bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Spatio‐Temporal Signatures of Language Control–Related Brain Synchronization Processes
Authors: Dumitrescu Alexandru Mihai , Coolen Tim , Wens Vincent , Rovai Antonin , Trotta Nicola , Goldman Serge , De Tiège Xavier , Urbain Charline
Published: January 2025

Language control processes allow for the flexible manipulation and access to context‐appropriate verbal representations. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have localized the brain regions involved in language control processes usually by comparing high vs. low lexical–semantic control conditions during verbal tasks. Yet, the spectro‐temporal dynamics of associated brain processes remain unexplored, preventing a proper understanding of the neural bases of language control mechanisms. To do so, we recorded functional brain activity using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and fMRI, while 30 healthy participants performed a silent verb generation (VGEN) and a picture naming (PN) task upon confrontation with pictures requiring low or high lexical–semantic control processes. fMRI confirmed the association between stronger language control processes and increased left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) perfusion, while MEG revealed these controlled mechanisms to be associated with a specific sequence of early (< 500 ms) and late (> 500 ms) beta‐band (de)synchronization processes within fronto‐temporo‐parietal areas. Particularly, beta‐band modulations of event‐related (de)synchronization mechanisms were first observed in the right IFG, followed by bilateral IFG and temporo‐parietal brain regions. Altogether, these results suggest that beyond a specific recruitment of inferior frontal brain regions, language control mechanisms rely on a complex temporal sequence of beta‐band oscillatory mechanisms over antero‐posterior areas.
Mapping Activity and Functional Organisation of the Motor and Visual Pathways Using ADC‐fMRI in the Human Brain
Authors: Nguyen‐Duc Jasmine , de Riedmatten Ines , Spencer Arthur P. C. , Perot Jean‐Baptiste , Olszowy Wiktor , Jelescu Ileana
Published: January 2025

In contrast to blood‐oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) functional MRI (fMRI), which relies on changes in blood flow and oxygenation levels to infer brain activity, diffusion fMRI (DfMRI) investigates brain dynamics by monitoring alterations in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of water. These ADC changes may arise from fluctuations in neuronal morphology, providing a distinctive perspective on neural activity. The potential of ADC as an fMRI contrast (ADC‐fMRI) lies in its capacity to reveal neural activity independently of neurovascular coupling, thus yielding complementary insights into brain function.

To demonstrate the specificity and value of ADC‐fMRI, both ADC‐ and BOLD‐fMRI data were collected at 3 T in human subjects during visual stimulation and motor tasks. The first aim of this study was to identify an acquisition design for ADC that minimises BOLD contributions. By examining the timings in responses, we report that ADC 0/1 timeseries (acquired with b values of 0 and 1 ms/) exhibit residual vascular contamination, while ADC 0.2/1 timeseries (with b values of 0.2 and 1 ms/) show minimal BOLD influence and higher sensitivity to neuromorphological coupling. Second, a general linear model was employed to identify activation clusters for ADC 0.2/1 and BOLD, from which the average ADC and BOLD responses were calculated. The negative ADC response exhibited a significantly reduced delay relative to the task onset and offset as compared to BOLD. This early onset further supports the notion that ADC is sensitive to neuromorphological rather than neurovascular coupling. Remarkably, in the group‐level analysis, positive BOLD activation clusters were detected in the visual and motor cortices, while the negative ADC clusters mainly highlighted pathways in white matter connected to the motor cortex. In the averaged individual level analysis, negative ADC activation clusters were also present in the visual cortex. This finding confirmed the reliability of negative ADC as an indicator of brain function, even in regions with lower vascularisation such as white matter. Finally, we established that ADC‐fMRI time courses yield the expected functional organisation of the visual system, including both grey and white matter regions of interest. Functional connectivity matrices were used to perform hierarchical clustering of brain regions, where ADC‐fMRI successfully reproduced the expected structure of the dorsal and ventral visual pathways. This organisation was not replicated with the b = 0.2 ms/ diffusion‐weighted time courses, which can be seen as a proxy for BOLD (via T2‐weighting). These findings underscore the robustness of ADC time courses in functional MRI studies, offering complementary insights into BOLD‐fMRI regarding brain function and connectivity patterns.
Time‐Varying Spatial Propagation of Brain Networks in fMRI Data
Authors: Bostami Biozid , Lewis Noah , Agcaoglu Oktay , Turner Jessica A. , van Erp Theo , Ford Judith M. , Fouladivanda Mahshid , Calhoun Vince , Iraji Armin
Published: January 2025

Spontaneous neural activity coherently relays information across the brain. Several efforts have been made to understand how spontaneous neural activity evolves at the macro‐scale level as measured by resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI). Previous studies observe the global patterns and flow of information in rsfMRI using methods such as sliding window or temporal lags. However, to our knowledge, no studies have examined spatial propagation patterns evolving with time across multiple overlapping 4D networks. Here, we propose a novel approach to study how dynamic states of the brain networks spatially propagate and evaluate whether these propagating states contain information relevant to mental illness. We implement a lagged windowed correlation approach to capture voxel‐wise network‐specific spatial propagation patterns in dynamic states. Results show systematic spatial state changes over time, which we confirmed are replicable across multiple scan sessions using human connectome project data. We observe networks varying in propagation speed; for example, the default mode network (DMN) propagates slowly and remains positively correlated with blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) signal for 6–8 s, whereas the visual network propagates much quicker. We also show that summaries of network‐specific propagative patterns are linked to schizophrenia. More specifically, we find significant group differences in multiple dynamic parameters between patients with schizophrenia and controls within four large‐scale networks: default mode, temporal lobe, subcortical, and visual network. Individuals with schizophrenia spend more time in certain propagating states. In summary, this study introduces a promising general approach to exploring the spatial propagation in dynamic states of brain networks and their associated complexity and reveals novel insights into the neurobiology of schizophrenia.
Psychometric Validation of the German Version of the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA): A Secondary Analysis of Cross‐Sectional Survey Data
Authors: McGowan Hannah , Crutzen Rik , Topolski Tari , Kulnik Stefan Tino
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Regular physical activity holds numerous health benefits for older people, yet the majority of older people do not meet the World Health Organization's physical activity recommendations. Brief physical activity screening tools can support healthcare professionals in identifying patients who would benefit from physical activity promotion and counselling. The Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) questionnaire is a validated brief physical activity screening tool designed for clinical practice.

Methods

We conducted a psychometric validation of a new German translation of the RAPA by performing a secondary analysis of survey data from 234 former cardiac rehabilitation patients (mean [SD] age 69 ± 11 years, 23% female) in Austria. For psychometric validation, we used the following survey measures: the new German version of the RAPA, two customized questions about physical activity behavior, one customized question about perceived health self‐management, and the German version of the EuroQol health‐related quality of life questionnaire. We performed Spearman's correlations to assess the relationship between the German RAPA and the other measures (i.e., physical activity behavior, self‐management of health and health‐related quality of life).

Results

Aerobic physical activity level according to the RAPA correlated significantly with weekly frequency (Spearman's rho = 0.31, 95% CI [0.18, 0.43], p < .001) and volume of PA (rho = 0.34, 95% CI [0.21, 0.45], p < .001), as well as perceived health self‐management and five out of six dimensions of the EuroQol questionnaire.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate convergent validity and contribute to the psychometric validation of the new German version of the RAPA. These initial findings lend themselves to future dedicated psychometric validation studies of the German RAPA (against gold‐standard physical activity questionnaires or direct physical activity measures) to further explore the potential of this tool for use in German‐speaking geriatrics healthcare.
Comparative Analysis of CXCR5 Circulating DNA Methylation Levels in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Shi Yiming , Qin Yingying , Li Yunshen , Jiang Ping , Wei Kai , Zhao Jianan , Shan Yu , Zheng Yixin , Zhao Fuyu , Zhou Mi , Li Li , Shen Yu , Lv Xinliang , Zheng Yuejuan , Guo Shicheng , Ding Qin , Chang Cen , He Dongyi
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess CXC chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5) circulating DNA methylation differences in autoimmune rheumatic diseases and their relation with clinical features.

Methods

Targeted methylation sequencing was performed using peripheral blood from 164 rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 30 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 30 ankylosing spondylitis (AS), 30 psoriatic arthritis (PsA), 24 Sjögren's syndrome (SS) patients, and 30 healthy controls (HC).

Results

Significant differences in CXCR5 cg19599951 methylation were found between RA and HC, as well as AS and SLE. RA patients exhibited higher methylation than HC and AS (p < 0.01) but lower than SLE (p < 0.05). SLE patients showed higher methylation compared to HC, AS, and PsA (p < 0.001, 0.01, and 0.05, respectively). No significant differences were found in patients with SS compared to other autoimmune diseases and HC. Methylation at cg19599951_103 (r = 0.17, p < 0.05) and cg19599951_209 (r = 0.22, p < 0.01), along with the CC haplotype (r = 0.21, p < 0.01), showed significant positive correlations with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), while the CT (r = −0.27, p < 0.001) and TT haplotypes (r = −0.19, p < 0.05) were negatively correlated. For C‐reactive protein (CRP), methylation at cg19599951_103 (r = 0.29, p < 0.001) and cg19599951_209 (r = 0.33, p < 0.0001), and the CC haplotype (r = 0.34, p < 0.0001) was positively correlated, whereas the CT (r = −0.36, p < 0.0001) and TT (r = −0.30, p < 0.0001) haplotypes were negatively correlated. Significant negative correlations were observed between the CT haplotype and rheumatoid factor (r = −0.25, p < 0.01), and anti‐citrullinated protein antibody (r = −0.20, p < 0.05). No significant correlations were found in patients with SLE, AS, and SS. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed CXCR5 methylation could classify patients with RA versus those with AS (AUC: 0.624−0.967).

Conclusion

Differential circulating CXCR5 methylation levels were observed in autoimmune rheumatic diseases, which correlated with inflammatory mediators in RA and may serve as potential biomarkers for RA diagnosis.
Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Levels in Pediatric Kikuchi‐Fujimoto Disease: A Retrospective Observational Analysis
Authors: Fujiwara Shintaro , Higuchi Yousuke , Shimizu Junya
Published: January 2025

Aim

Kikuchi‐Fujimoto disease (KFD) rarely affects pediatric patients and is characterized by prolonged fever and cervical lymphadenopathy. The diagnosis of KFD remains challenging and often requires an invasive biopsy. Low serum alkaline phosphatase levels have frequently been observed in patients with KFD; however, the clinical significance of low serum alkaline phosphatase levels remains unclear.

Methods

This retrospective study included pediatric patients aged < 16 years who were pathologically or clinically diagnosed with KFD and infectious mononucleosis between April 2016 and March 2023. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels were analyzed employing age‐ and sex‐specific reference intervals. Clinical and laboratory data were evaluated to determine their association with serum alkaline phosphatase levels.

Results

Thirty patients with KFD and 23 patients with infectious mononucleosis were included in the study. Seventeen patients with KFD (56.7%) had serum alkaline phosphatase levels below the 2.5th percentile of the age‐ and sex‐specific reference intervals. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly lower in patients with KFD than in those with infectious mononucleosis. Clinical and other laboratory findings were not significantly different between patients with KFD with or without a decline in serum alkaline phosphatase levels.

Conclusion

A decrease in serum alkaline phosphatase levels, particularly when assessed as a percentage of age‐ and sex‐specific reference intervals, may be a valuable and noninvasive supportive feature of KFD in pediatric patients.
Cancer therapy and reproductive impact
Authors: Feldberg Dov , Purandare Nikhil
Published: January 2025

All patients where the cancer treatment has gonadotoxic potential should be referred for oncofertility advice. The effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy on the human ovary can vary from no impact to full‐blown premature ovarian failure due to hormonal and follicular depletion. Total contraindications to fertility cryopreservation include acute malignancy that requires immediate lifesaving therapy. In prepubertal girls, the only option for urgent fertility preservation is ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation is experimental.
Self‐Efficacy Throughout Higher Education: A Latent Growth Analysis
Authors: Vieira Diana Aguiar , Alves Regina F.
Published: January 2025

As students progress through university, they are simultaneously preparing for their professional lives alongside their academic learning. The transition from university studies to the labour market is a process that begins in education and continues after graduation until graduates have adapted to their working roles. Preparing to work requires that students conclude their studies and face several challenges posed by job searching and adaptation to the role of a worker. Previous research indicates that self‐efficacy may contribute to success in academic performance and positive work‐related outcomes after graduation. Using a three‐wave longitudinal design, this study explores the academic and transition‐to‐work self‐efficacy developmental trajectories of university students. Multivariate latent growth analysis was conducted on two cohorts of 204 and 261 undergraduates, respectively. The results indicate that academic and transition‐to‐work self‐efficacy increased over time in both cohorts. Additionally, initial academic self‐efficacy and its change positively predicted the initial transition‐to‐work self‐efficacy and its change, respectively. This study contributes to the understanding of the interconnectedness between academic and transition‐to‐work self‐efficacy trajectories. Implications for practice, limitations and future research are also discussed.
Porous carbon from ZnCl2‐activated biomass: Catalytic performance and structural insights in ORR
Authors: Khan Salman , Yang Zhen , Yang Shouhua , Tang Ying , Guo Xuhong , Yu Feng
Published: January 2025

The advancement of metal‐air battery and fuel cell technologies depends on finding out of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts with higher efficiency. The RH‐900/ZnCl2 catalyst, which is activated by ZnCl2 and produced from biomass, shows superior ORR activity compared with commercial Pt/C catalysts, with half‐wave potentials of 0.89 V. Nanoparticles of ZnO and SiO2 as well as nitrogen doping, combined with the porous carbon structure, produce this improved performance. The combination enhances the ORR's active site density and enhances electron transfer efficiency. Function groups that facilitate proton transfer and structural stability are shown by Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared studies, which also show an excellent combination of ordered graphitic and disordered carbon structures and BET analysis confirms a high porous surface area of 1134.82 m2/g. Important for enhancing conductivity and catalytic activity, XPS studies reveal the existence of silicon, oxygen, zinc, and nitrogen species. FE‐SEM and HRTEM analyses reveal a carbon matrix that is extremely porous and contains ZnO and SiO2 nanoparticles that are uniformly distributed. Based on the results of the electrochemical tests, RH‐900/ZnCl2 is the best ORR catalyst easily accessible with superior stability and resistance to methanol poisoning compared with RH‐900 and commercial Pt/C catalysts. These features placed RH‐900/ZnCl2 unique as a potential long‐term replacement for standard Pt‐based catalysts in ORR applications within energy conversion and storage devices.
CD44/Integrin β1 Association Drives Fast Motility on Hyaluronic Acid Substrates
Authors: Roy Tanusri , Dutta Sarbajeet , Ghosh Swetlana , Sthanam Lakshmi Kavitha , Sen Shamik
Published: January 2025

In addition to proteins such as collagen (Col) and fibronectin, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is enriched with bulky proteoglycan molecules such as hyaluronic acid (HA). However, how ECM proteins and proteoglycans collectively regulate cellular processes has not been adequately explored. Here, we address this question by studying cytoskeletal and focal adhesion organization and dynamics on cells cultured on polyacrylamide hydrogels functionalized with Col, HA and a combination of Col and HA (Col/HA). We show that fastest migration on HA substrates is attributed to the presence of smaller and weaker focal adhesions. Integrin 1 co‐localization and its association with CD44—which is the receptor for HA, and insensitivity of cell spreading to RGD on HA substrates suggests that focal adhesions on HA substrates are formed via integrin association with HA bound CD44. Consistent with this, adhesion formation and cell motility were inhibited when CD44 was knocked out. Collectively, our results suggest that association of integrin 1 with CD44 drives fast motility on HA substrates.
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Mediates the Causal Effect of Genetically Predicted Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis on Spinal Stenosis: Evidence From a Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Shen Yanzhu , Jiang Yankun , Jiang Ruichen , Huang Yanjun , Zhan Sizheng , Wang Yuming , Tang Xiangsheng , Yi Ping
Published: January 2025

Background

Previous studies have noted an association between diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) and spinal stenosis (SS), although causation is unclear. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between the two.

Methods

We utilized large GWAS datasets on DISH and SS to perform a two‐sample, bidirectional MR analysis, also quantifying the mediating role of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). The inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was the primary approach used to estimate the causal effect size. To ensure the reliability of MR results, we conducted heterogeneity tests, horizontal pleiotropy tests, and the MR‐PRESSO test.

Results

The random‐effects IVW method indicated that genetically predicted DISH was associated with an increased risk of SS (OR: 1.432; 95% CI: 1.097–1.868; p = 0.008), and this association remained significant in the validation dataset (OR: 1.444; 95% CI: 1.208–1.725; p < 0.001). Mediation analysis in homogeneous populations showed that IDD partially mediates the causal effect of DISH on SS, with a mediation ratio of 38.39% (95% CI: 2.66–74.13). Sensitivity analyses supported our conclusions.

Conclusions

This study provides causal evidence that genetically determined DISH is associated with an increased risk of SS, with IDD acting as a partial mediator. These findings underscore the importance of spine‐protective behaviors and early IDD prevention strategies in patients with DISH to mitigate SS risk.
Heterogeneity in the use of osseous risk factors and limited use of relevant patient‐reported outcome measurements in studies investigating treatment of patellar dislocation: A scoping review
Authors: Rahdi Ebrahim , Malmberg Catarina Anna Evelina , Witten Adam , Jørgensen Tue Smith , Yahya Rafal , Blønd Lars , Hölmich Per , Barfod Kristoffer Weisskirchner
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The treatment of patellar dislocation is tailored based on the presence or absence of osseous risk factors. The purpose of this scoping review was to investigate whether existing research addresses patient differences by mapping the use of osseous risk factors and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) in studies investigating the treatment of patellar dislocation.

Methods

This study was a scoping review conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis extension for Scoping Reviews. Studies published between 1 January 2013 and 3 April 2023 were included if they investigated the treatment of patellar dislocation and registered osseous risk factor(s). Case series with fewer than 10 patients, reviews and meta‐analyses were excluded.

Results

A total of 8923 records were identified, of which 1007 articles underwent full‐text screening, and 300 met the inclusion criteria. A twofold increase in articles investigating patellar dislocation treatment was observed between the years 2013 and 2022. This review identified 176 osseous risk factors and 56 PROMs. Among the included articles, 131 (44%) utilized osseous risk factors as in‐ or exclusion criteria, and 26 (9%) employed a PROM specifically developed for patellar instability evaluation. The most frequently investigated treatment was medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (231 articles, 77%), followed by tibial tubercle osteotomies (87 articles, 29%).

Conclusion

There is considerable heterogeneity among studies investigating the treatment of patellar dislocation. Less than half of studies define the patient population according to osseous risk factors, and only 1 in 10 studies use a PROM designed for patellar dislocation. This complicates the evaluation of treatment effects in relation to osseous risk factors.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
A Rare Sequela of Untreated Streptococcus Pharyngitis: A Case Report
Authors: Lehoe Meredith Hiltbrand , Cushing Emily
Published: January 2025

Pharyngitis is commonly caused by the gram positive bacteria, streptococcus. Given the potential morbid complications of untreated streptococcal pharyngitis, antibiotics are critical. One of the rarer complications is pulmonary‐renal syndrome (PRS), defined as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. PRS is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, making swift diagnosis and treatment imperative for survival. More common causes of PRS are tied to autoimmune diseases. This case describes a novel progression of PRS caused by streptococcus.

A 26‐year‐old male with no significant medical history presented to our emergency department with streptococcal group A‐positive sore throat. After discontinuing amoxicillin due to pruritus, the patient returned one month later with persisting hematuria and dysuria, diagnosed with post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Despite receiving another antibiotic prescription, it was not filled. He returned six days later with worsening symptoms, leading to ICU admission due to hemoptysis requiring subsequent intubation. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage was confirmed with bronchial washings. Negative autoimmune laboratory results and clinical symptoms suggest streptococcal pharyngitis induced pulmonary‐renal syndrome.

Although only the sixth case of streptococcal induced PRS, it is imperative to consider when treating patients with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, due to its possible mortality. Prompt recognition and treatment with pulse steroids and plasmapheresis is crucial for PRS resolution. Laryngoscope, 2025
Impact of Slope Cutoff Factor on Soil Erosion Estimates: A Hilltop Mine‐Based Comparative Geospatial Study
Authors: Rohit Thappitla Srinivas , Villuri Vasantha Govind Kumar
Published: January 2025

The task of soil erosion estimation received a significant push by integrating remote sensing and geographical information systems (GIS) with the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) in the early 1990s due to its ease of applicability. The Topographic (LS) factor played a quintessential role in soil loss determination, especially for undulating regions. In most worldwide soil erosion studies, the topographic factor extracted from the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) using “LS equations” failed to account for the varying slopes before the material joins a stream or a river. In this study, the slope length (L) and slope steepness factor (S) derived without and with the slope cutoff factor are compared and analyzed for a hilltop mine. The results reflect that the LS factor and, ultimately, soil erosion are over‐estimated owing to the absence of any limits on the slope length (L) factor in undulating terrains when used conventionally in a GIS environment. The mean soil erosion estimated with slope cutoff factor is 252.26 ton ha−1 year−1, whereas 332.81 ton ha−1 year−1 in the conventional application of the same LS equation. The overestimation of soil erosion was reduced by 35% as per the volume‐based validation study. Thus, the study proves the usefulness of the slope cutoff factor, which, to date, has mostly been neglected in soil loss research and soil erosion studies for undulating terrains. The pattern of soil erosion also highlights the negating impact of vegetation on steep slopes, cementing their role as Nature based Solution (NbS) for soil erosion by dynamic landscapes like Mines.
Reproductive Physiology and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Testicular Development and Spermatogenesis in Echinoderms: A Marine Invertebrate Deuterostomes
Authors: Li Ziming , Yang Yujia
Published: January 2025

Echinoderms exhibit a wide range of reproductive strategies as adaptations to variable environments. The processes of gonadal development, germ cell differentiation, and spermatogenesis in echinoderms are crucial physiological processes that warrant further in‐depth exploration. This review systematically summarizes research from early basic sciences to recent studies on male gonadal development and spermatogenesis, encompassing morphology, histology, physiology, cell biology, developmental biology, and evolutionary biology. We introduce the structural and cellular similarities and differences among model or non‐model organisms from five classes of echinoderms to provide insights for future comparative research between higher vertebrates and lower organisms. The regulatory systems involved in echinoderm spermatogenesis are described from various aspects including nutritional supply, environmental factors, neurological influences, endocrinological influences, and hormonal influences. This article aims to elucidate gonadal development and spermatogenesis in echinoderms—organisms at unique evolutionary nodes—providing valuable materials for studying adaptive evolution and developmental biology. Additionally, a comprehensive summary of characterized genes and gene markers associated with testes development and spermatogenesis is provided as useful information for future systematic studies on cell subpopulations. Future studies can focus on molecular changes associated with chromatin remodeling during germ cell development, cellular differentiation, and intercellular communication mediated by receptor‐ligand interactions, to further our understanding of biological processes and regulatory networks involved in echinoderm gonadal development and spermatogenesis.
Phantom‐based gradient waveform measurements with compensated variable‐prephasing: Description and application to EPI at 7 T
Authors: Scholten Hannah , Wech Tobias , Homolya Istvan , Köstler Herbert
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Introducing compensated variable‐prephasing (CVP), a phantom‐based method for gradient waveform measurements. The technique is based on the variable‐prephasing (VP) method, but takes into account the effects of all gradients involved in the measurement.

Methods

We conducted measurements of a trapezoidal test gradient and of an EPI readout gradient train with three approaches: VP, CVP, and fully compensated variable‐prephasing (FCVP). We compared them to one another and to predictions based on the gradient system transfer function. Furthermore, we used the measured and predicted EPI gradients for trajectory corrections in phantom images on a 7 T scanner.

Results

The VP gradient measurements are confounded by lingering oscillations of the prephasing gradients, which are compensated in the CVP and FCVP measurements. FCVP is vulnerable to a sign asymmetry in the gradient chain. However, the trajectories determined by all three methods resulted in comparably high EPI image quality.

Conclusion

We present a new approach allowing for phantom‐based gradient waveform measurements with high precision, which can be useful for trajectory corrections in non‐Cartesian or single‐shot imaging techniques. In our experimental setup, the proposed “compensated variable‐prephasing” method provided the most reliable gradient measurements of the different techniques we compared.
Enhanced detection of glutamate via transverse relaxation encoding with narrowband decoupling in the human brain
Authors: An Li , Hong Sungtak , Turon Tara , Pavletic Adriana , Johnson Christopher S. , Derbyshire John A. , Shen Jun
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to improve the detection of glutamate (Glu) concentration and T2 using an enhanced transverse relaxation encoding with narrowband decoupling (TREND) technique.

Methods

A new editing pulse was designed to simultaneously invert both Glu H3 spins (2.12 ppm and 2.05 ppm) while minimizing the excitation of Glu H4. Additionally, a frequency band was created to invert the lactate (Lac) H2 spin (4.10 ppm) while saturating the NAA aspartyl H2 spin (4.38 ppm). Numerical simulations compared Glu and Lac signals using the original and new editing pulses. In vivo experiments were conducted on healthy participants at 7 T to validate this enhanced TREND technique.

Results

Numerical simulations showed prominently enhanced Glu and Lac resonance signals with the new editing pulse. In vivo spectra showed a 47% ± 14% increase in Glu/Cr peak amplitude ratios with the new editing pulse. Using the enhanced TREND sequence, Glu/Cr concentration ratios in the anterior cingulate cortex were 1.03 ± 0.07 with Cramer‐Rao lower bounds (CRLBs) of 1.1% ± 0.1%, and Glu T2 values were 179 ± 18 ms with CRLBs of 1.2% ± 0.1%. The Lac/Cr concentration ratios in the same voxels were 0.05 ± 0.01 with CRLBs of 26% ± 14%, and Lac T2 values were 196 ± 23 ms with CRLBs of 22% ± 15%.

Conclusion

The new editing pulse significantly enhanced the detection of Glu and enabled the detection of Lac using TREND for measuring both the concentration and T2 of the markers of oxidative metabolism and glycolysis.
Generalizable, sequence‐invariant deep learning image reconstruction for subspace‐constrained quantitative MRI
Authors: Hu Zheyuan , Chen Zihao , Cao Tianle , Lee Hsu‐Lei , Xie Yibin , Li Debiao , Christodoulou Anthony G.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To develop a deep subspace learning network that can function across different pulse sequences.

Methods

A contrast‐invariant component‐by‐component (CBC) network structure was developed and compared against previously reported spatiotemporal multicomponent (MC) structure for reconstructing MR Multitasking images. A total of 130, 167, and 16 subjects were imaged using T1, T1‐T2, and T1‐T2‐ ‐fat fraction (FF) mapping sequences, respectively. We compared CBC and MC networks in matched‐sequence experiments (same sequence for training and testing), then examined their cross‐sequence performance and generalizability by unmatched‐sequence experiments (different sequences for training and testing). A “universal” CBC network was also evaluated using mixed‐sequence training (combining data from all three sequences). Evaluation metrics included image normalized root mean squared error and Bland–Altman analyses of end‐diastolic maps, both versus iteratively reconstructed references.

Results

The proposed CBC showed significantly better normalized root mean squared error than MC in both matched‐sequence and unmatched‐sequence experiments (p < 0.001), fewer structural details in quantitative error maps, and tighter limits of agreement. CBC was more generalizable than MC (smaller performance loss; p = 0.006 in T1 and p < 0.001 in T1‐T2 from matched‐sequence testing to unmatched‐sequence testing) and additionally allowed training of a single universal network to reconstruct images from any of the three pulse sequences. The mixed‐sequence CBC network performed similarly to matched‐sequence CBC in T1 (p = 0.178) and T1‐T2 (p = 0121), where training data were plentiful, and performed better in T1‐T2‐‐FF (p < 0.001) where training data were scarce.

Conclusion

Contrast‐invariant learning of spatial features rather than spatiotemporal features improves performance and generalizability, addresses data scarcity, and offers a pathway to universal supervised deep subspace learning.
Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase‐9 Predicts Intraoperative Experience and Extent of Resection in Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery
Authors: Nguyen Han T.N. , Macielak Robert J. , Zhang Lisa , Adunka Oliver F. , Wu Kyle C. , Ren Yin
Published: January 2025

Objective

To evaluate the predictive value of plasma matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) level in determining the extent of tumor resection (EOR) and tumor adherence in vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic referral center.

Methods

Plasma and tumor samples were prospectively collected from patients with nonradiated, sporadic VS undergoing microsurgical resection from July 2022 to June 2023. Plasma MMP‐9 levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and their association with tumor adherence and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Thirty‐three patients undergoing microsurgical resection agreed to participate (15 females, median age 54 years old, median tumor size 26.7 mm). A gross total resection (GTR) was performed in 18 patients (55%), and a near‐total (NTR)/subtotal resection (STR) in 15 (45%). Tumor size was not significantly different between the GTR and NTR/STR groups (20.7 vs 24.8 mm, P= .185). Intraoperatively, a larger fraction of NTR/STR tumors were highly adherent to the brainstem and/or cranial nerves (93% vs 56%, P = .015). Preoperative plasma MMP‐9 was higher in patients who underwent an NTR/STR compared to a GTR (229.9 vs 131.2ng/mL, P = .007). On multivariable logistic regression, preoperative plasma MMP‐9 strongly predicted EOR by receiver operating characteristic analysis (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.77 P = .008). Combining plasma MMP‐9 and age was an excellent predictor of EOR (AUC = 0.91, P = .0001).

Conclusion

Plasma MMP‐9 levels strongly predicted intraoperative tumor adherence and postoperative extent of resection. This could provide crucial preoperative insights into surgical difficulty, potential complications, and the likelihood of gross total tumor removal, enhancing informed decision‐making for both physicians/surgeons and patients.
Emerging Contaminants Drive Water Treatment Innovations
Authors: Aghababaei Mina , Ryan Donald , D’Andrea De Taboada Dora , Dixit Fuhar
Published: January 2025

Ever since emerging contaminants fell under the watchful eye of scientists, water treatment professionals, and lawmakers, they have been a catalyst for advancements in technologies and regulations. The trend is likely to continue as challenges continue to threaten water quality.
Improvement of the Oxidative Stability of CeO2‐Dispersed Hydrocarbon‐Based Polyvinyl Alcohol Cross‐Linked‐Polybenzoxazine as a Proton‐Exchange Membrane
Authors: Senthil Theerthagiri , Rachman Ihsan Budi , Islam Md Shoriful , Hanantyo Muhammad Pramaditya Garry , Song Sun‐Ju
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a simple technique for producing ceria nanoparticle‐dispersed polyvinyl alcohol/sulfonated‐polybenzoxazine (CeO2@PVA/poly S‐BZ) composite membranes and examines their physicochemical, thermochemical, and electrochemical properties. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) was utilized to analyze the surface and cross‐sectional morphology of the produced polymer and polymer nanocomposite membranes. The objective is to create a membrane with improved oxidative stability, ionic conductivity, and mechanical durability for fuel cell applications. The composite membranes' production was validated via Fourier‐transform infrared and thermogravimetric studies. The CeO2@PVA/poly S‐BZ nanocomposite membrane demonstrated a proton conductivity of 1.72 × 10−2 S/cm at 80°C, whereas the pristine PVA/poly S‐BZ membrane showed a conductivity of 3.266 × 10−2 S/cm at the same temperature. Analysis of temperature‐dependent proton conductivity via an Arrhenius plot indicated that the membrane's proton‐transport mechanism likely encompasses both Grotthuss and vehicular processes. The 1 wt% CeO2@PVA/poly S‐BZ nanocomposite membranes exhibited remarkable oxidative stability, with merely 65.5% breakdown following 24 h of exposure to a Fenton reagent at 80°C.
Cardiovascular Complications of Immune Effector Cell Therapies in Pediatric Hematological and Solid Tumors
Authors: Ross Aaron B. , Puri Kriti , Johnson Thomas L. , Correa Lilliam D. , John Tami D. , Friend Brian , Navai Shoba A. , Ahmed Nabil , Hegde Meenakshi G. , Omer Bilal , Heczey Andras , Salem Baheyeldin M. , Tcharmtchi Hossein , Rouce Rayne H. , Steffin David H. , Krance Robert A , Rainusso Nino C. , Bhar Saleh
Published: January 2025

Background

Immune effector cell (IEC) therapies, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐modified T‐cell therapy, have shown efficacy in pediatric B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) and are being investigated for other malignancies. A common toxicity associated with IEC therapy is cytokine release syndrome (CRS), which can lead to cardiovascular decompensation due to systemic inflammation. Data are limited regarding cardiovascular adverse effects in children. This study aims to describe the cardiovascular adverse effect profile of IEC therapies in pediatric patients with hematologic and solid tumor malignancies.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who received IECs directed towards various targets in patients with hematologic, solid, and brain tumor malignancies from January 2014 to June 2023 at Texas Children's Hospital. The primary end point was hypotension requiring vasoactive support and/or heart failure within 30 days of infusion.

Results

A total of 203 patients met inclusion criteria. Pretreatment echocardiogram was available for 142 (70%) pediatric patients, of whom 140 (96%) had normal baseline systolic function. Hypotension requiring vasoactive support occurred in 26 (13%) patients. Hematologic malignancy indications (p = 0.002), total body irradiation (TBI) (p = 0.002), and allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HCT) (p = 0.035) were associated with increased risk of hypotension requiring vasoactive support. Follow‐up echocardiograms were available for 14 patients who met the primary end point, and all showed return to baseline within 6 months.

Conclusions

Significant hemodynamic compromise occurred in a minority of patients treated with IEC therapies. All experiencing cardiac dysfunction had recovery of function, and there was no cardiovascular‐related mortality.
Registration of soybean germplasm DS1260‐2, with improved tolerance to mature seed damage and Phomopsis seed decay
Authors: Smith James R. , Gillen Anne M. , Li Shuxian , Abbas Hamed K. , Sulyok Michael , Shier W. Thomas , Mengistu Alemu , Cai Guohong , Gillman Jason D.
Published: January 2025

Damage to mature soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed occurs when mature seeds are subjected to weathering, fungi, and insects under hot humid conditions. Such damage can be exacerbated by delays in harvest. Mature seed damage (MSD) causes lost revenue to both producers and processors, as well as lower quality of the seed, protein meal, and oil to consumers. The release of DS1260‐2 (Reg. no. GP‐531, PI 705148) by the USDA‐ARS is part of our effort to increase soybean tolerance to mature seed damage using traditional plant breeding. Tolerance to MSD was derived from exotic accession Huang mao bai shui dou (PI 587982A) and incorporated through pedigree selection into an agronomically improved conventional late maturity group IV germplasm adapted for production in the midsouthern United States. DS1260‐2 has significantly lower levels of seed damage than cultivars ‘P46T59R’, ‘AG4632’, and ‘P48A60X’, which manifests as lower incidence of Diaporthe longicolla (Hobbs) J.M. Santos (Syn. Phomopsis longicolla Hobbs), less seed coat wrinkling and visual mold, lower incidence of fungal metabolites (nivalenol, cercosporin, cytochalasins H and J, tryptophol, fusaric acid, and beauvericin), and higher seed germination. DS1260‐2 yielded similar to P46T59R in trials over 4 years in Mississippi, but less than ‘AG46X6’, ‘AG48X9’, and ‘S16‐7922C’ in regional testing. DS1260‐2 is resistant to southern stem canker, frogeye leaf spot, and race 3 (HG type 0) of soybean cyst nematode. DS1260‐2 is a valuable source for developing cultivars with improved tolerance to the MSD that is caused by mold and weathering.
Using Multiple Anthropomorphic Measures to Estimate Height in Muscular Dystrophies and Its Impact on Lung Function
Authors: Whitley Kayleen , Spoede Elizabeth , Moore Glenn , Farber Harold J.
Published: January 2025

Background

An accurate height estimate is important for assessing pulmonary function, and body mass index. If a patient cannot stand, an accurate standing height cannot be directly measured. Knee‐heel length, arm span, ulnar length, and tibial length have been studied in otherwise healthy populations as single measurements for height estimation.

Objective

To determine the relation of ulnar length, tibial length, arm span, and knee‐heel length to standing height in children with neuromuscular diseases.

Methods

Children and adolescents with neuromuscular diseases were recruited for participation. Knee–heel length, ulnar length, tibial length, arm span, and standing height (in those who could stand) were measured. Height estimation models were built using multivariate regression with backward elimination with criteria to eliminate as p > 0.20. Our results were compared to other published height estimation models.

Results

We enrolled 28 children with a neuromuscular diagnosis who were able to stand. Models for standing height that combined arm span, ulnar length, and tibia length provided the best estimates, yielding an adjusted R square of 0.95 and a mean difference from measured height of 2.7 cm for a 5% difference in predicted forced vital capacity (FVC). Other models yielded a 5–7 cm difference between estimated and standing height for an 8.5%–12% difference in predicted FVC. We enrolled 30 children not able to stand. The mean ratios of anthropomorphic measures were similar in those who could not stand compared to those who could stand.

Conclusions

A model combining three measurements of arm span, ulnar length, and tibial length together provided the best height estimation for patients with neuromuscular disease. Final height estimation model: (arm span [cm] × 0.457) + (ulnar length [cm] × 1.292) + (tibial length [cm] × 0.902) + 17.745 = Standing Height.
Optimizing Lognormal Process Monitoring With Bayesian Approach for Industrial Engineering Applications
Authors: Khan Imad , Abbas Tahir , Albogamy Fahad R.
Published: January 2025

In this article, we introduce the Bayesian adaptive Max‐EWMA control chart designed to monitor both the mean and variance of processes following a lognormal distribution. By employing various loss functions, our Bayesian control chart demonstrates robust performance in detecting shifts in both the mean and dispersion across a wide range of magnitudes. We utilize Monte Carlo simulation techniques to compute run length characteristics, providing a thorough comparative analysis of the proposed chart against existing control charts in terms of run length performance. Our findings reveal the superior sensitivity of the Bayesian control chart to shifts of different magnitudes. To illustrate the practical applicability of our approach, we present a case study on the hard‐bake process in semiconductor manufacturing, showcasing its effectiveness when applying various loss functions. In conclusion, our research highlights the enhanced performance of the proposed Bayesian chart in detecting out‐of‐control signals.
Immunobiology of MPox Infection and Its Management: Experience From Developing Nations
Authors: Sahoo Om Saswat , Sapam Daina , Ajmeria Swati , Aidasani Hiya , Dhar Ruby , Karmakar Subhradip
Published: January 2025

Purpose

As humanity grapples with the COVID‐19 pandemic caused by the novel SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, the rising threats of the MPox virus (MPXV) in 2022 and 2024 have shown signs of global transmission and the potential to spark another pandemic. Though MPXV has been present for over 5 decades, with cases traditionally confined to endemic regions in West and Central Africa, recent outbreaks have occurred in multiple non‐endemic regions, declaring itself as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This study aims to examine the patterns of MPXV transmission, its zoonotic potential, associated complications, and viable strategies to control its spread.

Methods

The study examines recent outbreak data, case reports, and literature on MPXV transmission, emphasising zoonotic pathways and healthcare‐associated cases. A bibliometric analysis has also been performed to deepen the understanding and identify emerging research trends.

Results

The findings suggest that while MPXV has traditionally been endemic in certain regions of Africa, recent outbreaks indicate an increased transmission risk in non‐endemic countries, raising concerns about potential global spread. Data reveals that much of the transmission has occurred within healthcare settings. Additionally, global research on the outbreak remains limited and requires further exploration from various perspectives, emphasising the need for prompt intervention.

Conclusion

Containing MPXV's spread is essential to prevent another potential pandemic. Effective management and control strategies, including enhanced surveillance, public health interventions, and targeted education within at‐risk communities, are critical to mitigate the spread and impact of MPXV globally. This study advocates for a proactive approach to MPXV control to avoid its escalation into a widespread health crisis.