bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triangulation of self-other overlap, shared time, and shared physiology best predicts shared flow in music ensembles
Authors: Gibbs Hannah Jennet , Schiavio Andrea
Published: July 2024

Shared flow can be conceptualised as a collective state of flow that emerges within a group. It has been recently suggested that shared flow involves a spectrum of self-other overlap, joint attention, and social interaction, further facilitated by context and experience. To empirically test this, four gamelan groups - a musical ensemble originating from Indonesia - took part in a study (N=36), whereby aspects of the theorised spectrum were operationalised via (i) a self-report measure of self-other overlap, (ii) a measure of consensus of time distortion, and (iii) physiological synchrony. Using linear mixed-effects models, we tested whether associations between shared flow and these measures are modulated by different performance conditions and musical training. Lastly, we tested whether shared flow could be best predicted by all measures combined. While the relationship between self-other overlap and shared flow was not reliant on condition and expertise, it was for synchrony of skin conductance and consensus of time distortion. Furthermore, we found that models predicting shared flow encompassed combinations of all the above measures. The findings reveal the potential of physiological measures and a novel measure of consensus of time distortion as a supplement to self-reports in understanding the underlying social dynamics of shared flow.
Molecular beam epitaxial step-edge growth of Bi2Te3/multi-stepped Sb2Te3 nanoplate hetero-structures
Authors: Yi Gyu-Chul , Kim Yoonkang , Lee Sangmin , Lee Eunsu , Kim Seongbeom , Suh Wonwoo , Kim Imhwan , Jeon Junyeop , Kim Miyoung
Published: July 2024

We report the synthesis of multiple Bi2Te3 shells on multi-stepped Sb2Te3 nanoplates using molecular beam epitaxial (MBE) step-edge growth. For the growth of Bi2Te3/Sb2Te3 hetero-structures, multi-stepped Sb2Te3 nanoplates with stair-like morphology following layer-by-layer (LBL) growth mode were obtained by optimizing the growth temperature, and the growth of Bi2Te3 on the step-edges of the Sb2Te3 nanoplates was followed. Width of Bi2Te3 on the Sb2Te3 nanoplates was controlled by changing the growth time. Structural properties of the hetero-structures were investigated using aberration-corrected (Cs-corrected) high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), revealing the interface between Sb2Te3 and Bi2Te3. In-plane epitaxial relation at the interface was confirmed using fast Fourier transforms (FFTs). Compositional analysis of Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 was verified through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, we performed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to confirm the preferential growth of Bi2Te3 on the step-edges of Sb2Te3. By forming multi-stepped core structure, it would be feasible to create various integrated hetero-structures.
Evaluation of a binary amphiphile/solvent mixture for the formulation of an ecological detergent as an alternative for removing fat from natural fiber surfaces
Authors: Huillca-Mamani Jenifer , Pacheco-Meza Carla Alessandra , Gutiérrez-Oppe Evelyn Edith , Salas-Chávez Sergio André , Filho Pedro de Alcântara Pessôa
Published: July 2024

The current research focused on the use of a binary amphiphile/solvent mixture consisting of a natural surfactant (alkylpolyglucoside) and the green solvent ethyl lactate (EL) as an active compound for the formulation of a new ecological detergent, to improve the conditions of the washing process as temperature, pH, lipase integration, type of surfactant and detergent dose, to remove fat and dirt from natural fiber surfaces effectively. The best conditions for residual fat percentage <0.37% were achieved at 25 °C, pH 9, and using 0.3% detergent doses without lipase. The study also found that pH and the interaction between pH and surfactant type significantly influenced the percentage of residual fat. All the estimated results mean that the detergent obtained has excellent cleaning properties because there is a strong interaction between the alkylpolyglucoside/ethyl lactate binary mixture, which has a positive effect on reducing the percentage of residual fat and dirt and suggests its use potential in the formulation of green detergents for washing natural and synthetic textile fibers as a replacement for detergents based on ethoxylated fatty alcohols.
Real-Time Identification of Rock Failure Stages Using Deep Learning: A Case Study of Acoustic Emission Analysis in Rock Engineering
Authors: Pu Yuanyuan , Chen Jie , Apel Derek B. , Shang Xueyi
Published: July 2024

The accurate and timely determination of rock failure processes is crucial for various rock engineering applications, especially for preventing dynamic disasters such as rock bursts and roof failures. The primary aim of this study was to determine the current rock failure stage using a single acoustic emission (AE) event signal recorded during the failure process. To achieve this, we proposed a deep learning model that employs advanced convolutional modules and a soft-threshold technique to extract the full waveform features of AE events from four different stages of rock failure in a laboratory uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) test. Once fully trained, our model can instantaneously determine the current rock failure stage from a raw waveform of a single recorded AE event. Subsequently, the trained model was applied to on-site microseismic data analysis at a coal mine working face. Compared to traditional methods of microseismic data analysis that consider large-energy events, our model can identify the rock failure stage at the time of a specific microseismic event. Furthermore, by analyzing microseismic events triggered by post-peak rock fracturing, we identified potential hazard areas for rock bursts in the working face, and the results closely matched the site's burst prevention logs. This study successfully developed a real-time method for determining rock failure stages using deep learning, which can be effectively applied to microseismic data analysis in engineering sites to provide more precise early warnings of rock dynamic disasters.
Decoding the Glioma Microenvironment: Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals the Impact of Cell-to-Cell Communication on Tumor Progression and Immunotherapy Response
Authors: Li Xia , Chen Shenbo , Ding Ming , Ding Hui , Yang Kun
Published: July 2024

Background
Glioma is the most common primary tumor of the central nervous system, characterized by high heterogeneity that poses significant challenges to therapeutic strategies and prognostic assessment. This study investigates the cell-cell communication between malignant glioma cells and macrophages/monocytes and its impact on tumor progression and treatment response through in-depth single-cell RNA sequencing analysis.
Methods
We integrated RNA-seq data from the TCGA and CGGA databases and conducted a comprehensive analysis of glioma samples using single-cell RNA sequencing, functional enrichment analysis, developmental trajectory analysis, cell-cell communication analysis, and gene regulatory network analysis. Additionally, we constructed a prognostic model based on risk scores and evaluated the predictive performance of the model through analyses of immune cell infiltration and immune treatment response.
Results
We successfully identified 14 glioma cellular subpopulations and 7 primary cell types, as well as 4 subtypes of macrophages/monocytes. Developmental trajectory analysis revealed the origins and heterogeneity of malignant cells and macrophages/monocytes. Cellular communication analysis found that macrophages and monocytes interact with malignant cells through multiple pathways, including MIF (Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor) and SPP1 (Secreted Phosphoprotein 1), engaging in several key ligand-receptor pairs that influence tumor behavior. Subgroup stratification based on cellular communication characteristics showed a significant association with overall survival (OS). Immune cell infiltration analysis indicated differences in the abundance of immune cells among various subgroups, which may correlate with responses to immunotherapy. A predictive model composed of 29 prognostic genes demonstrated excellent accuracy and robustness across multiple independent cohorts.
Conclusion
Our study reveals the complex heterogeneity of the glioma microenvironment and strengthens the understanding of the diversity and characteristics of glioma cell subpopulations, preliminarily establishing a prognostic model related to prognosis. These findings provide a basis for the development of therapeutic strategies and prognostic models targeting the glioma microenvironment.
Alterations in cerebral perfusion and corresponding brain functional networks in systemic lupus erythematosus with cognitive impairment
Authors: Liu Huiyang , Liu Hu , Tian Bailing , Yang Pingting , Fan Guoguang
Published: July 2024

Cognitive impairment (CI) frequently occurs in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may result from neuroinflammation processes and neurovascular changes in the brain. The cerebral hemodynamics underlying SLE with CI (SLE-CI) remain unclear. 97 patients with SLE and 51 heathy controls (HCs) matched for age and gender underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The CI status of patients was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). 3D T1-weighted arterial spin labeling (ASL) and resting-state functional (rs-fMRI) sequences were obtained. Seed-based FC was calculated using the CBF results. Compared with patients with SLE-NC, patients with SLE-CI had higher CBF in the left hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebellum crus II and lower CBF in the left frontal lobe. Left hippocampus gray matter (GM) atrophy was detected in patients with SLE-CI but not in patients with SLE-NC. Secondary analyses revealed that compared with patients with SLE-NC, patients with SLE-CI had increased FC of the left insula gyrus when the left cerebellum crus II was set as the seed region and decreased FC in the homolateral parahippocampus when the left hippocampus was set as the seed region. These changes in brain structure, function, and network may be biomarkers of cognitive impairment in patients with SLE-CI.
The nasopharyngeal microbiome in South African children with lower respiratory tract infection: a nested case-control study of the Drakenstein Child Health Study
Authors: Claassen-Weitz Shantelle , Xia Yao , Workman Lesley , Hannan Luke , Gardner-Lubbe Sugnet , Mwaikono Kilaza S , Mounaud Stephanie Harris , Nierman William C. , Africa Samantha , Patel Fadheela , Dube Felix Sizwe , Allen Veronica , Edries Lemese Ah Tow , Zar Heather J. , Nicol Mark Patrick
Published: July 2024

Background
Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality globally. LRTI may be caused by viral or bacterial infections, individually or in combination. We investigated associations between LRTI and infant nasopharyngeal (NP) viruses and bacteria in a South African birth cohort.
Methods
In a case-control study of infants enrolled in the Drakenstein Child Health Study (DCHS), LRTI cases were identified prospectively and age-matched with controls from the cohort. NP swabs were tested using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. We calculated adjusted Conditional Odds Ratios (aORs) for qPCR targets and used mixed effects models to identify differentially abundant taxa between LRTI cases and controls and explore viral-bacterial interactions.
Results
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) [aOR: 5.69, 95% CI: 3.03–10.69], human rhinovirus (HRV) [1.47, 1.03–2.09], parainfluenza virus [3.46, 1.64–7.26], adenovirus [1.99, 1.08–3.68], enterovirus [2.32, 1.20–4.46], Haemophilus influenzae [1.72, 1.25–2.37], Klebsiella pneumoniae [2.66, 1.59–4.46], or high-density (> 6.9 log10 copies/mL) Streptococcus pneumoniae [1.53, 1.01–2.32] were associated with LRTI. Using 16S sequencing, LRTI was associated with increased relative abundance of Haemophilus (q = 0.0003) and decreased relative abundance of Dolosigranulum (q = 0.001), Corynebacterium (q = 0.091) and Neisseria (q = 0.004). In samples positive for RSV, Staphylococcus and Alloprevotella were present at lower relative abundance in cases than controls. In samples positive for parainfluenza virus or HRV, Haemophilus was present at higher relative abundance in cases.
Conclusions
The associations between bacterial taxa and LRTI are strikingly similar to those identified in high-income countries, suggesting a conserved phenotype. RSV was the major virus associated with LRTI. H. influenzae appears to be the major bacterial driver of LRTI, acting synergistically with viruses. The Gram-positive bacteria Dolosigranulum and Corynebacteria may protect against LRTI, while Staphylococcus was associated with reduced risk of RSV-related LRTI.
Funding
National Institutes of Health of the USA, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, National Research Foundation South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South Africa, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.
Research paper classification model based on deep learning network and text fine-grained features
Authors: Gao Li , Li Hongjun , Chen Qingkui , Lan Yu
Published: July 2024

Traditional document classification methods in scientific research often overlook the semantic order of words, resulting in accuracy challenges. Although deep learning has addressed this by considering word order, it faces issues with overfitting in complex tasks. This paper aims to enhance document classification accuracy by utilizing features from article keywords and abstracts. The objective is to improve feature representation through weighted keyword extraction and refined abstract processing, followed by training a hierarchical deep learning model for superior performance in complex text multi-classification. Proposed method involves several key steps: 1) Feature Representation: Extracting keywords from article titles and abstracts with enhanced representation using TF-IDF weighting to handle overlapping keywords. 2) Abstract Refinement: Employing POS tagging to refine lengthy abstracts into concise and informative segments. 3) Hierarchical Deep Learning Model: Combining TextCNN and BiLSTM architectures to capture fine-grained features and semantic contexts effectively. 4) Training Strategy: Training the hierarchical model to classify scientific documents based on refined features from keywords and abstracts. The innovative approach, FFDLText, which combines TextCNN and BiLSTM models, achieves higher accuracy and training efficiency compared to baseline models on the WOS dataset. This research contributes a novel method for complex text multi-classification tasks. The paper introduces FFDLText, a novel approach to scientific document classification using fine-grained feature extraction and hierarchical deep learning. By refining keyword representation and abstract content with TF-IDF weighting and POS tagging, and leveraging TextCNN and BiLSTM models, this method significantly enhances accuracy and efficiency in scientific research document classification.
Can Rewards Enhance Creativity? Exploring the Effects of Real and Hypothetical Rewards on Creative Problem Solving and Neural Mechanisms
Authors: Cui Can , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Yingjie
Published: July 2024

Reward cues have long been considered to enhance creative performance; however, little is known about whether rewards can affect creative problem solving by manipulating states of flexibility and persistence. This study sought to elucidate the differential impacts of real versus hypothetical rewards on the creative process utilizing the Chinese compound remote association task. Behavioral analysis revealed a significantly enhanced solution rate and response times in scenarios involving real rewards, in contrast to those observed with hypothetical rewards. Furthermore, participants exhibited a greater ability to solve CRA items under low rewards than under high rewards. Electrophysiological findings indicated that hypothetical rewards led to more positive P200-600 amplitudes, in stark contrast to the amplitudes observed in the context of real rewards. These findings indicate a positive impact of real rewards on creative remote associations and contribute new insights into the relationship between rewards and creative problem solving, highlighting the crucial role of the level of control in the formation of creativity.
First Hip Hemiarthroplasty in Göttingen Minipigs; Surgical and Post-mortem Protocol
Authors: Hartmann Katrine Top , Odgaard Anders , Knudsen Ulrik Kragegaard , Aalbaek Bent , Kvich Lasse , Birch Julie Melsted , Petersen Andreas , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Jensen Henrik Elvang , Jensen Louise Kruse
Published: July 2024

Background Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) are recalcitrant, hard-to-treat infections and severe complications of joint arthroplasty. Therefore, there is a need to develop new effective treatment strategies, and animal models of high clinical relevance are needed. This study aimed to develop a detailed surgical protocol for inserting a hip hemiarthroplasty in Göttingen minipig and a thorough post-mortem sampling protocol to pave the way for creating a minipig PJI model.
Methods Three adult female Göttingen minipigs underwent surgery with insertion of a hip hemiarthroplasty, using the anterior approach to the hip joint. After surgery the minipigs were followed closely with daily clinical evaluation and gait scoring. Comprehensive post-mortem analyses were performed with evaluation of macroscopic lesions, microbiology, synovial fluid analysis and histology.
Results The study resulted in the first Göttingen minipig with hip hemiarthroplasty and identified several points of awareness when inserting a hip prosthesis in minipigs, especially the high risk of joint dislocation. A spontaneous PJI occurred in one of the minipigs, revealing an impaired ability of the immune cells to reach the bacteria at the bone-prosthesis interface.
Conclusion The present study provides a detailed description of surgical technique and post-mortem sampling and validates the suitability of the hip hemiarthroplasty minipig model for future experimental modeling of PJI.
A Comparative Study of Lower Limb Alignment between MAKO Robot-Assisted and Conventional Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Xu Kaige , Zhang Zian , Xu Hao , Wang Wenzhe , Yu Chaoqun , Zhang Haining
Published: July 2024

Backgrounds:
This retrospective study aims to comparatively analyze the lower limb alignment correction capabilities of MAKO robot-assisted surgery and conventional surgery.
Methods
Clinical data of 70 patients who underwent UKA treatment in the Department of Orthopedics, Qingdao University Affiliated Hospital, from January 2022 to November 2023 were reviewed. Among them, 48 patients who underwent MAKO robot-assisted UKA were included in the MAKO robot group, and 22 patients who underwent conventional UKA were included in the conventional group. The preoperative and postoperative lower limb alignment hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angles of the two groups were recorded and subjected to inter-group and intra-group analysis.
Results
Both groups of patients successfully completed the surgeries. The postoperative HKA angle in the MAKO robot group averaged 176.03°±3.08°, showing an average correction of 5.13°±2.75° compared to the preoperative angle (170.09°±3.74°), with a statistically significant difference (t = 12.90, p < 0.05). In the conventional group, the postoperative HKA angle averaged 175.47°±2.40°, demonstrating an average correction of 5.47°±2.21° compared to the preoperative angle (170.00°±2.95°), also with a statistically significant difference (t = 11.62, p < 0.05). However, the comparison of postoperative HKA angles and correction degrees between the two groups showed no statistically significant difference (t = 0.76, p > 0.05; t = 0.51, p > 0.05).
Conclusion
Both MAKO robot-assisted UKA and conventional UKA effectively corrected the lower limb alignment of patients postoperatively. However, compared to conventional surgery, MAKO robot-assisted UKA did not demonstrate a significant advantage in lower limb alignment correction ability.
A novel synbiotic protects against DSS-induced colitis in mice via anti-inflammatory and microbiota-balancing properties
Authors: Yang Yong , Qiao Yuyu , Liu Ge , Zhang Ting , Fan Weiping , Tong Mingwei
Published: July 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic immune-inflammatory disease. Gut microbes, intestinal immunity, and gut barrier function play a critical role in IBD. Growing evidence suggests that synbiotics may offer therapeutic benefits for individuals with colitis, suggesting an alternative therapy against colitis. With this in mind, we creatively prepared a new synbiotic combination consisting of a probiotic strain (Lactobacillus reuteri) along with one prebiotic Chitooligosaccharides (COS). The protective effect of the synbiotics on DSS-induced colitis and the underlying mechanisms were investigated. We demonstrated that the synbiotics ameliorated colitis in mice, which was evidenced by a significant reduction in body weight, shortening of the colon, and an increase in the DAI index. Notably, synbiotics reduced the intestinal inflammation and injury by synergistically decreasing inflammatory factors, inhibiting TLR4/Myd88/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling, preventing macrophages infiltration, and enhancing the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Moreover, synbiotics selectively promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Akkermansia, Lactobacilus) but decreased the pathogenic bacteria (e.g. Helicobacter). BugBase's analysis supported its ameliorated role in reducing pathogenic bacteria. Collectively, our findings revealed the novel synbiotic had a potential to treat colitis, which was associated with its anti-inflammatory and microbiota-balancing properties. This study will contribute to the development of functional synbiotic products for the treatment of IBD and will provide valuable insights into their mechanisms.
WITHDRAWN: An eco-extraction procedure for solvent free extraction of plant phenolics using microwave hydro diffusion and gravity (MHG) model
Authors: Sinha Anjli , Mukherjee Souvik , Chouhan Kavi Bhushan Singh , Mahato Kashinath , Khan Altamash , Dwivedi Apoorva , Pal Riya , Patra Arjun , Mandal Vivekananda
Published: July 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Establishment and validation of a nomogram for predicting intravenous immunoglobulin resistance and coronary artery lesions involvement in Kawasaki disease: A retrospective study
Authors: Gao Yuan , peng lu , liu jianglin , zhao cuifen
Published: July 2024

Objective
We aimed to develop a useful nomogram for early identification of Kawasaki disease (KD) children at a high risk of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance and coronary artery lesions (CAL) complications to improve KD management. Methods: Clinical data from 400 patients treated at our hospital between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2023, were collected. Lasso regression was utilized to screen risk factors for IVIG resistance and CAL involvement. Subsequently, a Logistic regression model incorporating parameters screened by Lasso regression was established and visualized as a nomogram. The discrimination, calibration, clinical applicability, and universality of the model were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and internal validation.
Results
NEU%, HDL-C and MHR were identified as predictors of IVIG resistance by Lasso regression, with C-index of the Logistic model being 0.886 for the training set and 0.855 for the validation set. For predicting CAL development, sex, fever date before the first IVIG administration, KD type, the level of HDL-C and MHR were the optimal variables, yielding C-index of 0.915 and 0.866 for the training and validation set, respectively. Calibration curves for both validation sets performed well, indicating strong predictive abilities of the models.
Conclusions
We established two nomograms for predicting IVIG resistance and CAL complications in KD patients, based on the Lasso-Logistic regression model. These nomograms were of guiding significance for screening KD children at high risk of developing IVIG resistance and CAL complications, thereby improving prognosis.
Immune accentuations as a prognostic factor for adaptation in Antarctic conditions
Authors: Dubrovskyi Ievgen , Zabara Dariia , Anoshko Yaroslava , Kozeretska Iryna , Deyneka Igor , Khytryi Andrii , Matkovskyi Vasyl , Martynenko Dmytro , Dons'koi Boris
Published: July 2024

Human presence and work in Antarctica occur under challenging climatic, psychophysiological, and social conditions. The health of expedition participants is a critical factor, and a pre-expedition medical assessment is extremely important. The immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining satisfactory health and in the successful adaptation to adverse living conditions. In the current study, we evaluated the prognostic significance of previously identified accentuations on the health status of participants and their adaptation to Antarctic conditions. Immunophenotyping was performed on 43 male Ukrainian antarctic expedition (UAE) members before the expedition and after their return, assessing the dynamics of laboratory indicators and conducting a detailed analysis of their health status throughout the entire expedition. According to the results, UAE participants with favorable and unfavorable adaptation showed differences in immunophenotypic indicators. The majority of UAE participants with favorable adaptation had T-helper (CD3 + CD4+) levels (> 35%), balanced (< 24%) expression of HLA-DR on cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD4 + CD8+), and proportions and absolute levels of NK-lymphocytes (5–18% and 100–400). In contrast, UAE participants with unfavorable adaptation exhibited balanced levels significantly less frequently. NK cell levels within the reference (favorable) range (5–18%) were virtually absent in UAE participants with unfavorable adaptation (1/12), whereas they were typical in participants with favorable adaptation. The combination of two diagnostically significant immune parameters yields higher accuracy. Increased expression of HLA-DR on cytotoxic T-lymphocytes and elevated NK-lymphocyte content significantly enhance the prognostic value of the diagnostic algorithm. Thus, in the group of participants with favorable adaptation, only 9 (30%) had one of these accentuations, while in the group with unfavorable adaptation, all 12 participants had one of these accentuations (P < 0.0001, OR = 59.211). In all Antarctic expedition participants, cortisol levels significantly increased in the first quarter compared to baseline values, followed by dynamic fluctuations throughout the expedition. Cortisol levels returned to baseline after the expedition. The results demonstrate that staying in Antarctica requires adaptive processes that are directly dependent on the balanced function of the immune system. Chronic stress, in conjunction with immune accentuations, complicates successful adaptation. Further investigation into immune processes and adaptation characteristics will allow for the prediction of the risk of adverse adaptation processes, improve participant selection, and facilitate the implementation of proactive measures to prevent the deterioration of the health status of polar expedition members.
Thoracic T2 and T3 Ganglia Locations Relative to Their Corresponding Ribs: Implication during Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy
Authors: Talsma Joel , Peirce Crystal C. , Tarfusser Ivo , Kim Subin , Idowu Olajire , Kim Sunghoon
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Understanding the precise anatomy of the upper thoracic sympathetic trunk is crucial for the effective treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis using the surgical technique of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS). The variability in the location of T2 and T3 ganglia in relation to the ribs may contribute to inconsistent clinical outcomes following ETS. Traditionally, a rib-oriented approach has been used, relying on the positions of the second, third, and fourth ribs as landmarks rather than the actual ganglia positions, potentially leading to incomplete or inaccurate ganglion destruction. This study is undertaken to advocate for a ganglion-oriented approach to ETS, which necessitates an accurate anatomical understanding of the T2 and T3 ganglia locations.
Methods
For the study, 40 human cadaveric thoraces were dissected to map the locations of T2 and T3 ganglia relative to the ribs.
Results
The findings showed a high percentage of T2 ganglion is located near the superior border of the third rib, while the T3 ganglion is situated near the fourth rib. Specifically, 43% of the right T2 ganglia and 38% of the left T2 ganglia were in contact with the superior part of the third rib. These results indicate a significant risk of inadvertently damaging the T2 ganglion when using a rib-oriented approach at the third rib level leading to compensatory hyperhidrosis.
Conclusion
Due to the proximity of the T2 ganglion to the third rib, accidental thermal injury to the ganglion may occur when third rib-oriented ETS is performed. A ganglion-oriented T3 ETS can be performed by using the white ramus communicans as a guide to accurately locate the T3 ganglion, ensuring precise sympathectomy and preserving sympathetic innervation to the heart and face. Adopting the ganglion-oriented sympathectomy could standardize ETS procedures and enhance the comparability of surgical outcomes.
The INTOXICATE study: Methodology, experience and preliminary results of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zwaag Samanta M. , Hengel-Koot Irma S. van den , Baker Stuart , Druwé Patrick , Elhadi Muhammed , Dufol Ana Ferrer , Forsberg Sune , Halacli Burcin , Jung Christian , Sakalauskienė Gabija Laubner , Lindqvist Elin , Moreno Rui , Rabe Christian , Reiter Nanna , Rezar Richard , Țincu Radu , Topeli Arzu , Wood David M. , de Lange Dylan W. , Hunault Claudine C.
Published: July 2024

Background
No practice-based, multicenter database of poisoned patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) exists. The INTOXICATE study, endorsed by the ESICM and EAPCCT, aimed to collect detailed data on such patients. We hypothesized that the proportion of ICU intoxicated patients requiring genuine intensive care would be greater than previously reported.
Methods
Ethical approval was obtained for this multicenter, prospective study, and data-sharing contracts were signed. An electronic case report form was used to collect patient demographics, exposure, clinical features, investigations, treatment, and in-hospital mortality. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who received mechanical ventilation and/or vasopressors in the first 24 h after ICU admission, and/or who died in the hospital. A one-proportion z test was used to test the difference in outcome in this study compared with the proportion of 6.5% previously observed in a large study.
Results
Seventy-eight ICUs, mainly from Europe, but also from Australia and the Eastern Mediterranean, participated. The median time to sign a data sharing agreement between a unit and the coordinating center was 17 months. A total of 2,275 patients were enrolled between November 2020 and June 2023. The median patient age was 41 years, 72% of whom were exposed to human drugs; neurological symptoms were the most common clinical feature (83% of admissions), and the ICU mortality rate was 3.7%. The observed proportion of patients with the primary outcome (requiring ICU treatment) was 40% versus 6.5% as previously mentioned (p-value < 0.001).
Conclusions
This study collected high-quality detailed clinical data from a large cohort of acutely intoxicated ICU patients. The proportion of intoxicated patients admitted to the ICU and requiring ICU treatment was much greater than previously mentioned. The challenges identified during the study setup and data collection will enable modifications of these processes for future data collection studies.
Trial registration
OSF registration ID: osf.io/7e5uy
Structural Evaluation of Mass Concrete Damage: A Case Study of Concrete Mill Stands
Authors: Attiyah Ali N. , Al-Wazni Saad , Al-Tameemi Ali , Al-Ansari Luay
Published: July 2024

Mass concrete is designed and constructed commonly to avoid early-age cracks, but in some cases, damage is caused by service loads, where machine foundations can be considered as examples of such cases. The present study evaluated the structural performance of the concrete Roller Mill Stand, where cracks were seen after several years of operation. The vertical Roller Mill is one of the main components of a cement plant. The evaluation was based on the following main steps: estimation of the concrete strength, analysis of loading scenarios, structural analysis based on the preceding two steps, analysis and evaluation of the structure performance. Finite element results showed that cracks were initiated in mill concrete stands when the mill was operated under maximum extraordinary loading case, and then these cracks gradually grew. The field investigation agreed with the numerical analysis that the mill was operated under maximum extraordinary operation conditions, which caused the observed cracks in the reinforced concrete stands. It was concluded that the mass concrete of the stands to be strong enough to transfer forces from the mill to the foundation. Also, the compression fatigue failure is not potential for the assumed loading cases in the analysis, while the fatigue due to shear stresses is not verified in some sections near the openings of stands, therefore, the shear and fatigue capacities are essential for dynamic loading demands.
Time for Managed Wildfire in Europe: The Pioneering Integrated Fire Management Plan of the Aran, Pyrenees
Authors: Oliveres Jordi , Castellnou Marc , Castellarnau Xavi , Rosas-Casals Martí , Brotons Lluis , Duane Andrea
Published: July 2024

Background
Recent extreme wildfire events in countries with high investments in fire extinction indicate that strategies focusing exclusively on fire suppression are ineffective. Although upgrading analytical capacities and technological-based solutions in emergency management is needed, shifting from fire suppression to strategic fire management in a resilience context is crucial to tackling climate change impacts. The present research aims to operationalize this adaptation gap by applying a new transdisciplinary approach based on conceptualizing the environmental fire flow, a novel standard proposed to scale up integrated fire management. Under this approach, unplanned ignited fires represent a window of opportunity where emergency responders can turn wildfires into managed wildfires to, counter-intuitively, increase social and ecological resilience in the medium-long term.
Results
Based on landscape modeling and assisted with technical expertise, we identify the environmental fire flows in the Aran region (~600km2 in the Spanish Pyrenees) and the critical environmental factors that can be impacted. This strategic innovation accomplishes specific social demands and ecological objectives in pre-defined areas outlined in a fire management plan.
Conclusions
This fire management plan represents the first official policy approved in Europe including monitoring and limited or no-suppression strategies (managed wildfire options). Although the framework is designed specifically for the Aran, this transdisciplinary approach may have a broader application in the Pyrenees and other European regions sharing similar challenges and opportunities.
Generation of the First Transgenic Line of the Iconic Coral Reef Fish Amphiprion ocellaris
Authors: Graham Gabriel , Ibanez Emma , Mitchell Laurie , Weis Karen , Raetzman Lori , Cortesi Fabio , Rhodes Justin
Published: July 2024

The common clownfish, Amphiprion ocellaris, is an iconic coral reef fish, ubiquitous in the marine aquarium hobby and useful for studying a variety of biological processes (e.g., mutual symbiosis, ultraviolet vision, and protandrous sex change). Recently, CRISPR/Cas9 methods were developed for knocking out specific genes for mechanistic studies. Here, we expand the genetic toolkit for A. ocellaris by creating the first transgenic line using the Tol2 transposon system. Fertilized eggs were co-injected with Tol2 transposase mRNA and a plasmid encoding an Elongation factor 1 α (Ef1α): Green fluorescent protein (GFP) cassette at various concentrations, needle tip dimensions and timepoints post-fertilization. We compared various injection parameters and sterilization methods to maximize the survival of injected eggs. F0s (n = 10) that were genotyped GFP + were then raised to 6 months of age and crossed with wild-type (WT) females to confirm germline transmission. F1 offspring were also raised and crossed in the same manner. The highly efficient Tol2 transposon system resulted in a 37% rate of transgenesis for surviving eggs amounting to a 2.7% yield of all injected eggs surviving and being GFP+ (n = 160). Of these, 10 were raised to adulthood, 8 spawned, and 5/8 (62.5%) produced GFP + offspring. Further, two F1s crossed with WT females produced 53.8% and 54.2% GFP + offspring respectively, confirming the creation of a stable line. This is, to our knowledge, the first generation of a transgenic line in any coral reef fish. The ability to express transgenes of interest in the iconic anemonefish opens the door to a new era of exploration into their fascinating biology.
Health-related quality of life and patient experiences regarding care transitions in hospitalized older patients with chronic diseases: a cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Leithaus Merel , Flamaing Johan , Goderis Geert , Verbeek Hilde , Deschodt Mieke
Published: July 2024

Background
Poorly performed care transitions from the hospital back home can lead to negative consequences, such as replication of services, missed diagnosis or incorrect treatment, medication errors, dissatisfaction among patients, rehospitalization, emergency department visits, or mortality. Implementing integrated care services can improve the quality of care transitions for older chronically ill patients who experience frequent transitions between care settings. The aim of this study was 1) to assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and person-centred care experiences with transitional care in older patients and 2) to compare these outcomes between patients who were living within or outside an integrated care region in Belgium.
Methods
This cross-sectional survey study was part of the European TRANS-SENIOR project. We included patients aged 65 years and older who were discharged home from one of six different acute hospital wards of the University Hospitals Leuven in Belgium. We measured HRQOL using the EQ-5D-5L and a Visual Analogue Scale ranging from 0 to 100, and patient experiences using the ‘Experiences with Hospital Care, Admission and Discharge’ instrument. Descriptive statistics were applied on the total sample. Comparative analyses were done for patients living inside or outside an integrated care region. Level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results
A total of 119 questionnaires were completed. The patients had a mean age of 81 years, and 54.2% were female. Over 70% of the participants reported having problems with mobility, pain/discomfort, daily activities and self-care. Patients reported high scores for the patient experience dimensions hospital accessibility, hospital safety and care received by doctors and nurses. However, lower patient experience scores were observed for treatment communication, admission conversation and hospital discharge. There were no statistically significant differences in terms of HRQOL or most patient experience dimensions between patients living within or outside an integrated care region.
Conclusion
Our survey identified potential areas for improving patient-centred care experiences with transitional care. This information can support hospitals and health care professionals in changing the discharge, transferring and postdischarge processes for older patients with chronic diseases.
Erosion degradation analysis of rice husk ash-rubber-fiber concrete under hygrothermal environment
Authors: Wang Heng , Pang Jianyong , Zou Jiuqun , Xu Yihua , Han Jihuan
Published: July 2024

To study the resistance of rice husk ash-rubber-fiber reinforced concrete (RRFC) to dry-wet cycle/chloride erosion under a hygrothermal environment, the optimal combination was selected by an orthogonal test. The peak strain, residual strain, and fatigue damage strength of the optimal group of RRFC samples under cyclic loading and unloading after dry-wet cycle/chloride erosion under different environments and temperatures were compared and analyzed. At the same time, the principle of energy conversion was given. After that, microscopic analysis and anti-erosion mechanism analysis were carried out. The results show that the axial peak and residual strain of RRFC specimens increase continuously during the repeated loading-unloading process, and the increase of axial peak and residual strain in the first five cycles is the most obvious. Among them, RRFC has the most significant increase in axial peak strain after 14 dry-wet cycles, which is 11.73%. The rice husk ash reacted with Ca(OH)2 in the specimen to precipitate C-S-H gel, which improved the specimen's corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance. The rubber in the specimen has high elasticity, which reduces the fatigue damage of the specimen during cyclic loading and unloading, thus showing higher fatigue failure strength.
Comparison of the impact of native (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) and invasive (Carassius auratus gibelio) omnivorous fish on plankton and bethic algae communities, water quality and submerged macrophytes
Authors: Vladimir Razlutskij , Mei Xueying , Tang Yali , Maisak Natallia , Karpaeva Anastasiya , Goncharik Ruslan G. , Jeppesen Erik , Zhang Xiufeng
Published: July 2024

Shallow lakes are often rich in submerged macrophytes that play an important role in functioning of shallow lake ecosystems. Omnivorous fish can intensify eutrophication by enhancing the growth of phytoplankton, leading to higher water turbidity and light attenuation with negative effect on the growth of submerged macrophytes. However, the effects of different omnivorous fish species on aquatic ecosystem are not necessarily the same. A 70-day outdoor experiment was conducted in mesocosms containing meadow-forming arrowhead (Sagittaria sagittifolia) and canopy-forming clasping leaf pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus) to test the hypothesis that different species of omnivorous fish, the native species Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) and invasive Prussian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) have different effects on plankton and benthic algae communities, water quality and submerged macrophytes growth. Both fish species increased the phytoplankton biomass and the concentrations of total and inorganic suspended solids and decreased water transparency and Prussian carp had a stronger effect than Rudd. The fish also changed the phytoplankton composition decreased the densities of zooplankton, except rotifers with more pronounced impact by the Prussian carp. Rudd decreased the dry weight of the above-ground part of arrowhead and of pondweed roots, while Prussian carp decreased the biomass of the whole pondweed. Canonical analyses showed that impact of all studied factors on pondweed growth was 2.6 times greater in Prussian carp than in Rudd treatments. Our findings thus showed differential effects of the two omnivorous fish species on plankton communities, water quality and submerged macrophytes, with Prussian carp having more pronounced impact than Rudd.
APC mutations in prior hepatitis B virus-infected non-cancerous tissues and their association with hepatocellular carcinogenesis
Authors: Sato Shun , Maruyama Reo , Shimizu Takayuki , Matsumoto Takatsugu , Shiraki Takayuki , Mori Shozo , Iso Yukihiro , Shibata Chikako , Ito Yuka , Kogai Takahiko , Ishida Kazuyuki , Aoki Taku
Published: July 2024

The molecular mechanisms by which a prior hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection leads to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not clearly established. This study aimed to elucidate these mechanisms by investigating gene mutation profiles associated with the development of HCC in patients with prior HBV infection. Patients who developed HCC after prior HBV infection exhibited similar mutation profiles to those of patients with active HBV infection in cancerous and non-cancerous areas. This similarity suggests that there are no unique gene mutations associated with HCC development in the context of prior HBV infection. Importantly, there were no significant differences in mutation profiles between patients who did and did not develop HCC after prior HBV infection in non-cancerous areas. However, patients with APC mutations in non-cancerous liver tissues had a higher likelihood of HCC recurrence than that of patients without such mutations. Our findings indicate that APC mutations play a significant role in the development of HCC in patients with a history of HBV infection. Further studies are required to fully elucidate the role of this gene in HBV-associated carcinogenesis.
Populist attitudes and belief in conspiracy theories: Anti-elitist attitudes reduce the positive impact of an analytical thinking style on conspiracy theories
Authors: Mehl Stephanie , Rief Winfried , Soll Daniel , Pytlik Nico
Published: July 2024

Populist attitudes and the tendency to believe in conspiracy theories often go hand in hand, as they are both used by extremist or populist parties. However, more research is needed to scrutinize this association. Consequently, the present large-scale online study assessed whether and how conspiracy theories and populist attitudes are associated. We assessed 488 nonclinical individuals regarding their conspiracy theories, populist attitudes and whether they preferred a more analytic or intuitive thinking style. We found a moderate correlation between general populist attitudes and conspiracy theories. According to multiple regression analysis, conspiracy theories were significantly predicted by three dimensions of populist attitudes (anti-elitism, demand for unrestricted popular sovereignty, homogeneity and virtuousness of the people), and anti-elitism was the most important predictor. Anti-elitism significantly moderated (reduced) the impact of the preference for an analytical thinking style on belief in conspiracy theories. Persons who present populist attitudes and anti-elitist attitudes in particular might be more vulnerable to believing conspiracy theories. We assume that anti-elitism influences a person’s motivation to use analytical thinking skills to reinterpret ideology-inconsistent information to protect existing beliefs and conspiracy theories. The present results provide new insights into the interplay between conspiracy theories and populism and could be helpful in interventions to prevent their spread.