bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of equipment, weather and personnel experience on the digitalization and damage detection of concrete bridges
Authors: Gonzalez‐Libreros Jaime H. , Wang Chao , Khaloo Ali , Krishnan Nikhil , Carolin Anders , Sas Gabriel
Published: September 2023

Traditional visual inspections of existing infrastructure have limitations such as safety risks, limited accuracy for subsurface defects, and subjective assessments. Modern inspection techniques like terrestrial laser scanning, closerange photogrammetry (CRP), and infrared scanning offer faster and more accurate data collection, allowing for more informative and precise descriptions of objects, while minimizing traffic disturbances often associated with visual inspections. In this paper, CPR, a non‐destructive survey technique for reconstructing 3D shapes from 2D images, is used for the inspection of five bridges in Northern Sweden. The surveys were performed under different weather conditions, using different data acquisition equipment and personnel with different levels of experience. The acquired images were used to create 3D models of the bridges and to evaluate the evolution of damages over time. Results showed that although better models were created when using equipment with higher specifications, cheap gear such as GoPro or cellphones can also be used for the cases in which a lower level of detail is required. Furthermore, initial experience of the personnel does not seem to have high influence on the results.
Evaluation of the snow loads on the snow galleries on the Iron Ore Line in Northern Sweden
Authors: Saback Vanessa , Gonzalez‐Libreros Jaime , Daescu Cosmin , Hojsten Tommy , Sas Gabriel
Published: September 2023

The Iron Ore Line is a railway in northern Sweden and Norway, crucial for iron ore transportation. Snow galleries safeguard this route, ensuring uninterrupted traffic for efficient operations. A snow gallery is a protective structure that shields roads and railways from heavy snowfall and avalanches. Reported damages to these structures caused by excessive snow loads have prompted an investigation to prevent further issues. This paper presents an analysis of the evolution of snow load calculations over time, though a comparison of Swedish design standards. The design snow loads required by current standards have increased up to 60% from the initial regulations, depending on the location of the structure. Besides, climate change is predicted to further increase snow loads due to more frequent winter precipitation, higher snow density, and extreme snowfall events. This analysis is part of a broader research project involving numerical simulations, live monitoring, and a digital twin monitoring system of some snow galleries in the Iron Ore Line.
Demolition of a 65‐year‐old box‐girder prestressed concrete bridge located in Northern Sweden
Authors: Daescu Cosmin Al , Gonzalez‐Libreros Jaime , Wang Chao , Elfgren Lennart , Sas Gabriel
Published: September 2023

A new bridge was built in Kalix, northern Sweden, to replace an existing prestressed concrete box‐girder bridge that had been in service for over 60 years. The old bridge had a total length of 283.6 m divided into five spans: 43.9 m, 47.0 m, 94.0 m, 47.0 m, and 43.9 m. It was constructed using the balanced cantilever method with segments having lengths of around 3.0 m. The need for replacement arose from recommendations extracted from an assessment of the old bridge's state and capacity. In addition to the construction of the new bridge, its replacement necessitated the creation and evaluation of demolition procedure for the existing bridge. This procedure had to be carefully designed to avoid damaging the new bridge and stability‐related issues but also to prevent debris from falling into the Kalix River, which is part of a Natura 2000 protected area. This paper discusses various issues considered while developing the demolition strategy, including the use of bed‐rock anchored tendons, intermediate support fixing at specific locations, and proper evaluation of position of the demolition equipment supported by the bridge, among others. The problem of disposing of the demolished material is also discussed.
DETECTING ANOMALIES IN STRUCTURAL RESPONSE OF CABLE SUPPORTED BRIDGES: AFTER EXTREME EVENTS
Authors: Caner Alp
Published: September 2023

The safety of cable‐supported bridges primarily depends on cable design, proper tensioning during construction, and regular maintenance. Over the past decade, numerous cable‐supported bridges have faced various issues, including aging, poor tensioning practices, coping with heavy traffic loads, insufficient maintenance, and exposure to accidents or extreme conditions. Despite these challenges, these structures often withstand such problems due to the inclusion of redundancy and alternative load paths in their design. Detecting anomalies in bridge monitoring data can aid in identifying potential issues. Typically, only specific cables are monitored in a cable‐supported bridge monitoring system. The conditions of non‐monitored cables are usually estimated based on the data from adjacent cable sensors. The structural response of the tower and the deck can also be indirectly estimated. This research aims to present a methodology for detecting anomalies in structural responses following extreme events. It is crucial to differentiate temporary changes in cable measurements caused by expected seasonal temperature fluctuations, regular winds, and normal traffic patterns from permanent changes resulting from extreme events. Additionally, one must consider that a permanent change in measurements might also occur due to sensor loss after an extreme event. The paper will discuss tools to form a detection that can identify whether the source of change is due to a real extreme event or not.
Structural Optimizations of Extradosed Cable‐Stayed Bridge by Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Lamesgin Abeba , Golla Alemayehu
Published: September 2023

An extradosed cable‐stayed bridge employs a structure that combines the main elements of both a prestressed box girder bridge and a cable‐stayed bridge. In extradosed cable‐stayed bridge to apply optimization, because this type of bridge has hybrid nature; bridges have significant additional complexity and oversizing of structure [7]. This research paper evaluated the optimum depth of the box girder with pylon height, angle of stay cable, and effect of concrete grade on those three main parameters of an extradosed cable‐stay bridge for fixed span length (100+180+100) m. The formulated optimization problem was code into Mat lab R2019a software to run the optimization using genetic algorithm and analysis results retrieved from SAP2000v23 bridge software to carry out the optimization process. The results of optimization indicate that box girder depth was less than recommended value of extradosed bridge depth, the optimum pylon height found to be more reduce than previous research work and the optimum first stay cable angle is 32.13o for using optimum concrete grade C‐45.
Achieving the Reverse Intersystem Crossing in Chalcone Based Donor‐Acceptor System through Down‐Conversion of Triplet Exciton
Authors: Singh Piyush , Pattanayak Pradip , Purkayastha Pradipta , Kumar Ghosh Sujit
Published: September 2023

In recent years, understanding the mechanism of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) has become the primary choice for designing high‐efficiency, low‐cost, metal‐free organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). Herein, we propose a strategically designed chalcone based donor‐acceptor system, where intensification of delayed fluorescence with decrease in temperature (300 K to 100 K) is observed; the theoretical investigations of electronic states and orbital characters uncovered a new cold rISC pathway in donor‐acceptor system, where rISC occurs through the down‐conversation of higher triplet exciton (from T3) to lowest singlet state (S1), having negative energy splitting, thus no thermal energy is required. The comprehensive research described herein might open‐up new avenues in donor‐acceptor system over the conventional up‐convention of triplet exciton and demonstrates that not necessarily all delayed fluorescence are thermally activated (TADF).
Thermal‐Conductivity‐Enhancing Copper‐Plated Expanded Graphite/Paraffin Composite for Highly Stable Phase‐Change Materials
Authors: Yan Jiasen , Han Xianying , Dang Zhaohan , Li Jiangang , He Xiangming
Published: September 2023

Paraffin (PA)/expanded graphite (EG) is an important composite phase change material with low cost, high heat storage, good thermal conductivity and cycling stability. Its thermal conductivity needs to be further improved for application in the thermal management system of power lithium‐ion batteries. In this paper, copper plated expanded graphite (CPEG) with 3D porous structure was prepared by electroless copper plating method, which was used as thermal conductivity enhancing material to replace part of EG in PA/EG composite materials. For the optimized phase change material composed of 80 %PA‐14 %EG‐6 %CPEG, the copper content is very low (0.768 wt %), but its thermal conductivity can be significantly improved without loss of latent heat and thermal cycling stability. Its thermal conductivity is increased from 11 times to 16.5 times that of paraffin while compared with the copper‐free composite material (80 %PA‐20 %EG). The PA/EG/CPEG composite material exhibits good temperature control effect on power lithium‐ion batteries.
Valeric Biofuels from Biomass‐Derived γ‐Valerolactone: A Critical Overview of Production Processes
Authors: Martínez Figueredo Karla G. , Martínez Francisco A. , Segobia Darío J. , Bertero Nicolás M.
Published: September 2023

This review analyzes critically the production of valeric biofuels from γ‐valerolactone, a relevant biomass‐derived platform molecule. Initially, the main properties of valeric esters as fuels for spark‐ and compression‐ignition engines are summarized. Then, catalytic routes to valeric esters from γ‐valerolactone are meticulously analyzed, describing the acid‐ and metal‐catalyzed reactions taking part in the tandem catalysis. Only works focused on the production of the valeric biofuels were considered, excluding the cases where these esters were observed in minor amounts or as byproducts. The role of the appropriate selection of the support, catalytic species, catalyst preparation and experimental conditions on the valeric ester productivity are thoroughly commented. Finally, some concluding remarks and perspectives are given, mentioning the areas where additional efforts must be done in order to turn the dream of a massive and renewable valeric biofuel production into a reality.
Trichobezoar effectively treated with direct endoscopic injection of Coca‐Cola: A case report
Authors: Matsuoka Ryo , Masuda Saori , Fujita Satoshi , Akiyama Naoe
Published: September 2023

Trichobezoars (hair bezoars) are primarily observed in adolescent girls who pull their hair followed by its ingestion. Endoscopic removal of trichobezoars is challenging, and these masses often require surgical removal. Recently, although it has been reported that Coca‐Cola could effectively dissolve persimmon phytobezoars, it was ineffective in dissolving trichobezoars. We report a case in which Coca‐Cola was directly injected into a trichobezoar followed by successful endoscopic removal of the mass. A 9‐year‐old girl visited our hospital with abdominal pain and nausea, wherein abdominal radiography revealed a mass in the stomach. Her mother witnessed her pulling and ingesting her hair 6 months previously. An upper endoscopy was performed for diagnosis of the trichobezoar. Endoscopic removal of the mass was performed under general anesthesia following oral administration of Coca‐Cola at a dose of 100 mL thrice a day for 10 days. Initially, we attempted endoscopic extraction using grasping forceps and a radiofrequency snare. However, the bezoar could not be fragmented and did not pass through the cardia. Thus, Coca‐Cola was injected directly into the bezoar using a local injection needle, which facilitated the separation of the bezoar and allowed the grasping forceps to fragment it to a size that could pass through the cardia. Owing to the large size of the bezoar, we could remove 180 g of it without complications. The patient received psychological counseling after the procedure, to prevent recurrence. In conclusion, direct injection of Coca‐Cola was effective in the complete endoscopic removal of trichobezoars.
Leveraging explainable machine learning models to assess forest health: A case study in Hainan, China
Authors: Li Jialing , He Bohao , Ahmad Shahid , Mao Wei
Published: September 2023

Global forest area has declined over the past few years, forest quality has declined, and ecological and environmental events have increased with climate change and human activity. In the context of ecological civilization, forest health issues have received unprecedented attention. By improving forest health, forests can better perform their ecosystem service functions and promote green development. This study was carried out in the WuZhi Shan area of Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park. We employed a decision tree algorithm, a machine learning technique, for our modeling due to its high accuracy and interpretability. The objective weighted method using criteria of importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) was used to determine forest health classes based on survey and experimental data from 132 forest samples. The results showed that species diversity is the most important metric to measure forest health. An interpretable decision tree machine learning model was proposed to incorporate forest health indicators, providing up to 90% accuracy in the classification of forest health conditions. The model demonstrated a high degree of effectiveness, achieving an average precision of 90%, a recall of 67%, and an F1 score of 70.2% in predicting forest health. The interpretable decision tree classification results showed that breast height diameter is the most important variable in classifying the health status of both primary and secondary forests. This study highlights the importance of using interpretable machine learning methods for the decision‐making process. Our work contributes to the scientific underpinnings of sustainable forest development and effective conservation planning.
Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in the therapy of autoimmune diseases
Authors: Bekić Marina , Tomić Sergej
Published: September 2023

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are well recognized as critical factors in the pathology of tumors. However, their roles in autoimmune diseases are still unclear, which hampers the development of efficient immunotherapies. The role of different MDSCs subsets in multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and systemic lupus erythematosus displayed different mechanisms of immune suppression, and several studies pointed to MDSCs’ capacity to induce T‐helper (Th)17 cells and tissue damage. These results also suggested that MDSCs could be present in different functional states and utilize different mechanisms for controlling the activity of T and B cells. Therefore, various therapeutic strategies should be employed to restore homeostasis in autoimmune diseases. The therapies harnessing MDSCs could be designed either as cell therapy or rely on the expansion and activation of MDSCs in vivo, or their depletion. Cumulatively, MDSCs are inevitable players in autoimmunity, and rational approaches in developing therapies are required to avoid the adverse effects of MDSCs and harness their suppressive mechanisms to improve the overall efficacy of autoimmunity therapy.
The effectiveness of telerehabilitation‐based exercise combined with pain neuroscience education for patients with facet joint arthrosis: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Okudan Begum , Çelik Derya , Koban Orkun
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the short‐term effectiveness of exercise combined with PNE and exercise alone via telerehabilitation for patients with low back pain (LBP) caused by facet joint arthrosis (FJA).

Methods

This is a prospective, single‐blind, randomized‐controlled clinical trial. Forty–five patients with LBP caused by FJA were randomly allocated into three groups. The exercise (n = 15) and the exercise with PNE (n = 15) groups were provided interventions twice a week for six weeks via telerehabilitation. The control group (n = 15) was placed on the waiting list. The primary outcome measures were the numeric pain‐rating scale (NPRS) at rest and with activity, The Oswestry disability index (ODI), the pain beliefs questionnaire (PBQ), and secondary outcome measures were short form‐12v2 (SF‐12v2) and the global rating of change score (GROC).

Results

The groups (52.00 ± 4.86, 46.7% female) were similar at baseline except for gender (p = 0.029). There was a significant group‐by‐time interaction for NPRS‐rest (F = 4.276, p = 0.021), NPRS‐activity (F = 12.327, p = 0.0001), the ODI (F = 23.122, p = 0.0001) and organic pain belief (F = 39.708, p = 0.0001). Further comparison with ANOVA showed that the exercise with PNE group showed better improvement in only organic pain belief (p = 0.0001). All groups reported improvements according to GROC, but it was higher in the intervention groups (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The patients who received exercise combined with PNE and exercise alone significantly improved pain intensity, disability and organic pain beliefs via telerehabilitation for patients with LBP caused by FJA compared to the control group. The PNE in addition to exercise may exhibit greater benefit in improving organic pain beliefs in short term.

Significance

This study highlights that combining exercise with PNE can lead to greater improvements compared to exercise alone or no intervention for FJA patients. The implementation of PNE in physiotherapy sessions has the potential to offer significant benefits. Furthermore, our results highlight the promising role of telerehabilitation as an effective method for delivering interventions to individuals with FJA.
Bioavailability of iodine from a meal consisting of sushi and a wakame seaweed salad—A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Aakre Inger , Tveit Inger Beate , Myrmel Lene Secher , Fjære Even , Ballance Simon , Rosendal‐Riise Hanne
Published: September 2023

The consumption of seaweed is on the rise in the Western world. Seaweeds may contain substantial amounts of iodine, and some species could serve as a potential dietary iodine source. However, limited data on the iodine content and in vivo bioavailability of iodine from seaweeds exist. The objective was to assess whether iodine from a meal consisting of sushi with nori, (Porphyra spp) and a wakame seaweed salad (Undaria pinnatifida) had similar bioavailability as a potassium iodide reference supplement of similar iodine content. A randomized 2 × 2 crossover trial (AB/BA model) was conducted in 20 healthy young women. One intervention arm consisted of a meal with sushi and wakame salad (231 μg iodine), and the other of potassium iodide (KI) supplement (225 μg iodine). Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured at 11 different time points for 48 h after the interventions. The UIC increased after consumption of both the sushi and wakame meal and the KI supplement, but the median UIC was higher after ingestion of the KI supplement. The estimated bioavailability of iodine during the first 24 h was 75% from sushi with wakame and 97% from the KI supplement. The bioequivalence analyses confirmed that the KI supplement had higher estimated bioavailability than the sushi and wakame meal, however, with small margins. Our findings on iodine bioavailability imply that sushi and wakame could be potential iodine sources in the diet, which may be favorable for population groups at risk for iodine deficiency. However, further research is needed to account for the variability of iodine content in seaweeds by different locations and degree of processing, to assure that the iodine levels are stable and predictable for the consumers.
Association of vaccination status with the clinicobiochemical profile, hospital stay, and mortality in COVID‐19: A case–control study
Authors: Shah Sangam , Paudel Kiran , Bhattarai Abhinav , Thapa Sangharsha , Bhusal Sandesh , Adhikari Yagya R. , Adhikari Tara B. , Bhatta Nikita , Mandal Prince , Sharma Pratima , Budha Bishal , Aryal Shova , Das Santa K. , Pant Pankaj
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

The effectiveness of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines in reducing symptoms, disease advancement, complications, and mortality in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection has been well‐established. This case‐control study aimed to compare different blood parameters, and prognostic and survival outcomes of COVID‐19 patients based on vaccination status.

Methods

We performed a case‐control study that included hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal. Individuals who received vaccination were designated as cases and unvaccinated individuals as controls. Demographics, co‐morbidity, clinical data, laboratory data, and disease outcomes were recorded for both groups. Multivariate, Cox, and linear regression were used for analysing blood parameters, hospital admission, survival, and hospital stay, respectively, between cases and controls.

Results

Out of 100 participants enrolled, 46 were vaccinated, and 54 weren't. At admission, ferritin and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were significantly lower in cases. At discharge, cases showed a higher monocyte than controls. Ferritin, ESR, and d‐imer showed excellent performance in determining the severity of symptoms. Significant correlation and regression of ferritin and ESR with the length of hospital stay was observed. Length of hospital stay was significantly lower in cases than in controls. No significant differences between cases and controls were observed in mortality.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 vaccines effectively reduced hospitalization duration. Ferritin and ESR were significantly lower in vaccinated individuals and showed the best utility in monitoring the disease.
The mediating role of anxiety and depression in the relationship between coping styles and life satisfaction among frontline medical workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Gui‐Fang , Zhang Ye‐Ping , Wei Zhi‐Jie , Zhang Xin‐Lan , Liu Jun , Peng Juan , Xu Zu‐Cai , Yu Chang‐Yin , Zhang Jun
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to examine the mediating role of anxiety and depression in the relationship between coping styles and life satisfaction among frontline medical workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Five hundred and fourteen frontline medical workers from Zunyi were recruited to complete questionnaires, including the Self‐rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self‐rating Depression Scale (SDS), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). SPSS 24.0 was used to measure the characteristics of anxiety, depression, life satisfaction, and coping styles. We found that the prevalence rates of anxiety and depression among study participants were 22.57% and 18.29%, respectively. Besides, anxiety was positively correlated with depression; anxiety and depression were positively correlated with passive coping style but negatively correlated with life satisfaction and active coping style; life satisfaction was positively correlated with active coping style and negatively correlated with passive coping style (all p < 0.001). Moreover, anxiety and depression mediated the relationship between coping styles and life satisfaction. Anxiety accounted for 18.6% of the effect of active coping style and 35.48% of the effect of passive coping style on life satisfaction. Depression accounted for 48.84% of the effect of active coping style and 67.74% of the effect of passive coping style on life satisfaction. The present study provides novel insights into the effect of subclinical anxiety and depression on frontline medical workers in the pandemic area. Anxiety and depression yielded a mediating effect on the relationship between coping styles and life satisfaction.
An energy minimization strategy based on transmission time and re‐clustering (TTRC) for wireless sensor network
Authors: Shah Indra Kumar , Rathaur Neha Singh , Yadav Dharmendra Singh
Published: September 2023

The Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is an emerging technology with diverse applications, ranging from industrial settings to environmental monitoring, healthcare, and remote surveillance. In this paper, the focus lies on the minimization of energy consumption during packet transmission, achieved through two primary strategies: (1) Reduction of the transmission distance for packets through the implementation of re‐clustering. (2) Allocation of increased time to those child nodes which necessitate less energy for transmission. Simulation outcomes demonstrate that the proposed transmission time and re‐clustering (TTRC) algorithm effectively harnesses in excess of 99% of the total network energy, marking an improvement of 14.05% to 15.57% over existing approaches. Furthermore, the TTRC algorithm achieves a substantial enhancement in packet delivery, ranging from 32.31% to 58.54%, coupled with a latency reduction spanning from 21.47% to 32.00%. Moreover, the network's lifestime is prolonged by 28.57% to 28.99% through the application of this algorithm.
Role of HLA class I and II alleles in susceptibility to ankylosing spondylitis in Chinese Han
Authors: Jiang Yongwei , Liu Qian , Kong Xiaomu , Zhao Meimei , Liu Yi , Gao Peng , Deng Guoxiong , Cao Yongtong , Ma Liang
Published: September 2023

Objective

The objective of the study was to clarify the associations of HLA class I and II alleles with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) among Chinese Han.

Methods

We performed HLA genotyping and Sanger sequencing for 68 HLA‐B*27(−), 62 HLA‐B*27(+) AS patients, and 70 controls. Case–control analyses and separate analyses of HLA‐B*27(−) patients were performed. One‐way ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis multiple comparisons test were used to analyze the effects of HLA‐A\B\C\DRB1\DQB1 alleles on clinical characteristics of HLA‐B*27(−) and HLA‐B*27(+) patients.

Results

In the HLA‐B*27(+) group, positive associations were seen with A*11:02, B*27:04, B*27:05, C*02:02, C*12:02, and DRB1*04:01 and negative associations were seen with A*33:03, B*07:02, B*57:01, and C*07:02. The age at onset was greater in HLA‐B*27(−) patients than in HLA‐B*27(+) patients (30.03 ± 15.15 vs. 23.08 ± 7.79 years). In the HLA‐B*27(−) group, those with A*01:01, B*13:01, B*13:02, C*01:02, C*04:01, DQB1*02:01, DQB1*06:01, and DRB1*03:01 had an earlier onset than those without these alleles, while patients carrying B*40:02, C*07:02, C*12:02, C*15:02, DQB1*05:02, and DQB1*05:03 had a delayed onset. In the HLA‐B*27(−) group, A*32:01(+), C*08:01(+), and DRB1*04:05(−) women were likely to develop AS. In the HLA‐B*27(+) group, DQB1*03:02(+) women may be more likely to develop AS. DRB1*12:02 and HLA‐B*27 interacted with the distribution of AS‐affected sites. In the HLA‐B*27(+) group, DRB1*12:02(+) patients were likely to have peripheral joint involvement.

Conclusion

HLA class I and II alleles other than HLA‐B*27 contribute to AS predisposition and characteristics among Chinese Han patients.
Long‐Term Safety Profiles of Macrolides and Tetracyclines: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Waitayangkoon Palapun , Moon Soo Jin , Tirupur Ponnusamy Jai Juganya , Zeng Li , Driban Jeffrey , McAlindon Timothy
Published: September 2023

Macrolides and tetracyclines are antibiotics that have a range of anti‐inflammatory properties beyond their microbial capabilities. Although these antibiotics have been in widespread use, the long‐term safety profiles are limited. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials that compared macrolides or tetracyclines with placeboes to provide long‐term safety information. We searched Medline and EMBASE from inception to October 2022 and identified studies that reported study drug‐related death, serious adverse events (SAEs), or withdrawal rates, and common adverse effects of each drug. Relative risk (RR) and number needed to harm were calculated. Of the 52 randomized clinical trials included, there are 3151 participants on doxycycline, 2519 participants on minocycline, 3049 participants on azithromycin, 763 participants on clarithromycin, 262 participants on erythromycin, and 100 participants on roxithromycin. There was no death related to any study drugs and rates of SAE were not significantly different from placebo in any drug. Overall withdrawal rates were slightly higher than placebo in doxycycline (RR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.12‐1.52) and minocycline (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.15‐1.46). Withdrawal rates due to adverse events were higher in doxycycline (RR, 2.82; 95% CI, 1.88‐4.22), minocycline (RR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.09‐1.98), and azithromycin (RR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.13‐2.08). Gastrointestinal disturbances are the most common tolerable adverse effects for every drug. Photosensitivity and rash are the second most common adverse effects for doxycycline and minocycline. We found no evidence that long‐term use up to 2 years of macrolides or tetracyclines was associated with increased risk of SAEs.
Pilot study of peripheral internal jugular venous catheters on a hospitalist‐run medicine procedure service
Authors: Heath Jonathon , Finn Erin , Dancel Ria , Stephens John R.
Published: September 2023

Providers caring for hospitalized patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA) frequently use central venous catheters (CVCs). One potential alternative is a peripheral internal jugular (PIJ) catheter, which is less traumatic to place and has fewer lumens than a CVC. We describe the results of 2 years' experience from a pilot project of a medicine procedure service placing PIJ catheters in hospitalized patients with DIVA. We successfully placed 34/35 (97%) PIJ catheters in 32 patients with zero complications. Median duration of use was 2.5 days (range 0–53 days, IQR 1–5). Catheter failure rate within 7 days was 32.4%, though it varied across catheter types: 9.5% in 8–10 cm midline catheters versus 69.2% (p < .001) in 6 cm angiocatheter wire introducers or shorter peripheral intravenous catheters. Our results suggest that PIJ catheters may be an option to reduce the mechanical and infectious risks associated with CVCs in some hospitalized patients with DIVA.
The contribution of smallholders' livelihood activities on income inequality and poverty: Case study from rural Tanzania
Authors: Mager Gregor , Faße Anja
Published: September 2023

This study uses a unique panel dataset on micro data with 786 households over 3 years (2014, 2016 and 2018) at the community level in Tanzania, assessing the contribution of different income sources on the changes in income inequality and poverty. The results show that in contrast to other income sources, non‐farm self‐employment is the only source with a constant poverty‐decreasing effect. The inconsistency of the different income sources over time can also be observed for the effects on income inequality. Future research is needed to grasp the effect on inequality in more detail assessing its determinants and causal relationships.
A new test method for biochemical analysis of plasmalogens in dried blood spots and erythrocytes from patients with peroxisomal disorders
Authors: Wegwerth Peter J. , White Amy L. , Stoway Stephanie D. , Loken Perry R. , Oglesbee Devin , Matern Dietrich , Tortorelli Silvia , Raymond Kimiyo M. , Braverman Nancy E. , Gavrilov Dimitar K.
Published: September 2023

Measurement of plasmalogens is useful for the biochemical diagnosis of rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP) and is also informative for Zellweger spectrum disorders (ZSD). We have developed a test method for the simultaneous quantitation of C16:0, C18:0, and C018:1 plasmalogen (PG) species and their corresponding fatty acids (FAs) in dried blood spots (DBS) and erythrocytes (RBC) by using capillary gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Normal reference ranges for measured markers and 10 calculated ratios were established by the analysis of 720 and 473 unaffected DBS and RBC samples, respectively. Determination of preliminary disease ranges was made by using 45 samples from 43 unique patients: RCDP type 1 (DBS: 1 mild, 17 severe; RBC: 1 mild, 6 severe), RCDP type 2 (DBS: 2 mild, 1 severe; RBC: 2 severe), RCDP type 3 (DBS: 1 severe), RCDP type 4 (RBC: 2 severe), and ZSD (DBS: 3 severe; RBC: 2 mild, 7 severe). Postanalytical interpretive tools in Collaborative Laboratory Integrated Reports (CLIR) were used to generate an integrated score and a likelihood of disease. In conjunction with a review of clinical phenotype, phytanic acid, and very long‐chain FA test results, the CLIR analysis allowed for differentiation between RCDP and ZSD. Data will continue to be gathered to improve CLIR analysis as more samples from affected patients with variable disease severity are analyzed. The addition of DBS analysis of PGs may allow for at‐home specimen collection and second‐tier testing for newborn screening programs.
Ultrasound Features of Onychopapilloma at High‐Frequency and Ultra‐High Frequency
Authors: Sechi Andrea , Starace Michela , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Wortsman Ximena
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to identify the sonographic features of pathologically confirmed onychopapilloma cases.

Methods

High‐frequency up to 24 MHz and ultra‐high frequency‐ultrasound up to 71 MHz examinations were performed and correlated with their clinical and pathologic presentations.

Results

Twenty‐two cases met the criteria. Clinical presentations revealed longitudinal erythronychia in 63.3% of cases. The ultrasound examinations identified a hypoechoic band in the nail bed (86.3%), nail plate abnormalities including upward displacement (68.2%) and thickening (68.1%), focal hyperechoic focal spots on the nail plate (50%) and irregularities of the ventral plate (33.3%).

Color Doppler imaging showed no hypervascularity of the nail bed in all studies. These findings correlate with histological characteristics of onychopapilloma, including nail bed acanthosis, papillomatosis, and layered hyperkeratosis. Recurrence occurred in two cases after surgery, with tumors showing proximal extension in the matrix region on ultrasound not evident during clinical examination.

Conclusion

High‐frequency and ultra‐high‐frequency can provide anatomical information in onychopapilloma that could enhance understanding and management.
Paradoxical pustular psoriasis in a patient with spondyloarthritis treated with secukinumab
Authors: Anghel Daniela , Georgescu Mihaela , Poenaru Marcela , Orleanu Diana Maria , Tiplica George Sorin
Published: September 2023

Secukinumab is a monoclonal antibody used to specifically inhibit pathologic interleukin‐17 and therefore effectively manage conditions like plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Although we know that antitumor necrosis factor molecules can cause paradoxical pustular psoriasis, a few case reports noted this reaction in patients treated with secukinumab. We report a case of a paradoxical drug reaction consisting of palmar pustular psoriasis in a female patient treated with secukinumab for spondyloarthritis.
Spatial variation in density of American black bears in northern Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Bowersock Nathaniel R. , Litt Andrea R. , Sawaya Michael A. , Gunther Kerry A. , van Manen Frank T.
Published: September 2023

The quality and availability of resources are known to influence spatial patterns of animal density. In Yellowstone National Park, relationships between the availability of resources and the distribution of grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) have been explored but have yet to be examined in American black bears (Ursus americanus). We conducted non‐invasive genetic sampling during 2017–2018 (mid‐May to mid‐July) and applied spatially explicit capture‐recapture models to estimate density of black bears and examine associations with landscape features. In both years, density estimates were higher in forested vegetation communities, which provide food resources and thermal and security cover preferred by black bears, compared with non‐forested areas. In 2017, density also varied by sex, with female densities being higher than males. Based on our estimates, the northern range of Yellowstone National Park supports one of the highest densities of black bears (20 black bears/100 km2) in the northern Rocky Mountains (6–12 black bears/100 km2 in other regions). Given these high densities, black bears could influence other wildlife populations more than previously thought, such as through displacement of sympatric predators from kills. Our study provides the first spatially explicit estimates of density for black bears within an ecosystem that contains the majority of North America's large mammal species. Our density estimates provide a baseline that can be used for future research and management decisions of black bears, including efforts to reduce human–bear conflicts.
Longer holding times decrease dispersal but increase mortality of translocated scaled quail
Authors: Ruzicka Rebekah E. , Rollins Dale , Doherty Paul F. , Kendall William L.
Published: September 2023

Scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) decline caused by habitat loss and fragmentation increased interest in translocation to reestablish populations. Yet factors determining translocation success are poorly understood. We tested hypotheses concerning the influence of source population and variation in delayed release strategy (1–9 weeks) on mortality and dispersal of wild‐caught, translocated scaled quail. We trapped and translocated quail from 2016–2017 from source populations in the Edwards Plateau and Rolling Plains ecoregions to a large contiguous (>40,000 ha) release site in Knox County, Texas, USA. We evaluated mortality and dispersal of translocated females as a function of source population, holding time prior to release, age, release location, and year using a multi‐state mark‐recapture model with state uncertainty. Scaled quail translocated within the Rolling Plains were more likely to exhibit philopatry to the release site. Quail with longer holding times had higher mortality but lower dispersal rates. The Edwards Plateau is a suitable source site for translocation in the Rolling Plains. The reduced dispersal but higher mortality of translocated scaled quail associated with longer holding times creates a decision tradeoff for managers.
Strong hydrodynamic drivers of coral reef fish biodiversity on submerged pinnacle coral reefs
Authors: Galbraith Gemma F. , Cresswell Benjamin J. , McCormick Mark I. , Jones Geoffrey P.
Published: September 2023

Hydrodynamic processes are important in all marine environments and on coral reefs drive patterns of habitat zonation, community structure, and biodiversity. Abrupt geomorphological features like pinnacles and seamounts often possess distinct localized currents and these habitats are also often characterized by high abundance and biomass of fishes. However, differences in fish community structure between pinnacles and emergent reefs, and their key drivers are poorly understood. In this study, we compared fish communities among emergent fringing and offshore coral reefs, and submerged pinnacle reefs in Papua New Guinea. Submerged pinnacles possessed higher fish biomass, abundance, and species richness than both fringing and offshore emergent reefs. We collected in‐situ current speed and temperature data over a full year at each reef and used random forest analysis to investigate the relative influence of hydrodynamics compared to other well‐established drivers of reef fish biodiversity, including habitat and biogeographic factors. Environmental variables explained 70%, 52%, and 5% of variability in models for species richness, abundance and biomass respectively. In all models, average current speed, current speed variability, and reef area were consistently among the most influential variables. Models examining relationships between fish biodiversity metrics and current speed did not yield conclusive results but did highlight the association of distinct hydrodynamic regimes on pinnacles with high fish richness, abundance, and biomass. Our study highlights the strong influence of reef‐scale hydrodynamics on fish biodiversity and demonstrates the ecological value of small, submerged coral reefs, which are globally numerous yet remain understudied in coral reef ecology.
On extendability of functionals on Hilbert C∗$C^*$‐modules
Authors: Manuilov Vladimir
Published: September 2023

Let be Hilbert ‐modules over a ‐algebra with . It was shown recently by Kaad and Skeide that there exists a non‐zero ‐valued functional on such that its restriction onto is zero. Here, we show that this may happen even if is monotone complete. On the other hand, we show that for certain type I ‐algebras this cannot happen.
On Seeley‐type universal extension operators for the upper half space
Authors: Lu Haowen , Yao Liding
Published: September 2023

Modified from the standard half‐space extension via the reflection principle, we construct a linear extension operator for the upper half space that has the form for . We prove that is bounded in all ‐spaces, Sobolev and Hölder spaces, Besov and Triebel–Lizorkin spaces, along with their Morrey generalizations. We also give an analogous construction on bounded smooth domains.
Pyroptosis and inflammasomes in cancer and inflammation
Authors: Wang Jie‐Lin , Hua Sheng‐Ni , Bao Hai‐Juan , Yuan Jing , Zhao Yang , Chen Shuo
Published: September 2023

Nonprogrammed cell death (NPCD) and programmed cell death (PCD) are two types of cell death. Cell death is significantly linked to tumor development, medication resistance, cancer recurrence, and metastatic dissemination. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of cell death is essential for the treatment of cancer. Pyroptosis is a kind of PCD distinct from autophagy and apoptosis in terms of the structure and function of cells. The defining features of pyroptosis include the release of an inflammatory cascade reaction and the expulsion of lysosomes, inflammatory mediators, and other cellular substances from within the cell. Additionally, it displays variations in osmotic pressure both within and outside the cell. Pyroptosis, as evidenced by a growing body of research, is critical for controlling the development of inflammatory diseases and cancer. In this paper, we reviewed the current level of knowledge on the mechanism of pyroptosis and inflammasomes and their connection to cancer and inflammatory diseases. This article presents a theoretical framework for investigating the potential of therapeutic targets in cancer and inflammatory diseases, overcoming medication resistance, establishing nanomedicines associated with pyroptosis, and developing risk prediction models in refractory cancer. Given the link between pyroptosis and the emergence of cancer and inflammatory diseases, pyroptosis‐targeted treatments may be a cutting‐edge treatment strategy.
Differential traits between microvesicles and exosomes in enterovirus infection
Authors: Fu Yuxuan , Xiong Sidong
Published: September 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles (MVs), are released by most cell types into the extracellular space and represent the pathophysiological condition of their source cells. Recent studies demonstrate that EVs derived from infected cells and tumors contribute to disease pathogenesis. However, very few studies have rigorously characterized exosomes and microvesicles in infectious diseases. In this study, we focused on subpopulations of EVs during the human enterovirus infection and explored the distinct traits and functions of EVs. We construct an effective immunomagnetic method to isolate exosomes and MVs from enterovirus‐infected cells excluding virion. The morphology and sizes of exosomes and MVs have no significant alteration after enterovirus infection. Meanwhile, our study observed that the enterovirus infection could induce exosome secretion but not MVs. In vivo study showed that there was differential biodistribution between exosomes and MVs. Using deep RNA sequencing, we found that the cargo information in MVs rather than in exosomes could accurately reflect pathological condition of original cells. Our study demonstrated that it should be considered to use MVs as clinical diagnostics during in enterovirus infection because their composition is reflective of pathological changes.
Combined perforator flaps and lymphatic procedures in reconstructions after sarcoma resection
Authors: Poskevicius Audrius , Meroni Matteo , Fuchs Bruno , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: September 2023

Background

Soft tissue sarcomas are a subtle category of tumors that often require an extensive surgical resection for definitive treatment. This kind of intervention inevitably leads to large tissue damage and, when regions with rich lymphatic network are involved, postoperative complications such as lymphocele or lymphedema are quite common. In this report we present our experience with the combination of lymphatic procedures with perforator flaps for defects reconstruction and lymphatic complications preventions after sarcoma resection throughout the body.

Methods

Between 2019 and 2021, 15 patients underwent a surgical resection of soft tissue sarcoma, also including bone tissue in 2 cases, requiring soft tissue reconstruction. A perforator flap reconstruction surgery was performed in all cases. The median age was 59.8 years old (ranging 23–84), 8 patients were females and 7 were males. The lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) surgery concept was applied to all cases, while other additional lymphatic procedures were chosen individually for every patient.

Results

All patients were successfully treated without any perioperative complications. In 3 cases infected seroma was encountered in the acceptor site and then successfully treated by means of debridement and vacuum assisted closure (VAC) therapy. 2 patients experienced postoperative lymphedema in the acceptor site which was managed by secondary procedures. Good functional and aesthetic outcomes were achieved in all cases. The mean follow‐up was 19.6 months (range 10–33 months).

Conclusions

Different combinations of modern lymphatic procedures can be created to find the best solution and tailor the treatment to the patient's needs. Preventative measures regarding lymphatic complications can be highly effective and should be taken into consideration in every reconstructive approach following large soft tissue defects with impairment of the lymphatic network.