bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological and Reproductive Cycles Drive Henipavirus Seroprevalence in the African Straw‐Coloured Fruit Bat (Eidolon helvum)
Authors: Juman Maya M. , Gibson Louise , Suu‐Ire Richard D. , Languon Sylvester , Quaye Osbourne , Fleischer Grace , Asumah Samuel , Jolma E. Rosa , Gautam Avinita , Sterling Spencer L. , Yan Lianying , Broder Christopher C. , Laing Eric D. , Wood James L. N. , Cunningham Andrew A. , Restif Olivier
Published: November 2024

Bats are known to host zoonotic viruses, including henipaviruses that cause high fatality rates in humans (Nipah virus and Hendra virus). However, the determinants of zoonotic spillover are generally unknown, as the ecological and demographic drivers of viral circulation in bats are difficult to ascertain without longitudinal data. Here we analyse serological data collected from African straw‐coloured fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) in Ghana over the course of 2 years and across four sites, comprising three wild roosts and one captive colony. We focus on antibody affinity to five henipavirus antigens: Ghanaian bat henipavirus (GhV), Nipah virus (NiV), Hendra virus (HeV), Mojiang virus (MojV) and Cedar virus (CedV). In the wild roosts, we detected seasonal variations in henipavirus antibody binding, possibly associated with bat life‐history cycles and migration patterns. In the captive colony, we identified increases in antibody affinity levels among pregnant bats, suggesting possible shifts in the immune system during pregnancy. These bats then pass maternal antibodies to their pups, which wane before antibody affinity levels rise later in life following initial infections and/or reactivation of latent infections. These results improve our understanding of the links between bat ecology and viral circulation, including for GhV, a locally‐circulating African henipavirus.
Age‐Related Plasticity Integration in Male Cicadas Tettigetta isshikii: Are Adult Cicadas Capital Breeders?
Authors: Heo Jiman , Han Chang S.
Published: November 2024

Labile traits, such as behavioural, physiological traits or body mass, vary within an individual either over time or across environments. Such changes within an individual can be linked across traits, forming within‐individual trait correlations. These correlations are particularly expected when ageing causes changes in the expression of multiple traits. Moreover, the direction of these correlations depends on mechanisms that explain age‐related changes in each trait, such as physiological deterioration or changes in future fitness expectations. Therefore, assessing within‐individual trait correlations offers insights into trait‐specific ageing patterns, their integration and age‐related reproductive strategies. Here, we tracked individual male cicadas (Tettigetta isshikii) in their natural habitat, repeatedly assessing their plant use (narrow‐leafed vs. large‐leafed plants), calling activity and body mass. The results revealed that male cicadas lost mass, increased calling activity and a preference for narrow‐leafed plants as they aged. This integration of age‐related plasticity led to negative within‐individual correlations between body mass and behaviours. Considering that adult cicadas consume nutritionally poor xylem sap, the negative within‐individual correlations between body mass and risk‐taking behaviour suggest that T. isshikii males follow a capital breeding strategy rather than an income breeding strategy. As adult cicadas may use up the energy stored during the nymph stage, an age‐related increase in energetically demanding calling activity could cause an age‐related decrease in body mass. The terminal investment hypothesis could also explain the age‐related increase in calling activity and the preference for narrow‐leafed plants. Therefore, we emphasise the importance of individual‐level tracking studies in the wild to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the life‐history strategies and behavioural ecology of a study animal.
Current trends on the advancement and limitation of biohydrogen research: An exclusive overview
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Tiwari Raj Kumar , Bonde Gunjan Vasant , Das Kaushik , Bhagobaty Ranjan Kumar , Manna Suvendu
Published: November 2024

Hydrogen is believed to be the most potential energy‐resources in the coming time due to its high energy density and zero greenhouse gas footprint. Among all types of hydrogen production processes, bio‐based hydrogen (biohydrogen) generation processes are found to be relatively cleaner than the other processes. In this review article current biohydrogen generation processes are critically reviewed to understand the critical factors associated with the hydrogen generation along with the challenges to be eliminated. In this review the factor like types of substrates, their pretreatment, bioreactor design, and other parametric influences on the overall biohydrogen production is discussed. Also, impact of different catalyst in hydrogen production has been discussed in this topic. The review indicated that most of the current hydrogen‐research are focused on the development of processes with high yield. However, one of the major drawbacks of biohydrogen process is purification of H2 from the gaseous mixture produced by microbial strains. To establish the biohydrogen production processes as promising as it considered to be there needs to have a robust purification system. Also, this review highlights that more rigorous research on the biohydrogen storage and its hazard analysis is necessary to meet the future expectation of hydrogen use in mass‐scale.
Modelling reinforced masonry buildings by a mechanics‐based macroelement approach
Authors: Bracchi Stefano , Rota Maria , Penna Andrea
Published: November 2024

The seismic behaviour of unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings is frequently modelled using macroelements, in the framework of an equivalent‐frame schematisation of the walls. Although the advantages of this modelling technique, mainly related to the compromise between computational burden and accuracy of the results, appear to be valid also in the case of reinforced masonry (RM) buildings, few attempts have been made to extend its applicability to RM. This work proposes a mechanics‐based macroelement approach to simulate the in‐plane nonlinear response of RM piers, starting from a macroelement model widely adopted for URM and implemented in the TREMURI software. The strategy consists of discretising a masonry pier into sub‐macroelements, representative of masonry and horizontal reinforcement, with nonlinear beams representing vertical reinforcement. Experimental tests performed on clay blocks RM piers were simulated to test the efficiency of this model in capturing the strength and cyclic behaviour associated with different damage mechanisms. More complex structures were then studied, starting from assemblies of piers, up to entire buildings. Even in these cases, the modelling approach proved to be able to model the nonlinear cyclic behaviour. Finally, the model was used to compare the response of two buildings in their unreinforced and reinforced configurations, through nonlinear static and dynamic analyses.
Optimized Data Replication in Cloud Using Hybrid Optimization Approach
Authors: Rambabu D. , Govardhan A.
Published: November 2024

Cloud computing (CC), in contrast to traditional high‐performance computing environments, is a group of imaginary and networked resources of computing that are controlled by one unified maximum‐performance computing power. Here, this work aims to develop a novel data replication method in the cloud. The data replication is carried out with a new multi‐objective technique that considers constraints like cost, the distance between data centers, trust, and risk. Moreover, for optimal data replication, a new hybrid algorithm termed poor rich strategy assisted grasshopper optimization (PRS‐GO) is introduced. To increase the accessibility of the system, the data used continuously should be duplicated in various areas. A minimal mean value of 0.66 is gained with the PRS‐GO scheme, whereas Particle Swarm Optimization‐Tabu Search (PSO + TS), Receding Horizon Control (RHC), Sun Flower Optimization (SFO), Cat Mouse‐Based Optimization (CMBO), Hunger Games Search Optimization (HGSO), Seagull Optimization (SGO), Poor And Rich Optimization (PRO), and Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (GOA) have got a high mean value of 0.722, 0.71, 0.71, 0.71, 0.7, 0.7, 0.7, and 0.69.
Temporal Patterns in Migration Flows Evidence from South Sudan
Authors: Schincariol Thomas , Chadefaux Thomas
Published: November 2024

What explains the variation in migration flows over time and space? Existing work has contributed to a rich understanding of the factors that affect why and when people leave. What is less understood are the dynamics of migration flows over time. Existing work typically focuses on static variables at the country‐year level and ignores the temporal dynamics. Are there recurring temporal patterns in migration flows? And can we use these patterns to improve our forecasts of the number of migrants? Here, we introduce new methods to uncover temporal sequences—motifs—in the number of migrants over time and use these motifs for forecasting. By developing a multivariable shape similarity‐based model, we show that temporal patterns do exist. Moreover, using these patterns results in better out‐of‐sample forecasts than a benchmark of statistical and neural networks models. We apply the new method to the case of South Sudan.
Building a Circular Economy for Lithium: Addressing Global Challenges
Authors: Zanoletti Alessandra , Bresolin Bianca Maria , Bontempi Elza
Published: November 2024

As countries worldwide race toward a green transition, the demand for electric vehicles is surging, and with it comes a growing need for batteries. However, the push for increased domestic mining to secure these materials raises significant concerns about environmental sustainability. Even with stringent regulations, the environmental impact of mining can be profound, posing risks such as biodiversity loss, water pollution, and broader ecological damage. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions could arise as countries whose economic interests are threatened by these initiatives may react adversely. Local communities might also resist mining projects due to concerns over environmental degradation, health risks, and disruptions to their livelihoods. Given the critical importance of metals in the ecological transition, this challenge must be approached with the same urgency and global coordination as a pandemic response. Just as the world mobilized unprecedented resources to tackle COVID‐19, a similarly robust approach is necessary to ensure the availability of critical metals for a sustainable future. This paper suggests potential pathways for academic, technological, and societal advancements within the framework of a circular economy for lithium, aiming to secure a sustainable supply of this essential resource.
Correlation of Seismic Data and Sediment Cores From the Seabed in the Medieval Harbour at Avaldsnes, Norway
Authors: Ravnås Hallgjerd H. , Fredh Erik Daniel
Published: November 2024

This interdisciplinary study demonstrates the successful integration of non‐destructive geophysical methods and sediment core analyses for mapping the seabed in the historical harbour at Avaldsnes in south‐west Norway. In the Medieval Period, this was a royal manor, with the harbour as a central hub for the Hanseatic League in the 14th to 15th centuries. The use of an Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV) mounted with two distinct sub‐bottom profiler (SBP) systems facilitated the acquisition of high‐resolution seismic data, providing efficient imaging of the seafloor and subsurface layers. Sequence of fifteen sediment cores allowed for the description and dating of stratigraphy and the depositional environment. In combination, these methods provided a multidimensional understanding of the distribution of subsea sediments in the harbour, while preserving most of the archaeological context. The analysis revealed organic‐rich sediments, primarily consisting of fine detritus gyttja, accumulated over the last 1700 years, trapping certain archaeological features. Deposition of the soft sediments likely commenced due to a lower relative sea level, possibly accompanied by intensified land‐use and harbour activity. The study identified several minor anomalies in the seismic data, potentially representing artefacts of archaeological importance. An anomaly of significant size might correspond to a buried shipwreck or harbour structure. By providing a comprehensive understanding of sediment dynamics and human‐environment interactions in the harbour, the research contributes to the preservation and management of an important cultural heritage site.
Prognostic risk and survival of asymptomatic IgM monoclonal gammopathy: Results from a Spanish Multicenter Registry
Authors: Moreno David F. , Jiménez Cristina , Escalante Fernando , Askari Elham , Castellanos‐Alonso Marta , Arnao Mario , Heredia Ángela , Canales Miguel Á. , Alcalá Magdalena , Bermúdez Arancha , Saus Carreres Ana , Casanova María , Palomera Luis , Motlló Cristina , García‐Sánchez Ricarda , Ríos Rull Pablo , García‐Sanz Ramón , Fernández de Larrea Carlos
Published: November 2024

Asymptomatic IgM gammopathy encompasses IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and asymptomatic Waldenström macroglobulinemia (AWM), both having a risk of progression to symptomatic disease. Here, we assessed the risk of progression and the mortality of 956 patients with asymptomatic IgM gammopathy across 25 Spanish centers. After a median follow‐up of 5.7 years, 156 patients progressed, most of them to symptomatic WM (SWM). The cumulative incidence of progression was 13% and 20% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. The serum IgM ≥10 g/L, bone marrow (BM) infiltration ≥20%, β2‐microglobulin ≥3 mg/L, and albumin <4 g/dL were the most potent predictors of disease progression in a multivariate Cox regression model, allowing the identification of three risk categories. The probability of progression to symptomatic disease at 5 years was 4.5%, 15.7%, and 42.8% for low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐risk groups, respectively. In patients without a BM evaluation, the presence of none or 1 risk factor and 2 or 3 risk factors conferred a progression risk of 6% and 27% at 5 years, respectively. The model was independent of the presence of MYD88 L265P, which conferred a negative impact only in AWM patients. The relative survival (RS) ratio at 5 years of asymptomatic patients was similar to the Spanish population, which contrasted with the 0.76 5‐year RS of SWM patients. Overall, the Spanish Multicenter Model comprehensively describes the risk of progression of asymptomatic patients and shows that the excess mortality is increased only in the symptomatic stage of the disease.
“Who am I?” Exploring Temporary workers' Integration in Multi‐Employment‐Type Organizations From the Identity Threat Perspective
Authors: Lu Wenzhu , Liu Shanshi , Ma Chao , Pei Jialiang
Published: November 2024

This study aims to advance current understanding concerning situational cues that trigger identity threat at the workplace among temporary workers and associated effects on their integration outcomes in the flexible employment scenario. We used the social identity threat theory to empirically investigate the impact of the extent to which regular employees' job conditions are superior to those of temporary workers on these workers' outcomes, through the identity threat. In addition, we examined the moderating role of organizations' social integration practices. We conducted two empirical studies involving technical temporary workers in Chinese companies, in which we used polynomial regression analyses and response surface modeling. In Study 1, using a two‐wave time‐lagged design, we analyzed data from 480 temporary workers, and in Study 2, using a three‐wave time‐lagged multi‐source dyadic design, we analyzed matching data from 371 temporary workers and 64 supervisors. Our findings indicate that the extent to which regular employees' job conditions surpass those of temporary workers is positively associated with identity threat among the latter, increasing their turnover intention and undermining their job performance. Moreover, temporary workers' perceptions of their organizations' social integration practices weaken the effects of the extent to which regular employees' job conditions surpass those of temporary workers. Thus, this study contributes to related literature on social identity threat and temporary workers, and to practice, by offering offers insightful implications for managers to effectively manage this threat.
Educating emergent bilingual youth in high school: The promise of critical language and literacy education by Park, J. Y. (2023)
Authors: Cáceres‐Mateo Stephany
Published: November 2024

Educating Emergent Bilingual Youth in High School: The Promise of Critical Language and Literacy Educationby J. Y. Park narrates the educational experiences of seven emergent bilingual youth in English as a second language (ESL) classrooms. This book review underlines how Park uses critical language pedagogies in action to shed light on students' assets and challenge the deficit perspectives teachers and schools may have about them. Through these critical lenses, three ESL teachers and the emergent bilingual youth explore themes related to race, identity, and citizenship through effective pedagogical strategies such as dialogic problem‐posing, translanguaging through “poetry inside out,” the use of multimodal texts and student‐led research. As students embark on their learning journey, they develop their literacy, critical, and reflective skills, manifesting their agentive selves. The book also provides suggestions for emergent bilingual educators, schools, teacher education programs, researchers, and policymakers to disrupt deficit views of emergent bilinguals that keep them from seeing their full potential. In addition, it advocates for ESL teachers, who often are not supported at their schools, and for emergent bilinguals who should not and cannot leave their funds of knowledge and stories outside the classroom door.
First experiences with the introduction of genetic counselors in human genetic services in the German‐speaking countries
Authors: Heidemann Simone , Zschocke Johannes , Schwaninger Gunda
Published: November 2024

In 2019, the Medical University of Innsbruck introduced the first Genetic and Genomic Counseling master's program in the German‐speaking countries. A major challenge of this process was the absence of practicing Genetic Counselors (GC) in these countries, leading to a lack of experience with GCs in medical genetic services and the absence of a legal framework for the profession. Consequently, student placements within the program commenced with neither the students nor their supervising consultants having any previous experience of collaborative teamwork between clinical geneticists and GCs. To share insights from the initial implementation phase, supervising consultants from the seven student placement institutes were invited to participate in semi‐structured interviews guided by open‐ended questions. From these interviews, three models of interprofessional teamwork between GCs and clinical geneticists emerged: (1) the alternating or tandem model, (2) qualified preliminary and follow‐up patient interviews, and (3) the provision of genetic (counseling) services without genetic counseling in the legal sense. In addition, the interviewees provided recommendations for addressing legal concerns and for the effective establishment of appropriate compensation structures for GCs within the German‐speaking countries. Clinical geneticists taking part in the study estimated that the integration of GCs could potentially enhance their counseling capacity by as much as 50%. Importantly, they did not foresee any reduction in counseling quality caused by the inclusion of GCs. This study provides evidence that the GC profession can provide additional skills to human genetic services and positively impact both patient support and overall capacity of genetic services also in the German‐speaking countries.
Burden and seasonality of RSV bronchiolitis in hospitalized children on a French Caribbean island: Practical lessons from a 13‐year study
Authors: Fléchelles Olivier , Oger Camille , Charollais Aude , Drame Moustapha , Banydeen Rishika , Najioullah Fatiha
Published: November 2024

Epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis in the tropics is poorly understood, complicating the effective management of RSV epidemics. The main objective was to describe the seasonality of RSV bronchiolitis epidemics and the clinical characteristics of hospitalized infants over a 13‐year period on the French Caribbean island of Martinique. Single‐center retrospective observational study including infants under 2 years of age hospitalized at the Martinique University Hospital for RSV‐positive bronchiolitis from January 2007 to December 2019. One thousand two hundred thirty‐tree cases were included. Epidemics occurred during the rainy season, beginning in September, peaking in October/November and ending in December. A distinct biennial seasonality pattern was observed, with alternating years of high and low incidence. Mean duration of epidemics was of 11 weeks. Clinical characteristics of patients were similar to those hospitalized in temperate areas. Median hospital stay was 4 days. Median age was 3 months, 14.1% of patients were born prematurely, 2.5% had congenital heart disease and 41.1% required oxygen therapy. In Martinique, RSV bronchiolitis epidemics in infants occur in a regular biennial pattern during the rainy season. An accurate knowledge of the local seasonality will allow us to better anticipate hospital organization before epidemics.
Cell Culture of a Swine Genotype 4 Hepatitis E Virus Strain
Authors: Gong Ga , Xin Jiaojiao , Lou Yongzhi , Qiong Da , Dawa Zhuoma , Gesang Zhuoma , Suolang Sizhu
Published: November 2024

HEV infection has become a global health concern. The study of HEV pathogenicity has been hindered by the lack of a suitable in vitro culture system. In the present research, we systematic demonstration of efficient replication of swine GT4 HEV in A549 cells, Huh‐7 cells, and HepG2/C3A cell lines. The results of the immunofluorescence assay and immunofluorescence confocal assay showed that swine GT4 HEV is efficiently replicated in three cell lines at 72 h postinoculation. Meanwhile, we also detected the virus titer quantified were increased at 2‐, 6,‐ and 11‐days postinoculation. Moreover, we successfully observed HEV virus particles in the cell suspension at 6 days postinoculation. This finding holds significance for advancing in vitro HEV studies.
Comparison of effects of intra‐articular diclofenac etalhyaluronate and hyaluronic acid in a monoiodoacetate rat osteoarthritis model
Authors: Tokeshi Soichiro , Suzuki‐Narita Miyako , Tajiri Ikuko , Inage Kazuhide , Takeuchi Jun , Arai Takahito , Kawarai Yuya , Terakawa Hiroakira , Ohtori Seiji , Orita Sumihisa
Published: November 2024

Diclofenac etalhyaluronate (DF‐HA) sustained diclofenac release with the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA), offering long‐term analgesia in osteoarthritis. In this study, the effects of DF‐HA on pain improvement and osteoarthritis were evaluated in a rat knee monoiodoacetate‐induced osteoarthritis model compared to HA. Eight rats per group had been injected with monoiodoacetate (2.0 mg) or saline in the right knee for 4 weeks and were injected with either DF‐HA (1.25 mg/kg; 0.5 mg), HA (0.5 mg), vehicle which was a substrate without DF‐HA (50 μL), or saline and followed for 4 weeks. Mechanical plantar skin sensitivity was assessed weekly using the von Frey assay. Osteoarthritis changes were monitored with Larsen scores via CT imaging at every 2 weeks. The articular cartilage was analyzed using OARSI scores through H&E, Safranin‐O staining at 8 weeks. The percentage of Iba‐1 positive microglia in the spinal dorsal horn and of FG + CGRP‐labeled cells among FG‐positive cells in the dorsal root ganglion were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. TNF‐α and IL‐6 mRNA expression levels in the knee synovium were evaluated by PCR. The DF‐HA showed significantly improved pain hypersensitivity compared with the HA at 6–8 weeks. The percentage of Iba‐1‐positive microglia was significantly lower than that in the vehicle and the percentage of FG + CGRP/FG was significantly lower than that in the HA. OARSI scores did not differ among treatment groups, Larsen scores indicated lower in the DF‐HA than in the vehicle. DF‐HA was as effective as HA in joint protection and significantly improved inflammatory pain compared to HA.
Pregnancy in Dystonia or Tourette's Patients with DBS. Fourteen News Cases and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Mehanna Raja , Tarakad Arjun , Taneff Lisa Yutong , Furr Stimming Erin
Published: November 2024

Background

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has been demonstrated to improve quality of life in patients with refractory dystonia and Tourette's syndrome (TS). Because of the young age at onset of these disorders, and the marked benefit from DBS, pregnancy in patients who have received DBS is becoming a more frequent clinical occurrence, although clear management guidelines are lacking.

Cases

We report 14 new pregnancies in patients with dystonia or TS and DBS.

Literature Review

Upon review of the literature, 23 pregnancies in patients with dystonia or TS were previously reported in seven articles.

Conclusion

Based on the available data from a total of 37 pregnancies, DBS does not seem associated with worse pregnancy outcome. However, careful planning and communication between neurologist, anesthesiologist and obstetrician are key. A registry on pregnancy outcome in patients with DBS should be generated to facilitate the development of guidelines.
Value‐Added Service Strategies for Retailers Oriented to Uncertain Demand
Authors: Wang Hua , Jin Yao , Zhao Yan , Wang Cuicui , Xie Yanle
Published: November 2024

Whereas retailers pursue providing value‐added services (VAS) to capture additional markets and maximize profits, market demand uncertainty decreases retailers' incentives to provide VAS. Therefore, we analyze retailers' VAS provision strategies in the market demand uncertainty. We then investigate the VAS provision strategies and explore the impact of market demand uncertainty, competitive effects, and market loss effects on retailers' VAS provision strategies. We prove that when the market loss effect is high, the retailers provide VAS that even face lower consumer preferences. When the market loss effect is low, neither retailer offers VAS, even when consumer preferences are high. When the market loss effect and consumer preferences match each other, only one retailer offers VAS as an equilibrium strategy. The competition effect and market demand uncertainty exacerbate this result. Notably, the combination of VAS cost, competition effect, and market loss effect puts the retailer in a prisoner's dilemma under market demand uncertainty. Interestingly, the competition effect mitigates situations where retailers suffer from the prisoners' dilemma. Besides, the competition effect and market demand uncertainty exacerbate the difficulties of extracting optimal social welfare in different scenarios.
Radiomics analysis of dual‐energy CT‐derived iodine maps for differentiating malignant from benign thyroid nodules
Authors: Liu Ni , Huang Zengfa , Chen Jun , Yang Yang , Li Zuoqin , Liu Yuanzhi , Xie Yuanliang , Wang Xiang
Published: November 2024

Background

Many thyroid nodules are detected incidentally with the widespread use of sensitive imaging techniques; however, only a fraction of these nodules are malignant, resulting in unnecessary medical expenditures and anxiety. The major challenge is to differentiate benign thyroid nodules from malignant ones. The application of dual‐energy computed tomography (DECT) and radiomics provides a new diagnostic approach. Studies applying radiomics from primary tumours on iodine maps to differentiate malignant from benign thyroid nodules are still lacking.

Purpose

To determine the ability of an iodine map‐based radiomic nomogram in the venous phase for differentiating malignant thyroid nodules from benign nodules.

Methods

A total of 141 patients with thyroid nodules who underwent DECT were enrolled and randomly assigned to the training and test cohorts between January 2018 and January 2019. The radiomic score (Rad‐score) was derived from nine quantitative features of the iodine maps. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to develop radiomic, clinical and combined models. Age, normalized iodine concentration (NIC), and cyst changes were used to construct the clinical model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, sensitivity and specificity were performed to analyse the ability of the models to predict malignant thyroid nodules. Calibration analysis was used to test the fitness of the models. Decision curve analysis (DCA) and nomogram construction were also performed.

Results

According to the clinical model, age (0.989 [0.984, 0.995]; p < 0.001), NIC (0.778 [0.640, 0.995]; p = 0.01), and cyst changes (0.617 [0.507, 0.751]; p < 0.001) were independently associated with malignant thyroid nodules. According to the combined model, age (0.994 [0.989, 0.999]; p = 0.01), NIC (0.797 [0.674, 0.941]; p = 0.008), cyst changes (0.786 [0.653, 0.947]; p = 0.01), and the rad‐score (1.106 [1.070, 1.143]; p < 0.001) were independently associated with malignant thyroid nodules. The combined model achieved satisfactory discrimination in predicting malignant thyroid nodules and had greater predictive value in the training (AUC [areas under the curve], 0.96 vs. 0.87; p = 0.01) and test (AUC, 0.90 vs. 0.79; p = 0.04) cohorts than did the clinical model.

Conclusions

The radiomics nomogram based on iodine maps is useful to distinguish malignant thyroid nodules from benign thyroid nodules.
Prediction of genetic profile of breast carcinoma on MRI using a combination of DCE‐MRI, DWI, and MR spectroscopy: A prospective observational study
Authors: Sharma Payal , Kumar Ishan , Ojha Ritu , Khanna Seema , Verma Ashish
Published: November 2024

Background

Classification of breast cancer based on gene expression has emerged as the standard approach in its management, owing to the distinct prognoses and treatment responses observed among different subtypes. The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the imaging features of the molecular subtypes of breast cancer using multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI) with the combined assessment of dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI), diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), and MR spectroscopy (MRS).

Methods

This was a prospective observational single‐center cohort study, which included women with BI‐RADS 4−5 lesions on mammography/ultrasound (US) who subsequently underwent 1.5 T MRI (encompassing DCE‐MRI, DWI, and MRS). The histological subtypes of breast cancer were assessed. Estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), Ki‐67 status, and human epidermal growth receptor‐2 (HER2) expression, assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), defined four molecular subtypes: luminal A, luminal B, HER2‐enriched (Her2en), and triple‐negative breast carcinoma (TNBC). Statistical associations between the four molecular subtypes and MRI features were investigated.

Results

Fifty patients were included in the study. Circumscribed margins were significantly correlated with triple‐negative tumors compared to others (78% versus 6%, p < 0.001). Spiculated margins were observed in non‐triple negative tumors. Rim enhancement was significantly correlated to triple‐negative tumors compared to all other subtypes (71.4% versus 25%, p = 0.035). Mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were significantly lower for luminal subtypes compared to non‐luminal subtypes (p < 0.001). The total choline (tCho) signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) was higher in triple‐negative tumors. A combined algorithm using DCE‐MRI, DWI, and MRS can predict TNBC and Her2en with specificity of 86.6% and 100%, respectively, and sensitivity of 100% and 85.37%, respectively.

Conclusion

The combination of mMRI with DCE‐MRI, DWI, and MRS can accurately differentiate the molecular subtypes of breast carcinoma.
Does Adding TENS to Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Effect on Urodynamics and Clinical Results in Children With Spina Bifida?
Authors: Özdemir Ayla Özge , Özel Ş. Kerem , Acar Gönül , Alataş İbrahim
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Children with spina bifida (SB) experience a reduced quality of life due to neurogenic bladder dysfunction and the risk of renal failure later in life. Pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) have gained prominence in recent years due to their positive effects in treating different types of bladder issues in both adults and children. Our study aims to investigate the effects of using these two methods together in children with SB and to delineate their potential value for clinical practice.

Materials and Methods

Children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to SB who admitted to our spina bifida center were enrolled. Those patients, between 5 and 15 years of age, with only neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) were randomly divided into two groups using an online computer application. While only the PFR was applied to Group PFR (n = 14), TENS was used in addition to this therapy in Group PFR + T (n = 14). The PFR sessions included abdominal massage, strength exercises, diaphragmatic breathing exercises, and contracting pelvic floor muscles. TENS was used in a standard fashion as previously described in patients with SB. Before and after treatment, patients' clinical data, dysfunctional voiding symptom score (DVSS), lower urinary tract symptoms, and quality of life scores due to urinary incontinence were evaluated. Urodynamic outcomes such as detrusor pressure, bladder capacity, contractility, and residual urine amount were also evaluated.

Results

Twenty eight children out of 750 SB patients were enrolled in our center. Children with only NDO due to SB were included in the study (Group PFR, mean age 8.3 ± + 2.7 years, 10 boys, four girls; Group PFR + T, 7.86 ± 2.03 years, eight boys, six girls). Treatment duration was 6 weeks (18 sessions). There was a decrease in voiding and lower urinary tract symptoms in both groups regardless of the use of TENS (p < 0.05). Maximum detrusor pressure significantly decreased only in the TENS group after treatment (from 82.143 ± 58.069 cmH2O to 58.077 ± 39.872 cmH2O) (p < 0.05). The difference in clinical parameters, quality of life scores and other urodynamic parameters were not found to be significant between groups.

Discussion

PFR and TENS may be effective in SB with NDO to reduce voiding symptoms, and protect bladder from increased pressures. PFR seems to be a useful conservative approach in patients with NDO, adjunt to standard treatment. Further studies are needed in delineation of a personalized holistic treatment approach in these patients.

Conclusion

Addition of TENS to standard PFR in NDO may be effective in reducing maximum detrusor pressures, however, it does not seem to specifically contribute for improving incontinence and incontinence‐related quality of life.
News in Business News During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in New Zealand: A Content Analysis
Authors: Akhtaruzzaman Muhammad
Published: November 2024

New Zealand's response to the health risk of COVID‐19 has been acclaimed as a success story compared to other nations. Yet, the impact of the pandemic on New Zealand businesses and the resulting shift in business operations and priorities remained least known. The aim of this study is to identify major concerns in business‐related news in mainstream newspapers in New Zealand that impacted the businesses during the COVID‐19 pandemic. A qualitative content analysis technique was employed to analyse the news content of a total of 134 newspaper articles from the major online mainstream newspapers published in New Zealand during the pandemic. The major themes identified from the content analysis were: Business, Subsidy, Lockdown, People. Further analysis of these themes disclosed that Business and People were the predominant themes in the news content during the pandemic. The findings reveal that the concerns of businesses extended beyond operational and financial performance, also encompassing the health and well‐being of the employees and customers. The findings offer valuable insights for future research and bear significant implications for both management and policy‐making.
The Global Prevalence of Iron Deficiency in Collegiate Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Thompson Christineil , Block Darci , Wang Zhen , Foster Nathan , Hassett Leslie C. , Steien Dana , Galardy Paul , Al‐Huniti Ahmad
Published: November 2024

Athletes are at high risk of iron deficiency even without anemia. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis that included 17,519 athletes in 122 references from 23 countries, participating in 62 unique sports over a 41‐year timeframe, approximately 53.9% of student‐athletes were found to be hypoferritinemic (ferritin concentration below 50 mcg/L) with 23.0% percent showing absolute iron deficiency based on current definitions (ferritin concentration below 20 mcg/L). These findings strongly suggest that changes in clinical practice guidelines are warranted to enable routine screening for iron deficiency among adolescent and collegiate athletes.
Health‐Related Quality of Life Among Discharged Patients With Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Li Xiao , Yu Kun , Yan Haipeng , Xie Longlong , Wang Xiangyu , Luo Ting , Lu Xiulan , Li Xun , Xiao Zhenghui
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Evaluating the post‐discharge health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and exploring its influencing factors.

Patients and Methods

The study was conducted at a regional pediatric medical center and involved pediatric patients diagnosed with HLH between July 2017 and July 2022. Healthy children of the same age and sex were included as the control group. The HRQoL and its associated factors in pediatric patients were assessed using the PedsQL 4.0 Parent Proxy Report and a general information survey.

Results

In the first year following diagnosis, psychological health and overall score in HLH patients were worse than those of the control group. However, scores for emotional functioning, school functioning, physical health, psychosocial health, and overall scores in the HLH group increased over the years since diagnosis. By the 5‐year post diagnosis, there were no significant differences between the HLH group and the control group in social functioning, school functioning, physical health, psychosocial health, and overall scores (p > 0.05). Generalized linear model analysis revealed that HLH patients who underwent transplantation have worse social functioning, physical health, overall score, while HLH patients with HLH recurrence have worse social functioning, psychosocial health, overall score (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The HRQoL of HLH patients is compromised after discharge; however, it progressively returns to levels comparable to those of healthy cohorts over time since diagnosis. Transplantation, and HLH recurrence are identified as factors affecting the HRQoL in HLH patients.
Multilevel Facilitators and Barriers to Healthcare Organization and Delivery Among Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Miller Brianna M. , Yockel Mary Rose , Appel Burton E. , Dash Chiranjeev , Harris‐Hollingsworth Nicole , Kadan Lottick Nina S. , Potosky Arnold L. , Rowland Julia , Suntum Tara , Chaillet Katherine , Sleiman Marcelo M. , Statman Muriel R. , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: November 2024

Background

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at risk for medical and psychosocial late effects of their disease and its treatment and are recommended to receive annual follow‐ups. Yet, rates of follow‐up adherence are suboptimal and may be influenced by the organization and delivery of their healthcare. This research aimed to examine experts’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to healthcare organization and delivery to CCS.

Procedure

Thirty‐one clinicians and administrators in a comprehensive cancer center's research consortium were interviewed about system‐level factors that may promote or deter annual follow‐ups among CCS. Interview transcripts were coded and inductively analyzed using a study‐specific scheme.

Results

Three main themes were identified: (1) healthcare system influences (59%); (2) social determinants of health (25%); and (3) intra/interpersonal factors (16%). Prominent subthemes included age‐related changes in the transition of healthcare responsibility that disrupt ongoing CCS care (28.1%), the breadth and quality of psychosocial support available to navigate CCS to follow‐up (13.5%), and transportation challenges (24.6%; especially in low‐resource areas). In contrast, community trust facilitated follow‐up (17.3%).

Conclusion

The system of healthcare was prominent in receipt of follow‐up by CCS, and further influenced by social determinants of health and intra/interpersonal factors. Easing transitions of responsibility (from parents to CCS, and acute care to survivorship teams) may be beneficial, especially when social determinants of health obstacles are present. Psychosocial wrap‐around care is essential, along with promoting staff awareness of obstacles that CCS encounter in low‐resource communities.
Preparation and characterization of nanocomposites based on natural rubber/chlorobutyl rubber/graphene nanoparticle: Effect of feeding sequences, mixer type and nanoparticle concentration
Authors: Sharifi‐Teshnizi Marziye , Jalali‐Arani Azam , Santana Marianella Hernández
Published: November 2024

Blends of natural rubber (NR)/chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR) (50/50), along with their nanocomposites containing varying amounts of graphene nanoparticles (GNPs) with and without silane, were prepared using different feeding sequences and mixers. The results indicated that when GNP was first mixed with NR before adding CIIR, the highest GNP content was found in NR; the oxygen permeability and diffusion coefficient decreased significantly by 37% and 55%, respectively. Conversely, when graphene was initially added to CIIR, it was distributed in both rubbers and at the interface, enhancing phase interaction and achieving a finer morphology. This sample exhibited the greatest improvement in mechanical properties due to specific localization of GNP and increased crosslink density. Using an internal mixer instead of a two‐roll mill improved graphene dispersion, reduced curing time, and enhanced mechanical properties. Although the presence of silane reduced graphene dispersion, it improved mechanical and barrier properties due to increased crosslink density. Oxygen permeability was reduced by up to 36% at 3 phr of GNP content with silane. This research proves that the mixing order and the type of mixing equipment are crucial in determining the final performance of rubber composites, as they significantly influence the dispersion and localization of fillers.

Highlights

NR/CIIR/GNP nanocomposites were prepared by different methods and evaluated.

Adding NR/GNP to CIIR led to more presence of GNP in NR and lower permeability.

By adding CIIR/GNP to NR, GNP were placed more at interface, modulus improved.

Mixing in an internal mixer improved GNP dispersion compared to a two‐roll mill.

Silane improved mechanical and barrier properties of NR/CIIR/GNP nanocomposite.
Unveiling the Novel Mechanistic Insights and Role of Base in Zn‐Catalyzed Csp–Csp2 Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: Rajalakshmi C. , Krishnaveni G. , Varghese Binuja , Gopan Anandhu , Thomas Vibin Ipe
Published: November 2024

A detailed mechanistic investigation of the Zn (II)‐catalyzed Csp–Csp2 (Sonogashira‐type) cross‐coupling reaction is reported herein, using the Density Functional Theory method. The present study unveiled an unconventional non‐redox mechanism for Zn‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction, where the oxidation state of Zn remains intact throughout the catalytic cycle. Our study further revealed the significant role of the base in controlling the feasibility of cross‐coupling reactions that are catalyzed by electron‐deficient metal centers. Our study indicates that K3PO4 acts as an ancillary ligand (Lewis base) for the electron‐deficient Zn (II) catalytic center rather than as a proton abstractor for the nucleophilic coupling partner (phenylacetylene) in this reaction. The active catalyst was identified to be a four‐coordinate bis‐DMEDA Zn (II) complex. The mechanism proceeds via the initial activation of the nucleophilic coupling partner (phenylacetylene), followed by the electrophilic coupling partner (organic halide) activation liberating the cross‐coupled product by a concerted nucleophilic substitution pathway. The turn‐over limiting step was identified to be the activation of the electrophilic coupling partner. The activation barrier obtained for the reaction, 31.0 kcal/mol concords well with experimental temperature requirements (125°C). The coordination by base is found to stabilize the rate‐determining intermediates and transition states involved in the reaction. The mechanistic insights gained from this study could aid in the rational design and development of sustainable cross‐coupling reactions using zinc as the catalyst.
Heart ultrasound and biomechanical evaluation of radiation‐induced heart toxicity using transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)
Authors: Wang Yuenan , Guan Fada , Ouyang Fukun , Yuan Hongyan , Su Ming , Ding Xuanfeng
Published: November 2024

Radiation‐induced heart disease (RIHD) is a serious complication but difficult to assess in patients undergoing thoracic radiotherapy (RT). We aim to analyze RIHD using heart ultrasound and elastic modulus, exploring relationships between functional, anatomical or biomechanical changes of the heart and radiation dose.

Twenty BALB/c mice were divided into four groups (control, 10 Gy, 20 Gy and 25 Gy) with a single fraction of image‐guided volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy (VMAT) to murine heart on a linear accelerator. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed on a small‐animal ultrasound imaging system with a handheld microscan transducer. E‐wave/A‐wave ratio (E/A) and myocardial performance index (MPI) for diastolic performance were noninvasively evaluated weekly, as well as ejection fraction (EF%), fractional shortening (FS%), left ventricle (LV) mass and heart wall thickening for systolic performance. At the end of the fifth week, all mice were sacrificed for elastic modulus measurement on a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and for histopathological staining. All experiments were conducted in accordance with the local institution's animal research committee guideline.

Significant difference was observed in E/A ratio between the control and 25 Gy irradiated groups (1.8±0.5 and 0.7±0.9, respectively; p<0.05), indicating reduced diastolic performance and increased stiffness in left ventricle after high‐dose heart radiation. Diastolic dysfunction in irradiated groups was also observed with significantly increased MPI. In contrast, posterior wall thickness, aortic peak velocity, heart rate, EF and FS were not significantly different after RT. Heart elasticity was reduced substantially with the increased radiation dose. HE and Masson Trichrome staining confirmed more fibrosis deposition in irradiated hearts.

RIHD evaluation with ultrasound imaging noninvasively and biomechanical modulus measurement invasively in the image guided, precision dose‐escalated murine heart irradiation is feasible. Increased myocardial stiffness, abnormal diastolic relaxation, more collagen deposition, and reduced tissue elasticity are observed in irradiated heart tissue. This study may facilitate our understanding of RIHD and facilitate improving patients’ quality of life in the future.