendralu initiative in rural areas. Based on the study results, important policy suggestions have been provided.
The Impact of Parents’ Educational and Occupational Footprints on Children: Evidence From India
Authors: Ahmed Nawazuddin , Nauriyal D. K.
Published: October 2023

This article examines the effects of parents’ educational backgrounds and career preferences on their children’s educational and employment opportunities in India’s various socio-religious groupings. Using information from India’s several National Sample Survey Rounds (2000–2012) and the Periodic Labour Force Survey Round 2018–2019, the article analyses co-resident father–son relationships. This study investigates the impact of a father’s occupational–educational status on the probability of their sons’ getting decent jobs. Additionally, the likelihood of completing a senior secondary and above level of education in relation to the educational backgrounds of the mother and father has been examined. For both occupational and educational attainments, this study uses the discrete choice model along with the logit equation. The findings indicate that the probability of getting jobs in the three mentioned occupations is restricted to sons whose fathers are already employed in similar occupations. In addition, there is a wide spectrum of inequity in access to jobs in these occupations among Socio religious communities. The father’s education has a significant impact on the possibility of receiving the senior secondary and above level of education. This study demonstrates a strong hierarchy across the father’s level of education, occupation, and socio-religious communities. This calls for conscious policy intervention to destabilize such a hierarchy. Communities must get a big push through their own resolve and timely and adequate interventions from the state and non-state actors.
Left, Right then Left Again: Educators at the Intersection of Global Citizenship Education, Technology and Academic Literacies
Authors: Eybers Oscar , Muller Alan
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to critically consider the roles that academic literacy facilitators fulfil in exposing students to Global Citizenship Education (GCE). In university disciplines, literacies are primary tools that students employ to interact with global events, knowledge, theories and problems. As such, multimodal literacies including written, audiovisual and cyber texts facilitate students’ access to the world through critical communication. Consequently, the authors construe GCE as disciplinary instruction that connects students to lived experiences beyond their own national borders. To demonstrate GCE, the authors employ the following methods for accessing, interpreting and generating knowledge: Firstly, a literature review is conducted. In doing so, key concepts and theories that define academic literacy and GCE are identified. Secondly, by combining reviewed literature that highlights GCE methods and scholarship pertaining to multimodal literacies, the authors make recommendations for integrating GCE into disciplines. In conclusion, the authors emphasise academic literacies, including digital discourses, as effective conduits for GCE principles and make further recommendations for future studies and methods that may be applied towards uniting literacies with international course content.
Dividend Policy–Performance Linkages: The Moderating Role of Board Structure Elements in an Emerging Economy
Authors: Essel Ronald Ebenezer
Published: October 2023

This inquiry investigates the moderating role of board size (BS), board independence (BI), and board gender diversity (BGD) on the relationship between dividend policy (DP) and firm performance (FP) in Ghana. The study utilized financial data from 14 purposively selected listed firms in Ghana, spanning 2010–2018. A system-generalized method of moments (GMM) was espoused for the estimation. Results indicate that whilst dividend per share and dividend payout ratio demonstrated significantly positive relationship with FP, dividend yield exhibited significantly negative relationship with FP. Additionally, while BI moderated the relationship between DP and FP, BS and BGD had no moderating influence on FP.
Computed Tomographic Study of Variants of Deviated Nasal Septum in Adult Population: A Descriptive, Cross-sectional, Hospital-based Study
Authors: Thakker Kosha N. , Parikh Shilpa J. , Ruparelia Pritesh B.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Deviated nasal septum (DNS) is an influential variant of the sinonasal region due to its possible association with varied sinonasal pathologies, mid-facial (skeletal or occlusal) disharmonies and orofacial pain disorders. The aim of the study is to document the prevalence of DNS and to observe and assess the radiographic attributes of its types in adults.

Materials and Methods:

It is a descriptive cross-sectional study in which, after getting ethical approval, computed tomography paranasal sinus volumes of 100 adult subjects are collected from the medical college on the basis of convenience sampling. Paediatric subjects and patients with a previous history of mid-facial trauma, malignancy or surgery are excluded from the study. DICOM data thus collected are retrospectively analysed by RadiAnt DICOM viewer to determine the prevalence of DNS to study its association across gender and with increased (>1 mm) mucosal thickening of the maxillary sinus. DNS is recorded by Mladina’s classification and by septal deviation angle, and association is studied by the Chi-square test and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results:

The overall prevalence of DNS is 82%. Association of deviated septum with gender and mucosal thickening of the sinus lining is not statistically significant. Overall type V (spur) deviation is most common; however, in subjects with thickened mucosal lining type III (“C” or reverse “C”), deviation is found to be most prevalent. All the cases of type VI deviation have a tilted nasal floor, a finding of dental surgeon’s interest. “Bridging Spur,” an uncommon form of spur deformity, is also recorded in one case.

Conclusions:

Deviated septum is far more common than straight septum in the adult population. Types III, II and IV are more frequent in subjects with increased mucosal thickening. Association of type VI with tilted floor and rare variants like “Bridging spur” is also reported.
Unfavourable beliefs about oral health and safety of dental care during pregnancy: a systematic review
Authors: Kamalabadi Yasaman Mohammadi , Campbell M. Karen , Zitoun Natalie M. , Jessani Abbas
Published: October 2023

Background

Oral conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis are correlated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight. Oral health-related unfavourable beliefs can have negative influences on oral health behaviours including hesitation in accessing preventative dental treatments and dental service utilization. The objective of this systematic review was to examine unfavourable beliefs that expectant or new mothers frequently hold about oral health and the safety of dental care during pregnancy.

Methods

An electronic database search on PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and MEDLINE (Ovid) followed by forward and backward citation tracing of the included studies was conducted. All English primary studies regardless of the year of publication were independently screened by two reviewers to identify studies addressing unfavourable beliefs about oral health and dental care during pregnancy. The CLARITY tool was applied to assess the risk of bias in the included studies.

Results

Out of a total of 5766 records, 39 quantitative and six qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. The commonly held unfavourable beliefs were regarding the safety of dental services utilization and dental treatment procedures, the adverse impacts of pregnancy on oral health, and oral hygiene necessity during pregnancy. The most discussed unfavourable beliefs included “pregnant women lose their teeth because of pregnancy” (n = 18), “dental treatments are not safe and harm the fetus” (n = 17), and “the developing baby absorbs calcium from the mother’s teeth” (n = 14).

Conclusions

Unfavourable beliefs about oral health and dental care utilization are common among pregnant women and new mothers. The literature suggests that a low level of oral health knowledge and seeking information from social networks can contribute to such beliefs. This has implications for health promotion.
Bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis of the genetic association between primary lung cancer and colorectal cancer
Authors: Xiao Zhihan , Wang Zichen , Zhang Tongyu , Liu Yi , Si Mingxuan
Published: October 2023

Background

With the development and popularization of low-dose chest CT technology, the diagnosis and survival rates of patients with early lung cancer (LC) have significantly improved. The occurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) as the second primary cancer (SPC) in primary lung cancer (PLC) survivors has become an essential factor affecting the prognosis of early LC. This study explored the potential association between PLC and CRC genetically, laying a foundation for developing SPC-CRC prevention strategies after primary early LC.

Methods

Based on a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) design, this study systematically screened genetic instrumental variables (IVs) based on the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of PLC and CRC, applied inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the main method to assess the incidence association between the two cancers, and used a variety of other MR methods for supplementary analysis. Finally, the Genetic Risk Scores (GRS) method was used for secondary analysis to verify the results robustness further.

Results

From LC to CRC forward MR analysis, 20 genetic IVs of overall LC, 15 genetic IVs of squamous cell lung carcinoma (LUSC), and 10 genetic IVs of adenocarcinoma of the lung (LUAD) were screened. In the reverse MR analysis from CRC to LC, 47 genetic IVs for overall CRC, 37 for colon cancer, and 25 for rectal cancer were screened. The IVW method and a variety of MR methods all found that overall LC and CRC were significantly associated at the genetic level. Subgroup analysis also showed that LUSC was associated with CRC. And the results of the GRS method were consistent with those of the main analysis, confirming the robustness of the study.

Our MR study found an association between LC and CRC, with an increased risk of SPC-CRC following PLC, especially LUSC. Our study provides an essential basis for the precise prevention of SPC-CRC after PLC, suggesting that we should pay more attention to the population with a history of PLC in clinical work, and pay close attention to the incidence of SPC-CRC, and carry out intervention and treatment as soon as possible.
Occludin: a gatekeeper of brain Infection by HIV-1
Authors: Torices Silvia , Daire Leah , Simon Sierra , Naranjo Oandy , Mendoza Luisa , Teglas Timea , Fattakhov Nikolai , Adesse Daniel , Toborek Michal
Published: October 2023

Compromised structure and function of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of the pathological hallmarks of brain infection by HIV-1. BBB damage during HIV-1 infection has been associated with modified expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins, including occludin. Recent evidence indicated occludin as a redox-sensitive, multifunctional protein that can act as both an NADH oxidase and influence cellular metabolism through AMPK kinase. One of the newly identified functions of occludin is its involvement in regulating HIV-1 infection. Studies suggest that occludin expression levels and the rate of HIV-1 infection share a reverse, bidirectional relationship; however, the mechanisms of this relationship are unclear. In this review, we describe the pathways involved in the regulation of HIV-1 infection by occludin. We propose that occludin may serve as a potential therapeutic target to control HIV-1 infection and to improve the lives of people living with HIV-1.
Influence of maternal oral microbiome on newborn oral microbiome in healthy pregnancies
Authors: Russo Monica , Calevo Maria Grazia , D’Alessandro Gloria , Tantari Matteo , Migliorati Marco , Piccardo Ilaria , Perucchin Paola Polo , Arioni Cesare
Published: October 2023

Background

Periodontal disease and its bacteria can be responsible for pregnancy complications and transmission of periodontal bacteria from mother to newborn.

Methods

A salivary swab to 60 healthy, full-term newborns and their mothers was taken immediately after birth. The test was performed with Real Time PCR method to evaluate the expression of the gene through DNA amplification. The species considered were: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Fusobacterium nucleatum ssp.

Results

The newborn oral microbiome was composed primarily by saprophytes (98.38 + 4.88%), just like the mothers (98.8 + 3.69%). There was a statistically significant difference of the total microbiological density in newborns and mothers (p = 0.0001). Maternal and neonatal oral microbiome had a correlated total microbiological density only in 33.3% (N = 20/60) of cases. The analysis of the oral microbiome showed a pathological composition only in 12/60 babies (20%). The most frequent detected specie in newborns was Fusobacterium nucleatum (9/12 babies, 75%), as well as for the mothers (53.3%). However, the pathogen was present both in baby and his mother only in 3 dyads. Porphyromonas gingivalis showed the highest association mother-baby (4/12 dyads, 33%). Porphyromonas gingivalis was the pathogen with the highest bacterial load in the 12 mothers. We found a statistically significant difference in the total load of Porphyromonas gingivalis in mothers and babies (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

There was a statistically significant difference in the richness of the microbiome from newborns and mothers. Even comparing the microbiological density in the oral cavity of the individual mother-child pairs, we did not find a significant concordance. These results seem to suggest a low influence of maternal oral microbiome on the richness of the oral neonatal one. We didn’t find mother-child concordance (p = 0.0001) in the presence of pathogenic periodontal micro-organisms. Fusobacterium nucleatum was the most frequent specie detected. Porphyromonas gingivalis instead was the bacteria with the higher possibility of transmission. In conclusion in our study maternal oral health doesn’t affect healthy, full-term newborns’ oral microbiome. Further studies are needed to understand the maternal influence on newborn’s oral microbiome and its effects on babies long-term health.
Maternal gestational diabetes mellitus and the childhood asthma in offspring: a meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Xufeng , Huang Zhengguo , Zhang Jing , Jiang You
Published: October 2023

Background

Maternal diabetes might be related to a high risk of allergic disease in offspring. However, it remains unknown if maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is also associated with a high incidence of childhood asthma in offspring. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the above association.

Methods

Relevant observational studies were obtained by search of electronic databases including Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. A randomized-effects model was selected to pool the data by incorporating the influence of potential heterogeneity. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for study quality evaluation. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the potential influences of study characteristics on the outcome.

Results

Ten datasets from seven moderate to high quality cohort studies, involving 523,047 mother-child pairs were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, maternal GDM was associated with a higher risk of childhood asthma in offspring (risk ratio [RR]: 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07 to 1.39, p = 0.003; I2 = 30%). Subgroup analyses showed that the association was not significantly affected by study design, validation methods for GDM, or diagnostic strategy for asthma (p for subgroup analyses all > 0.05). The association between maternal GDM and asthma in offspring was more remarkable after adjusting maternal body mass index in early pregnancy (RR: 1.50 versus 1.06, p < 0.001), but significantly weakened after adjusting hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (RR: 1.08 versus 1.50, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Maternal GDM may be associated with an increased incidence of childhood asthma in offspring.
Image quality in whole-body MRI using the MY-RADS protocol in a prospective multi-centre multiple myeloma study
Authors: Keaveney Sam , Dragan Alina , Rata Mihaela , Blackledge Matthew , Scurr Erica , Winfield Jessica M. , Shur Joshua , Koh Dow-Mu , Porta Nuria , Candito Antonio , King Alexander , Rennie Winston , Gaba Suchi , Suresh Priya , Malcolm Paul , Davis Amy , Nilak Anjumara , Shah Aarti , Gandhi Sanjay , Albrizio Mauro , Drury Arnold , Pratt Guy , Cook Gordon , Roberts Sadie , Jenner Matthew , Brown Sarah , Kaiser Martin , Messiou Christina
Published: October 2023

Background

The Myeloma Response Assessment and Diagnosis System (MY-RADS) guidelines establish a standardised acquisition and analysis pipeline for whole-body MRI (WB-MRI) in patients with myeloma. This is the first study to assess image quality in a multi-centre prospective trial using MY-RADS.

Methods

The cohort consisted of 121 examinations acquired across ten sites with a range of prior WB-MRI experience, three scanner manufacturers and two field strengths. Image quality was evaluated qualitatively by a radiologist and quantitatively using a semi-automated pipeline to quantify common artefacts and image quality issues. The intra- and inter-rater repeatability of qualitative and quantitative scoring was also assessed.

Results

Qualitative radiological scoring found that the image quality was generally good, with 94% of examinations rated as good or excellent and only one examination rated as non-diagnostic. There was a significant correlation between radiological and quantitative scoring for most measures, and intra- and inter-rater repeatability were generally good.

When the quality of an overall examination was low, this was often due to low quality diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), where signal to noise ratio (SNR), anterior thoracic signal loss and brain geometric distortion were found as significant predictors of examination quality.

Conclusions

It is possible to successfully deliver a multi-centre WB-MRI study using the MY-RADS protocol involving scanners with a range of manufacturers, models and field strengths. Quantitative measures of image quality were developed and shown to be significantly correlated with radiological assessment. The SNR of DW images was identified as a significant factor affecting overall examination quality.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03188172, Registered on 15 June 2017.

Critical relevance statement

Good overall image quality, assessed both qualitatively and quantitatively, can be achieved in a multi-centre whole-body MRI study using the MY-RADS guidelines.

Key points

• A prospective multi-centre WB-MRI study using MY-RADS can be successfully delivered.

• Quantitative image quality metrics were developed and correlated with radiological assessment.

• SNR in DWI was identified as a significant predictor of quality, allowing for rapid quality adjustment.

Graphical Abstract
Higher field reduced FOV diffusion-weighted imaging for abdominal imaging at 5.0 Tesla: image quality evaluation compared with 3.0 Tesla
Authors: Zhang Yunfei , Sheng Ruofan , Yang Chun , Dai Yongming , Zeng Mengsu
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the image quality of reduced field-of-view (rFOV) DWI for abdominal imaging at 5.0 Tesla (T) compared with 3.0 T.

Methods

Fifteen volunteers were included into this prospective study. All the subjects underwent the 3.0 T and 5.0 T MR examinations (time interval: 2 ± 1.9 days). Free-breathing (FB), respiratory-triggered (RT), and navigator-triggered (NT) spin-echo echo-planner imaging-based rFOV-DWI examinations were conducted at 3.0 T and 5.0 T (FB3.0 T, NT3.0 T, RT3.0 T, FB5.0 T, NT5.0 T, and RT5.0 T) with two b values (b = 0 and 800 s/mm2), respectively. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of different acquisition approaches were determined and statistically compared. The image quality was assessed and statistically compared with a 5-point scoring system.

Results

The SNRs of any 5.0 T DWI images were significantly higher than those of any 3.0 T DWI images for same anatomic locations. Moreover, 5.0 T rFOV-DWIs had the significantly higher sharpness scores than 3.0 T rFOV-DWIs. Similar distortion scores were observed at both 3.0 T and 5.0 T. Finally, RT5.0 T displayed the best overall image quality followed by NT5.0 T, FB5.0 T, RT3.0 T, NT3.0 T and FB3.0 T (RT5.0 T = 3.9 ± 0.3, NT5.0 T = 3.8 ± 0.3, FB5.0 T = 3.4 ± 0.3, RT3.0 T = 3.2 ± 0.4, NT3.0 T = 3.1 ± 0.4, and FB3.0 T = 2.7 ± 0.4, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The 5.0 T rFOV-DWI showed better overall image quality and improved SNR compared to 3.0 T rFOV-DWI, which holds clinical potential for identifying the abdominal abnormalities in routine practice.

Critical relevance statement

This study provided evidence that abdominal 5.0 Tesla reduced field of view diffusion-weighted imaging (5.0 T rFOV-DWI) exhibited enhanced image quality and higher SNR compared to its 3.0 Tesla counterparts, holding clinical promise for accurately visualizing abdominal abnormalities.

Key points

• rFOV-DWI was firstly integrated with high-field-MRI for visualizing various abdominal organs.

• This study indicated the feasibility of abdominal 5.0 T-rFOV-DWI.

• Better image quality was identified for 5.0 T rFOV-DWI.

Graphical Abstract
Hip MRI in flexion abduction external rotation for assessment of the ischiofemoral interval in patients with hip pain—a feasibility study
Authors: Heimann Alexander F. , Walther Jonas , Tannast Moritz , Schwab Joseph M. , Wagner Moritz , Brunner Alexander , Lerch Till D. , Steppacher Simon D. , Vavron Peter , Schmaranzer Ehrenfried , Schmaranzer Florian
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of flexion-abduction-external rotation (FABER) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hip to visualize changes in the ischiofemoral interval and ability to provoke foveal excursion over the acetabular rim.

Methods

IRB-approved retrospective single-center study. Patients underwent non-contrast 1.5-T hip MRI in the neutral and FABER position. Two readers measured the ischiofemoral interval at three levels: proximal/distal intertrochanteric distance and ischiofemoral space. Subgroup analysis was performed for hips with/without high femoral torsion, or quadratus femoris muscle edema (QFME), respectively. A receiver operating curve with calculation of the area under the curve (AUC) for the prediction of QFME was calculated. The presence of foveal excursion in both positions was assessed.

Results

One hundred ten patients (121 hips, mean age 34 ± 11 years, 67 females) were evaluated. FABER-MRI led to narrowing (both p < .001) of the ischiofemoral interval which decreased more at the proximal (mean decrease by 26 ± 7 mm) than at the distal (6 ± 7 mm) intertrochanteric ridge. With high femoral torsion/ QFME, the ischiofemoral interval was significantly narrower at all three measurement locations compared to normal torsion/no QFME (p < .05). Accuracy for predicting QFME was high with an AUC of .89 (95% CI .82–.94) using a threshold of ≤ 7 mm for the proximal intertrochanteric distance.

With FABER-MRI foveal excursion was more frequent in hips with QFME (63% vs 25%; p = .021).

Conclusion

Hip MRI in the FABER position is feasible, visualizes narrowing of the ischiofemoral interval, and can provoke foveal excursion.

Critical relevance statement

FABER MRI may be helpful in diagnosing ischiofemoral impingement and detecting concomitant hip instability by overcoming shortcomings of static MR protocols that do not allow visualization of dynamic changes in the ischiofemoral interval and thus may improve surgical decision making.

Key points

• FABER MRI enables visualization of narrowing of the ischiofemoral interval proximal to the lesser trochanter.

• Proximal intertrochanteric distance of ≤ 7 mm accurately predicts quadratus femoris muscle edema.

• Foveal excursion was more frequent in hips with quadratus femoris muscle edema.

Graphical Abstract
Severe thrombocytopenia induced by tirofiban after percutaneous coronary intervention: a case report
Authors: Wang Ze-Mu , Wang Bin , Li Ya-Fei , Chen Bei , Shen Qin , Li Dian-Fu , Wang Lian-Sheng
Published: October 2023

Background

Tirofiban is a nonpeptide glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist used widely in patients subjected to percutaneous coronary intervention. While the usage of tirofiban sets an important clinical benefit, severe thrombocytopenia can occur with use of this agent.

Case presentation

A 76-year-old Chinese man was admitted with 1-month history of sudden onset of chest tightness. He was diagnosed as having subacute inferior myocardial infarction, and percutaneous coronary intervention was performed. After the procedure, patient received tirofiban at 0.15 µg/kg/minute for 4 h. A blood sample was obtained for a complete blood count; severe thrombocytopenia was reported according to routine orders at our hospital. All antiplatelet drugs including tirofiban, aspirin, and clopidogrel were immediately discontinued. The patient received platelet transfusions and was treated with immunoglobulin G. Two days later, the patient’s platelet count had increased to 75 × 109/L. There was a significant improvement after day 5, and the platelet count was 112 × 109/L. Seven days after the acute thrombocytopenia, he was discharged with normal platelet count.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be particularly aware of tirofiban-induced thrombocytopenia in routine practice.
Enhancing cord blood stem cell-derived NK cell growth and differentiation through hyperosmosis
Authors: Wen Wei , Chen Xiang , Shen Xin-Yi , Li Hua-Yu , Zhang Feng , Fang Feng-Qi , Zhang Xiao-Bing
Published: October 2023

Background

Natural killer (NK) cells hold great promise in treating diverse hematopoietic and solid tumors. Despite their availability from peripheral blood and cord blood, stem cell-derived NK cells offer an 'off-the-shelf' solution. Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) derived from cord blood pose no risk to the newborn or mother and are virtually ideal sources for NK cell differentiation.

Methods

We developed a modified protocol to differentiate HSPCs to NK cells under serum-free conditions using defined factors. The HSPC-derived NK (HSC-NK) cells could be expanded in a K562 feeder cell-dependent manner. Furthermore, using lentivirus transduction, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified HSPCs could be differentiated into NK cells, leading to the establishment of CAR-NK cells.

Results

The efficiency of NK cell differentiation from HSPCs was increased through the simple modulation of osmotic pressure by the addition of sodium chloride or glucose. Furthermore, the hyperosmosis-primed HSC-NK cells exhibited enhanced proliferation capacity and maintained normal functional characteristics, including transcriptome and antitumor efficacy. The optimized protocol yielded approximately 1.8 million NK cells from a single CD34-positive cell within a 28-day cycle, which signifies more than a ten-fold increase in efficiency relative to the conventional methods. This optimized protocol was also suitable for generating CAR-NK cells with high yields compared to standard conditions.

Conclusions

The results of this study establish high osmotic pressure as a simple yet powerful adjustment that significantly enhances the efficiency and functionality of HSC-NK cells, including CAR-NK cells. This optimized protocol could lead to cost-effective, high-yield NK cell therapies, potentially revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy strategies.
Novel therapeutic strategies for injured endometrium: intrauterine transplantation of menstrual blood‑derived cells from infertile patients
Authors: Hosoya Satoshi , Yokomizo Ryo , Kishigami Harue , Fujiki Yukiko , Kaneko Erika , Amita Mitsuyoshi , Saito Takakazu , Kishi Hiroshi , Sago Haruhiko , Okamoto Aikou , Umezawa Akihiro
Published: October 2023

Background

Menstrual blood-derived cells show regenerative potential as a mesenchymal stem cell and may therefore be a novel stem cell source of treatment for refractory infertility with injured endometrium. However, there have been few pre-clinical studies using cells from infertile patients, which need to be addressed before establishing an autologous transplantation. Herein, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic capacity of menstrual blood-derived cells from infertile patients on endometrial infertility.

Methods

We collected menstrual blood-derived cells from volunteers and infertile patients and confirmed their mesenchymal stem cell phenotype by flow cytometry and induction of tri-lineage differentiation. We compared the proliferative and paracrine capacities of these cells. Furthermore, we also investigated the regenerative potential and safety concerns of the intrauterine transplantation of infertile patient-derived cells using a mouse model with mechanically injured endometrium.

Results

Menstrual blood-derived cells from both infertile patients and volunteers showed phenotypic characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro proliferative and paracrine capacities for wound healing and angiogenesis were equal for both samples. Furthermore, the transplantation of infertile patient-derived cells into uterine horns of the mouse model ameliorated endometrial thickness, prevented fibrosis, and improved fertility outcomes without any apparent complications.

Conclusions

In our pre-clinical study, intrauterine transplantation of menstrual blood-derived cells may be a novel and attractive stem cell source for the curative and prophylactic therapy for injured endometrium. Further studies will be warranted for future clinical application.
An Empirical Model to Predict Chloride Penetrations in Concrete Containing Palm Oil Fuel Ash Based on 10-Year Exposure Under Marine Environment
Authors: Chalee Wichian , Jaiyong Amornchai , Cheewaket Tieng , Jaturapitakkul Chai
Published: October 2023

The main objective of this study is to develop an empirical model for predicting the chloride penetration into concrete exposed to the sea water along shorelines. Concrete mixed with 0–50% of palm oil fuel ash, using W/B ratio of 0.40–0.50 were examined. Available database of concrete samples under the sea water submersion at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 years was collected. The study found that the developed empirical model could predict total chloride content in palm oil fuel ash concrete at any position below the concrete surface, which had been submerged under sea water for 1 year and over. The W/B ratio is also limited between 0.40 and 0.50. Application of this model is valid in the situation where penetration of chloride is in one direction. It was also shown that the margin of errors in this study is within ± 35% range when compared to the results presented by other researchers.
Controversies regarding lithium-associated weight gain: case–control study of real-world drug safety data
Authors: Greil Waldemar , de Bardeci Mateo , Müller-Oerlinghausen Bruno , Nievergelt Nadja , Stassen Hans , Hasler Gregor , Erfurth Andreas , Cattapan Katja , Rüther Eckart , Seifert Johanna , Toto Sermin , Bleich Stefan , Schoretsanitis Georgios
Published: October 2023

Background

The impact of long-term lithium treatment on weight gain has been a controversial topic with conflicting evidence. We aim to assess reporting of weight gain associated with lithium and other mood stabilizers compared to lamotrigine which is considered free of metabolic adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Methods

We conducted a case/non-case pharmacovigilance study using data from the AMSP project (German: “Arzneimittelsicherheit in der Psychiatrie”; i.e., Drug Safety in Psychiatry), which collects data on ADRs from patients treated in psychiatric hospitals in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. We performed a disproportionality analysis of reports of weight gain (> 10% of baseline body weight) calculating reporting odds ratio (ROR). We compared aripiprazole, carbamazepine, lithium, olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone, and valproate to lamotrigine. Additional analyses related to different mood stabilizers as reference medication were performed. We also assessed sex and age distributions of weight-gain reports.

Results

We identified a total of 527 cases of severe drug-induced weight gain representing 7.4% of all severe ADRs. The ROR for lithium was 2.1 (95%CI 0.9–5.1, p > 0.05), which did not reach statistical significance. Statistically significant disproportionate reporting of weight gain was reported for olanzapine (ROR: 11.5, 95%CI 4.7–28.3, p < 0.001), quetiapine (ROR: 3.4, 95%CI 1.3–8.4, p < 0.01), and valproate (ROR: 2.4, 95%CI 1.1–5.0, p = 0.03) compared to lamotrigine. Severe weight gain was more prevalent in non-elderly (< 65 years) than in elderly patients, with an ROR of 7.6 (p < 0.01) in those treated with lithium, and an ROR of 14.7 (p < 0.01) in those not treated with lithium.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that lithium is associated with more reports of severe weight gain than lamotrigine, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. However, lithium use led to fewer reports of severe weight gain than some alternative drugs for long-term medication (olanzapine, quetiapine, and valproate), which is consistent with recent studies. Monitoring of weight gain and metabolic parameters remains essential with lithium and its alternatives.