bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global hepatitis B and D community advisory board: expectations, challenges, and lessons learned
Authors: Borondy-Jenkins Fiona , Ansah Bright , Chen Jacki , Goldring Amanda , Ibrahim Yasmin , Issa Shaibu , Lesidrenska Silvana , Machado Tanya , Moore Holly , Njouom Richard , Okinedo Prince , Racho Rhea , Scott Lori , Zovich Beatrice , Cohen Chari
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Community Advisory Boards (CABs) play an important role in developing and delivering patient-centered care. However, the impact of participation on CAB members has not been well studied, particularly on the global scale. In 2022, the Hepatitis B Foundation (HBF) convened the first global hepatitis B and hepatitis delta CAB with 23 members from 17 countries, representing six out of the seven World Health Organization (WHO) regions, and countries with the largest hepatitis B and hepatitis delta disease burden.

Methods

To reflect on the process of assembling an effective and motivated CAB and assess the impact on CAB participants, three virtual focus group sessions were held with 16 participants in July and August 2023. Sessions were recorded and transcribed. Questions focused on motivations for joining the CAB, membership experiences, and lessons learned. Grounded theory analysis was used to generate hypotheses about reasons for CAB members’ participation, as well as challenges and suggestions. Qualitative analysis using inductive reasoning identified key themes within responses. Transcripts were independently analyzed by a primary and secondary coder.

Results

Motivations for joining the CAB included participants’ desire to advocate for people living with hepatitis B and hepatitis delta, and other altruistic factors. Participants reflected that through CAB membership, they gained networking and advocacy opportunities and enhanced their hepatitis B- and hepatitis delta-related knowledge. Challenges participants experienced were related to time, physical limitations, and stigma. Finally, participants discussed their limited direct engagement with drug developers and proposed ways the CAB can increase interactions with stakeholders going forward.

Discussion

Based on participants’ assessments, establishing a global CAB for stigmatized infectious diseases is worth the effort. Regular internal review of community advisory boards’ structure and performance is critical to ensure the CAB is fulfilling its mission.
The health behaviors differences among male and female school-age adolescents in the Middle East and North Africa region countries: a meta-analysis of the Global School-based Student Health Survey data
Authors: Achak Doha , Azizi Asmaa , El-Ammari Abdelghaffar , Marfak Ibtissam Youlyouz , Saad Elmadani , Nejjari Chakib , Hilali Abderraouf , Peltzer Karl , Marfak Abdelghafour
Published: August 2024

Background

Understanding gender disparities in adolescent health behaviors is crucial for developing targeted health promotion strategies. This study uses data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) across 17 MENA countries to analyze gender differences in adolescent health behaviors, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for both boys and girls.

Methods

This meta-analysis incorporates data from recent years of the GSHS, covering 17 MENA countries. The objective was to assess and compare health behaviors between adolescent girls and boys. A random-effects model was employed to calculate odds ratios for gender comparisons in these behaviors. Statistical analyses and modeling were performed using JAMOVI software.

Results

In most MENA countries, boys consumed more vegetables compared to girls. Girls were less likely to frequent fast food establishments (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.98) and generally exhibited better self-care behaviors. Boys reported a higher prevalence of physical altercations (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.88–2.51) and were more involved in fights (OR = 3.00, 95% CI: 2.46–3.67). Girls were more likely to miss school without permission and were consistently described as kinder and more helpful across various income levels. However, in some countries such as Oman and Tunisia, boys missed school more frequently. There were no significant gender differences in parental oversight of homework or knowledge of students’ activities, but girls were reported to have stronger parental relationships and better parental understanding of their problems and free time, with exceptions in Morocco and the Palestinian Territory-Gaza. Boys were more likely to engage in smoking (OR = 3.57, 95% CI: 2.69–4.76) and other substance use. Conversely, girls reported higher levels of physical inactivity and loneliness, but also demonstrated greater kindness and helpfulness in school settings and stronger parental relationships.

Conclusion

Policymakers in the MENA region should develop and implement gender-specific interventions targeting key areas such as hygiene practices, physical activity, and substance use. By focusing on these targeted strategies, they can address the distinct health behaviors and needs of both boys and girls. Effective interventions in these areas are crucial for improving overall health outcomes and promoting healthier lifestyles, thereby enhancing adolescent health and well-being across the region.
Case Report: A case of immune hemolytic anemia after liver transplantation: passenger lymphocyte syndrome is the culprit
Authors: Zhao Qianzhe
Published: August 2024

Passenger lymphocyte syndrome (PLS) is most commonly observed after solid organ transplantation with minor ABO blood group incompatibility. It consists of a set of clinical symptoms brought on by the remaining lymphocytes of the donor organ developing antibodies against the recipient's antigens. Here, we describe a typical case of PLS in a type A+ recipient receiving a liver transplant from a type O+ donor. She suffered from jaundice, abnormally decreased hemoglobin level, and severe hemolytic anemia without bleeding. During hemolysis, we detected a positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT), and the thermal elution test revealed the presence of IgG anti-A antibodies in her serum. When immunosuppressive agents and blood transfusion were used together, cross-matched O+ washing red blood cells led to an expected outcome without side effects.
Aligning extracurricular school activities with physical literacy: pilot evaluation through self-study of practice
Authors: Schmittwilken Louisa , Harding-Kuriger Jodi , Carl Johannes
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Although several important documents of education and health promotion on the international level favor practices geared toward physical literacy (PL), not all countries have yet gained experience with this holistic concept. Therefore, numerous stakeholders and practitioners who intend to align their interventional activities with PL will soon face the situation that there are no recommendations for their specific culture and language for how to design such programs. Given that such recommendations are also lacking for Germany, the goal of the present study within the uncontrolled pilot cycles of the PLACE study was (a) to describe the process of a female pedagogue (27 years old, previously unexperienced with PL) initially familiarizing herself with the PL concept and its implementation opportunities for the school setting, and (b) to retrace the process of developing and refining a PL-driven intervention for extracurricular physical education (60–90 min) of children in grades three and four at primary schools in Bremen.

Methods

Adopting a self-study design, this endeavor emphasized continuous reflexivity involving: (a) session protocols; (b) biweekly discussions with another coach; (c) weekly discussions between scientists and stakeholders of youth development (“multi-perspective panel”); (d) weekly observations and impressions during field work; and (e) summative group interviews with children (n = 17, age range: 8–9 years, 17.6% boys). Written documents underwent qualitative content analysis with inductively generated categories.

Results

Despite explicit links between the theoretical PL domains and the intervention content, the character of how PL informed the intervention level was dominated by the stance and atmosphere implemented by the deliverer (e.g., participatory attitude, open mindset). Accordingly, the team revised the intervention primarily on the levels of organization (temporal schedule and sequences), instruction, and materials. After initial stages of didactically “surviving” within classes, the deliverer could increasingly integrate tasks of cognitive engagement and provide choice for students enabling individual autonomy for nurturing a person-centered approach.

Discussion

This study encourages teachers and stakeholders of physical education to seek exchange with scholars or other practitioners while simultaneously demonstrating patience in comprehensively internalizing PL and efficiently translating the concept into routines in line with individual's quality standards.
The effect of iron status on gadolinium deposition in the rat brain: mechanistic implications
Authors: Prybylski John P. , Jastrzemski Olivia , Jay Michael
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Sites associated with gadolinium (Gd) deposition in the brain (e.g., the globus pallidus) are known to contain high concentrations of ferric iron. There is considerable debate over the mechanism of Gd deposition in the brain. The role of iron transport mechanisms in Gd deposition has not been determined. Thus, we seek to identify if Gd deposition can be controlled by modifying iron exposure.

Methods: Female Sprague-Dawley rats were given diets with controlled iron levels at 2–6 ppm, 6 ppt (20 g/kg Fe carbonyl) or 48 ppm for 3 weeks to induce iron deficiency, overload or normalcy. They were kept on those diets while receiving a cumulative 10 mmol/kg dose of gadodiamide intravenously over 2 weeks, then left to washout gadodiamide for 3 days or 3 weeks before tissues were harvested. Gd concentrations in tissues were analyzed by ICP-MS.

Results: There were no significant effect of dietary iron and total Gd concentrations in the organs, but there was a significant effect of iron status on Gd distribution in the brain. For the 3-week washout cohort, there was a non-significant trend of increasing total brain deposition and decreasing dietary iron, and about 4-fold more Gd in the olfactory bulbs of the low iron group compared to the other groups. Significant brain accumulation was observed in the low iron group total brain Gd in the 3-week washout group relative to the 3-day washout group and no accumulation was observed in other tissues. There was a strong negative correlation between femur Gd concentrations and concentrations in other organs when stratifying by dietary iron.

Discussion: Gd brain deposition from linear Gd-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are dependent upon iron status, likely through variable transferrin saturation. This iron dependence appears to be associated with redistribution of peripheral deposited Gd (e.g., in the bone) into the brain.
Multiscale Modeling of Plasma-Assisted Non-Premixed Microcombustion
Authors: Cinieri Giacomo , Mehdi Ghazanfar , De Giorgi Maria Grazia
Published: August 2024

This work explores microcombustion technologies enhanced by plasma-assisted combustion, focusing on a novel simulation model for a Y-shaped device with a non-premixed hydrogen-air mixture. The simulation integrates the ZDPlasKin toolbox to determine plasma-produced species concentrations to Particle-In-Cell with Monte Carlo Collision analysis for momentum and power density effects. The study details an FE-DBD plasma actuator operating under a sinusoidal voltage from 150 to 325 V peak-to-peak and a 162.5 V DC bias. At potentials below 250 V, no hydrogen dissociation occurs. The equivalence ratio fitting curve for radical species is incorporated into the plasma domain, ensuring local composition accuracy. Among the main radical species produced, H reaches a maximum mass fraction of 8% and OH reaches 1%. For an equivalence ratio of 0.5, the maximum temperature reached 2238 K due to kinetic and joule heating contributions. With plasma actuation with radicals in play, the temperature increased to 2832 K, and with complete plasma actuation, it further rose to 2918.45 K. Without plasma actuation, the temperature remained at 300 K, reflecting ambient conditions and no combustion phenomena. At lower equivalence ratios, temperatures in the plasma area consistently remained around 2900 K. With reduced thermal power, the flame region decreased, and at Φ = 0.1, the hot region was confined primarily to the plasma area, indicating a potential blow-off limit. The model aligns with experimental data and introduces relevant functionalities for modeling plasma interactions within microcombustors, providing a foundation for future validation and numerical models in plasma-assisted microcombustion applications.
Beaton and Anson Type A Classification of the Sciatic Nerve and Piriformis Complex: Clinical Considerations for Sex and Laterality
Authors: Marchese Charles R. , Graves Aaron L. , Pautler Benjamin J. , Dye David , Creamer Bradley A. , Dennis Jennifer F.
Published: August 2024

Variations of the sciatic nerve and piriformis muscle (SN-PM) relationship must be considered when discussing orthopedic procedures within the region as they may cause increased risk of SN injuries. Thirty-one formalin-embalmed, prosected donors were evaluated using the Beaton and Anson (B&A) classification system (1939). Major landmarks of the SN-PM relationship were identified, including the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS), ischial tuberosity (IT), greater trochanter (GT), and the middle of the SN as it exits under the PM (S1). Distances measured included: PSIS-IT, PSIS-GT, IT-GT, PSIS-S1, IT-S1, GT-S1, S1-Q (distance of perpendicular line connecting S1 to PSIS-IT), and S1-R (distance of perpendicular line connecting S1 to PSIS-GT). Measurements from 49 lower extremities were evaluated using a two-tailed t-test to compare by sex and laterality; a one-tailed t-test was utilized to compare groups based on anatomical sex. Six donors displayed asymmetric B&A classifications, demonstrating gross anatomical differences within a single individual; however, no measurements were significant when comparing extremities. Seven measurements were statistically significant (p < 0.05) between sexes, indicating notable sex-based differences. These data highlight sex-based differences in the SN-PM relationship, as well as consistencies within measurements among extremities, which can be utilized by clinicians when treating male and female patients needing unilateral or bilateral orthopedic procedures or injections within the gluteal region.
Anatomical Considerations for the Use of the Popliteal Vein as a Potential Alternative for Central Venous Cannulation
Authors: Graves Aaron L. , Marchese Charles R. , Creamer Bradley A. , Dennis Jennifer F.
Published: August 2024

Limited reports have evaluated the utility of the popliteal vein (PV) specific to cannulation. The objective of this study was to characterize the diameter and length of the PV to evaluate this area as a potential cannulation site. The popliteal region in 23 formalin-embalmed, prosected donors was dissected, and the PV was exposed from the adductor hiatus (AH) superiorly to the small saphenous vein (SSV) inferiorly. The diameter of the popliteal vein was measured at the AH, SSV, and half of the distance from the AH to the SSV (MID) using a brass plumb bob. The length of the PV was measured to the AH, SSV, MID, and femoral condyles (FCs). Overall, the mean diameters and mean lengths for the combined population were calculated, as well as individual limbs (right, left) and anatomical sex. Univariate analysis used to evaluate differences in mean diameter and length measurements based on anatomical sex revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) for both diameter and length at all the landmarks evaluated. Multivariate analysis of PV diameter at the AH and SSV landmarks was statistically significant (p < 0.05) when laterally and anatomical comparing sex. These data provide full characterization of the PV in support of its utility in vascular access.
Investigation on Thermal Runaway Hazards of Cylindrical and Pouch Lithium-Ion Batteries under Low Pressure of Cruise Altitude for Civil Aircraft
Authors: Sun Qiang , Liu Hangxin , Wang Zhi , Meng Yawei , Xu Chun , Wen Yanxing , Wu Qiyao
Published: August 2024

Thermal runaway characteristics and hazards of lithium-ion batteries under low ambient pressure in-flight conditions are studied in a dynamic pressure chamber. The influence of ambient pressures (95 kPa and 20 kPa) and packaging forms (cylindrical and pouch commercial batteries) were especially investigated. The results show that the values of heat release, temperature, and CO2 concentration decrease with the reduction in pressure from 95 kPa to 20 kPa, while the total hydrocarbon and CO increase. Without violent fire, explosion, and huge jet flames, the thermal hazards of TR fire under 20 kPa are lower, but the amount of toxic/flammable gas emissions increases greatly. The amount of CO and hydrocarbons varies inversely with the thermal hazards of fire. Under low-pressure environments of cruise altitude, the thermal hazards of TR fire for pouch cells and the toxic/potentially explosive hazards of gas emissions of cylindrical cells need more attention. The performance of TR hazards for two packaging types of battery is also different. Pouch cells have higher thermal hazards of fire and lower combustible/toxic emitted gases than cylindrical cells. The thermal runaway intensity of individual cells decreases under lower ambient pressure, but the burning intensity increases dramatically when thermal runaway occurs in a battery pack. The open time of a safety valve (rupture of the bag) is shortened, but the trigger time for a thermal runaway varies for different formats of batteries under 20 kPa. Those results may be helpful for the safety warning and hazard protection design of Li batteries under low-pressure conditions.
Decoding Preferences: A Comparative Analysis of Non-Alcoholic and Alcoholic Cocktails through Acceptance and Qualitative Insights
Authors: Mora María , Romeo-Arroyo Elena , Pérez-Elortondo Francisco José , Etaio Iñaki , Vázquez-Araújo Laura
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate consumer perception and acceptance of non-alcoholic cocktails compared to their traditional alcoholic counterparts in a restaurant setting. Three popular cocktails—gintonic, mojito, and mule—and their non-alcoholic versions (NoLo) were assessed following a three × two experimental design. A total of 600 participants (approximately 100 per cocktail) participated at the Basque Culinary Center’s restaurant. Participants rated their liking of the cocktails using a nine-point hedonic scale and provided open-ended responses about the sensory characteristics and the consumption contexts or emotions evoked by the different cocktails. The results showed differences in the acceptance of the six cocktails, but no significant differences between the alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, suggesting that NoLo alternatives were similarly well-received. Open-ended responses were analyzed using latent dirichlet allocation (LDA) to uncover latent topics, and Fisher’s exact test and correspondence analysis were used to identify differences in the mentioned topics per cocktail. Specific sensory attributes, emotions, and contexts were associated with each type of cocktail, but no differences were found between the alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. These findings demonstrate the viability of non-alcoholic cocktails in real consumption settings, eliciting similar liking scores, sensory attributes, contexts, and emotions in consumers. This study also highlighted the potential of natural language processing techniques for analyzing open-ended questions.
Innovative Bioscaffolds in Stem Cell and Regenerative Therapies for Corneal Pathologies
Authors: Visalli Federico , Fava Federico , Capobianco Matteo , Musa Mutali , D’Esposito Fabiana , Russo Andrea , Scollo Davide , Longo Antonio , Gagliano Caterina , Zeppieri Marco
Published: August 2024

Corneal diseases, which can result in substantial visual impairment and loss of vision, are an important worldwide health issue. The aim of this review was to investigate the novel application of bioscaffolds in stem cell and regenerative treatments for the treatment of corneal disorders. The current literature reports that organic and artificial substances create bioscaffolds that imitate the inherent structure of the cornea, facilitating the attachment, growth, and specialization of stem cells. Sophisticated methods such as electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and surface modification have been reported to enhance the characteristics of the scaffold. These bioscaffolds have been shown to greatly improve the survival of stem cells and facilitate the regrowth of corneal tissue in both laboratory and live animal experiments. In addition, the incorporation of growth factors and bioactive compounds within the scaffolds can promote a favorable milieu for corneal regeneration. To summarize, the advancement of these groundbreaking bioscaffolds presents a hopeful treatment strategy for the regeneration of the cornea, which has the potential to enhance the results for individuals suffering from corneal disorders. This study highlights the possibility of utilizing the fields of biomaterials science and stem cell treatment to tackle medical demands that have not yet been satisfied in the field of ophthalmology.
A Comparative Analysis of U-Net and Vision Transformer Architectures in Semi-Supervised Prostate Zonal Segmentation
Authors: Huang Guantian , Xia Bixuan , Zhuang Haoming , Yan Bohan , Wei Cheng , Qi Shouliang , Qian Wei , He Dianning
Published: August 2024

The precise segmentation of different regions of the prostate is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate-related diseases. However, the scarcity of labeled prostate data poses a challenge for the accurate segmentation of its different regions. We perform the segmentation of different regions of the prostate using U-Net- and Vision Transformer (ViT)-based architectures. We use five semi-supervised learning methods, including entropy minimization, cross pseudo-supervision, mean teacher, uncertainty-aware mean teacher (UAMT), and interpolation consistency training (ICT) to compare the results with the state-of-the-art prostate semi-supervised segmentation network uncertainty-aware temporal self-learning (UATS). The UAMT method improves the prostate segmentation accuracy and provides stable prostate region segmentation results. ICT plays a more stable role in the prostate region segmentation results, which provides strong support for the medical image segmentation task, and demonstrates the robustness of U-Net for medical image segmentation. UATS is still more applicable to the U-Net backbone and has a very significant effect on a positive prediction rate. However, the performance of ViT in combination with semi-supervision still requires further optimization. This comparative analysis applies various semi-supervised learning methods to prostate zonal segmentation. It guides future prostate segmentation developments and offers insights into utilizing limited labeled data in medical imaging.
BMP2 Diminishes Angiotensin II-Induced Atrial Fibrillation by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Signaling in Atrial Fibroblasts
Authors: Yuan Yue , Zhang Hang , Xia Erwen , Zhao Xinbo , Gao Qiang , Mu Hongyuan , Liu Xingzuo , Tian Yuanye , Liu Lei , Shen Qiuling , Sheng Li
Published: August 2024

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia to affect 1% of the global population and increases with age. Atrial fibrosis is a crucial substrate for promoting structural remodeling to cause atrial arrhythmogenesis. Bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP2) has been reported to be involved in cardiac fibrogenesis. However, its role in modulating atrial fibrosis to affect AF development remains unknown. Our study aimed to investigate the expression of BMP2 under different AF conditions and the effect of BMP2 on the progression of atrial fibrosis using an angiotensin II (Ang II) rat model and an ex vivo cardiac fibroblast model. The qRT-PCR and Western blot assay showed increased BMP2 mRNA and protein levels in the atria of chronic AF patients and the right atria of a tachypacing rabbit model. In contrast, the levels of BMP2 receptor mRNA were comparable. The AF incidence of the Ang II rat was higher than that of a control rat, which was reduced by BMP2 treatment. Masson staining demonstrated an anti-fibrogenic impact on BMP2-subjected rat atria compared to only Ang II-treated rat atria. RNA-sequencing indicated the potential function of blocking NLRP3-associted inflammasome activation in BMP2-treated rat atrial tissues. In vitro, transfecting BMP2 shRNA into neonatal rat atrial fibroblasts upregulated the mRNA levels of NLRP3/Caspase-1/p20/ASC and the secretion of IL-1β and IL-6. In contrast, recombinant BMP2 protein attenuated the increased levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway induced by Ang II. In summary, BMP2 opposes atrial fibrosis to alleviate AF susceptibility by inhibiting the activation of the inflammasome in atrial fibroblasts.
The Effects of Midfoot/Hindfoot Fusions on the Behaviour of Peroneus Longus Tendon in Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity: A Biomechanical and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Yanguma-Muñoz Nicolás , Quevedo Brayan David Solorzano , Pasapula Chandra , Austin Isabel , Larrainzar-Garijo Ricardo , Bayod Javier , Cifuentes-De la Portilla Christian
Published: August 2024

Adult-acquired flatfoot has been considered to arise from tibialis posterior tendon deficiency. Recent evidence shows that arch stability is mainly maintained by structures such as plantar fascia and spring ligament. The dysfunction of these ’passive’ stabilizers results in loss of arch integrity that causes forefoot pronation and reactive tendon overload, especially in the tibialis posterior tendon and peroneus longus tendon. The peroneus longus tendon (PLT) spans several midfoot joints and overloads with arch lengthening. The biomechanical stress/changes that occurs in this tendon are not well recognized. This study evaluates the biomechanical consequences that fusions have on peroneus longus tendon stresses in soft-tissue deficiencies associated with flatfoot deformity. A complete computational human foot model was used to simulate different scenarios related to the flatfoot deformity and associated common midfoot/hindfoot fusions, to quantify the biomechanical changes in the peroneus longus tendon. The results showed that the stress of the peroneus longus tendon is especially affected by the fusion of hindfoot joints and depends on the soft tissue types that fail, causal in generating the flatfoot. These results could be useful to surgeons when evaluating the causes of flatfoot and the secondary effects of surgical treatments on tissues such as the peroneus longus tendon.
Diversity of Culturable Yeasts in the Feces of Mew Gulls Breeding in Natural and Urban Habitats, with Insights into the Antifungal Susceptibility of the Observed Pathogens
Authors: Glushakova Anna , Kachalkin Aleksey
Published: August 2024

Migratory birds play an important role in the spread of yeasts in the environment over long distances and in different geographical regions. Human activities, in turn, have a major impact on the biology of wild birds and, consequently, on the microbial communities for which birds act as carriers and disseminators. We sought to assess the “response” of the diversity of culturable yeasts in the feces of Mew Gulls to the type of nesting site (natural/anthropogenic) during the breeding season from April to October 2023. We isolated and molecularly identified 26 yeast species. The species composition in the feces of birds from the natural habitat was more diverse, and the diversity increased from April to October. In contrast, the diversity in the feces of birds from the urban habitat decreased from April to October. Analysis of susceptibility to conventional antibiotics (fluconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B) using the CLSI BMD (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute broth microdilution) method in isolated strains of opportunistic Candida (C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis) and strains of the emerging pathogen Rhodotorula mucilaginosa showed that the proportion of resistant strains was higher in strains isolated from the feces of birds from the anthropogenic population. Mew Gulls that spent their breeding season near a landfill and flew away for wintering appear to be a source for the spread of pathogenic yeasts with resistance against antifungal agents.
Optimisation of Parameters and Application of Green Recyclable Precast Hollow Steel Pipe Concrete Supports
Authors: Pan Ye , Du Zhifeng , Tian Haiguang , Zhao Wenqiang , Xing Tongju , Dong Zizhang , Peng Huadong , Zheng Jianguo
Published: August 2024

Underground space development is a crucial approach to addressing traffic congestion in China’s cities, especially through underground construction. However, the traditional pit internal support system, particularly the concrete internal support system, has significant drawbacks. These include high energy consumption and carbon emissions, which are increasingly prominent issues. In this paper, a hollow precast concrete-filled steel tube (H-CFST) internal support system is proposed and a node connection scheme is designed. Through numerical simulation, the load-bearing characteristics of H-CFST with different aspect ratios, hollow ratios, hoop thicknesses, and hoop lengths are investigated, and the optimal design parameters are obtained. Finally, following a field application, monitoring data reveal that the precast H-CFST internal support demonstrates superior load-bearing capacity compared to the concrete internal support, successfully meeting the criteria for replacement of the concrete support.
Charcoal in Anaerobic Digestion: Part 1—Characterisation of Charcoal
Authors: Korte Hans , Sprafke Jan , Parmar Pooja Girdharbhai , Steiner Thomas , Freitag Ruth , Haag Volker
Published: August 2024

Biochar (BC) is often used as an additive in anaerobic digestion (AD) to increase yield and/or to stabilise the process when the manure content is increased. Unfortunately, BC is rarely described in detail in terms of its raw material sources, production processes, and structural, physical and chemical properties to allow correlation with its effects on AD. It is an open question whether microorganisms from AD can penetrate into different biochar pore types, depending on their wood origin. In this paper, we describe the preparation (temperatures, treatment times, yields) and characterisation shrinkage, density, pore sizes, pore size distribution, specific surface area, ash, volatiles, fixed carbon, elemental composition, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), benzene, toluene, ethyl-toluene, xylene (BTEX) and volatile halogenated hydrocarbons (VHH) of BC cubes of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and common beech (Fagus sylvatica) powder made from this BC in addition to commercial charcoal powder. The pore size distribution determined by mercury porosimetry differs from that determined by 3D-reflected light microscopy. After incubating BC cubes in AD, the cubes were mechanically cleaned and cut into two pieces. Microorganisms were detected inside the cubes by fluorescence microscopy. Particle size and wood source determine the influence of BC on AD.
Rare Germline Variants in DNA Repair Genes Detected in BRCA-Negative Finnish Patients with Early-Onset Breast Cancer
Authors: Kurkilahti Viivi , Rathinakannan Venkat Subramaniam , Nynäs Erja , Goel Neha , Aittomäki Kristiina , Nevanlinna Heli , Fey Vidal , Kankuri-Tammilehto Minna , Schleutker Johanna
Published: August 2024

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy, with a mean age of onset of approximately 60 years. Only a minority of breast cancer patients present with an early onset at or before 40 years of age. An exceptionally young age at diagnosis hints at a possible genetic etiology. Currently, known pathogenic genetic variants only partially explain the disease burden of younger patients. Thus, new knowledge is warranted regarding additional risk variants. In this study, we analyzed DNA repair genes to identify additional variants to shed light on the etiology of early-onset breast cancer. Methods: Germline whole-exome sequencing was conducted in a cohort of 63 patients diagnosed with breast cancer at or before 40 years of age (median 33, mean 33.02, range 23–40 years) with no known pathogenic variants in BRCA genes. After filtering, all detected rare variants were sorted by pathogenicity prediction scores (CADD score and REVEL) to identify the most damaging genetic changes. The remaining variants were then validated by comparison to a validation cohort of 121 breast cancer patients with no preselected age at cancer diagnosis (mean 51.4 years, range 28–80 years). Analysis of novel exonic variants was based on protein structure modeling. Results: Five novel, deleterious variants in the genes WRN, RNF8, TOP3A, ERCC2, and TREX2 were found in addition to a splice acceptor variant in RNF4 and two frameshift variants in EXO1 and POLE genes, respectively. There were also multiple previously reported putative risk variants in other DNA repair genes. Conclusions: Taken together, whole-exome sequencing yielded 72 deleterious variants, including 8 novel variants that may play a pivotal role in the development of early-onset breast cancer. Although more studies are warranted, we demonstrate that young breast cancer patients tend to carry multiple deleterious variants in one or more DNA repair genes.
Limited Evidence for the Benefits of Exercise in Older Adults with Hematological Malignancies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jarden Mary , Tscherning Lindholm Sofie , Kaldan Gudrun , Grønset Charlotte , Faebo Larsen Rikke , Larsen Anders Thyge Steen , Schaufuss Engedal Mette , Kramer Mikkelsen Marta , Nielsen Dorte , Vinther Anders , Abildgaard Niels , Tolver Anders , Bogh Juhl Carsten
Published: August 2024

Older patients receiving antineoplastic treatment face challenges such as frailty and reduced physical capacity and function. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of exercise interventions on physical function outcomes, health-related quality of life (QoL), and symptom burden in older patients above 65 years with hematological malignancies undergoing antineoplastic treatment. This review adheres to Cochrane guidelines, with the literature searches last updated on 27 March 2024, including studies with patients above 18 years. Screening of identified studies, data extraction, risk of bias, and GRADE assessments were performed independently by two authors. Meta-analyses evaluated the impact of exercise, considering advancing age. Forty-nine studies contributed data to the meta-analyses. Five studies included patients with a mean age above 60 years, and none included only patients above 60. Exercise interventions had moderate to small positive effects on QoL global (SMD 0.34, 95% CI [0.04–0.64]) and physical function (SMD 0.29, 95% CI [0.12–0.45]). Age did not explain the variability in exercise effects, except for physical function (slope 0.0401, 95% CI [0.0118–0.0683]) and pain (slope 0.0472, 95% CI [0.01–0.09]), which favored younger patients. Exercise interventions improve physical function and QoL and reduce symptoms in adults with hematological malignancies undergoing antineoplastic treatment; however, the influence of age remains inconclusive.
Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy for High-Risk and Very High-Risk Locoregional Prostate Cancer in the Modern Era: Real-World Experience from an Asian Cohort
Authors: Du Qijun , Chan Kuen , Kam Michael Tsz-Yeung , Zheng Kelvin Yu-Chen , Hung Rico Hing-Ming , Wu Philip Yuguang
Published: August 2024

This study retrospectively evaluates the clinical outcomes of definitive volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for high-risk or very high-risk locoregional prostate cancer patients from an Asian institution. Consecutive patients who received VMAT (76 Gy in 38 fractions) between January 2017 and June 2022 were included. Whole pelvic radiotherapy (WPRT) (46 Gy in 23 fractions) was employed for clinically node-negative disease (cN0) and a Roach estimated risk of ≥15%, as well as simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) of 55–57.5 Gy to node-positive (cN1) disease. The primary endpoint was biochemical relapse-free survival (BRFS). Secondary endpoints included radiographic relapse-free survival (RRFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS) and prostate cancer-specific survival (PCSS). A total of 209 patients were identified. After a median follow-up of 47.5 months, the 4-year actuarial BRFS, RRFS, MFS and PCSS were 85.2%, 96.8%, 96.8% and 100%, respectively. The incidence of late grade ≥ 2 genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity were 15.8% and 11.0%, respectively. No significant difference in cancer outcomes or toxicity was observed between WPRT and prostate-only radiotherapy for cN0 patients. SIB to the involved nodes did not result in increased toxicity. International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) group 5 and cN1 stage were associated with worse RRFS (p < 0.05). PSMA PET-CT compared to conventional imaging staging was associated with better BRFS in patients with ISUP grade group 5 (p = 0.039). Five-year local experience demonstrates excellent clinical outcomes. PSMA PET-CT staging for high-grade disease and tailored pelvic irradiation based on nodal risk should be considered to maximize clinical benefit.
Depiction of the Genetic Alterations and Molecular Landscapes of Thymic Epithelial Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Xin , Jin Hongming , Feng Xiaotong , Liang Zhijian , Jin Ruoyi , Li Xiao
Published: August 2024

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs), consisting of thymomas, thymic carcinomas (TCs), and thymic neuroendocrine tumors, are rare diseases. Surgery remains the prime option in resectable and early-stage TETs, while chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are also potential treatment modalities. However, the inadequate comprehension of the molecular landscape of TETs impedes the exploitation of such therapies. Hence, we conducted a meta-analysis which includes 21 studies reporting on genomic alterations in TETs and 14 studies reporting on PD-L1 expression levels, respectively. The pooled estimated rates of the most frequently mutated genes and PD-L1 expression levels were analyzed using the R software. We uncovered that the pooled estimated overall mutation rate is 0.65 ([0.49; 0.81]), and the top three genes with highest mutation frequency in thymomas and TCs are GTF2I (0.4263 [0.3590; 0.4936]), TP53 (0.1101 [0.0000; 0.2586]), and RAS (0.0341 [0.0104; 0.0710]), and TP53 (0.1797 [0.0732; 0.3203]), CDKN2A (0.0608 [0.0139; 0.1378]), and TET2 (0.0318 [0.0087; 0.0639]), respectively. A uniform GTF2I mutational rate in thymomas and TP53 mutational rate in thymic squamous cell carcinomas (TSCCs) are also observed. The pooled estimated expression level of PD-L1 is 0.71 ([0.59–0.81]). This systematic review provides an overview of the gene alteration landscape and PD-L1 expression levels in TETs, discovers several potential confounding factors that may contribute to the high heterogeneity, and facilitates deeper investigations into the elucidation of the molecular landscape of TETs.
The Impact of Pembrolizumab as a Salvage Therapy Based on HER2 Expression in Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lim Sung Hee , Kim Min Jung , Lee Jeeyun , Lim Ho Yeong , Kang Won Ki , Kim Seung Tae
Published: August 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are used as salvage treatments for advanced gastric cancer (AGC) regardless of HER2 status. This study assessed the efficacy of ICIs based on HER2 expression in AGC patients who received pembrolizumab as salvage monotherapy at Samsung Medical Center from November 2017 to March 2023. HER2 status was determined via immunohistochemistry, and tumor response and survival outcomes were compared accordingly. Among the 113 patients analyzed, with a median age of 61 years and 64.6% being male, 12 patients (10.6%) were HER2-positive, and 101 patients (89.4%) were HER2-negative. Of 92 evaluable patients, none had a complete response. However, 50% of HER2-positive patients had a partial response, compared to 4.9% of HER2-negative patients (p < 0.001). The disease control rate was 70% in HER2-positive and 37.8% in HER2-negative patients (p = 0.086). Median progression-free survival was 5.53 months for HER2-positive patients versus 1.81 months for HER2-negative patients (p = 0.037). Pembrolizumab as a salvage chemotherapy for the treatment of AGC demonstrated superior effectiveness in HER2-positive patients compared with HER2-negative patients.
Experiences of Parent Coaches in an Intervention for Parents of Young Children Newly Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Tully Carrie , Sinisterra Manuela , Levy Wendy , Wang Christine H. , Barber John , Inverso Hailey , Hilliard Marisa E. , Monaghan Maureen , Streisand Randi
Published: August 2024

Objectives: This paper explores parent coaching experiences supporting parents of young children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in a clinical trial. Methods: In a trial for 157 parents, those in the intervention arm (n = 116) were paired with a parent coach (n = 37; Mage = 37.9 years, SD = 3.9; 94.6% mothers, 81.1% White non-Hispanic). Parent coaches provided diabetes-specific social support. Parent coaches completed monthly surveys and satisfaction/feasibility surveys, with a subset (n = 7) undergoing qualitative interviews at the end of this study. Results: There were 2262 contacts between participants and their parent coaches, averaging 14.4 (SD = 9.3) per participant. Parent coaches reported that the most commonly used methods were text messages (67.9%) and emails (18.7%), with 33.6% having in-person visits. Coaches reported high satisfaction and belief in their usefulness to participants during the first 9 months after T1D diagnosis. Themes discussed by parent coaches about their experience in mentoring included relationship building, expertise sharing, personal growth, gratification, and intervention optimization suggestions. Conclusions: Parent coaching post T1D diagnosis involves regular, multi-method contacts. It is highly acceptable and valuable for parent coaches to mentor other parents of young children newly diagnosed with T1D.
Quantitative Testing of a SOLO-Based Automated Quality Control Algorithm for Airborne Tail Doppler Radar Data
Authors: Pasken Robert , Woodford Richard
Published: August 2024

An automated quality control pre-processing algorithm for removing non-weather radar echoes from airborne Doppler radar data has been developed. The proposed algorithm can significantly reduce the time and experience level required for interactive radar data editing prior to dual-Doppler wind synthesis or data assimilation. As important as reducing the time required and skill level necessary to process an airborne Doppler dataset can be, the quality of the automated analysis is paramount. Retrieved wind data, recovered perturbation pressure data (with associated momentum check values) and correlation coefficients were computed. To quantitatively test the quality of the automated quality control algorithm, spatial Pearson correlation coefficients and momentum check values were computed. Four different (published) Electra Doppler Radar (ELDORA) datasets of convective echoes were used to stress the algorithm. Four distinct threshold levels for data removal in the automated quality control algorithm were applied to each of four ELDORA datasets. The algorithm threshold levels were labeled as follows: extremely low, low, medium, and high. Extremely low algorithm cases were deemed necessary during the data analyses and were added to the low, medium and high cases. A description of each case and the differences in the perturbation pressure momentum check values and correlation coefficients between the interactively edited fields were computed. These comparisons along with a subjective visual inspection show that the automated quality control algorithm can produce an analysis comparable—and in some cases superior—to an interactive analysis when used properly. A key benefit of this algorithm is that the skill level of a relatively inexperienced airborne radar meteorologist may be effectively increased by using the SOLO QC algorithm.
Staged Hybrid Treatment of Acute Type B Complicated Aortic and External Iliac Artery Dissection and Femoral Occlusion after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Thorne-Vélez Hernando , Tolstano Gleiser Axel , Morales Isaac Mendoza , Thorne-Velez Ana Maria , Penaloza Barrios Natalia , Vasquez Manuela Jaramillo , Daza Reatiga William
Published: August 2024

Percutaneous aortic valve replacement (TAVI) has become the treatment of choice for elderly patients with severe aortic valve stenosis because of its less invasive nature compared to surgery. As TAVI is increasingly offered, issues such as vascular lesions, access site problems, paravalvular leaks, and aortic dissection (AD) are a few associated complications, needing consideration. AD after TAVI is rare but serious, occurring in 0.2% to 0.3% of cases, with both intraprocedural and late cases reported. This case study concerns a 68-year-old woman who developed Stanford B AD, external iliac artery dissection, and right common femoral artery occlusion after TAVI. Treatment included the stenting of the iliac and common femoral arteries, followed by a staged procedure: debranching, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), with satisfactory results. This case underscores the importance of vigilance in the management of TAVI-related complications to optimize patient care and outcomes.
Design of a Trailer Adapted for Accommodation and Transport of Beehives
Authors: Garzón Eduardo , García-Garzón Vanesa , García Javier Pascual , Sánchez-Soto Pedro Jose
Published: August 2024

There is relevant interest concerning beehives, taking into account climate change and its influence on bees’ behavior. A part of the industrial engineering sector is focusing on beekeeping applications. More specifically, the present study aims to develop a trailer for the transport of beehives adapted to be placed or fixed to a tractor or a vehicle trailer, with the objective of transporting the beehives safely and stably during transhumance. The proposed novel design relates to a trailer that incorporates a device for housing a rectangular section of the beehives, which can be adapted for fixing or housing in a vehicle or in a vehicle trailer. The device comprises a lower support structure, adapted to support a plurality of rectangular sections of beehives stacked horizontally on the lower structure, an upper frame adapted to house the beehives inside, and two or more connecting elements between the lower structure and the upper frame. The connection of the trailer with the device facilitates the loading and unloading of the beehives by mechanical means. The different parts have been designed as individual pieces and then assembly is carried out to achieve the complete design. This method of implementation is because the simulation of individual components is simpler and easier, since if it is carried out through assembly, the type of joint, such as welding, and the length of the weld would have to be indicated at each point of contact between components, along with its thickness and all the necessary parameters. Therefore, in those welding points, fixed fastenings are indicated and so will simplify it. In accordance with the individual creation of each part, its own load simulation has been carried out. Static analyses are performed taking into account structural elements of this proposed design, with restrictions and loads being established. The analysis, including upper bars and supports, has been completed with several situations. Based on stress values, deformations have been determined and calculations evaluated. The trays have been manufactured using flat steel bars and angled bars for the legs and support of the hives.