bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A two‐step sizing method for multistage Op Amps based on behavioral initial sizing followed by Spice‐in‐the‐loop refining
Authors: Xie Qixu , Shi Guoyong
Published: July 2024

Analog integrated circuit sizing is a laborious process that requires many times of iteration with Spice simulations. Even by applying the method, it still requires iterations and test assignment of device values (and biasings) in each iteration until reaching a satisfactory sizing result. When facing a design of multiple‐stage circuits (such as multiple‐stage operational amplifier [Op Amp]), sizing becomes more challenging due to the requirement on pole‐zero placement in order to achieve a better high‐frequency performance. Simulation‐in‐the‐loop method has been the dominating means taken by a great many of existing circuit sizer, but they suffer from intolerable runtime while lacking the possibility of offering insight or design knowledge acquisition. On the other hand, behavioral‐level synthesis methods, although intuitive and fast, suffer from accuracy loss due to the adoption of simplified device models and significantly condensed design equations. However, a proper combination of these two types of methods could lead to a lucrative research territory, yet it demands a methodological development for efficient deployment in practice, namely, implementation easy, less runtime, and guaranteed sizing quality. In this paper, we propose atwo‐stepmethod that takes the advantage of behavioral synthesis (in the first step) that is capable of fast and broader coverage of design space then makes correction (in the second step) on sizing refining by Spice simulation. Due to the profiling knowledge acquired on the design space in the first step, it can avoid blindness of the optimization landscape that is faced by many simulation‐centric methods which could easily get trapped in local optima. Conducted experiments over eight three‐stage Op Amps with different compensation configurations, including nested Miller capacitor (NMC), NMC with feedforward path (NMCF), NMC with feedforward path and nulling resistor (NMCFNR), NMC with nulling resistor (NMCNR), double pole‐zero cancellation (DPZC), transconductance with capacitances feedback compensation (TCFC), impedance adapting compensation (IAC), active feedback frequency compensation (AFFC), have validated that the proposed method can successfully generate qualified sizing results, offering an opportunity to compare fairly what merit a specific compensation strategy could possibly have.
Millimeter wave–3D massive MIMO: Deep prior‐aided graph neural network combining with hierarchical residual learning for beamspace channel estimation
Authors: Sudarsan Haridoss , Mahendran Krishnakumar , Rathika Srinivasan , Ananth Subburaj Nagan Yoga
Published: July 2024

Millimeter Wave (mmWave) communication has emerged as a transformative technology at the forefront of wireless communication. One of the key challenges in harnessing the potential of mmWave technology is overcoming the increased susceptibility to propagation losses and environmental obstacles. To address these challenges, Three‐Dimensional Massive Multiple‐Input Multiple‐Output (3D Massive MIMO) systems have gained traction. The 3D aspect extends this concept by considering the elevation dimension, allowing for enhanced spatial resolution and coverage. Accurate estimation of the channel in 3D Massive MIMO scenarios is particularly challenging because of the complex propagation characteristics of mmWave signals. This paper introduces an efficient‐Aided Graph Neural Network Combining with Hierarchical Residual Learning (DPrGNN‐HrResNetL), designed specifically for beamspace Channel Estimation (CE)in mmWave‐Massive MIMO environments. The proposed model leverages deep priors and GNN mechanisms to enhance the extraction of spatial features, while hierarchical residual connections facilitate effective information flow through the network. DPrGNN enables the model to capture and understand complex spatial relationships among different antenna elements. The incorporation of deep priors provides a mechanism for leveraging prior knowledge about channel characteristics. This enhances the efficiency of the learning process, allowing the model to learn and adapt more effectively. The integration of hierarchical residual connections facilitates effective information flow through the network. This is particularly important for modeling complex dependencies within the beamspace channel data, enhancing the learning capacity of the network. The performance of the DPrGNN‐HrResNetL model is evaluated across a range of Signal‐to‐Noise Ratios (SNRs), utilizing metrics such as Normalized Mean Squared Error (NMSE) to measure the accuracy of the estimation. The outcomes underscore the resilience and efficacy of the DPrGNN‐HrResNetL approach in achieving precise CE within demanding mmWave scenarios.
A compact wideband low‐profile all textile on/off body antenna for Satcom and defense applications
Authors: Kumar Baudh Rishabh , Sahu Sonal , Singh Parihar Manoj , Kumar V. Dinesh
Published: July 2024

A compact, flexible, low‐profile end‐fire broadband wearable antenna operating in Ku‐band /X‐band is proposed in this manuscript for defense and satellite communications (Satcom) applications. The main objective of this work is cross‐polarization reduction by the defected ground structure (DGS), which offers a wider bandwidth. Due to its flexibility and ability to absolutely conform to the curved‐shaped human body, denim fabric is used as a substrate, whereas copper tape is used as a conductor, which allows for the integration of the antenna into garments and makes it appropriate for a wide range of wearable applications in various bands. The prototype has been developed with a size of
 mm3 for experimental validation. The measured results from a fabricated prototype are well matched with the simulated ones of the proposed design, which indicate a wide bandwidth of 57.35% (7.76–14 GHz) appropriate for use in applications such as defense operating from 8 to 12 GHz, satellite TV (11.7–12.2 GHz), Ku‐band downlink (10.95–11.7 GHz), Ku‐band uplink (11.7–14.5 GHz), and a high gain of 5.1 dBi. The specific absorption rate (SAR) is much below the permissible limit of 1.6 W/kg, with better radiation characteristics. Thus, the proposed antenna is more compact, and it clearly achieves a smaller footprint, larger impedance bandwidths, and a low SAR with potential prospect for Satcom and defense purposes.
Establishment of a swine model of delayed bleeding after endoscopic procedure
Authors: Uehara Shohei , Sasaki Fumisato , Sahara Hisashi , Tanaka Akihito , Hinokuchi Makoto , Maeda Hidehito , Arima Shiho , Hashimoto Shinichi , Kanmura Shuji , Ido Akio
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Although delayed bleeding after endoscopic procedures has become a problem, currently, there are no appropriate animal models to validate methods for preventing it. This study aimed to establish an animal model of delayed bleeding after endoscopic procedures of the gastrointestinal tract.

Methods

Activated coagulation time (ACT) was measured using blood samples drawn from a catheter inserted into the external jugular vein of swine (n = 7; age, 6 months; mean weight, 13.8 kg) under general anesthesia using the cut‐down method. An upper gastrointestinal endoscope was inserted orally, and 12 mucosal defects were created in the stomach by endoscopic mucosal resection using a ligating device. Hemostasis was confirmed at this time point. The heparin group (n = 4) received 50 units/kg of unfractionated heparin via a catheter; after confirming that the ACT was ≥200 s 10 min later, continuous heparin administration (50 units/kg/h) was started. After 24 h, an endoscope was inserted under general anesthesia to evaluate the blood volume in the stomach and the degree of blood adherence at the site of the mucosal defect.

Results

Delayed bleeding was observed in three swine (75%) in the heparin‐treated group, who had a maximum ACT of >220 s before the start of continuous heparin administration. In the non‐treated group (n = 3), no prolonged ACT or delayed bleeding was observed at 24 h.

Conclusion

An animal model of delayed bleeding after an endoscopic procedure in the gastrointestinal tract was established using a single dose of heparin and continuous heparin administration after confirming an ACT of 220 s.
Temporal turnover in species' ranks can explain variation in Taylor's slope for ecological timeseries
Authors: Ghosh Shyamolina , Matthews Blake
Published: July 2024

The scaling exponent relating the mean and variance of the density of individual organisms in space (i.e., Taylor's slope: zspace) is well studied in ecology, but the analogous scaling exponent for temporal datasets (ztime) is underdeveloped. Previous theory suggests the narrow distribution of ztime (e.g., typically 1–2) could be due to interspecific competition. Here, using 1694 communities time series, we show that ztime can exceed 2, and reaffirm how this can affect our inference about the stabilizing effect of biodiversity. We also develop a new theory, based on temporal change in the ranks of species abundances, to help account for the observed ztime distribution. Specifically, we find that communities with minimal turnover in species' rank abundances are more likely to have higher ztime. Our analysis shows how species‐level variability affects our inference about the stability of ecological communities.
Enriching barcoding markers in environmental samples utilizing a phylogenetic probe design: Insights from mock communities
Authors: Nota Kevin , Orlando Ludovic , Marchesini Alexis , Girardi Matteo , Bertilsson Stefan , Vernesi Cristiano , Parducci Laura
Published: July 2024

Hybridization capture is an emerging method making use of short oligonucleotide baits to enrich DNA libraries for genomic fragments of specific organisms thus enabling detection of their presence in environmental samples. Although it offers a primer‐independent alternative to metabarcoding, little empirical work has been dedicated to characterizing the underlying biases and coupled implications for biological interpretation. Moreover, few published bioinformatic pipelines are available for designing polynucleotide capture baits from a reference sequence collection. We designed RNA‐baits specifically targeting two chloroplast barcoding genes matK and rbcL to reveal the plant taxonomic diversity present in a given environmental sample. Our approach leverages the sensitivity of hybridization capture and the capacity of high‐throughput DNA sequencing instruments. It builds on a new and universal method based on ancestral sequence reconstruction, ultimately limiting the number of bait‐probes required and reducing experimental costs, while accessing high levels of taxonomic diversity. Our bait‐set selectively targets four main plant orders (Fagales, Pinales, Asterales, and Poales), representing ~18% of all described vascular plants. This is achieved through the use of only 4084 baits, each 80 nucleotides in length (80‐mer), capturing ~1.0–1.6 k nucleotide sequences from each taxon. Tests on mock communities revealed important factors influencing capture efficiency and relative abundance estimates, including GC‐content, the overall target length per taxa, and the bait density and mean number of mismatches to the bait sequence. Our results show that hybridization capture, like metabarcoding, requires caution when interpreting results quantitatively within (paleo)‐ecological studies. Biases detected in this work have the potential to be mitigated with bait designs that avoid extreme base compositional biases and balancing bait targets across taxa. However, we strongly recommend the use of mock communities and read simulations to quantify the accuracy of taxonomic representation when using new bait designs.
RAG1/2 induces double‐stranded DNA breaks at non‐Ig loci in the proximity of single sequence repeats in developing B cells
Authors: Ochodnicka‐Mackovicova Katarina , Mokry Michal , Haagmans Martin , Bradley Ted E. , van Noesel Carel J.M. , Guikema Jeroen E.J.
Published: July 2024

In developing B cells, V(D)J gene recombination is initiated by the RAG1/2 endonuclease complex, introducing double‐stranded DNA breaks (DSBs) in V, D, and J genes and resulting in the formation of the hypervariable parts of immunoglobulins (Ig). Persistent or aberrant RAG1/2 targeting is a potential threat to genome integrity. While RAG1 and RAG2 have been shown to bind various regions genome‐wide, the in vivo off‐target DNA damage instigated by RAG1/2 endonuclease remains less well understood. In the current study, we identified regions containing RAG1/2‐induced DNA breaks in mouse pre‐B cells on a genome‐wide scale using a global DNA DSB detection strategy. We detected 1489 putative RAG1/2‐dependent DSBs, most of which were located outside the Ig loci. DNA sequence motif analysis showed a specific enrichment of RAG1/2‐induced DNA DSBs at GA‐ and CA‐repeats and GC‐rich motifs. These findings provide further insights into RAG1/2 off‐target activity. The ability of RAG1/2 to introduce DSBs on the non‐Ig loci during the endogenous V(D)J recombination emphasizes its genotoxic potential in developing lymphocytes.
Large‐scale analysis of structural brain asymmetries during neurodevelopment: Associations with age and sex in 4265 children and adolescents
Authors: Kurth F. , Schijven D. , van den Heuvel O. A. , Hoogman M. , van Rooij D. , Stein D. J. , Buitelaar J. K. , Bölte S. , Auzias G. , Kushki A. , Venkatasubramanian G. , Rubia K. , Bollmann S. , Isaksson J. , Jaspers‐Fayer F. , Marsh R. , Batistuzzo M. C. , Arnold P. D. , Bressan R. A. , Stewart S. E. , Gruner P. , Sorensen L. , Pan P. M. , Silk T. J. , Gur R. C. , Cubillo A. I. , Haavik J. , O'Gorman Tuura R. L. , Hartman C. A. , Calvo R. , McGrath J. , Calderoni S. , Jackowski A. , Chantiluke K. C. , Satterthwaite T. D. , Busatto G. F. , Nigg J. T. , Gur R. E. , Retico A. , Tosetti M. , Gallagher L. , Szeszko P. R. , Neufeld J. , Ortiz A. E. , Ghisleni C. , Lazaro L. , Hoekstra P. J. , Anagnostou E. , Hoekstra L. , Simpson B. , Plessen J. K. , Deruelle C. , Soreni N. , James A. , Narayanaswamy J. , Reddy J. Y. , Fitzgerald J. , Bellgrove M. A. , Salum G. A. , Janssen J. , Muratori F. , Vila M. , Giral M. Garcia , Ameis S. H. , Bosco P. , Remnélius K. Lundin , Huyser C. , Pariente J. C. , Jalbrzikowski M. , Rosa P. G. , O'Hearn K. M. , Ehrlich S. , Mollon J. , Zugman A. , Christakou A. , Arango C. , Fisher S. E. , Kong X. , Franke B. , Medland S. E. , Thomopoulos S. I. , Jahanshad N. , Glahn D. C. , Thompson P. M. , Francks C. , Luders E.
Published: July 2024

Only a small number of studies have assessed structural differences between the two hemispheres during childhood and adolescence. However, the existing findings lack consistency or are restricted to a particular brain region, a specific brain feature, or a relatively narrow age range. Here, we investigated associations between brain asymmetry and age as well as sex in one of the largest pediatric samples to date (n = 4265), aged 1–18 years, scanned at 69 sites participating in the ENIGMA (Enhancing NeuroImaging Genetics through Meta‐Analysis) consortium. Our study revealed that significant brain asymmetries already exist in childhood, but their magnitude and direction depend on the brain region examined and the morphometric measurement used (cortical volume or thickness, regional surface area, or subcortical volume). With respect to effects of age, some asymmetries became weaker over time while others became stronger; sometimes they even reversed direction. With respect to sex differences, the total number of regions exhibiting significant asymmetries was larger in females than in males, while the total number of measurements indicating significant asymmetries was larger in males (as we obtained more than one measurement per cortical region). The magnitude of the significant asymmetries was also greater in males. However, effect sizes for both age effects and sex differences were small. Taken together, these findings suggest that cerebral asymmetries are an inherent organizational pattern of the brain that manifests early in life. Overall, brain asymmetry appears to be relatively stable throughout childhood and adolescence, with some differential effects in males and females.
4D dynamic spatial brain networks at rest linked to cognition show atypical variability and coupling in schizophrenia
Authors: Pusuluri Krishna , Fu Zening , Miller Robyn , Pearlson Godfrey , Kochunov Peter , Van Erp Theo G. M. , Iraji Armin , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: July 2024

Despite increasing interest in the dynamics of functional brain networks, most studies focus on the changing relationships over time between spatially static networks or regions. Here we propose an approach to study dynamic spatial brain networks in human resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) data and evaluate the temporal changes in the volumes of these 4D networks. Our results show significant volumetric coupling (i.e., synchronized shrinkage and growth) between networks during the scan, that we refer to as dynamic spatial network connectivity (dSNC). We find that several features of such dynamic spatial brain networks are associated with cognition, with higher dynamic variability in these networks and higher volumetric coupling between network pairs positively associated with cognitive performance. We show that these networks are modulated differently in individuals with schizophrenia versus typical controls, resulting in network growth or shrinkage, as well as altered focus of activity within a network. Schizophrenia also shows lower spatial dynamical variability in several networks, and lower volumetric coupling between pairs of networks, thus upholding the role of dynamic spatial brain networks in cognitive impairment seen in schizophrenia. Our data show evidence for the importance of studying the typically overlooked voxel‐wise changes within and between brain networks.
Donor site morbidity after scapula free flap surgery of head and neck reconstruction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: McGregor Sophie , Zaraska Katrina , Lynn Matthew , Turkdogan Sena , Tran Khanh Linh , Prisman Eitan
Published: July 2024

Background

The scapula free flap is becoming increasingly more utilized in head and neck reconstruction due to its natural geometry and soft tissue versatility. This study reviews the incidence rate, risk factors, and treatments of complications of scapula donor site morbidity.

Methods

A review was performed for articles published between October 1990 and November 2022 in Medline (OVID), PubMed, Web of Science, and CENTRAL. After screening, 24 articles meeting the criteria were included.

Results

Overall, 660 head and neck surgeries with the scapula donor bone across 24 studies were included. Twenty studies of 612 scapula free flaps reported a pooled postoperative complication rate of 10.7%, with no major complications. Seven studies of 199 scapula reconstructions showed a mean Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score of 14.39/100.

Conclusion

With its low rate of morbidity, the scapula flap presents itself as a good alternative for patients at risk for poor healing.
Single‐cell landscape revealed immune characteristics associated with disease phases in brucellosis patients
Authors: Wang Yi , Yang Siyuan , Han Bing , Du Xiufang , Sun Huali , Du Yufeng , Liu Yinli , Lu Panpan , Di Jinyu , Luu Laurence Don Wai , Lv Xiao , Hu Songnian , Wang Linghang , Jiang Rongmeng
Published: July 2024

A comprehensive immune landscape for Brucella infection is crucial for developing new treatments for brucellosis. Here, we utilized single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) of 290,369 cells from 35 individuals, including 29 brucellosis patients from acute (n = 10), sub‐acute (n = 9), and chronic (n = 10) phases as well as six healthy donors. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were applied for validation within this cohort. Brucella infection caused a significant change in the composition of peripheral immune cells and inflammation was a key feature of brucellosis. Acute patients are characterized by potential cytokine storms resulting from systemic upregulation of S100A8/A9, primarily due to classical monocytes. Cytokine storm may be mediated by activating S100A8/A9‐TLR4‐MyD88 signaling pathway. Moreover, monocytic myeloid‐derived suppressor cells were the probable contributors to immune paralysis in acute patients. Chronic patients are characterized by a dysregulated Th1 response, marked by reduced expression of IFN‐γ and Th1 signatures as well as a high exhausted state. Additionally, Brucella infection can suppress apoptosis in myeloid cells (e.g., mDCs, classical monocytes), inhibit antigen presentation in professional antigen‐presenting cells (APCs; e.g., mDC) and nonprofessional APCs (e.g., monocytes), and induce exhaustion in CD8+ T/NK cells, potentially resulting in the establishment of chronic infection. Overall, our study systemically deciphered the coordinated immune responses of Brucella at different phases of the infection, which facilitated a full understanding of the immunopathogenesis of brucellosis and may aid the development of new effective therapeutic strategies, especially for those with chronic infection.
Simple soil water monitoring tools increase yield and income of smallholder farmers in Malawi: A case study of four irrigation schemes
Authors: Chikankheni Jonathan T. , Stirzaker Richard , Strong Craig , Fandika Isaac R. , Chipula Grivin
Published: July 2024

The area under irrigation in Malawi has increased, but productivity is still low due to farmers' lack of irrigation knowledge. This paper describes a ‘people‐centred learning’ approach aimed at improving water management in smallholder irrigation schemes. The work was conducted in Malawi, where farmers at the Bwanje, Tadala, Nanzolo and Matabwa irrigation schemes were provided with soil water sensors that showed whether the soil was wet, moist or dry using colours, making it easy for farmers to understand. Indicators related to water management and soil water status were monitored during the 2017 and 2018 irrigation seasons. The yield and gross margins were then assessed. The results show that farmers can effectively identify irrigation‐related problems and act on the information provided by the tools. The yield increased by more than 80%, and the gross margins increased by more than threefold across all the schemes. Based on the findings outlined, the use of soil water sensors enhances farmers' understanding of water management, prompting behavioural changes and measurable improvements in irrigation productivity. Furthermore, this study concludes that improving farmers' knowledge is essential for transforming smallholder irrigation schemes into profitable and sustainable investments.
Breaking the boundaries of wound closure: A novel polyurethane tissue adhesive with enhanced healing properties
Authors: Zhou Qiangqiang , Shi Zhaocheng , Xia Liyao , Mi Jing , Zhang Yuejiao , Xu Xiaobo , Pan Jie
Published: July 2024

Over the past few decades, there have been advancements in the development of high‐performance tissue adhesives as alternatives to traditional sutures and staples for rapid and effective wound closure post‐surgery. While tissue adhesives offer advantages such as ease of use, short application time, and minimal tissue damage, they also face challenges related to biocompatibility, biodegradability, and adhesive strength. In this study, L‐lysine diisocyanate (LDI) and trimethylolpropane (TMP) were utilized as the primary raw materials to produce a prepolymer terminated with NCO, resulting in the development of a new biocompatible polyurethane tissue adhesive (TMP‐LDI). Additionally, SiO2 nanoparticles were incorporated into the prepolymer, significantly enhancing the adhesive strength of the TMP‐LDI tissue adhesive through the “nanobridging effect,” achieving a strength of 170.4 kPa. Furthermore, the SiO2/TMP‐LDI tissue adhesive exhibited satisfactory temperature change during curing and degradation performance. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that SiO2/TMP‐LDI exhibited good biocompatibility, efficient hemostasis, antimicrobial properties, and the ability to promote wound healing. This research presents a novel approach for the development of tissue adhesives with superior adhesive performance.
Ironstone and red mud barriers to reduce subsurface movement of soil phosphorus
Authors: Smith Samantha , Gaston Lewis , Beasley Jeffery , Wang Jim , Padilla Josh , Sun Wenguang
Published: July 2024

Loss of phosphorus in seepage may contribute to eutrophication of downstream water bodies. This study examined the potential use of pedogenic ironstone and untreated red mud (bauxite refining residue) as P sorbents in a permeable reactive barrier (PRB) to mitigate such loss. Effects of ironstone and red mud on P sorption (batch), transport (columns), saturated hydraulic conductivity (KS), and growth of common bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon; greenhouse) were examined. Both materials had sorption maxima of ∼30 mmol P kg−1 or about five times that of a P‐enriched sandy soil; however, sorption by red mud greatly increased with decreasing pH. Transport of P through columns of ironstone and red mud (diluted with nonreactive sand) was similar and slower compared to soil + sand. However, when red mud was mixed with soil, increased sorption at lower pH resulted in greater P retention compared to ironstone + soil (76% vs. 13%). Although addition of ironstone to soil up to 20% did not reduce KS, red mud at even 5% did. Soil amendment with red mud increased bermudagrass growth and P uptake. Given long‐term neutralization of red mud in an acidic soil and increased P sorption, it may be suitable in a PRB if incorporated at a low rate and/or co‐incorporated with a coarser material.
Assessing outcomes and complications of secondary hepatolithiasis after choledochoenterostomy: A nationwide survey in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Yutaka , Yoshida Masao , Fujisawa Toshio , Shimatani Masaaki , Tsuyuguchi Toshio , Mori Toshiyuki , Tazuma Susumu , Isayama Hiroyuki , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and complications of secondary hepatolithiasis following choledochoenterostomy to guide suitable management.

Methods

The study analyzed 127 patients from a 2017 national survey conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. The 2023 cohort study assessed residual stones, recurrences, cholangitis, cholangiocarcinoma, and prognosis.

Results

The median follow‐up duration was 48 months. Balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (BE‐ERC) was the most common treatment, achieving complete stone clearance in 84.4% of patients. Anatomical hepatectomy was the most common surgery. Predictors of residual stones were stone number ≥10 (odds ratio [OR], 7.480; p = .028) and stone diameter ≥10 mm (OR, 5.280; p = .020). Predictors of stone recurrence during follow‐up were biliary strictures (hazard ratio [HR], 3.580; p = .005) and cholangitis (HR, 2.700; p = .037). Predictors of cholangitis during follow‐up were biliary stricture (HR, 5.016; p = .006) and dilatation (HR, 3.560; p = .029). Any treatment for hepatolithiasis reduced cholangitis occurrence (HR, 0.168; p = .042). Balloon dilation combined with stenting for ≥3 months improved biliary strictures in 57.1% of patients.

Conclusion

This study recommends BE‐ERC as the first‐choice treatment for secondary hepatolithiasis. Stone removal and relief of biliary strictures and dilatation are crucial to prevent stone recurrence and cholangitis after treatment.
Leadership and the high reliability transformation: A qualitative study at Truman VA medical center
Authors: Leonard Chelsea , Gilmartin Heather , Starr Leigh , Anderson Timothy
Published: July 2024

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has committed to becoming a High Reliability Organization (HRO). The Truman VA Medical Center (VAMC) successfully implemented and sustained foundational HRO elements over a period with several changes in facility executive leadership. We interviewed current and past leaders at Truman to understand how they retained fidelity to the HRO transformation. We conducted 16 interviews with 14 leaders involved in the HRO transformation and identified three themes related to the Truman HRO transformation: (1) Leadership visibly drove culture change through intentional communication and modeling HRO principles; (2) Leadership deferred to frontline expertise and empowered staff to make changes and to fail; (3) Hiring the right team members for the organizational culture and investing in training can support HRO principles and values. Our findings highlight key actions for leaders in the context of HROs: regularly communicate the significance of HRO, demonstrate behavior consistent with what they hope to see from staff, celebrate failure, allocate time and resources to the creation of hiring frameworks that identify employee skillsets conducive to HRO principles, and substantial and recurring investments in employee development. Importantly, successive executive leaders at Truman VAMC modeled these skills to promote and sustain the HRO transformation.
Observed characteristics and projected future changes of extreme consecutive dry days events of the growing season in Serbia
Authors: Bezdan Atila , Bezdan Jovana , Blagojević Boško , Baumgertel Aleksandar , Lazić Irida , Tošić Milica , Djurdjević Vladimir
Published: July 2024

One of the frequently used drought metrics in scientific research is the consecutive dry days (CDDs) because it effectively indicates short‐term droughts important to ecosystems and agriculture. CDDs are expected to increase in many parts of the world in the future. In Serbia, both the frequency and severity of droughts have increased in recent decades, with most droughts being caused by a lack of precipitation during the warmer months of the year and an increase in evapotranspiration due to higher temperatures. In this study, the frequency and duration of extreme CDDs in the growing season in Serbia were analysed for the past (1950–2019) and the future (2020–2100) period. The Threshold Level Method over precipitation data series was used to analyse CDD events, where extreme CDDs are defined as at least 15 consecutive days without precipitation. In contrast to the original definition of the CDD as the maximum number of consecutive days with precipitation less than 1 mm, here we defined the threshold that is more suitable for agriculture because field crops can experience water stress after 15 days of no rainfall or irrigation. An approach for modelling the stochastic process of extreme CDDs based on the Zelenhasić–Todorović (ZT) method was applied in this research. The ZT method was modified by selecting a different distribution function for modelling the durations of the longest CDD events, enabling a more reliable calculation of probabilities of occurrences. According to the results, future droughts in Serbia are likely to be more frequent and severe than those in the past. The duration of the longest CDDs in a growing season will be extended in the future, lasting up to 62 days with a 10‐year return period and up to 94 days with a 100‐year return period. Results indicate a worsening of drought conditions, especially in the eastern and northern parts of Serbia. The results can help decision‐makers adapt agricultural strategies to climate change by providing information on the expected durations of extreme rainless periods in future growing seasons. Although the analysis was performed in Serbia, it can be applied to any other region.
Use of proxy observations to evaluate the accuracy of precipitation spatial gridding
Authors: McGrath Ray , Nolan Paul
Published: July 2024

A WRF‐based high‐resolution reanalysis of the Irish climate (1981–2010) is used to create proxy daily precipitation observations at the locations of climatological sites used for precipitation monitoring; the data are statistically representative of the real precipitation climate both for mean (over monthly, seasonal and annual periods) and extreme values. The proxy observations are spatially interpolated to the original WRF grid using a typical gridding package and compared against the original data to assess gridding errors. The errors are more complex than the estimates provided by the gridding software; systematic biases are evident which by the inclusion of strategically placed additional observing sites are shown to be greatly reduced. There is also evidence of systematic differences in trend analyses of extreme precipitation over the period. The method provides independent estimates of the errors that arise from actual gridding applications. It also facilitates the testing of the optimality of a network by highlighting possible inadequacies in an existing station layout and suggesting new observing site locations to fill gaps. Uncertainties regarding the errors in real precipitation observations, and possible spurious impacts linked to temporal changes in the real observing network, are avoided by this method.
Assessing the risk of subsoil compaction in croplands using the soil compaction stratification ratio as an indicator
Authors: Zhang Wantao , Ji Jingyi , Li Binbin , Zhang Zuoyuan , Zuo Zhenjiang , Xu Mingxiang
Published: July 2024

Accurate prediction of subsoil compaction in cropland areas is important for food security and sustainable agricultural production development. This study evaluated the validity and advantages of the soil compaction stratification ratio (SR) as an indicator for assessing the risk of subsoil compaction and presented a theoretical framework for predicting and evaluating subsoil compaction risk. Geographic information system and remote sensing technologies were utilized in combination with a state‐of‐the‐art ensemble machine learning model to quantitatively predict the spatial distribution and uncertainty of subsoil compaction risk in croplands. The results showed that the subsoil bulk density (BD) was significantly greater than the topsoil BD in Shaanxi Province, China. Compared with that of the subsoil BD, the stratification ratio of the bulk density (SRBD) exhibited greater sensitivity to subsoil compaction, and it accurately reflected spatial variations in subsoil compactness. The SRBD exhibited obvious spatial heterogeneity, and the mean annual precipitation, elevation, and mean land surface temperature substantially influenced its spatial distribution. The critical thresholds of the SRBD for the low‐risk, medium‐risk, and high‐risk groups were 1.01, 1.21, and 1.32, respectively. Low subsoil compaction dominated in the mountainous and hilly areas, whereas the Guanzhong Plain and Hanzhong Basin exhibited medium levels of subsoil compaction. Some croplands in the central Guanzhong Plain experienced severe subsoil compaction issues. In conclusion, the soil compaction SR was found to be an effective indicator of subsoil compaction by effectively eliminating soil background differences. This approach has potential applications in cropland management, digital soil mapping, and early warning of soil compaction risk.
Microplastics in the agricultural soils: Pollution behavior and subsequent effects
Authors: Yibo Li , Genshen Yang , Yu Chen , Lei Xiaoting , Ma Xiaoyi , Xing Xuguang
Published: July 2024

Microplastics (MPs), as a class of organic pollutants, pose numerous threats to soil. Their accumulation in agricultural soils has garnered significant attention due to the unknown impacts and risks they bring to agricultural production processes. This paper analyzes the source and distribution of MPs in farmland, systematically summarizes the accumulation, adsorption, migration, decomposition, and other pollution behaviors of MPs in farmland soil environment, in detail discusses the effects of microplastic (MP) pollution on soil physicochemical properties and soil microbial communities, outlines the main hazards they pose to agricultural crops, animals, and farmland soil enzyme activities, as well as the potential health risks of MPs to humans. The results indicate that MPs have been widely distributed in the agricultural soil environment through physics, chemistry, and carriers' activities, facilitating the transfer of substances between the environment and endangering the health of the ecological environment. MPs can also transfer along the food chain from low to high nutritional levels, posing a potential threat to human food safety. Finally, the future research direction and content of farmland MPs are put forward, providing relevant information and research ideas for understanding the MP pollution in farmland soil and future research directions.
Inference of Constitutive Relation of Phase‐Separated Polymers by Integrating Physics‐Informed Neural Networks and Symbolic Regression
Authors: Ran Yanlong , An Jiaqi , Zhang Liangshun
Published: July 2024

Harnessing data to discover the underlying constitutive relation of phase‐separated polymers can significantly advance the fabrication of high‐performance materials. This work introduces a novel data‐driven method to learn the constitutive equation of diffusional transport of polymers from spatiotemporal density field. In particular, the data‐driven method seamlessly integrated physics‐informed neural networks for inference of approximate solution of diffusivity, and symbolic regression that form explicit expressions of diffusivity. The efficacy and robustness of this method are demonstrated by learning the distinct forms of diffusivity for the phase separation of homopolymer blends with various compositions. In addition, the data‐driven method is generalized to extract the constitutive relation of homogenous chemical potential in the phase separation of homopolymer blends. The data‐driven framework shows the potential for model discovery of nonlinear dynamic system from the spatiotemporal state variables.
Regioselective Synthesis of Pyrrole‐Based Poly(arylenevinylene)s via Mn‐Catalyzed Hydroarylation Polyaddition
Authors: Tsukahara Kakeru , Iwamori Ryota , Kuwabara Junpei , Kanbara Takaki
Published: July 2024

Mn‐catalyzed hydroarylation polyaddition of 1‐(2‐pyrimidinyl)pyrrole (1a) with aromatic diynes is investigated. The use of commercially available MnBr(CO)5 as a precatalyst under the optimized reaction conditions resulted in a site‐ and regioselective hydroarylation polyaddition, affording the corresponding poly(arylenevinylene)s (PAVs) with excellent vinylene selectivity. The reaction protocol eliminates the production of stoichiometric amounts of byproducts from the monomers. The nonstoichiometric polyaddition of an excess amount of 1a with aromatic diynes is also demonstrated. The 2‐pyrimidinyl substituent promoted the intramolecular transfer of the Mn catalyst walking through the 1a moiety.
The cellular and molecular targets of natural products against metabolic disorders: a translational approach to reach the bedside
Authors: Shen Xiaofei , Yang Hongling , Yang Yang , Zhu Xianjun , Sun Qingxiang
Published: July 2024

Metabolic disorders, including obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome, are characterized by insulin resistance, abnormalities in circulating cholesterol and lipid profiles, and hypertension. The most common pathophysiologies of metabolic disorders are glucose/lipid metabolism dysregulation, insulin resistance, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress. Although several agents have been approved for the treatment of metabolic disorders, there is still a strong demand for more efficacious drugs with less side effects. Natural products have been critical sources of drug research and discovery for decades. However, the usefulness of bioactive natural products is often limited by incomplete understanding of their direct cellular targets. In this review, we highlight the current understanding of the established and emerging molecular mechanisms of metabolic disorders. We further summarize the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of natural products on metabolic disorders, with highlights on their direct cellular targets, which are mainly implicated in the regulation of glucose/lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, metabolic inflammation, and oxidative stress. Finally, this review also covers the clinical studies of natural products in metabolic disorders. These progresses are expected to facilitate the application of these natural products and their derivatives in the development of novel drugs against metabolic disorders.
Epidemiology of Huntington's Disease in Latin America: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Medina Escobar Alex , Pringsheim Tamara , Gautreau Sylvia , Rivera‐Duarte Jose D. , Amorelli Gabriel , Cornejo‐Olivas Mario , Rossi Malco
Published: July 2024

Background

Latin America has played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of Huntington's disease (HD). However, previous global reviews include limited data from Latin America. It is possible that English‐based medical search engines may not capture all the relevant studies.

Methods

We searched databases in Spanish, Portuguese, and English. The names of every country in Latin America in English‐based search engines were used to ensure we found any study that had molecular ascertainment and provided general epidemiological information or subpopulation data. Additionally, we contacted experts across the region.

Results

The search strategy yielded 791 citations; 24 studies met inclusion criteria, representing 12 of 36 countries. The overall pooled prevalence was 0.64 per 100,000 (prediction interval, 0.06–7.22); for cluster regions, it was 54 per 100,000 (95% CI, 34.79–84.92); for juvenile HD, it was 8.7% (prediction interval, 5.12–14.35), and 5.9% (prediction interval, 2.72–13.42) for late‐onset HD. The prevalence was higher for Mexico, Peru, and Brazil. However, there were no significant differences between Central America and the Caribbean versus South America.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HD appears to be similar across Latin America. However, we infer that our findings are underestimates, in part because of limited research and underdiagnosis of HD because of limited access to molecular testing and the availability of neurologists and movement disorders specialists. Future research should focus on identifying pathways to improve access to molecular testing and education and understanding differences among different ancestral groups in Latin America. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
The free vastus lateralis—And conjoined vastus lateralis anterolateral thigh/tensor fascia lata flap for oncological chest wall reconstruction
Authors: Falkner Florian , Thomas Benjamin , Mayer Simon A. , Didzun Oliver , Knoedler Leonard , Panayi Adriana C. , Hundeshagen Gabriel , Vollbach Felix H. , Gazyakan Emre , Kneser Ulrich , Bigdeli Amir K.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A reconstructive option for extensive chest wall reconstruction is the free myocutaneous vastus lateralis muscle (VL) flap which can be performed in isolation or in conjunction with a fasciocutaneus anterolateral thigh (cVLALT) and/or myofasciocutaneous tensor fascia lata flap (cVLTFL). We aimed to directly compare the outcomes of these reconstructive options.

Methods

Patients who underwent oncological chest wall reconstruction with a free VL, cVLALT, or cVLTFL flap between February 2010 and 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Patient demographics, surgical characteristics, as well as medical and reconstructive outcomes, were evaluated. The operative outcomes between myocutaneous VL, cVLALT, and cVLTFL flap reconstructions were compared.

Results

A total of 41 patients underwent chest wall reconstruction with a free myocutaneous VL (n = 25; 61%), cVLALT (n = 14; 34%), or cVLTFL Three acute flap thromboses occurred in the entire cohort (3/41, 7%), with one myocutaneous VL flap failing because of recurrent venous thrombosis during the salvage procedure. Total flap necrosis was seen in two cases (5%; VL flap: n = 1; cVLALT flap: n = 1), and partial flap necrosis in one VL flap (1/25, 4%) and in the distal ALT portion of three cVLALT flaps (3/14, 21%). No significant difference was seen between isolated VL and conjoined VL flaps regarding the partial (p = .28) or total flap necrosis rate (p = .9).

Conclusion

The free (conjoined) VL flap provides reliable outcomes for obliterating dead space achieving durable reconstruction of complex chest wall defects.
Immediate foot reconstruction and revascularization of toes using an interposition superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flow‐through flap: A case report
Authors: Mitsui Kohei , Banda Chihena H. , Danno Kanako , Hosomi Kento , Furuya Megumi , Narushima Mitsunaga , Ishiura Ryohei
Published: July 2024

Foot injuries, particularly degloving injuries, can lead to segmental loss of neurovascular structures in the toes, making simultaneous reconstruction of both the foot and toes challenging. This case report presents a technique using the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap for immediate reconstruction of the dorsal foot and revascularization of multiple toes. A 28‐year‐old man suffered a degloving injury on the dorsum of his foot resulting in a 9 × 6cm skin defect, open fracture dislocations, exposure of tendons, and neurovascular injury, which included a 6–7.5 cm segmental defect of the vessels supplying the first, second, and third toes leaving all three toes ischemic. Immediate reconstruction was performed by harvesting a 12.5 × 5cm SCIP flap including both the superficial and deep branches and incorporating the superficial inferior epigastric vein (SIEV). The SCIP deep branch was used to revascularize the third and second toes and the SIEV vein graft used for the first toe. The patient recovered well, no complications were observed at the 2‐year follow‐up, preserving all three toes and regaining mobility. The use of the SCIP flap as a flow‐through flap provides thin skin flap cover, good vessel caliber size match with digital vessels and reduces the need for vein grafts from distant sites improving surgical efficiency. These attributes make the flow‐through interposition SCIP flap an excellent choice for reconstructing foot defects and revascularizing toes. We report this case to demonstrate the utility of the SCIP flap in immediate soft tissue cover and digit revascularization.
Distinct binding hotspots for natural and synthetic agonists of FFA4 from in silico approaches**
Authors: Patient Guillaume , Bedart Corentin , Khan Naim. A , Renault Nicolas , Farce Amaury
Published: July 2024

FFA4 has gained interest in recent years since its deorphanization in 2005 and the characterization of the Free Fatty Acids receptors family for their therapeutic potential in metabolic disorders. The expression of FFA4 (also known as GPR120) in numerous organs throughout the human body makes this receptor a highly potent target, particularly in fat sensing and diet preference. This offers an attractive approach to tackle obesity and related metabolic diseases. Recent cryo‐EM structures of the receptor have provided valuable information for a potential active state although the previous studies of FFA4 presented diverging information. We performed molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations of four agonist ligands, TUG‐891, Linoleic acid, α‐Linolenic acid, and Oleic acid, based on a homology model. Our simulations, which accumulated a total of 2 μs of simulation, highlighted two binding hotspots at Arg992.64 and Lys293 (ECL3). The results indicate that the residues are located in separate areas of the binding pocket and interact with various types of ligands, implying different potential active states of FFA4 and a highly adaptable binding intra‐receptor pocket. This article proposes additional structural characteristics and mechanisms for agonist binding that complement the experimental structures.