bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient of Congenital Absence of a Lumbar Pedicle With Nerve Root Anomaly Presenting With Ipsilateral Foraminal Stenosis by Vertebral Fracture
Authors: Fukada Shotaro , Tsujimoto Takeru , Kanayama Masahiro , Oha Fumihiro , Shimamura Yukitoshi , Hasegawa Yuichi , Fukase Shogo , Hashimoto Tomoyuki , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: July 2024

Background: Patients with congenital absence of a lumbar pedicle and nerve root anomaly presenting with ipsilateral foraminal stenosis are extremely rare.

Case Presentation: An 80‐year‐old man had low back and right thigh pain. Radiographs and computed tomography (CT) showed L3 vertebral body fracture and the absence of the right L3 lumbar pedicle. He was diagnosed with L2–L3 right foraminal stenosis caused by an L3 vertebral fracture and underwent lumbar fusion at L2–L3 and L3–L4. Intraoperatively, we confirmed that an anomalous nerve root was divided from the right L2 nerve root near the dorsal root ganglion (DRG).

Conclusions: Patients with congenital absence of a lumbar pedicle are less prone to ipsilateral foraminal stenosis because they theoretically have a large space in the foramen. This rare case was caused because of additional instability due to vertebral fracture under the condition of a nerve root anomaly and lumbar degeneration.
Prevalence of the Patterns of Unhealthy Diet in the School and University Students of Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ahmadi Seyyed Amir Yasin , SoleimanvandiAzar Neda , Roohravan Benis Mahshid , Mehrabi Ali , Vesal Azad Roya , Nojomi Marzieh
Published: July 2024

Introduction. The present study was conducted to investigate the pooled prevalence rate of the different patterns of unhealthy diet among the school and university students of Iran. Methods. In this systematic review, the type of the main question was regarding prevalence and the effect measure was prevalence rate reported along with 95% confidence interval (CI). Data bases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science as well as Google Scholar and Persian resources were used. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) checklist was used for quality assessment of studies. Results. The extracted types of unhealthy diet in the present systematic review were “breakfast skipper,” “fast food,” “hydrogenated oils consumption,” “salty snacks,” “sweetened beverages,” “breakfast skipper,” “dinner skipper,” “launch skipper,” and “sweets.” The range of pooled prevalence for different types was 0.06–0.75. The data of 16,321 subjects included in six studies were analyzed. The pooled prevalence of unhealthy diet was 0.28 (95% CI: 0.23–0.33, I2 > 99%) overall, 0.25 (95% CI: 0.20–0.31, I2 > 99%) in school students and 0.37 (95% CI: 0.12–0.62, I2 > 99%) in university students. The most prevalent pattern was breakfast skipping 0.39 (95% CI: 0.28–0.50) followed by consumption of sweetened beverages 0.31 (95% CI: 0.20–0.43). The pooled prevalence range among the patterns was 0.06–0.75 (random effects for all). Conclusion. The pooled prevalence was 28% for unhealthy diet among the Iranian students (6% to 75% in different patterns). Although there was uncertainty regarding the pooled evidence, the whole of the mentioned range was clinically important for health policymakers. Decisions should be made on the basis of the patterns.
Research on Pore Structure of Foam Gypsum Modified by Portland–Sulphoaluminate Composite Cement (PSACC)
Authors: Yang Jiansen , Zhu Hanxi , Cao Xiangyang
Published: July 2024

The pore structure of the modified foam gypsum and its thermal insulation performance were revealed through the integrated study of microscopic, macroscopic, and simulation. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to observe the process of coexistence of crystal and colloid embedded in the modified foam gypsum, and the relationship between the pore structure and macroscopic properties of the foam gypsum was investigated by combining with the principle of somatology, and finally, under the consideration of hierarchical aperture, the thermal conductivity of the porous material was effectively predicted by using the random distribution model of MATLAB and the finite element software of COMSOL in the joint simulation. The results showed that the symbiosis patterns between the hydration products of foam gypsum at different hydration stages were different, and the final pattern showed that the reticular C‐S‐H gel was attached to the surface of whisker‐like gypsum crystals. In the process of porosity filling of foam gypsum, three types of pore size small set phenomenon were exhibited, and the gypsum with small and uniformly distributed pore size had excellent thermal performance; MATLAB random distribution model and COMSOL finite element software joint simulation could effectively predict the thermal performance of porous materials.
Study the Wear Characteristics for Ni‐ZrO2 and Ni‐Al2O3 Nanocomposite Coatings Produced by Electroless Deposition Technique
Authors: Algailani Hiba M. , Al-Nassar Suha I. , Mahmoud Adel K. , Al-kaisy Hanaa A. , Alrubaiy Ahmed A. A. G.
Published: July 2024

Metal matrix nanocomposite coatings are promising for tribological applications given their superior hardness and wear resistance compared to metals. The point of this study was to describe the shape and long‐term performance of nickel‐based coatings that were put on stainless steel using electroless codeposition and made stronger with nanoparticles of zirconia (ZrO2) and alumina (Al2O3). Scanning electron microscopy showed the uniform incorporation of nanoceramics within nickel matrices. Pin‐on‐disk tribotests evaluated wear performance across loads from 5 to 15 N and sliding speeds up to 480 cm/min. Increasing nanoparticle content from 2 to 4 g/L markedly reduced wear rate due to enhanced hardness and density. At all tested loads, Ni‐ZrO2 and Ni‐Al2O3 nanocomposites exhibited considerably lower wear than monolithic nickel. The nanometal matrix particles hindered plastic deformation, with weight losses up to 68% lower than base nickel. Initially, wear resistance rose proportionally with sliding speed resulting from protective oxide layers until abrasive wear prevailed. The nanoparticle reinforcement dramatically extended durability, making it ideal for tribological systems involving mixed or abrasive conditions. More research needs to be done to find the best compositions and other matrix materials to use for these nanoscale strengthening effects.
Seeking Protection in the Heart of the Storm: Findings from a Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Shahmari Mehraban , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Palese Alvisa , Dashti Seemin , Manookian Arpi
Published: July 2024

Background. Nurse protection is a multifaceted concept that has become increasingly relevant in recent years. Despite its importance in effectively managing pandemics, there is still a gap in knowledge about how nurses achieve protection in hospitals. Objective. To describe the process of seeking protection among nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods. A grounded theory approach from 2020 to 2022, employing purposive and theoretical sampling. Face‐to‐face and online interviews were conducted with 25 participants, resulting in 29 interviews. Data analysis was carried out using Corbin and Strauss’s method (2015). Results. The analysis revealed that nurses encountered numerous obstacles related to patients, nurses themselves, organizations, and the passage of time during the COVID‐19 pandemic. These challenges were intertwined with three key concepts: transformations, inequalities, and emotional challenges, highlighting the multifaceted nature of nurses’ protection concerns. In response, nurses employed a protective strategy bolstered by catalysts to address these challenges. This strategy encompassed both optimistic outlooks (“Bright horizon”) and somber reflections (“Unpleasant reflection”). Ultimately, seeking protection in the heart of the storm emerged as the core concept, representing the multifaceted process through which nurses navigate and seek protection amidst the unique challenges posed by the pandemic. Conclusions. This study presents a comprehensive theory that explicitly explains the multifaceted process of seeking protection among hospital‐employed nurses during a pandemic. The theory captures the interconnectedness of challenges faced by nurses and the protective strategies they employ while acknowledging the nuanced balance between hopeful prospects and sobering reflections. Implications for Nursing Management. Policymakers, managers, and educators can utilize the findings to improve nursing management and support systems. By increasing awareness, addressing challenges, and providing robust support, they can enhance the well‐being and effectiveness of nurses during healthcare crises, ultimately improving patient care quality.
Prognostic Significance of Early Postoperative Choroidal Detachment in Patients with Congenital Glaucoma Operated with Nonpenetrating Deep Sclerectomy
Authors: Aldossari Shaikha H. , Schargel Konrad , Aljadaan Ibrahim , Ahmad Khabir , Gorinees Rakan , Alzendi Nouf , Sesma Gorka
Published: July 2024

Objective. To assess the association between early postoperative choroidal detachment and intraocular pressure (IOP) following nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy in pediatric primary congenital glaucoma. Design. Retrospective double‐arm cohort study. Setting. Single center in Saudi Arabia. Patients. Seventy‐two eyes of 45 patients were evaluated. Primary congenital glaucoma patients aged 0–3 years undergoing nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy as the first procedure from 2014 to 2021 were divided into groups with (n = 20) and without (n = 52) postoperative choroidal detachment. Main Outcome Measures. The primary outcome was complete surgical success, defined as an intraocular pressure below 21 mmHg without medication or additional surgery at 24 months. The intraocular pressure was evaluated in the first 72 hours after surgery and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis over 24 months was used to evaluate this outcome in both cohorts. The secondary outcome was the time to choroidal detachment resolution. Results. There was no significant difference in surgical success between choroidal detachment and nonchoroidal detachment groups (P = 0.12). Preoperative and 2‐year postoperative intraocular pressure was similar between groups, with a significant decrease in intraocular pressure from baseline (P < 0.001) in both the groups. The median time to choroidal detachment resolution was 27 days, and 90% of choroidal detachment cases were resolved with medical therapy. Conclusions. Postoperative choroidal detachment does not appear to significantly impact intraocular pressure or surgical success at 24 months following nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy for primary congenital glaucoma. Choroidal detachment typically resolves within one month of treatment. These findings suggest that transient choroidal detachment has a benign course in patients with primary congenital glaucoma undergoing deep sclerectomies.
Table S4 from ZNF397 Deficiency Triggers TET2-Driven Lineage Plasticity and AR-Targeted Therapy Resistance in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xu Yaru , Yang Yuqiu , Wang Zhaoning , Sjöström Martin , Jiang Yuyin , Tang Yitao , Cheng Siyuan , Deng Su , Wang Choushi , Gonzalez Julisa , Johnson Nickolas A. , Li Xiang , Li Xiaoling , Metang Lauren A. , Mukherji Atreyi , Xu Quanhui , Tirado Carla R. , Wainwright Garrett , Yu Xinzhe , Barnes Spencer , Hofstad Mia , Chen Yu , Zhu Hong , Hanker Ariella B. , Raj Ganesh V. , Zhu Guanghui , He Housheng H. , Wang Zhao , Arteaga Carlos L. , Liang Han , Feng Felix Y. , Wang Yunguan , Wang Tao , Mu Ping
Published: July 2024

Table S4. Candidate Resistance Driver Genes in ZNF397-KO Cells
Figure 4 from A Kinome-Wide Synthetic Lethal CRISPR/Cas9 Screen Reveals That mTOR Inhibition Prevents Adaptive Resistance to CDK4/CDK6 Blockade in HNSCC
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Koshizuka Keiichi , Ando Toshinori , Izumi Hiroki , Wu Xingyu , Sato Kuniaki , Ishikawa Tomohiko , Ford Kyle , Feng Xiaodong , Wang Zhiyong , Arang Nadia , Allevato Michael M. , Kishore Ayush , Mali Prashant , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: July 2024

Combination therapy with INK128 and palbociclib is effective against HNSCC xenografts. A, Tumor growth curve for HN12 xenografts treated with INK128, palbociclib, and combination (mean ± SEM, n = 10). B, Hematoxylin and eosin staining of HN12 xenograft tumors. C, BrdU staining for HN12 xenograft tumors. The percentage of BrdU-positive cells was compared by treatment group (mean ± SEM, n = 3). D, Representative IHC staining images of HN12 xenografts (strongly magnified). Tumors were stained with hematoxylin–eosin (HE), pS6, p4EBP1, CCND1, and CCNE1. ****, P < 0.0001; ***, P < 0.001; **, P < 0.01; *, P < 0.05, ns, nonsignificant. P value was determined using one-way ANOVA with the Tukey post hoc test in A and C. (Created with BioRender.com.)
Periconceptional supplementation with folic acid or multiple micronutrients containing folic acid and the risk for hypertensive disorders in pregnancy
Authors: Wantong Huang , Meng Wenying , Zhang Jie , Jin Lei , Jin Lei
Published: July 2024

Objective: To investigate the association between supplementation containing folic acid only (FAO) or multiple micronutrients containing folic acid (MFA) and the risk for hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP). Subjects and Methods: The retrospective cohort study was based on data from women who gave birth from 2016 to 2018 at Tongzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Beijing, China. The outcomes were HDP diagnosed after the 20th week of pregnancy, including gestational hypertension (GH), preeclampsia, and eclampsia. Associations between supplementation patterns and HDP were estimated by Poisson loglinear regression models. Sensitivity analyses were based on pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and maternal age. Results: Among the 25,866 women included in the study, periconceptional use of FA supplementation marginally reduced the risk for HDP (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73–1.04). Women who began FAO supplementation before conception had a lower risk for GH compared to those who began after conception (aRR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.45–0.78). The risk for HDP also reduced among FAO users who began supplementation before conception with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI (aRR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.49–0.84) and users ≥30 years old (aRR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.58–0.98). Conclusions: Periconceptional FAO supplementation may reduce the risk for HDP, especially GH. The protective effects are greater among women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI and those ≥ 30 years old.
Prognostic Impact of Reactive Oxygen Species Modulator 1 in Surgically Resected Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Mutant Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Kim Tae-Woo , Na Kiyong , Jung Junyang , Lim Heejin , Seo Hyewon , Lee Seung Hyeun
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Reactive oxygen species modulator 1 (Romo1) is a novel protein that is critically involved in the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species. Evidence has revealed that Romo1 is associated with treatment outcomes of various human malignancies, including lung cancer. However, the clinical implications of this protein in surgically resected lung cancers harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations have not been investigated. Methods: Data were collected from patients who underwent curative resection of EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma. Romo1 protein expression levels were measured in the tumor tissue using immunohistochemical staining and evaluated semi-quantitatively using the histochemical score. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the clinicopathological parameters that may be associated with clinical outcomes. Results: A total of 98 samples were analyzed. Using the cutoff H score of 200, the population was classified into low (n = 73) and high (n = 25) Romo1 groups. Romo1 expression was significantly higher in smokers, patients with stage III disease, and patients who experienced recurrence after surgery (all p < 0.05). Multivariate analyses showed that advanced-stage and poorly differentiated cancers were associated with shorter disease-free survival (DFS). In addition, high Romo1 expression was independently associated with poor DFS (hazard ratio = 2.18, 95% confidence interval: 1.10–4.32, p = 0.0261). Conclusions: Our data showed that Romo1 overexpression was significantly associated with early recurrence in patients with resected EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma. Although large-scale studies are required, Romo1 may play a prognostic role in this patient population.
Serba-serbi Terapi Anti Retroviral
Authors: Indiastari Dewi , Rosandy Kharisma Ogit , Fajar Jonny Karunia , Rosandy Milanitalia Gadys , Sutanto Heri , Candradikusuma Didi , Budiarti Niniek
Published: July 2024

Infeksi HIV telah menjadi pandemi global dan dengan berbagai macam infeksi oportunistik yang muncul saat kondisi AIDS akan mengakibatkan morbiditas serta mortalitas pada perawatan penderita. Penanganan HIV/AIDS yang kompleks akan terlaksana dengan baik memerlukan kerjasama berbagai pihak yaitu penderita, keluarga yang mendukung, tenaga medis (dokter, perawat, farmasi, ahli gizi, psikolog, dan lain-lain), fasilitas pelayanan kesehatan, kelompok dukungan sebaya, masyarakat hingga pimpinan daerah. Terapi Antiretroviral (ARV) sebagai salah satu komponen dalam penatalaksanaan HIV/AIDS secara komprehensif telah berkembang sangat pesat serta terbukti menurunkan morbiditas dan mortalitas akibat AIDS. Buku ini mengupas tuntas tentang terapi ARV dan segala permasalahannya, bertujuan untuk membantu pemahaman tentang terapi ARV yang kompleks dan pentingnya kepatuhan dalam pengobatan HIV/AIDS. Setelah membaca buku ini, baik orang dengan HIV/AIDS (ODHIV/ODHA), keluarga penderita, pengawas minum obat, kelompok sebaya dan kelompok masyarakat peduli HIV/AIDS lainnya dapat mengetahui dan melakukan hal-hal baik yang dapat mendukung pengobatan HIV/AIDS sehingga angka putus obat ARV menurun serta meningkatkan kepatuhan ODHIV/ODHA dalam minum obat. Di Indonesia masih belum banyak buku yang membahas terapi ARV pada HIV/AIDS dan segala aspeknya. Dengan demikian, harapannya buku ini dapat menambah informasi penting tentang terapi ARV pada HIV/AIDS yang sudah berkembang pesat serta dapat diterapkan secara luas di masyarakat.
Reconfigurações na produção e distribuição no telejornalismo brasileiro: novas práticas sociais no contexto da midiatização
Authors: Kneipp Valquíria Aparecida Passos
Published: July 2024

Este artigo apresenta alguns resultados da pesquisa sobre como os telejornalismo brasileiro tem se reconfigurado depois do processo de digitalização e da pandemia. A hipótese é que novas práticas sociais estão em desenvolvimento. Como objetos empíricos foram selecionados cinco telejornais de acordo com audiência e relevância. Para o desnvolvimento empírico lançou-se com mão de observação vitual, entrevista e análise. Autores como Hjarvard (2012 e 2014), Willians (2016), Jenkins (2009) e Scolari (2015) contribuiram com a fundamantação teórica. Foi possível considerar que no Brasil existe em curso o desenvolvimento de telejornalismo transmídia, que transborda por diversas plataformas além da transmissão do telejornal.
Allmania janakiae (Amaranthaceae)—an interesting new species from Kerala, South India
Authors: ARYA SINDHU , KUMAR VENUGOPALAN NAIR SARADHAMMA ANIL
Published: July 2024

A new species of Allmania—Allmania janakiae—has been described from vegetational belts near the coastal areas of Kollam district of the state of Kerala. Floral traits like absence of bracteole, shape and length of bract, length of tepals, number of flowers per synflorescence, pollen morphology and lack of aril in the seed clearly delineates the new taxon from A. nodiflora and A. multiflora, the two species currently known from the genus. SEM images of seed and pollen along with colour photographs have been provided. The species status of the taxa has been confirmed using ITS gene.
The Regional Characteristics of Raindrop Size Distribution by Airflow Conditions on Mountain Halla, a Single Bell-Shaped Mountainous Area in South Korea
Authors: Suh Sung-Ho , Kim Hyeon-Joon , Jung Woonseon , Lee Dong-In
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the microphysical attributes of orographic precipitation based on the Froude number Fr. Orographic precipitation types were classified according to the background airflow movement condition, either around (Fr2 < 0.1, F1) or over (0.1 ≤ Fr2 < 1, F2) the mountain. Raindrop size distribution (DSD) was measured for 27 stratiform precipitation cases during a 2-yr changma (summer monsoon) season using two S-band single-pol weather radars and four Parsivel disdrometers installed along the major axis of Jeju Island—a single bell-shaped mountainous region (Mountain Halla) in South Korea. The present study revealed the orographic effect influenced by regional differences in precipitation characteristics during F1 condition, but these features were weakened during F2 condition. The leeward highlands exhibited the highest regional variation in precipitation characteristics: The smallest mass-weighted mean diameter Dm was 0.84 mm during F1, but it became similar to other regions during F2 (1.04 mm). The effects of orographic processes on precipitation and airflow conditions were apparent in the radar reflectivity Z–rainfall rate R relationship. Under F1 conditions, the radar-based estimated ground rainfall amount RA on the leeward highlands was significantly underestimated (−28.2%) by the Z–R relationship optimized for the windward lowlands, where precipitation is negligibly affected by orographic effects. However, this regional bias in RA estimation caused by orographic effects was reduced (−4.2%) under F2 conditions.

Significance Statement

This study aimed to identify geographical differences in precipitation over a mountainous area through quantitative methods. While previous research has investigated quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) for different precipitation types (stratiform and convective), this study focused on QPE for orographic precipitation. Statistical analyses were performed on the microphysics of precipitation at various locations and altitudes within a single bell-shaped mountainous area using Parsivel disdrometers and weather radars. The microphysical characteristics of precipitation are influenced by the geographical features of mountains, and these relationships affected QPE over the mountainous area, resulting in regional biases that need to be addressed. In particular, the estimated rainfall amounts optimized for areas without orographic effects were underestimated by up to 28.2% in the leeward highlands.
Strict Piety, Gender, and the Nation-State: Postscript
Authors: Stadler Nurit
Published: July 2024

This postscript addresses the findings of researchers examining the complex relationship between strict religious observance, gender dynamics, feminism, and state transformations. It underscores the importance of gender analysis within religious groups to enhance our theoretical frameworks. Highlighting religious movements' insights into contemporary practices, it considers global gender and sexuality norm shifts, from same-sex marriage legalization in Europe to the #MeToo movement’s impact. Stadler critically analyzes the papers in this Special Issue, and illustrates how these groups navigate changing moral and religious landscapes. This analysis provides sociologists and anthropologists with a crucial perspective on fundamentalist groups’ responses to modern gender, sexual, and identity challenges. Key themes include religious-state entwinements, tradition’s reconfigurations, gender, and feminist views on religious extremism. Stadler introduces case studies across Christian, Muslim, and Jewish contexts globally, highlighting how comparative analysis reveals fundamentalism, gender, and state interactions. By synthesizing the Special Issue’s contributions, Stadler advances religious theory, illuminating the intricate ties between devout religion, gender dynamics, and the state. This postscript advocates for further research into these vital areas, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of religious beliefs and practices’ transformative effects on societal and individual levels.
Impact of Zoning Regulations on Transportation Equity of Job Accessibility: A Spatial Autoregressive Approach for the Dallas–Fort Worth and Houston-Galveston Area Council Areas
Authors: Kharel Subham , Sharifiasl Seyedsoheil , Pan Qisheng , Li Jiangling
Published: July 2024

Auto-centric streets and zoning regulations that have segregated land use in the U.S.A. has created an inequitable and less accessible transportation system, particularly for vulnerable communities. We examined whether the existence or absence of zoning regulations influenced transportation equity outcomes, by focusing on case studies of Dallas, a city with zoning regulations, and Houston, a city without zoning regulations. While many studies use single-modal measures to examine modal accessibility gaps (MAGs), we adopted a multi-modal accessibility measure. This approach allowed us to calculate white- and blue-collar job accessibilities for both transit and automobiles, providing a nuanced estimate of MAGs. Our maps show considerable variations in MAGs, with Dallas being more equitable than Houston. Results from the spatial regression models show that (a) white- and blue-collar job seekers face similar levels of MAG inequalities, (b) MAGs decreases when transitioning from Dallas to Houston, suggesting that Dallas offers higher transit accessibility equity than Houston, (c) commercial land uses have considerably higher spillover impacts (than direct impacts) on MAGs, (d) unlike Houston, where there are negative associations between commercial land use and MAGs, Dallas shows more robust positive associations, suggesting the potential for greater equity among its residents, (e) the spillover impact of single-family housing units on MAGs in Houston is higher than its direct impact, and (f) transit proximity has a larger direct impact but smaller spillover effects on transportation equity. Planners should implement comprehensive long- and short-term strategies favoring communities of concern by considering land use and transportation decisions together to address socio-economic inequalities.
Improving the Durability of 12.5 mm Open-Graded Friction Course using 9.5 mm Nominal Maximum Aggregate Size Gradation and High Polymer-modified Binder
Authors: Tran Trung , Chen Chen , Tran Nam , Taylor Adam , Yin Fan , Watson Donald , Musselman Jim , Sholar Gregory , Moseley Howard
Published: July 2024

The Florida Department of Transportation utilizes an open-graded friction course (OGFC), called FC-5, on all multi-lane roadways with a design speed of 50 mph or greater, except for curb and gutter sections, to enhance safety by minimizing hydroplaning. However, FC-5 layers on high-speed multi-lane suburban roadways experience premature raveling owing to high lateral stresses caused by turning, rapid acceleration, and braking activities. Currently, the FC-5 mixture is designed with a 12.5 mm nominal maximum aggregate size (NMAS) gradation and a polymer-modified PG 76-22 binder. To improve the durability of the FC-5 mixtures, alternative OGFC designs using 9.5 mm NMAS gradation and High Polymer-modified (HP) Binder were evaluated. The experimental plan included eight OGFC mixtures designed with three variations: (1) using granite and limestone aggregate sources, (2) using 12.5 mm and 9.5 mm NMAS gradations, and (3) with PG 76-22 and HP binders. The laboratory tests included the Cantabro test, Permeability test, Drainability test, Circular Track Meter test, Dynamic Friction Test, Overlay Test (OT), and Hamburg Wheel Tracking Test, which characterized the mixture’s durability, permeability, drainability, texture, friction, cracking resistance, and rutting resistance, respectively. Note that Cantabro and OT specimens were tested before and after conditioning at Accelerated Weathering System to evaluate the aging resistance of OGFC mixtures. The test results showed that using the 9.5 mm NMAS gradation and HP binder significantly improved the durability, cracking, and aging resistance of the FC-5 mixture without compromising the permeability, drainability, rutting, and friction resistance.
Cybersecurity risk assessment of a marine dual-fuel engine on inland waterways ship
Authors: Bolbot Victor , Xiang La , Brunou Päivi , Kiviharju Mikko , Ding Yu , Banda Osiris Valdez
Published: July 2024

Increased connectivity renders the ships more cost-effective but also vulnerable to cyberattacks. Since ships are assets of significant value and importance, they constitute a lucrative object for cyber-attacks. The power and propulsion functions are among the most safety critical and essential for ship operations. Simultaneously, the use of Dual-Fuel (DF) engines for power generation and propulsion has become very popular in the recent years. The aim of this research is the risk identification and analysis of potential cybersecurity attack scenarios in a DF engine on inland waterways ship. For this purpose, we employ an adapted version of Failure Modes, Vulnerabilities and Effects Analysis (FMVEA). In our approach we demonstrate how the implementation of FMVEA can be interconnected with the existing assurance processes for maritime engines and novel developments in the field of risk theory. We also provide insights in the riskiest cybersecurity attacks on DF engine and how to reduce their risks.
Fault feature extraction, feature fusion, and severity identification approaches for AUVs with weak thruster faults
Authors: Cui Dingyu , Zhang Tianchi , Zhang Mingjun , Liu Xing
Published: July 2024

Fault feature extraction, feature fusion and severity identification approaches for autonomous underwater vehicles with weak thruster faults are studied in the article. The traditional method uses the modified Bayes algorithm for fault feature extraction from different signals, then the fault features are fused through the Dempster-Shafer evidence theory, and finally, the severities of the faults are obtained by the grey relation analysis method through the fused features. But for weak thruster faults, in the stage of feature extraction, it exists the problem that the ratios of fault eigenvalues to noise eigenvalues of the extracted features are low. In the stages of feature fusion and severity identification, it exists the problem that the errors of the identification results obtained from the fused fault features are not satisfactory. Aiming at the above problems, the smoothed pseudo Wigner-Ville distribution together with the modified Bayes method is presented for feature extraction for weak faults. The feature-level fusion together with the decision-level fusion method is presented for feature fusion and severity identification for weak faults. The experimental prototype pool experiments verify the effectiveness of the approaches presented in this article.
Clinical Determinants of Knee Joint Loads While Sidestepping: An Exploratory Study With Male Rugby Union Athletes
Authors: Brown Scott R. , Hume Patria A. , Brughelli Matt
Published: July 2024

Background:

While several clinical factors have independently been linked to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk factors, their collective impact on knee loading during the sidestep maneuver is unknown. To better understand these factors, we assessed the relationship between strength, balance, and sprint kinetics and external knee abduction moments during sidestepping on each leg.

Methods:

Sixteen male academy-level rugby union athletes (age, 20 ± 3 years; body-height, 186 ± 9 cm; body-mass, 99 ± 14 kg) were bilaterally assessed in single-leg: isokinetic concentric and eccentric knee and concentric hip strength, balance at 2 difficulty levels, vertical and horizontal force production during maximal sprinting, and 3-dimensional motion capture while sidestepping on the preferred and non-preferred leg. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis based on this theoretical approach of the mechanics of ACL injury risk was performed.

Results:

When sidestepping on the preferred leg, larger abduction moments were explained by less concentric hip extension strength and vertical force production during maximal sprinting ( R2 = 41%; ES = 0.64); when sidestepping on the non-preferred leg, larger abduction moments were explained by more concentric hip flexion strength ( R2 = 8%; ES = 0.29). Larger symmetry scores between the legs (representing greater abduction moments) were explained by more horizontal force production during maximal sprinting and less eccentric knee flexion strength ( R2 = 32%; ES = 0.56).

Conclusions:

Independently, the preferred and non-preferred legs contribute to increased knee abduction moments via unique distributions of strength and/or sprint kinetics. The allocations of strength and sprint kinetics appear interrelated through weaker posterior muscular strength and may be modifiable through a targeted strength training approach.
The Use of Acoustic Mapping to Improve Surveillance of Pediatric Patient with Residual COVID-19 Symptomology
Authors: Evans Kevin D. , Al Sultan Huriah , Beal Chad , Snyder Sydney , Varghese Juliet , Simonetti Orlando , Kanner Christopher
Published: July 2024

Objective:

This study was designed to assess the severity of lung tissue changes due to COVID-19 in a pediatric cohort that still complained of post-COVID-19 symptoms.

Materials and Methods:

Parents and adolescents, 13 to 22 years old and have had a confirmatory positive polymerase chain reaction (+PCR) and/or rapid antigen test for COVID-19, consented to have a series of diagnostic tests to determine the level of lung tissue changes due to COVID-19. Sixteen adolescents completed the intake form and lung sonography. The lung sonogram was completed using the bedside lung ultrasound in emergency (BLUE) point method and a GE Logiq I laptop ultrasound system, as well as a linear 7.5-MHz or 3.0-MHz convex-array transducers. Thirteen adolescents completed a chest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination on a 0.55T Siemens MAGNETOM Free.Max scanner. The examination included the heart and lungs of each participant and took about 90 minutes. A radiologist, sonographer, and computed tomography (CT) technologist reviewed and scored the images. Those positive lung sonogram scores were matched anatomically to the same slice within the chest MRI examination.

Results:

Based on the 13 participants, the acoustic mapping process demonstrated no diagnostic matches for positively scored sonograms at the pleural line or pulmonary parenchyma with the corresponding MRI image slices. There were diagnostic matches for negatively scored sonograms at the pleural line or pulmonary parenchyma with the corresponding MRI image slices.

Conclusion:

With lingering post-COVID-19 symptomology, this adolescent cohort demonstrated that acoustic mapping of their lung sonograms and chest MRI images had important combined diagnostic value. Lung sonography demonstrated diagnostic effectiveness for evaluating the periphery of the lung tissue, in this cohort but limited in viewing deeper structures. Conversely, MRI provided definitive views of the entire chest cavity and lung tissue, which is important for properly evaluating deeper pulmonary parenchyma.
Control mechanism of short-term fertilization with cattle manure on the release characteristics of soil colloids in farmland: grain size and physicochemical properties
Authors: Song Xiaoming , Chen Zeyu , Zhang Qing , Zhang Zhipeng , Wen Yujuan
Published: July 2024

Background

Understanding the release characteristics of soil colloids is a prerequisite for studying the co-transport of colloids and pollutants in subsurface environment. As a crucial agricultural management measure, fertilization not only alters the material composition of farmland soil, but also significantly regulates the properties and release patterns of soil colloids. This study systematically investigated the regulatory mechanism of short-term cattle manure fertilization on the macroscopic release and microscopic properties of soil colloids with different particle sizes, providing a theoretical foundation for subsequent research on the fate and transport of agricultural non-point source pollutants.

Results

The colloids in natural agricultural soil primarily consist of inorganic components. Graded extraction of the colloids has revealed that the combined proportion of colloids with particle sizes of 1–2 μm and 0.45–1 μm accounts for approximately 80.5%. Applying cattle manure inhibits the release of soil colloids, and the content of large particle size (1–2 μm) components increases. The content of organic colloids is increased due to the high total organic carbon (TOC) in cattle manure, particularly those with a particle size less than 1 μm. The characterization of organic colloid components revealed a significant increase in aromatic carbon and oxygen-containing functional groups, while the aliphatic content decreased. The response sequence regarding changes in functional groups within organic colloids induced by fertilization was as follows: –CH3, –CH2 > C–O > –OH > C=C. Fertilization promotes the release of 1:1-type inorganic mineral colloids, increasing the content of poorly crystalline minerals. The retention of aromatic carbon and oxygen-containing functional groups by poorly crystalline mineral colloids served as the primary mechanism leading to their increased content levels. Changes in environmental factors significantly impacted the release and properties of soil colloids. Conditions such as low cationic valence, high ionic strength, and high pH promoted the release of soil colloids.

Conclusions

The short-term fertilization resulted in a reduction in the release of soil colloids and brought about significant alterations in their particle size composition and properties. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into understanding the impact of fertilization-induced colloid release on the environmental behavior of agricultural non-point source pollutants.
An FPGA-based hardware accelerator supporting sensitive sequence homology filtering with profile hidden Markov models
Authors: Anderson Tim , Wheeler Travis J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Sequence alignment lies at the heart of genome sequence annotation. While the BLAST suite of alignment tools has long held an important role in alignment-based sequence database search, greater sensitivity is achieved through the use of profile hidden Markov models (pHMMs). Here, we describe an FPGA hardware accelerator, called HAVAC, that targets a key bottleneck step (SSV) in the analysis pipeline of the popular pHMM alignment tool, HMMER.

Results

The HAVAC kernel calculates the SSV matrix at 1739 GCUPS on a $$\sim$$
∼
 $3000 Xilinx Alveo U50 FPGA accelerator card, $$\sim$$
∼
 227× faster than the optimized SSV implementation in nhmmer. Accounting for PCI-e data transfer data processing, HAVAC is 65× faster than nhmmer’s SSV with one thread and 35× faster than nhmmer with four threads, and uses $$\sim$$
∼
 31% the energy of a traditional high end Intel CPU.

Conclusions

HAVAC demonstrates the potential offered by FPGA hardware accelerators to produce dramatic speed gains in sequence annotation and related bioinformatics applications. Because these computations are performed on a co-processor, the host CPU remains free to simultaneously compute other aspects of the analysis pipeline.
Integrative phenotyping analyses reveal the relevance of the phyB-PIF4 pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana reproductive organs at high ambient temperature
Authors: Ebrahimi Naghani Shekoufeh , Šmeringai Ján , Pleskačová Barbora , Dobisová Tereza , Panzarová Klára , Pernisová Markéta , Robert Hélène S.
Published: July 2024

Background

The increasing ambient temperature significantly impacts plant growth, development, and reproduction. Uncovering the temperature-regulating mechanisms in plants is of high importance, for increasing our fundamental understanding of plant thermomorphogenesis, for its potential in applied science, and for aiding plant breeders in improving plant thermoresilience. Thermomorphogenesis, the developmental response to warm temperatures, has been primarily studied in seedlings and in the regulation of flowering time. PHYTOCHROME B and PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTORs (PIFs), particularly PIF4, are key components of this response. However, the thermoresponse of other adult vegetative tissues and reproductive structures has not been systematically evaluated, especially concerning the involvement of phyB and PIFs.

Results

We screened the temperature responses of the wild type and several phyB-PIF4 pathway Arabidopsis mutant lines in combined and integrative phenotyping platforms for root growth in soil, shoot, inflorescence, and seed. Our findings demonstrate that phyB-PIF4 is generally involved in the relay of temperature signals throughout plant development, including the reproductive stage. Furthermore, we identified correlative responses to high ambient temperature between shoot and root tissues. This integrative and automated phenotyping was complemented by monitoring the changes in transcript levels in reproductive organs. Transcriptomic profiling of the pistils from plants grown under high ambient temperature identified key elements that may provide insight into the molecular mechanisms behind temperature-induced reduced fertilization rate. These include a downregulation of auxin metabolism, upregulation of genes involved auxin signalling, miRNA156 and miRNA160 pathways, and pollen tube attractants.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that phyB-PIF4 involvement in the interpretation of temperature signals is pervasive throughout plant development, including processes directly linked to reproduction.
Early administration of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors in patients with acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hosseini Kaveh , Soleimani Hamidreza , Maleki Saba , Nasrollahizadeh Amir , Tayebi Sima , Nelson John , Heffron Sean P.
Published: July 2024

Background

High-intensity statin therapy is currently recommended initial guideline therapy in ACS treatment. However, only a minority of patients are achieving LDL-C attainment goal at 6 months. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are on recommended guideline therapy post-ACS if LDL-C goal attainment is not achieved after high-intensity statin (4–6 weeks) and after the addition of ezetimibe if guideline goal attainment is not achieved after an additional 4–6 weeks. Thus, it has been recommended that PCSK9 inhibitors be considered earlier post-ACS. However, the efficacy of early PCSK9 inhibitors initiation in ACS patients remains uncertain.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies involving ACS patients who received PCSK9 inhibitors within 48 h of hospitalization were included. Common and random effects models were used to evaluate the pooled effect of early PCSK9 inhibitor administration. Nine RCTs and three cohort studies were included.

Results

Early PCSK9 inhibitor administration reduced the incidence of MI, ACS hospitalization, and revascularization at 6–18 months post-ACS. Although there was a drift towards reduced stroke, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular death, no statistically significant reduction was observed. Additionally, PCSK9 inhibitors significantly enhanced lipid control at 4–12 weeks after index hospitalization.

Conclusion

Early PCSK9 inhibitors initiation in ACS patients reduces MACE and improves lipid profiles. While the results propose promising benefits in terms of stroke and mortality, further research with longer follow-up is required for more decisive evidence.
Fracture pain in children in the emergency department: the impact of a new pain management procedure
Authors: Liber Mélany , De Jorna Claire , Abidji Déborah , Ramdane Nassima , Avez-Couturier Justine , Dubos François
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To compare compliance with the French national guidelines before and after the implementation (in 2018) of a new protocol on acute fracture pain management in the pediatric emergency department of a French university medical center.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, before-after study in patients aged below 16 years presenting at the pediatric emergency department with a fracture. We compared pain management before (in 2017) and after (in 2019 and 2020) implementation of the new procedure. The primary endpoint was appropriate pain management, defined as (i) an appropriate initial assessment of pain, (ii) appropriate treatment with analgesic drugs (acetaminophen for mild pain, acetaminophen and ibuprofen for moderate pain, ibuprofen and morphine for severe pain) and (iii) reassessment of the pain intensity.

Results

572 patients were included (mean age: 6.5 years; male: 60%). 190 in 2017 and 382 in 2019–2020. Pain management was appropriate for 40% of the patients in 2017 and 52% in 2019–2020 (p = 0.004). Pain was rated for 98% of patients in 2017 vs. 100% in 2019–2020 (p = 0.04). The frequency of appropriate treatment for mild pain and moderate pain increased significantly from 52 to 76% and from 0 to 44%, respectively. The administration of ibuprofen increased by 26% points (from 3 to 20 patients treated) and the administration of morphine increased by 29% points (from 1 to 17 patients treated). Pain reassessment rose significantly from 21 to 43%. Levels of compliance with the guidelines were similar in 2019 and 2020. Analgesia was significantly more effective in 2019–2020 than in 2017 (in 20% vs. 14% of the patients, respectively; p = 0.005).

Conclusion

After the implementation of a new protocol for the management of acute fracture pain, we observed an increase in compliance with the guidelines. Although the use of ibuprofen and morphine rose significantly as did the frequency of pain reassessment, further improvements are required.
The treatment pattern of advanced HR-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer in central southern China: a hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Hu Zhe-Yu , Liu Binliang , Xie Ning , Yang Xiaohong , Liu Liping , Xiao Huawu , Li Jing , Wu Hui , Gao Jianxiang , Lu Jun , Hu Xuming , Cao Min , Shui Zhengrong , Tian Can , Ouyang Quchang
Published: July 2024

Aims

This investigation aims to elucidate the treatment status of advanced HR+/HER2- breast cancer patients in Hunan Province of Central Southern China from November 2021 to December 2022.

Methods

Data from 301 patients with advanced HR+/HER2- breast cancer were collected from the breast cancer investigation project in Hunan under the guidance of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncolfogy (CSCO). The data included the clinical characteristics of patients and the status of first-line and second-line rescue treatment.

Results

First-line chemotherapy and endocrine therapy for mBC accounted for 40% (121/301) and 60% (180/301) of treatments, respectively. AI (21%), AI plus CDK4/6 inhibitor (28%), and fulvestrant (24%) or fulvestrant plus CDK4/6 inhibitor (18%) were the most common first-line endocrine therapies. Taxane-based chemotherapy was the most common first-line chemotherapy (59%). Second-line chemotherapy and endocrine therapy for mBC accounted for 43% (72/166) and 57% (94/166) of treatments, respectively. Fulvestrant (23%) or fulvestrant plus CDK4/6 inhibitor (29%) were the most common second-line endocrine therapies. The prevalences of AI and AI plus CDK4/6 inhibitor decreased to 19% and 11%, respectively. T (taxane)-based chemotherapy was still the most common chemotherapy regimen (46%). Third-line chemotherapy was more prevalent than endocrine therapy (57% vs. 41%). T (taxane)-based chemotherapy was still the most common chemotherapy regimen (46%). Fulvestrant plus CDK4/6 inhibitor was the most common endocrine therapy (33%). AI, AI plus CDK4/6 inhibitor, and fulvestrant accounted for 21%, 12% and 18% of third-line endocrine therapies, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared to chemotherapy, endocrine therapy was a more favorable choice for first-line and second-line treatment for HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer patients in Hunan Province.