bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors impacting time to genetic diagnosis for children with epilepsy
Authors: Rimmasch Megan , Wilson Carey A. , Walton Nephi A. , Huynh Kelly , Bonkowsky Joshua L. , Palmquist Rachel
Published: October 2024

Molecular diagnosis for pediatric epilepsy patients can impact treatment and health supervision recommendations. However, there is little known about factors affecting the time to receive a diagnosis. Our objective was to characterize factors affecting the time from first seizure to molecular diagnosis in children with epilepsy. A retrospective, population‐based review was used to analyze data from pediatric patients with a genetic etiology for epilepsy over a 5 year period. A subgroup of patients with seizure onset after 2016 was evaluated for recent trends. We identified 119 patients in the main cohort and 62 in a more recent (contemporaneous) subgroup. Sex, race, and ethnicity were not significantly associated with time to molecular diagnosis. A greater number of hospitalizations was associated with a shorter time to diagnosis (p < 0.001). Developmental delay was associated with a longer time to diagnosis (p = 0.002). We found no association for time to diagnosis with a diagnosis of autism, utilization of free genetic testing, or epilepsy type. In the recent subgroup analysis, commercial insurance was associated with decreased time to diagnosis (p = 0.02). Developmental delay, public insurance, or patients in the outpatient setting had longer times to molecular diagnosis. These findings suggest that there may be opportunities to implement interventions aimed at accelerating the provision of genetic testing in pediatric epilepsy.

Plain Language Summary

Genetic diagnosis for pediatric epilepsy patients can impact treatment and care. This study looked at factors that affect how long it takes a pediatric epilepsy patient to receive a genetic diagnosis. We found that sex, race and ethnicity, epilepsy type, and whether the patient had autism did not affect how long it took the patient to receive a diagnosis. However, we found that patients with developmental delay, fewer hospitalizations, and public insurance took a longer time to receive a diagnosis. Our findings suggest potential strategies for reducing the time to receive a genetic diagnosis.
Yield, silage quality, and feeding preference of late‐summer sown pearl millet (Cenchrus americanus (L.) Morrone) in Southern Kyushu
Authors: Ishigaki Genki , Niimi Mitsuhiro , Shigedomi Hikaru , Sasaki Yuuto , Idota Sachiko , Ishii Yasuyuki
Published: October 2024

Background

Pearl millet is characterized by its high dry matter (DM) yields with a high moisture content, which makes it difficult to process as silage.

Methods

Pearl millet was sown in mid‐September for 3 years to examine its growth, DM yields in early December, and decrease in DM percentage after frost exposure. The crop was processed as round‐bale silage to assess silage quality and preference by breeding beef cattle.

Results

Plants reached a height of 160–200 cm, with heading tiller percentages of 50%–70% in early December. With frost exposure, DM percentage increased in leaves and panicles, followed by stems, reaching over 40%, 1 month after exposure. These increases were positively correlated with cumulative frost exposure. After frost exposure, in vitro DM digestibility and crude protein content declined while acid detergent fiber content increased. Repeated cafeteria feeding experiments showed a reduced preference for either pearl millet silage or Italian ryegrass hay. The silage showed moderate acidity at pH 4.73–5.40, with lactic acid at 0.58%–1.62% DM, acetic acid at 0.03%–0.10% DM, and negligible butyric acid, indicating a satisfactory quality.

Conclusions

In Southern Kyushu, pearl millet sown in late summer can be processed into low‐moisture round‐bale silage in January, the year following sowing.
Navigating the evolving seas of cross‐border insolvency: The shift towards COMI and the Model Law approach in Hong Kong; Re Global Brands Group Holding Ltd (In Liquidation) [2022] 3 HKLRD 316 (Coram Harris J) [case comment]
Authors: Wong Alric
Published: October 2024

In cross‐border insolvency cases involving foreign liquidators, Hong Kong courts traditionally adhered to two criteria for recognition and assistance: the collective nature of insolvency proceedings and the commencement of such proceedings in the company's place of incorporation. This approach has evolved following Re Global Brands, marking a shift towards considering the company's COMI as a more practical criterion, and highlighting the impracticalities of using the place of incorporation as the primary criterion. Despite the benefits, the COMI Criterion introduces complexities, such as potential non‐recognition and conflicting rulings between jurisdictions. There are also questions surrounding the differences between the principle of modified universalism under common law and the UNCITRAL Model Law. This article analyses the impacts brought about by the transition to the COMI Criterion, and encourages consideration of the adoption of the Model Law by Hong Kong in the future.
Fast‐MedNeXt: Accelerating the MedNeXt Architecture to Improve Brain Tumour Segmentation Efficiency
Authors: Liu Bin , Li Bing , Chen Yaojing , Sreeram Victor , Li Shuofeng
Published: October 2024

With the rapid development of medical imaging technology, 3D image segmentation technology has gradually become a mainstream method, especially in brain tumour detection and diagnosis showing its unique advantages. The technique makes full use of 3D spatial information to locate and analyze tumours more accurately, thus playing an important role in improving diagnostic accuracy, optimising treatment planning and promoting research. However, it also suffers from significant computational expenditure and delayed processing pace. In this paper, we propose an innovative optimisation scheme to address this problem. We thoroughly investigate the MedNeXt network and propose Fast‐MedNeXt, which aims to increase the processing speed while maintaining accuracy. First, we introduce the partial convolution (PConv) technique, which replaces the deep convolutional layers in the network. This improvement effectively reduces computation and memory requirements while maintaining efficient feature extraction. Second, based on PConv, we propose PConv‐Down and PConv‐Up modules, which are applied to the up‐sampling and down‐sampling modules to further optimise the network structure and improve efficiency. To confirm the efficacy of the approach, we carried out a sequence of tests in the multimodal brain tumour segmentation challenge 2021 (BraTS2021). By comparing with the MedNeXt series network, the Fast‐MedNeXt reduced the latency by 22.1%, 20.5%, 15.8%, and 11.4% respectively, while the average accuracy also increased by 0.475% and 0.2% respectively. These significant performance improvements demonstrate the effectiveness of Fast‐MedNeXt in 3D medical image segmentation tasks and provide a new and more efficient solution for the field.
First‐in‐human orbital tumor surgery guided by near‐infrared II window fluorescence imaging: A feasibility study
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Guo Lishuang , Yao Lan , Li Yueyue , Hei Yan , Wang Qi , Wang Xiaoyi , Ma Rui , Yang Xinji , Hu Zhenhua , Wu Wei
Published: October 2024

Precise resection of orbital tumors is a critically important but elusive issue. Fluorescence imaging in the near‐infrared II window (NIR‐II) holds the potential to provide the surgeons with real‐time identification for orbital tumors. Here, for the first time, we evaluated the feasibility and clinical value of NIR‐II fluorescence imaging in orbital tumor surgery. To establish the method of NIR‐II fluorescence imaging for orbital tumors, we developed a NIR‐II fluorescence imaging system and indocyanine green (ICG) served as the fluorescent contrast agent. Twenty‐two patients diagnosed with orbital tumors and scheduled for standard‐of‐care surgery were enrolled in this study. Time‐course NIR‐II fluorescence imaging of two patients with superficial orbital tumors showed the optimum imaging time was 2 h post injection of ICG. Fifteen patients were allocated for diagnostic test, which showed that both the in situ and ex vivo NIR‐II fluorescence imaging showed better sensitivity and specificity than the surgeon judgment. In the feasibility trial of the remaining five patients, the surgeon encountered 34 suspicious regions and surgical decisions were changed nine times due to NIR‐II fluorescence imaging. The resultant seven additional resections were justified by histopathology and the two conservative treatments did not result in recurrence. Based on these findings, we suggested that ICG‐based NIR‐II fluorescence imaging was feasible to guide precise resection of orbital tumors. A future randomized controlled trial with a larger cohort is encouraged to further verify the clinical value.
NAT10 functions as a pivotal regulator in gastric cancer metastasis and tumor immunity
Authors: Mo Yuqian , Huang Enyu , Deng Chao , Huang Haofeng , Zhu Ying , Wei Xinlong , Zhong Jinlin , Wang Yuzhi , Huang Zhigang , Zhang Jingjing
Published: October 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) presents a significant global health burden, with metastasis being the leading cause of treatment failure and mortality. NAT10, a regulatory protein involved in mRNA acetylation, has been implicated in various cancers. However, its role in GC, especially concerning metastasis and immune interactions, remains unclear. Utilizing multi‐omics data from gastric cancer samples, we conducted comprehensive analyses to investigate NAT10 expression, its correlation with clinical parameters and immune relevance. Bioinformatics analysis and digital image processing were employed for this purpose. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to elucidate the functional role of NAT10 in gastric cancer progression, aiming to provide deeper biological insights. Our findings reveal a significant association between NAT10 expression and various aspects of transcriptional, protein, as well as tumor immunity in GC patients. Additionally, we demonstrated that NAT10 promotes gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration, both in cellular models and in animal studies, suggesting its involvement in early tumor microvascular metastasis. NAT10 emerges as a promising molecular target, offering potential avenues for further research into molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for GC.
Effectiveness of the educational training program for Japanese chief residents: A one‐year pilot study
Authors: Nishizawa Toshinori , Nagasaki Kazuya , Tokumasu Kazuki , Kosugi Shunsuke , Hashimoto Tadayuki , Tanaka Kosuke , Hotta Koma , Isoda Sho , Harada Aiko , Ishigame Shinya , Hata Takuma , Nogi Masayuki
Published: October 2024

Background

Multi‐institutional faculty development programs for chief residents were lacking in Japan. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the program for enhancing the knowledge and behaviors of chief residents at the national level.

Methods

Six participants completed self‐assessment questionnaires at three points: before, immediately after, and 6 months post‐program. Knowledge and behavior changes were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Significant improvements in knowledge were observed and maintained at 6 months. However, behavioral changes were limited, with significant improvements only in counseling skills.

Conclusion

The program effectively increased knowledge but faced challenges in translating it into sustained behavioral change.
Family physicians have greater ambiguity tolerance in the clinical context: A nationwide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fujikawa Hirohisa , Aoki Takuya , Ando Takayuki , Haruta Junji
Published: October 2024

Background

Ambiguity tolerance in the clinical context is increasingly recognized as essential for physicians to work as professionals. However, the relationship between specialty and ambiguity tolerance in the clinical context has been understudied. Here, we investigated the association between specialty and ambiguity tolerance in the clinical context, focusing on differences between family physicians (FPs) and non‐FPs.

Methods

We performed a nationwide cross‐sectional study in Japan. We asked FPs from 14 family medicine residency programs across Japan and non‐FPs from monitors of an internet survey company in Japan to participate in the study. We assessed their tolerance for ambiguity using the Japanese version of the Tolerance for Ambiguity in Medical Students and Doctors (J‐TAMSAD) scale.

Results

In total, 388 physicians (178 FPs and 210 non‐FPs) completed our anonymous online survey and were included in the analysis. After adjustment for possible confounders (gender and postgraduate years), FPs had higher J‐TAMSAD scale scores than internists/pediatricians, surgeons, and physicians with other specialties, meaning that FPs had greater ambiguity tolerance.

Conclusions

This study reveals that FPs had greater tolerance for ambiguity in the clinical context than non‐FPs. Our findings suggest that there may be a need to increase non‐FP's tolerance for ambiguity specific to the clinical context through educational interventions, since ambiguity is inherent and growing in medicine today. FPs and non‐FPs should work together to complement each other's strengths, rather than simply improving the training of non‐FPs.
Impact of Biofilms on Surface Properties of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Resins
Authors: Kazmi Syed Ali Danish , Soomro Tahira , Soomro Rimsha , Zeeshan Khan Fouzia , Jabeen Bushra , Abbas Tanveer , Raza Yasir , Mirani Zulfiqar Ali
Published: October 2024

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) resins are widely used in medical and dental applications. Their susceptibility to bacterial biofilm formation poses significant challenges related to material degradation and infection risk. This study investigated the effects of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms on PMMA resin surface properties over a 45‐day period at 35°C. The study examined various parameters including biofilm adhesion, morphology, surface roughness, hydrophobicity, solid fraction, and zeta potential. PMMA resin specimens were inoculated with bacteria and incubated for 45 days. Biofilm adhesion was visually assessed, while surface characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), roughness analysis, contact angle measurements, solid fraction determination, and zeta potential analysis. The P. aeruginosa and S. aureus isolates were selected based on their biofilm‐positive characteristics, which were further confirmed using Congo red and biofilm formation assays through crystal violet staining and spectrophotometric analysis. The results demonstrated robust biofilm adhesion on PMMA surfaces. SEM and AFM imaging revealed textured surfaces with elevated structures and depressions within the biofilm matrix. Biofilm‐exposed resins exhibited significantly increased roughness (Ra = 164.5 nm, Rq = 169.5 nm) and hydrophobicity (mean angle = 85.5°−90.5°) compared to control samples (Ra = 38–50 nm, angle = 55°). Solid fraction measurements indicated a denser biofilm matrix on exposed resins (0.908) compared to controls (0.65). Additionally, zeta potential values were more negative for biofilm‐exposed resins (mean = −84.2 mV) than controls (−45.0 mV). These findings underscore the substantial alterations in PMMA resin surface properties induced by bacterial biofilms, emphasizing the critical need for strategies to prevent biofilm formation and mitigate associated risks in healthcare settings. Future research should focus on developing anti‐biofilm coatings or treatments to preserve the integrity and functionality of PMMA materials.
Isolation, Screening and Identification of Biosurfactant Producing Strain Nocardiopsis dassonvillei var B2 From Oil Contaminated Soil
Authors: Panatula Nalini , Guntuku Girijasankar , Palla Mary Sulakshana , Muthyala Murali Krishna Kumar , Meka Madhavi , Jagadeeswara Reddy D.
Published: October 2024

Petroleum and other oil manufacturing industries contribute to environmental pollution by releasing hazardous hydrocarbons. Biosurfactants offer a sustainable solution for mitigating oil pollution through emulsification processes, safeguarding agricultural soils, aquatic ecosystems, and human health. This study focuses on isolating, screening, and identifying actinomycetes producing biosurfactant from oil‐polluted soil in the naval dockyard of Visakhapatnam. Biosurfactant production was successfully achieved utilizing Kim's medium, which was supplemented with olive oil serving as the carbon source. The evaluation involved preliminary identification tests, including oil displacement, Parafilm‐M, and lipase activity assays, using sodium lauryl sulfate as the standard reference. Surface tension and emulsification index measurements were conducted, and the chemical composition of glycolipids and phospholipids was elucidated using phenol‐sulfuric acid and phosphate assays. Glycolipids, specifically identified as rhamnolipids, were confirmed via cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) testing and quantitatively analyzed using the orcinol method. The cell‐free broth exhibited antagonistic activity against Gram‐positive and negative bacilli.16S rRNA sequencing‐based phylogenetic analysis was carried out by the NCIM, Pune, with the gene sequence being deposited in GenBank. Further characterization of isolate B2 included scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, as well as physiological and biochemical assays. This study highlights the ability of Nocardiopsis dassonvillei var. B2, isolated from oil‐polluted soil, to produce biosurfactants, specifically glycolipids identified as rhamnolipids. Our findings represent the first reported instance of biosurfactant production from isolate B2 originating from the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Gastrointestinal manifestations of Rett syndrome: An updated analysis using the Gastrointestinal Health Questionnaire
Authors: Ihekweazu Faith D. , Motil Kathleen J.
Published: October 2024

Objective

We conducted a nationwide survey using a validated Gastrointestinal Health Questionnaire (GHQ) for Rett syndrome (RTT) to provide an updated and accurate baseline assessment of the prevalence of common gastrointestinal (GI) issues in RTT, based on parental reporting.

Methods

Parents and caregivers of females with RTT or normally developing, unaffected, age‐matched controls completed the GHQ survey. The prevalence of GI symptoms and personality and mood symptoms due to stomach or intestinal problems, as well as GI medication usage and surgical interventions, were assessed in females with RTT and unaffected controls. The relation between GI symptoms and medication usage, surgical status, age, and genetic mutation were analyzed.

Results

Parents of 118 females with RTT and 27 unaffected females completed the GHQ. GI symptoms were common in females with RTT, including constipation (81%), gas and bloating (70%), issues with eating, chewing and swallowing (73%), and irritability because of stomach or intestinal problems (53%). Females with RTT commonly used proton pump inhibitors (52%) and laxatives (64%). Medication usage was associated with significantly higher GHQ symptom scores. Parents of individuals with RTT reported a significantly higher prevalence of GI symptoms affecting their daughters in all symptom categories compared with unaffected females.

Conclusions

GI problems are common in RTT and pose a significant medical burden to caregivers. The GHQ is a useful tool to assess GI issues in individuals with RTT. Improved recognition of these issues may allow for improved treatment and enhanced quality of life for girls and women affected by RTT.
A cross‐sectional study on quality of life in adult indolent systemic mastocytosis and its association with cutaneous involvement
Authors: Isoletta Eugenio , De Silvestri Annalisa , Bonelli Alice , Di Stefano Michele , Bono Elisa , Ferrari Jacqueline , Elena Chiara , Brazzelli Valeria
Published: October 2024

Background

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is characterized by abnormal mast cell accumulation in various tissues, including the skin, and encompasses several clinical variants, ranging from less aggressive to more severe forms. ISM, the most common variant, often presents with cutaneous manifestations, causing significant impairment in QoL due to mediator‐release symptoms and stigma associated with typical cutaneous lesions.

Objectives

The study aimed to assess QoL impairment in ISM patients and its correlation with demographic and clinical data.

Methods

A cohort of 52 adult ISM patients was evaluated using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the mastocytosis QoL questionnaire (MC‐QoL). Questionnaire scores were then analyzed in relation to the clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients.

Results

Over half of the patients experienced mild or higher levels of impairment in QoL, with female patients showing greater impairment than males. Patients with recent symptom onset reported higher MC‐QoL scores, possibly due to psychological factors and lack of disease knowledge. Cutaneous symptoms significantly impacted QoL, and the visibility of lesions affected DLQI scores more than MC‐QoL scores. A moderately strong correlation was observed between DLQI and MC‐QoL scores, particularly in the Skin and Social Life domains. The study highlights gender differences in QoL impairment, suggesting the need for further investigation into potential social or cultural factors.

Conclusions

While the study provides valuable insights into QoL impairment in ISM patients, its monocentric nature and small sample size are notable limitations. Further research is warranted to better understand the impact of SM on patients' well‐being and to identify effective strategies for managing symptoms and improving overall QoL in this population.
A Novel Case of Paraglottic Burkholderia Cepacia Complex Infection Mimicking a Laryngeal Malignancy
Authors: Stewart James A. , Reeves Harrison , Rivers Nicholas , Panuganti Bharat
Published: October 2024

The Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) is a rare pathogen typically causing respiratory illnesses in immunocompromised individuals. We present a novel case of BCC manifesting as a laryngeal abscess, mimicking a laryngeal malignancy in an immunocompetent patient. A 74‐year‐old male presented to the emergency department with acute respiratory failure and was emergently intubated, revealing abnormal supraglottic tissue. ENT consultation post‐extubation and flexible laryngoscopy suggested malignancy in the right supraglottis. A subsequent CT neck showed an expansive paraglottic mass, again consistent with an advanced malignancy. During direct laryngoscopy with biopsy, purulence was encountered, and cultures were obtained. Biopsy results showed benign mucosa with inflammation, and cultures identified BCC. The patient received 7 days of Levofloxacin and Ampicillin‐Sulbactam before culture results. Follow‐up 2 weeks later showed near‐complete symptom resolution, normal supraglottic mucosa on flexible laryngoscopy, and interval CT neck showed resolution of the “mass.” This case involves an unusual presentation of an acute paraglottic BCC infection initially mistaken for a laryngeal mass. BCC is typically a threat to individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) or other immunocompromised states due to its intrinsic antibiotic resistance. However, BCC is rarely implicated in paraglottic infections or abscess formation. This is the first reported case of a laryngeal BCC infection mimicking a laryngeal mass. It underscores the importance of maintaining an open differential diagnosis until pathologic confirmation, even when imaging and clinical examination suggest malignancy. Laryngoscope, 2024
Experimental Study on Enhancement in the Tribological Behaviour of Military Grade Lubricant Using Titanium Dioxide Nanoadditives for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Senthil Kumar M. , Elayaperumal A. , Mada Sankaraiah , Sathyanarayana H.
Published: October 2024

The coefficient of friction of low carbon chromium alloy steel with military grade lubricant was high, resulting in increased heat generation and temperature rise of the lubricant in the aircraft power transmission units such as engine gearbox, accessory gearbox and so on. To address this, the current research proposes the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles to MIL grade lubricant as an additive to enhance the tribological performance. In this experimental study, TiO2 nanolubricant was prepared using various surfactants for better suspension of TiO2 nanoparticles, and properties were evaluated for both base lubricant and nanolubricant. The tribological experiments were conducted using a four ball tester, a shear stability tester and a reichert tester. In a four ball test, TiO2 nanolubricant resulted in a 27.3% reduction in wear scar diameter by the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles to the base lubricant. In a shear stability test, TiO2 nanolubricant showed 80% better shear stability than the base lubricant. In the reichert test, the coefficient of friction was reduced by 13% with the TiO2 nanolubricant. The experimental findings demonstrated that the TiO2 nanoparticles, as an additive to a military grade lubricant, have superior tribological properties for aerospace applications.
Emerging Molecular‐Genetic Families in Dystonia: Endosome‐Autophagosome‐Lysosome and Integrated Stress Response Pathways
Authors: Calakos Nicole , Zech Michael
Published: October 2024

Advances in genetic technologies and disease modeling have greatly accelerated the pace of introducing and validating molecular‐genetic contributors to disease. In dystonia, there is a growing convergence across multiple distinct forms of the disease onto core biological processes. Here, we discuss two of these, the endosome‐autophagosome‐lysosome pathway and the integrated stress response, to highlight recent advances in the field. Using these two pathomechanisms as examples, we further discuss the opportunities that molecular‐genetic grouping of dystonias present to transform dystonia care. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Massive Data HBase Storage Method for Electronic Archive Management
Authors: Su Huaquan , Li Junwei , Guo Li , Wang Wanshuo , Yang Yongjiao , Wen You , Li Kai , Mo Pingyan
Published: October 2024

The acceleration of the digitalization process in enterprise and university education management has generated a massive amount of electronic archive data. In order to improve the intelligence, storage quality, and efficiency of electronic records management and achieve efficient storage and fast retrieval of data storage models, this study proposes a massive data storage model based on HBase and its retrieval optimization scheme design. In addition, HDFS is introduced to construct a two‐level storage structure and optimize values to improve the scalability and load balancing of HBase, and the retrieval efficiency of the HBase storage model is improved through SL‐TCR and BF filters. The results indicated that HDFS could automatically recover data after node, network partition, and NameNode failures. The write time of HBase was 56 s, which was 132 and 246 s less than Cassandra and CockroachDB. The query latency was reduced by 23% and 32%, and the query time was reduced by 9988.51 ms, demonstrating high reliability and efficiency. The delay of BF‐SL‐TCL was 1379.28 s after 1000 searches, which was 224.78 and 212.74 s less than SL‐TCL and Blockchain Retrieval Acceleration and reduced the delay under high search times. In summary, this storage model has obvious advantages in storing massive amounts of electronic archive data and has high security and retrieval efficiency, which provides important reference for the design of storage models for future electronic archive management. The storage model designed by the research institute has obvious advantages in storing massive electronic archive data, solving the problem of lack of scalability in electronic archive management when facing massive data, and has high security and retrieval efficiency. It has important reference for the design of storage models for future electronic archive management.
Towards using active learning methods for human‐seat interactions to generate realistic occupant motion
Authors: Fahse Niklas , Harant Monika , Obentheuer Marius , Linn Joachim , Fehr Jörg
Published: October 2024

In the context of developing new vehicle concepts, especially autonomous vehicles with novel seating arrangements and occupant activities, predicting occupant motion can be a tool for ensuring safety and comfort. In this study, a data‐driven surrogate contact model integrated into an optimal control framework to predict human occupant behavior during driving maneuvers is presented. High‐fidelity finite element simulations are utilized to generate a dataset of interaction forces and moments for various human body configurations and velocities. To automate the generation of training data, an active learning approach is introduced, which iteratively queries the high‐fidelity finite element simulation for an additional dataset. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are demonstrated through a case study of a head interaction with an automotive headrest, showing promising results in accurately replicating contact forces and moments while reducing manual effort.
Case report: Dichloroacetate‐induced methaemoglobinaemia in a G6PD‐deficient neonate
Authors: Tan Ze Lei , Ng Nicholas Beng Hui , Ong Jacqueline Soo May
Published: October 2024

A 3‐week‐old neonate with glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and primary lactic acidosis developed haemolytic jaundice and methaemoglobinaemia following treatment with dichloroacetate (DCA), a standard treatment for primary lactic acidosis. While this mechanism has been reported in the sheep model, it has not been described in humans. Our case reinforces the uncommon observation that a G6PD‐deficient individual experiencing oxidative stress may develop concurrent methaemoglobinaemia. In this case, methylene blue, the standard treatment for methaemoglobinaemia, may result in further oxidative stress. The judicious use of blood transfusion to correct the oxygen‐carrying capacity of our patient led to reversal of the methaemoglobinaemia.
Novel polystyrene‐based light diffusing materials: Introduction of magnesium hydroxide to enhance scattering range and thermal conductivity
Authors: Zhu Huihao , Wang Yu , Wan Zhou , Ma Yulu , Li Guo , Xie Linsheng
Published: October 2024

In high‐power lighting, large‐screen display, and other practical application scenarios, Light diffusing materials (LDMs) with favorable thermal conductivity are desired to assist in heat dissipation. In this paper, platy magnesium hydroxide (pMH) and mesoporous spherical magnesium hydroxide (sMH) were introduced as scattering particles for the first time to prepare polystyrene (PS)‐based LDMs. The limited refractive index mismatch allowed MH to be filled in large quantities with less sacrifice of light transmission performance. Owing to the complex surface morphology and large specific surface area, sMH possesses stronger scattering capability, and its combination addition with pMH could effectively increase scattering range. Meanwhile, an effective filler network was constructed with the combined use of pMH and sMH, and thus enhanced the thermal conductivity of the composites. Additionally, PS/pMH‐sMH composites exhibited higher thermal stability. This study expands the auxiliary thermal management capability of light diffusion materials and presents a new application possibility for MH as scattering particles.

Highlights

A new application possibility for Magnesium hydroxide as scattering particles.

Light transmittance degradation of PS/MH at high filler loadings was mitigated by RI matching.

Complex surface morphology endowed sMH with strong scattering capability.

Optimal filling ratio of pMH to sMH was tested for better scattering performance.

Extended scattering range, improved TC and thermal stability was achieved.
The Oncology QCARD Initiative: Fostering efficient evaluation of initial real‐world data proposals
Authors: Rivera Donna R. , Eckert Joy C. , Rodriguez‐Watson Carla , Lerro Catherine C. , Bertagnolli Monica M. , Hubbard Rebecca A. , Kushi Lawrence H. , Lund Jennifer L. , Schrag Deborah , Wang Shirley V. , Wood William A. , Lee Jennifer J. , Okafor Cristeen , Ghauri Kanwal , Winckler Susan C. , Kluetz Paul G.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The oncology quality, characterization, and assessment of real‐world data (Oncology QCARD) Initiative was formed to develop a set of minimum study design and data elements needed to evaluate the fitness of the real‐world data (RWD) source(s) proposed in an initial study concept as part of early interaction with scientific reviewers.

Methods

A multidisciplinary executive committee (EC) was established to guide the Oncology QCARD Initiative. The EC conducted a landscape review of published literature, guidances, and guidelines to evaluate relevant dimensions of data quality measurement. Guided by the review and informed by expert feedback, the Oncology QCARD Initial Protocol Characterization (IPC) provides a summary of minimum elements needed to adequately describe an initial clinical study concept that involves RWD and is intended to support decision‐making.

Results

Fit‐for‐use data and fit‐for‐purpose design emerged as themes from the landscape analysis. Data that are fit‐for‐use are both relevant (sufficiently capturing exposure, outcomes, and covariates) and reliable (understanding data accrual and quality control and whether the data represent the underlying concepts they are intended to represent) to answer a specific research question. A fit‐for‐purpose design takes appropriate steps to ensure internal and external validity and allows for transparency in reporting. The QCARD‐IPC focuses on high‐level characteristics of RWD sources and study design domains including data temporality, population, medical product exposure, comparators, and covariates, endpoints, statistical analysis, and data quality assurance plans.

Conclusions

Evaluation of studies including RWD requires understanding the data source, study design, and potential biases to preliminarily evaluate whether selected RWD are fit‐for‐use for the research question. The Oncology QCARD‐IPC provides a structured, transparent approach to facilitate early review and enhanced communication between study sponsors and scientific reviewers of initial study proposals including RWD.
High‐precision numerical simulation method for thermal–mechanical coupling in rubbers
Authors: Zhang Li , Li Zhi , Fu Qiang , Tang Nian , Pan Siwei , Lin Musong , Wang Baocheng , Bai Pengxiang , Qiao Dan , Zhang Bo , Huang Fei
Published: October 2024

Improving the precision of numerical simulations in thermal–mechanical coupling for amorphous polymer materials is crucial for their effective utilization. To enhance the precision of rubber numerical simulations, this study proposed a method considering the temperature and strain rate to establish tensile testing conditions based on the principle of time–temperature equivalence. Additionally, to obtain more precise parameters for hyperelastic constitutive equations, stress relaxation experiments were conducted to determine a set of stress values under complete rubber stress relaxation, which were used to fit the hyperelastic components of the hyper‐viscoelastic algorithm. A finite element model of rubber rebound was established, and a hyperelastic model based on loss factor and a hyperelastic model based on Prony series (hyper‐viscoelastic) were used to calculate the temperature changes caused by rubber rebound coefficient and energy dissipation during the rebound process at 110, 120, and 130°C. We compared the calculation results of these two algorithms with experimental data to verify their accuracy. The research results show that the average error of the rebound coefficient of the hyperelastic algorithm at three temperatures is 3.63%, and the average error of the rebound coefficient of the hyper‐viscoelastic algorithm at these three temperatures is 0.93%. The comparison with the rebound test results shows that the hyper‐viscoelastic method is more accurate and better captures the viscoelastic hysteresis of rubber, but the model calculation time is longer. In addition, at the moment of rebound sample impact, the maximum temperature rise amplitude of the hyperelastic algorithm sample impact position is 2.60, 1.75, and 0.91°C, which are 110, 120, and 130°C, respectively; The maximum heating amplitudes of the hyper‐viscoelastic algorithm are 2.05, 1.35, and 0.61°C. The hyper‐viscoelastic algorithm is closer to the actual test results.

Highlights

Applied the principle of time–temperature equivalence.

Determination of material parameters using the hyper‐viscoelastic algorithm.

Calculated the temperature change during the rubber rebound process.
Synthesis and characterization of novel electrospun nanofibers based on taro starch: influence of solvent and isolation agent on morphology and diameter
Authors: Sawitri Asti , Luthfianti Halida Rahmi , Hapidin Dian Ahmad , Edikresnha Dhewa , Palar Pramudita Satria , Surtiyeni Neni , Wibowo Arie , Khairurrijal Khairurrijal
Published: October 2024

The utilization of natural polymers in producing electrospun nanofibers has received significant attention due to their biocompatibility, sustainability and diverse range of applications. This research focuses on synthesizing electrospun nanofibers derived from taro starch isolated from tubers. The investigation utilized SEM to examine the structure and size of the electrospun nanofibers. Formic acid and dimethyl sulfoxide solvents were tested to determine the most efficient solvent system for synthesizing taro starch nanofibers. The results demonstrated that the taro starch nanofibers can be effectively synthesized when using formic acid as the primary solvent. The study also investigated the impact of altering the volumetric ratio of formic acid to water on nanofiber morphology and size, finding that a lower formic acid fraction produced smooth fibers while a higher fraction resulted in fused fibers. The electrospinnability was further evaluated by comparing the effects of different isolation agents—distilled water and sodium metabisulfite—during the isolation process. The isolation agent significantly affected the fiber diameter, with notable differences observed in the smoothness of taro starch nanofibers at starch solution concentrations of 13, 15 and 17 wt%. Overall, the results of the study showed that the formation of taro starch fibers was influenced by the type of solvent, the volume fraction of the solvent to water, and the starch isolation agent. Successful fabrication of nanofibers from taro starch and its optimization parameters can contribute to the development of environmentally friendly nanofiber materials and offer a variety of applications in biomedicine, food and environmental engineering, such as tissue engineering, wound dressing, drug delivery, functional food delivery and food packaging. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Radical Copolymerization of 2‐Thiocyanatoethyl Substituted Acrylate to Introduce Thiol‐Acrylate‐Based Dynamic Bonds as Degradable Linker
Authors: Ye Feiyang , Yue Chaowei , Li Yifan
Published: October 2024

We employ the 1,4‐cyano group migration radical polymerization strategy to copolymerize acrylates with 2‐thiocyanate ethyl substituted acrylates. The radical copolymerization can be effectively controlled using reversible addition−fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization. This approach can incorporate thiol‐acrylate‐based dynamic bonds within the polymer main chain. Utilizing these dynamic bonds, we degrade the polymers under mild basic conditions, achieved with the assistance of 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) to facilitate the reversible thiol‐Michael addition. Notably, high degradation efficiency is observed. This study exemplifies the application of 2‐thiocyanate ethyl substituted acrylate in radical copolymerization to produce degradable polymers.
New advances in RSV: Is prevention attainable?
Authors: Zar Heather J.
Published: October 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), hospitalization, and mortality in infants and young children globally. The greatest burden of severe disease and mortality occurs in low‐middle income countries (LMICs), with large and vulnerable childhood populations. The highest rates of RSV‐hospitalization occur in healthy‐term infants under 3 months of age. Preterm infants, children with chronic lung disease of prematurity, Down's syndrome, congenital heart disease, or immunodeficiency also have a higher risk of severe RSV‐LRTI. Early‐life RSV‐LRTI has also been associated with chronic sequelae, including recurrent LRTI, recurrent wheezing, asthma, and lung function impairment. A RSV pre‐fusion (F) maternal vaccine and long‐acting monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab) have been licensed for the prevention of RSV‐LRTI in infants and young children. Studies show high efficacy and effectiveness particularly for preventing severe RSV‐LRTI. Maternal RSV vaccine given at 24–36 weeks of pregnancy was effective in preventing RSV medically attended LRTI and severe RSV‐LRTI through 6 months after birth in a phase 3 study conducted in 18 countries over two RSV seasons. Vaccination was safe with no significant difference in adverse events between infants born to mothers who received RSV preF vaccine compared to placebo. A numerical imbalance in preterm births that occurred predominantly in South Africa, unrelated to vaccine timing or gestational age at vaccination and unassociated with mortality, coincided with COVID‐19 delta and omicron waves. Nirsevimab, given as a single dose prior or during the RSV season, had high efficacy in preventing RSV‐LRTI hospitalization in infants in preterm and in full‐term infants, as well as in young children with underlying conditions through 150 days post administration in phase 2 and 3 trials. High effectiveness against hospitalization or severe disease in infants and in at‐risk children up to 2 years of age has also been reported in several countries where implementation has occurred. RSV‐LRTI is now a preventable disease in infants and young children. Rapid implementation of these highly effective interventions has occurred in many high‐income countries, but access remains very limited in LMICs. Access to such RSV preventive interventions is urgently needed for all children to strengthen child health and promote global equity.
Shannon Wavelet‐Based Approximation Scheme for Information Entropy Integrals in Confined Domain
Authors: Banik Sayan
Published: October 2024

In this work, the author attempted to develop a Shannon wavelet‐based numerical scheme to approximate the information entropies in both configuration and momentum space corresponding to the ground and adjacent excited energy states of one‐dimensional Schrödinger equation appearing in non‐relativistic quantum mechanics. The development of this scheme is based on the judicious use of sinc scale functions as an approximation basis and a suitable numerical quadrature to approximate entropies in position and momentum spaces. Priori and posteriori errors appearing in the approximations of wave functions and entropy integrals have been discussed. The scheme (coded in Python) has been subsequently exercised for various exactly solvable and quasi‐exactly solvable non‐relativistic quantum mechanical models in confined domain.
Quantitative Assessment of Ecological Flow in the Yellow River Under Changing Environments
Authors: Guo Wenxian , Jiao Xuyang , Wang Baoliang , Huang Lintong , Wang Hongxiang
Published: October 2024

Studying the streamflow characteristics of the Yellow River mainstem under changing environmental conditions is crucial for the management and sustainable development of water resources within its basin. This research employs a long short‐term memory (LSTM) model to restore the flow characteristics of the Yellow River's mainstream under natural conditions. Additionally, the range of variation approach (RVA) and nonparametric kernel density estimation (KDE) method are integrated to quantitatively assess the impact of environmental changes on streamflow. The findings indicate that: (1) Hydrological variability in the Yellow River was observed in 1985, with a degree of variability ranging from 26% to 58%, classified as moderate. (2) The annual ecological flow value of the Yellow River is 560–1001 m3/s, and the average annual ecological flow assurance is 43%. (3) Based on LSTM simulation results (NSE > 0.7, R2 > 0.8), it is concluded that the ecological flow assurance under natural conditions in the Yellow River exceeds the measured values, primarily due to human activities, which contribute over 52% to this discrepancy. These results suggest that the river ecosystem of the Yellow River's mainstem is relatively unstable and requires further management.
Heterogeneous Mediation Analysis for Cox Proportional Hazards Model With Multiple Mediators
Authors: Sun Rongqian , Song Xinyuan
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a heterogeneous mediation analysis for survival data that accommodates multiple mediators and sparsity of the predictors. We introduce a joint modeling approach that links the mediation regression and proportional hazards models through Bayesian additive regression trees with shared typologies. The shared tree component is motivated by the fact that confounders and effect modifiers on the causal pathways linked by different mediators often overlap. A sparsity‐inducing prior is incorporated to capture the most relevant confounders and effect modifiers on different causal pathways. The individual‐specific interventional direct and indirect effects are derived on the scale of the logarithm of hazards and survival function. A Bayesian approach with an efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is developed to estimate the conditional interventional effects through the Monte Carlo implementation of the mediation formula. Simulation studies are conducted to verify the empirical performance of the proposed method. An application to the ACTG175 study further demonstrates the method's utility in causal discovery and heterogeneity quantification.
MgCo2O4@g‐C3N4 Composite Induced Peroxymonosulfate Activation for Effective Degradation of Tetracycline Under Visible Light
Authors: Xu Yang , Liao Huiwei , Deng Qiulin
Published: October 2024

The composite Fenton catalyst was prepared by attaching MgCo2O4 to the surface of g‐C3N4 using a one‐pot method after preparing MgCo2O4 through co‐precipitation. The microstructure of the composites was analyzed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and other characterization methods. The catalytic activity of the composites towards tetracycline (TC) was studied, and a possible catalytic mechanism was proposed. The experimental results indicate that the degradation of TC by MgCo2O4@g‐C3N4 reached almost 99.0 % within 30 min in the presence of PMS and visible light. The combination of MgCo2O4 and g‐C3N4 improved the absorption of visible light, and the energy level‐matched heterojunction facilitated the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes, accelerating the redox cycle of ≡Co3+/≡Co2+. The free radical quenching experiment confirmed that the main active substances were free radical ⋅O2− and 1O2. The one‐step synthesis of composite catalysts exhibits high catalytic performance and good stability, offering a potential solution for the efficient treatment of tetracycline wastewater.