bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel temperature‐controlled device with standardized manipulation improves chronic back pain mediated by modulating deep muscle thickness: A multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Li , Wang Ying , Gao Yinqiu , Liu Shu , Yang Guangjing , Lv Xiaoying , Sun Ya Xuan , Wu Ying , Li Jinlin , Zhou Jiayan , Chen Guang
Published: June 2024

Background

Chronic back pain affected 619 million people globally in 2020 which accounts for a heavy disease burden causing tremendous productivity losses. Current therapies including ibuprofen, duloxetine, and opioids might cause side effects and even severe drug use disorders. Therefore, a non‐pharmacologic therapy with better or equivalent efficacy and fewer side effects is needed.

Methods

We did a multi‐center, single‐blinded, randomized, positive drug controlled, clinical trial. Patients with chronic back pain in moderate severity were randomized into receiving hot stone massage or flurbiprofen plaster group. Both interventions were 2 weeks with a follow‐up of 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in the score of the Global Pain Scale (GPS) from baseline to week 2. Secondary outcomes included Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (CPAQ), Pain Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Short Form‐36 (SF36) from baseline to week 2 and week 6. Exploratory outcome assessment included the muscle thickness measured by ultrasound. Any adverse event was monitored throughout the study period.

Results

A total of 120 patients were enrolled in this trial. At 2 weeks GPS decreased significantly in the hot stone massage group compared to the flurbiprofen group (difference between groups = ‐8.1 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] ‐15.8 to ‐0.3, p = 0.047). Moreover, hot stone massage also showed more improvement at 2 weeks compared to flurbiprofen, including NRS (‐0.5 points, 95% CI ‐1.0 to ‐0.1, p = 0.029), PSEQ (5.4 points, 95% CI 0.5 to 10.2, p = 0.030), and mental component of Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) (1.7 points, 95% CI 0.4 to 2.9, p = 0.010), but not in CPAQ (p = 0.131), HADS (p = 0.303 for depression, p = 0.399 for anxiety), or SF‐36 (p = 0.129 for physical component, p = 0.246 for social component, p = 0.076 for fatigue component). A total of two participants in the hot stone massage group reported mild pain on skin surface when receiving the procedure at the first intervention session.
Advances in bacteria‐based drug delivery systems for anti‐tumor therapy
Authors: Shuwen Han , Yifei Song , Xinyue Wu , Zhanbo Qu , Xiang Yu , Xi Yang
Published: June 2024

In recent years, bacteria have gained considerable attention as a promising drug carrier that is critical in improving the effectiveness and reducing the side effects of anti‐tumor drugs. Drug carriers can be utilised in various forms, including magnetotactic bacteria, bacterial biohybrids, minicells, bacterial ghosts and bacterial spores. Additionally, functionalised and engineered bacteria obtained through gene engineering and surface modification could provide enhanced capabilities for drug delivery. This review summarises the current studies on bacteria‐based drug delivery systems for anti‐tumor therapy and discusses the prospects and challenges of bacteria as drug carriers. Furthermore, our findings aim to provide new directions and guidance for the research on bacteria‐based drug systems.
Cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic overlap in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and response to sacubitril/valsartan in PARAGON‐HF
Authors: Lassen Mats C.H. , Ostrominski John W. , Claggett Brian L. , Packer Milton , Zile Michael , Desai Akshay S. , Shah Amil M. , Cikes Maja , Merkely Bela , Gori Mauro , Wang Xiaowen , Hegde Sheila M. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Lefkowitz Martin , McMurray John J.V. , Solomon Scott D. , Vaduganathan Muthiah
Published: June 2024

Aims

Cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic (CKM) multimorbidity is prevalent among individuals with heart failure (HF), but whether cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment response to sacubitril/valsartan vary in relation to CKM status is unknown.

Methods and results

In this PARAGON‐HF post‐hoc analysis, we evaluated the impact of CKM multimorbidity (atherosclerotic cardiovascular [CV] disease, chronic kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes) on cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan. The primary outcome was a composite of total HF hospitalizations and CV death. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome and a composite kidney outcome (sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction of ≥50%, end‐stage kidney disease, or kidney‐related death). At baseline, 35.2% had one CKM condition, 33.3% had two, 15.9% had three, and only 15.6% had HF alone. CKM multimorbidity was associated with higher septal and posterior wall thickness, lower global longitudinal strain, higher E/e', and worse right ventricular function. Total HF hospitalizations or CV death increased with greater CKM multimorbidity, with the highest relative risk observed with three CKM conditions (rate ratio 3.06, 95% confidence interval 2.33–4.03), compared with HF alone. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of the number of CKM conditions for the primary endpoint (pinteraction = 0.75), CV death (pinteraction = 0.82), total HF hospitalizations (pinteraction = 0.67), and the composite kidney endpoint (pinteraction = 0.99).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic multimorbidity was common in PARAGON‐HF and associated with adverse changes in cardiac structure and function and with a stepwise increase in risk of clinical outcomes. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of CKM burden.

Clinical Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01920711.
Astronomical forcing in Eocene coal‐bearing series: A case study from the Pinghu Formation in Xihu Sag, East China Sea Shelf Basin
Authors: Zhang Tianchang , Qin Lanzhi , Shao Longyi , Kang Shilong , Li Shuxia , Dang Xingyu , Shen Wenchao , Zhou Qianyu
Published: June 2024

The coal‐bearing series of the Eocene Pinghu Formation is one of the focused reservoir exploration in the Xihu Sag. This study conducted a cyclostratigraphy time series analysis using natural gamma‐ray (GR) logging data from four boreholes of the Xihu Sag. The spectral analysis shows a good match with the La2004 orbital solution. The sedimentation duration calculated by the astronomical age models spans at least 4.31–5.94 Myr, with an average sedimentation rate of 13.47–18.57 cm/kyr. The Pinghu Formation is subdivided into 1 second‐order, 3 third‐order and 14 fourth‐order sequences within seismic, well logging and 405 kyr‐long cycles constraints. Based on available age‐control data, the Pinghu Formation is corresponding to the middle‐late Eocene. The floating astronomical timescale of XH‐3 borehole now provides a new age constraint for the Pinghu Formation. There are four shorter‐term (<2 Myr) regional sea‐level cycles in the Pinghu Formation, which are similar to the calibrated global sea‐level fluctuations. Inconsistencies between reconstructed sea‐level curve by sedimentary noise modelling and true sea level inferred from lithology and sequence reveal various sources of noise in the sedimentary record. Variations in the distribution and thickness of coal seams in the Pinghu Formation appear to be a stratigraphic response to astronomical and non‐astronomical forcing such as regional tectonicssm and facies changes.
Cost‐Effective and Scalable Enzyme‐Mediated Preparation of Short‐Chain Primary Amines
Authors: Gianolio Stefania , Rassati Beatrice , Paradisi Francesca
Published: June 2024

Amines, crucial components in various industries, play a pivotal role in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. Recognizing the environmental impact of conventional methods for their preparation, our study centers on the utilization of abundantly available natural molecules, specifically amino acids, as precursors for short chain amine synthesis. This paper focuses on the biocatalyst, L‐valine decarboxylase from Streptomyces viridifaciens (VlmD), delving into the substrate scope, catalytic activity, and cost‐effective scalability of an enzymatic process for amine synthesis. Additionally, we investigate the feasibility of immobilizing VlmD, aiming to pave the way for its effective use in industrial applications. Our study exploits the SpinChem system and provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential and limitations of this biocatalyst. Notably, our yields for key amines (8.42 g ⋅ d−1 for isobutylamine, 5.23 g ⋅ d−1 for isoamylamine, 5.16 g ⋅ d−1 for (S)‐2‐methylbutylamine, 3.78 g ⋅ d−1 for 3‐(methylthio)propylamine, and 10.52 g ⋅ d−1 for (R)‐1‐amino‐2‐propanol) demonstrate the process efficiency and potential for industrial scalability.
Alignment between water inputs and vegetation green‐up reduces next year's runoff efficiency
Authors: Newcomb Sarah K. , Van Kirk Robert W. , Godsey Sarah E. , Kraft Maggi
Published: June 2024

In the western United States, water supplies largely originate as snowmelt from forested land. Forests impact the water balance of these headwater streams, yet most predictive runoff models do not explicitly account for changing snow‐vegetation dynamics. Here, we present a case study showing how warmer temperatures and changing forests in the Henrys Fork of the Snake River, a seasonally snow‐covered headwater basin in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, have altered the relationship between April 1st snow water equivalent (SWE) and summer streamflow. Since the onset and recovery of severe drought in the early 2000s, predictive models based on pre‐drought relationships over‐predict summer runoff in all three headwater tributaries of the Henrys Fork, despite minimal changes in precipitation or snow accumulation. Compared with the pre‐drought period, late springs and summers (May–September) are warmer and vegetation is greener with denser forests due to recovery from multiple historical disturbances. Shifts in the alignment of snowmelt and energy availability due to warmer temperatures may reduce runoff efficiency by changing the amount of precipitation that goes to evapotranspiration versus runoff and recharge. To quantify the alignment between snowmelt and energy on a timeframe needed for predictive models, we propose a new metric, the Vegetation‐Water Alignment Index (VWA), to characterize the synchrony of vegetation greenness and snowmelt and rain inputs. New predictive models show that in addition to April 1st SWE, the previous year's VWA and summer reference evapotranspiration are the most significant predictors of runoff in each watershed and provide more predictive power than traditionally used metrics. These results suggest that the timing of snowmelt relative to the start of the growing season affects not only annual partitioning of streamflow, but can also determine the groundwater storage state that dictates runoff efficiency the following spring.
Analysis of sediment sources and sinks based on the RUSLE model and sediment delivery ratio model
Authors: Xu Zan , Zhang Shanghong , Wu Chuansen , Jiang Qi , Zhou Yang
Published: June 2024

Sediment sources and sinks are an effective reflection of the comprehensive management of soil and water conservation in a watershed. However, human interference has made the sediment transport process in watersheds more complex. Research that distinguishes hillslopes and channels to reveal changes in sediment sources and sinks within a watershed and the relationships with key driving factors requires strengthening. In this study, the characteristics of sediment sources and sinks on hillslopes in the Mahuyu watershed, located on the Loess Plateau, were simulated using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation model and hillslope sediment delivery ratio model. Furthermore, variations in channel scour and siltation at the event scale were analysed based on the simulated hillslope sediment yield and measured sediment yield at the outlet station. Additionally, the principal hydrological driving factors affecting the sediment yield at the outlet were explored. The results show that 66 sediment yield events occurred in the Mahuyu watershed during the period 2006–2018, and channel sediment yield has emerged as the leading contributor to the watershed sediment yield, accounting for a minimum of 69.8%. There is also a marked decoupling between hillslope sediment yield and watershed sediment yield in the Mahuyu watershed. Furthermore, the maximum daily average streamflow is identified as the critical driving factor responsible for determining the watershed sediment yield, indicated by a coefficient of determination of 0.850. Therefore, we recommend that the future focus of soil and water conservation measures should be shifted from hillslopes to channels.
Runoff from an extensive green roof during extreme events: Insights from 15 years of observations
Authors: Paus Kim H. , Braskerud Bent C.
Published: June 2024

While green roofs have gained widespread popularity as a measure to detain and retain runoff in urban areas, their performance during extreme events is not well studied. In this study 15 years of runoff and precipitation observations from a small extensive green roof in Norway are analysed. GEV‐distributions were fitted to the annual max values for precipitation and runoff in order to develop intensity‐duration‐frequency (IDF) and runoff‐duration‐frequency (RDF) data. Using the IDF and RDF data a total of 31 extreme events were identified (containing precipitation or runoff values with return period greater than 2 years for one or more durations). While nearly all extreme runoff events were caused by extreme precipitation, only 69% of the extreme precipitation events resulted in extreme runoff. The assumption of 1:1 equivalency of return periods did not hold true, and deviations were mainly explained by variations in substrate water content prior to the extreme event. Moreover, in 50% of the events, the runoff duration with the greatest return period was shorter than the precipitation duration with the greatest return period. Hence, the results indicate that the use of design storms to predict runoff from green roofs may be inappropriate. The potential of having IDF and RDF data available was demonstrated by the development of simple empirical equations, which ensure conservations of both return period and duration. To generate reliable green roof RDF data, future research should prioritize evaluating various continuous models with the aim of accurately describing extreme events.
Forecasting reserve risk for temporal dependent losses in insurance
Authors: Araichi Sawssen , de Peretti Christian , Belkacem Lotfi
Published: June 2024

In non‐life insurance, insurance companies aim to accurately assess their reserves in order to fulfil their future obligations. They are based on methods provided by the literature review to evaluate their reserve risk. However, these methods do not take all claim characteristics and ignore the temporal dependence structure of claims, which can affect reserve amounts and lead to delayed payments for policyholders. Therefore, the aim is to investigate the temporal dependence structure among claim amounts (losses) in order to evaluate the accurate amounts of reserves. To achieve this goal, a model called the Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Sinistrality Model is proposed, which considers the temporal dependence characteristics of claims. This model is used to estimate model parameters, so the consistency of such an estimate is proven. Additionally, a bootstrap method adjusted to the Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Sinistrality model is proposed for predicting reserves and errors. The results reveal that considering temporal dependence between losses improves reserve distribution estimation and enhances solvency capital requirement. This means that insurance companies will be able to ensure they have sufficient funds available to meet their obligations to policyholders, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and trust. Additionally, this can assist insurance companies in maintaining better regulatory compliance.
Virtual‐point‐based deconvolution for optical‐resolution photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Yao Rui , DiSpirito Anthony , Jang Hongje , McGarraugh Colton Thomas , Nguyen Van Tu , Shi Lingyan , Yao Junjie
Published: June 2024

Optical‐resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR‐PAM) has been increasingly utilized for in vivo imaging of biological tissues, offering structural, functional, and molecular information. In OR‐PAM, it is often necessary to make a trade‐off between imaging depth, lateral resolution, field of view, and imaging speed. To improve the lateral resolution without sacrificing other performance metrics, we developed a virtual‐point‐based deconvolution algorithm for OR‐PAM (VP‐PAM). VP‐PAM has achieved a resolution improvement ranging from 43% to 62.5% on a single‐line target. In addition, it has outperformed Richardson‐Lucy deconvolution with 15 iterations in both structural similarity index and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio on an OR‐PAM image of mouse brain vasculature. When applied to an in vivo glass frog image obtained by a deep‐penetrating OR‐PAM system with compromised lateral resolution, VP‐PAM yielded enhanced resolution and contrast with better‐resolved microvessels.
Optical parameters of healthy and tumor breast tissues in mice
Authors: Genina Elina A. , Lazareva Ekaterina N. , Surkov Yuri I. , Serebryakova Isabella A. , Shushunova Natalya A.
Published: June 2024

Knowledge of the optical parameters of tumors is important for choosing the correct laser treatment parameters. In this paper, optical properties and refraction indices of breast tissue in healthy mice and a 4T1 model mimicking human breast cancer have been measured. A significant decrease in both the scattering and refractive index of tumor tissue has been observed. The change in tissue morphology has induced the change in the slope of the scattering spectrum. Thus, the light penetration depth into tumor has increased by almost 1.5–2 times in the near infrared “optical windows.” Raman spectra have shown lower lipid content and higher protein content in tumor. The difference in the optical parameters of the tissues under study makes it possible to reliably differentiate them. The results may be useful for modeling the distribution of laser radiation in healthy tissues and cancers for deriving optimal irradiation conditions in photodynamic therapy.
Acquisition Efficiency and Technical Repeatability of Dual‐Frequency 3D Vector MR Elastography of the Liver
Authors: Qiu Caixin , Glaser Kevin J. , Owusu Nana , Li Jiahui , Wu Hao , Venkatesh Sudhakar K. , Manduca Armando , Ehman Richard L. , Yin Meng
Published: June 2024

Background

MR elastography (MRE) at 60 Hz is widely used for staging liver fibrosis. MRE with lower frequencies may provide inflammation biomarkers.

Purpose

To establish a practical simultaneous dual‐frequency liver MRE protocol at both 30 Hz and 60 Hz during a single examination and validate the occurrence of second harmonic waves at 30 Hz.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

One hundred six patients (48 females, age: 50.0 ± 13.4 years) were divided as follows: Cohort One (15 patients with chronic liver disease [CLD] and 25 healthy volunteers) with simultaneous dual‐frequency MRE. Cohort Two (66 patients with CLD) with second harmonic MRE.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, single‐ or dual‐frequency MRE at 30 Hz and 60 Hz.

Assessment

Liver stiffness (LS) in both cohorts was evaluated with manually placed volumetric ROIs by two independent analyzers. Image quality was assessed by three independent readers on a 4‐point scale (0–3: none/failed, fair, moderate, excellent) based on the depth of wave propagation with 1/3 incremental penetration. The success rate was derived from the percentage of nonzero quality scores.

Statistical Tests

Measurement agreement, bias, and repeatability of LS were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Bland–Altman plots, and repeatability coefficient (RC). Mann–Whitney U tests were used to evaluate the differences in image quality between different methods. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Success rate was 97.5% in Cohort One and 91% success rate for the second harmonic MRE in Cohort Two. The second harmonic and conventional MRE showed excellent agreement in LS (all ICCs >0.90). The quality scores for the second harmonic wave images were lower than those from the conventional MRE (Z = −4.523).

Data Conclusion

Compared with conventional and second harmonic methods, simultaneous dual‐frequency had better image quality, high success rate and the advantage of intrinsic co‐registration, while the second harmonic method can be an alternative if custom waveform is not available.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Identification of transcriptionally‐active human papillomavirus integrants through nanopore sequencing reveals viable targets for gene therapy against cervical cancer
Authors: Zhao Qianqian , Yang Shuaibing , Hao Shijia , Chen Zejia , Tang Lihua , Wu Zhaoting , Wu Jiaxin , Xu Mingqian , Ma Zebiao , Zhou Li , Xu Jianzhen , Qin Qingsong
Published: June 2024

Integration of the human papillomavirus (HPV) genome into the cellular genome is a key event that leads to constitutive expression of viral oncoprotein E6/E7 and drives the progression of cervical cancer. However, HPV integration patterns differ on a case‐by‐case basis among related malignancies. Next‐generation sequencing technologies still face challenges for interrogating HPV integration sites. In this study, utilizing Nanopore long‐read sequencing, we identified 452 and 108 potential integration sites from the cervical cancer cell lines (CaSki and HeLa) and five tissue samples, respectively. Based on long Nanopore chimeric reads, we were able to analyze the methylation status of the HPV long control region (LCR), which controls oncogene E6/E7 expression, and to identify transcriptionally‐active integrants among the numerous integrants. As a proof of concept, we identified an active HPV integrant in between RUNX2 and CLIC5 on chromosome 6 in the CaSki cell line, which was supported by ATAC‐seq, H3K27Ac ChIP‐seq, and RNA‐seq analysis. Knockout of the active HPV integrant, by the CRISPR/Cas9 system, dramatically crippled cell proliferation and induced cell senescence. In conclusion, identifying transcriptionally‐active HPV integrants with Nanopore sequencing can provide viable targets for gene therapy against HPV‐associated cancers.
Evidences support that dengue virus can impart broad‐spectrum immunity against betacoronaviruses in dengue endemic regions
Authors: Mallick Abinash , Sukla Soumi , De Abhishek , Biswas Subhajit
Published: June 2024

COVID‐19 tended to be less aggressive in dengue endemic regions. Conversely, dengue cases plummeted in dengue endemic zones during the active years of the pandemic (2020–2021). We and others have demonstrated serological cross‐reactivity between these two viruses of different families. We further demonstrated that COVID‐19 serum samples that were cross‐reactive in dengue virus (DV) serological tests, “cross‐neutralized” all DV serotypes in Huh7 cells. Here we showed by co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging that severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)‐coronavirus (CoV)‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) spike (S) protein subunit S1 and S2 monoclonal antibodies can indeed, bind to DV particles. Likewise, DV envelope antibodies (DV E Abs) showed high docking frequency with other human pathogenic beta‐CoVs and murine hepatitis virus‐1 (MHV‐1). SARS‐CoV‐2 Ab didn't show docking or Co‐IP with MHV‐1 supporting poor cross‐protection among CoVs. DV E Abs showed binding to MHV‐1 (AFM, Co‐IP, and immunofluorescence) and prepandemic dengue patients' serum samples even “cross‐neutralized” MHV‐1 plaques in cell culture. Furthermore, dengue serum samples showed marked inhibition potential in a surrogate virus‐based competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, used for determining neutralizing Abs against SARS‐CoV‐2 S protein receptor‐binding domain in COVID‐19 serum samples. We therefore, provide multiple evidence as to why CoVs are epidemiologically less prevalent in highly dengue endemic regions globally.
An Overview on Nocardiopsis Species Originating From North African Biotopes as a Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds and In Silico Genome Mining Analysis of Three Sequenced Genomes
Authors: Ouchene Rima , Zaatout Nawel , Suzuki Marcelino T.
Published: June 2024

Actinobacteria are renowned for their prolific production of diverse bioactive secondary metabolites. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on exploring “rare” genera within this phylum for biodiscovery purposes, notably the Nocardiopsis genus, which will be the subject of the present study. Recognizing the absence of articles describing the research process of finding bioactive molecules from the genus Nocardiopsis in North African environments. We, therefore, present a historical overview of the discoveries of bioactive molecules of the genus Nocardiopsis originating from the region, highlighting their biological activities and associated reported molecules, providing a snapshot of the current state of the field, and offering insights into future opportunities and challenges for drug discovery. Additionally, we present a genome mining analysis of three genomes deposited in public databases that have been reported to be bioactive. A total of 36 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) were identified, including those known to encode bioactive molecules. Notably, a substantial portion of the BGCs showed little to no similarity to those previously described, suggesting the possibility that the analyzed strains could be potential producers of new compounds. Further research on these genomes is essential to fully uncovering their biotechnological potential. Moving forward, we discuss the experimental designs adopted in the reported studies, as well as new avenues to guide the exploration of the Nocardiopsis genus in North Africa.
Shape modelling reveals age‐related knee bony shape changes in asymptomatic knees
Authors: Nguyen Katherine , Perriman Diana M. , Scarvell Jennie M. , Pickering Mark R. , Galvin Catherine R. , Smith Paul N. , Lynch Joseph T.
Published: June 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) causes bony shape changes within the knee. Furthermore, the risk of developing OA increases with age. However, age alone does not cause OA. It is therefore important to understand the healthy age‐related trajectories of knee shape before attributing these changes to OA. The aim of this study was to determine the association between bony knee shape and age using statistical‐shape modelling (SSM). 96 participants received a CT scan of their knee. Three‐dimensional models were created using manual segmentation. Separate SSM's for the distal femur and proximal tibia were created. Linear regression models were used to assess the association between age and femoral and tibial shape. Fourteen modes of the femoral and tibial SSM's captured 68% and 73% shape variation, respectively. Only femoral mode 3 and tibial mode 7 were associated with age. Increasing age was related to larger femoral bone volume and deepening of the femoral trochlear groove. Furthermore, increased age was associated with medial tibial plateau expansion. Aspects of bony femoral and tibial shape were significantly associated with aging, including femoral and tibial bone size, femoral trochlear groove, and medial tibial plateau area. Changes in knee morphology occur as a normal process of aging without osteoarthritis development. This may be a response to mechanical loading over time. Further research investigating the effect of these changes on loading in the knee may provide valuable information for knee health in older age.
Kinematical alignment better restores native patellar tracking pattern than mechanical alignment
Authors: Kim Yong Deok , Lim Dohyung , Kwak Dai‐Soon , Cho Nicole , Koh In Jun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess whether kinematic alignment (KA) outperforms mechanical alignment (MA) in restoring patellar tracking to native patterns by using a clustering algorithm.

Methods

Twenty cadavers (40 knees) were evaluated. For each cadaver, one knee was randomly assigned to KA and the other to MA. KA total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures were performed using a caliper‐verified technique, while MA TKA procedures utilized a measured resection technique. Subsequently, all specimens were mounted on a customized knee‐testing system, and patellar tracking was measured using a motion analysis system. All patellar tracking data were clustered using the density‐based spatial clustering of applications with noise algorithm. Differences in patellar tracking patterns and the restoration of native patellar tracking were compared between the two alignment strategies.

Results

Patellar tracking patterns following KA were considerably different from MA. Pre‐ and post‐TKA patellar tracking patterns following MA were grouped into separate clusters, whereas a substantial proportion of patellar tracking patterns following KA were grouped into the pre‐TKA dominant cluster. Compared to MA, a greater proportion of patellar tracking patterns following KA showed similar patterns to native knees (p < 0.05) and more patellar tracking patterns following KA paired with preoperative patterns (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

KA restored native patellar tracking patterns more closely compared to MA.

Level of Evidence

Level I, therapeutic study.
Restoration of the anterior compartment after robotic total knee arthroplasty significantly improves functional outcome and range of motion at 1 year
Authors: Kafelov Moussa , Batailler Cécile , Servien Elvire , Lustig Sébastien
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the functional outcomes based on restoring the anterior compartment after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

This retrospective study included 96 primary TKAs performed between 2021 and 2022. Functional positioning principles were applied using an image‐based robotic‐assisted system. The mean age was 69.2 ± 7.9 years. Knee Society Score (KSS), Kujala score, Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) and knee flexion were collected preoperatively and at 1 year. The depth difference between native and prosthetic trochlea was measured to assess anterior compartment restoration at full extension, 30°, 70° and 90° flexion. The global anterior compartment restoration combined the anterior compartment restoration and the patellar thickness restoration.

Results

The trochlear offset was mostly understuffed after TKA compared to the native anatomy, mainly for medial and lateral condyles at 30° and 70° of flexion. The global anterior compartment restoration was understuffed in full extension (−0.7 mm ± 2), at 30° (−4.4 mm ± 2) and 70° of flexion (−3.6 mm ± 2.5). At 90°, the global anterior compartment restoration was overstuffed (2.2 mm ± 1.8). Functional scores were not significantly influenced by the anterior compartment stuffing at 0° and 30° (n.s.). The anterior compartment overstuffing at 70° and 90° was associated with decreased KSS function score (p = 0.009) and flexion (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Moderate anterior understuffing was frequently observed after TKA performed with functional positioning and an image‐based robotic‐assisted system. This understuffing did not influence the functional outcomes. The overstuffing of the anterior compartment led to a reduction in KSS function score and flexion measurements at 1 year.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Collateral ligament strain is linearly related to coronal lower limb alignment: A biomechanical study
Authors: Peez Christian , Hägerich Luise Maria , Ruhl Felix , Klimek Matthias , Briese Thorben , Glasbrenner Johannes , Deichsel Adrian , Raschke Michael J. , Kittl Christoph , Herbst Elmar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to analyse the influence of coronal lower limb alignment on collateral ligament strain.

Methods

Twelve fresh‐frozen human cadaveric knees were used. Long‐leg standing radiographs were obtained to assess lower limb alignment. Specimens were axially loaded in a custom‐made kinematics rig with 200 and 400 N, and dynamic varus/valgus angulation was simulated in 0°, 30°, and 60° of knee flexion. The changes in varus/valgus angulation and strain within different fibre regions of the collateral ligaments were captured using a three‐dimensional optical measuring system to examine the axis‐dependent strain behaviour of the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) at intervals of 2°.

Results

The LCL and sMCL were exposed to the highest strain values at full extension (p < 0.001). Regardless of flexion angle and extent of axial loading, the ligament strain showed a strong and linear association with varus (all Pearson's r ≥ 0.98; p < 0.001) and valgus angulation (all Pearson's r ≥ −0.97; p < 0.01). At full extension and 400 N of axial loading, the anterior and posterior LCL fibres exceeded 4% ligament strain at 3.9° and 4.0° of varus, while the sMCL showed corresponding strain values of more than 4% at a valgus angle of 6.8°, 5.4° and 4.9° for its anterior, middle and posterior fibres, respectively.

Conclusion

The strain within the native LCL and sMCL was linearly related to coronal lower limb alignment. Strain levels associated with potential ultrastructural damages to the ligaments of more than 4% were observed at 4° of varus and about 5° of valgus malalignment, respectively. When reconstructing the collateral ligaments, an additional realigning osteotomy should be considered in cases of chronic instability with a coronal malalignment exceeding 4°–5° to protect the graft and potentially reduce failures.

Level of Evidence

There is no level of evidence as this study was an experimental laboratory study.
Gender Differences in Domestic Responsibilities of Otolaryngologists—A Mixed‐Methods Analysis
Authors: Graham M. Elise , Aleksa Emily , Dzioba Agnieszka , Madou Edward , Chen Tanya , Strychowsky Julie E. , Hu Amanda , Chan Yvonne , Seemann Natashia M.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Female otolaryngologist‐head and neck surgeons (OHNS) confront unique barriers. This study examines the influence of home life, especially gendered division of household labor, on leadership, productivity, and burnout.

Methods

A survey was distributed through social media and national society list‐serv. Demographics, responsibility for household roles, and Maslach Burnout Inventory for Medical Personnel were included. Participants were invited to participate in semi‐structured interviews, employing purposive sampling, with qualitative thematic analysis.

Results

Response rate was 26.4% (145 of 550 of eligible participants; 38.7% women, 60.7% men). Significantly fewer women were married (64.3% vs. 92% of men, p < 0.001), and significantly more were childless (21.4% of women vs. 9.1% of men, p = 0.037). More men reported exclusive/major responsibility for five duties, including yard work and home maintenance (all p < 0.03). More women reported exclusive/major responsibility for 15 duties, including meal planning and coordinating childcare (all p < 0.03). Women had higher Emotional Exhaustion on univariate analysis (p = 0.015). Across 27 interviews, two main themes were identified, each with three associated subthemes: Theme one, “division of duties,” with subthemes (1) the way household duties were divided, (2) traditional gender norms, and 3. changing duties over time/unexpected circumstances. Theme two, “impact of domestic duties,” with subthemes (1) professional, (2) financial, and (3) burnout/life satisfaction.

Conclusions

Women OHNS disproportionately manage domestic responsibilities, possibly altering career trajectory for some OHNS. Burnout, especially emotional exhaustion, may be elevated due to inequitable labor. Future research should focus on identifying ways to improve equity for this group.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:S1–S12, 2024
Pediatric Esophageal Button Battery Protocol Reduces Time From Presentation to Removal
Authors: Goh Samantha , Siu Jennifer M. , Philteos Justine , James Adrian L. , Ostrow Olivia , McKinnon Nicole K. , Everett Tobias , Levine Mark , Whyte Hilary , Lam Christopher Z. , Propst Evan J. , Wolter Nikolaus E.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Evaluate implementation of an institutional protocol to reduce the time to removal of esophageal button battery (BB) and increase use of mitigation strategies.

Methods

We developed a protocol for esophageal BB management [Zakai's Protocol (ZP)]. All cases of esophageal BB impaction managed at a tertiary care center before and after implementation from 2011 to 2023 were reviewed. Time to BB removal, adherence to critical steps, and use of mitigation strategies (honey/sucralfate, acetic acid) were evaluated.

Results

Fifty‐one patients (38 pre‐ZP, 13 post‐ZP) were included. Median age was 2.3 years (IQR 1.3–3.4). After implementation, the time from arrival at the institution to arrival in the operating room (OR) reduced by 4.2 h [4.6 h (IQR 3.9–6.5) to 0.4 h (IQR 0.3–0.6), p < 0.001] and there was improvement in all management steps. The number of referrals direct to otolaryngology increased from 51% to 92%, arrival notification increased from 86% to 100%, avoidance of second x‐ray increased from 63% to 100%, and direct transfer to OR increased from 92% to 100%. Adherence to mitigation strategies such as preoperative administration of honey or sucralfate increased from 0% to 38%, intraoperative use of acetic acid from 3% to 77%, and nasogastric tube insertion from 53% to 92%.

Conclusion

Implementation of ZP substantially reduced the time to BB removal and the use of mitigation strategies in our tertiary care institution. Additional strategies focused on prevention of BB ingestion, and shortening the transfer time to the tertiary care hospital are required to prevent erosive complications.

Level of Evidence

3, Case‐series Laryngoscope, 134:5170–5177, 2024
Viral infection of coccolithophore host induces shifts in particulate organic matter stoichiometry
Authors: Dikstein Tamar , Antler Gilad , Pellerin André , Sharoni Shlomit , Frada Miguel J.
Published: June 2024

Blooms of the coccolithophore Gephyrocapsa huxleyi (formerly Emiliania huxleyi) are routinely infected by a specific lytic virus (EhV) that kills host cells and drives bloom termination. However, the impact of EhV on nutrient retention and stoichiometric ratios of particulate organic matter remains unknown, limiting our current understanding of the biogeochemical significance of the G. huxleyi–EhV interaction. To tackle this knowledge gap, we surveyed both nitrate, phosphate, and alkalinity consumption by the cells, as well as the elemental composition (C : N : P) of particulate organic matter during infections in culture. We found that within 24 h of infection, alkalinity concentration in the solution stabilized, and nutrient uptake declined to low levels. In parallel, the molar ratio of carbon to nitrogen in particulate organic matter increased by 10–17% and the nitrogen to phosphorus ratio declined by 5–12% relative to the noninfected algal cultures. These variations likely resulted from intracellular lipid accumulation as part of viral infection as well as the differential retention of phosphorus‐rich macromolecular pools in decaying cells, respectively. After infection, as most host cells lysed, we detected a progressive enrichment in phosphorus and nitrogen relative to carbon in the remaining particulate organic matter, which could be attributed to the accumulation of colonizing heterotrophic bacteria with a distinct elemental composition. This study indicate that marine viruses influence the elemental stoichiometry and fate of phytoplankton‐born organic materials in the oceans.
Solvent Effects in Structural Engineering for Photoluminescent Low‐Dimensional Metal Halides
Authors: Gao Xiaowen , Guo Fengwan , Chen Rong , Lin Fang , Li Qi , Xu Dongsheng
Published: June 2024

Low‐dimensional metal halides (LDMHs) represent a promising class of materials in various luminescent applications because of their self‐trapped exciton (STE) emissions with unique properties such as broad luminescence spectra, large Stokes shift, and high color rendition. LDMHs at the molecular level can be constructed, including 2D layers, 1D chains, and 0D clusters assembled by polyhedra units, all of which exhibit significantly different luminescence properties from 3D MHs. The dimensional regulation of LDMHs has been explored for years, including the choice of organic cations, modulating electron‐phonon coupling effect, and adding external temperature and pressure. Herein, this review discusses the synergy between structural engineering and solvent effects for LDMHs, including the emission mechanisms for LDMHs and the roles solvent molecules play in regulating the dimensions. In addition, challenges and opportunities for LDMHs are discussed to shed light on the future development of novel materials with multifunctional optical properties suitable for practical applications.
Associations of blood pressure in the third trimester and risk of venous thromboembolism postpartum
Authors: Li Qian , Wang Hongfei , Wang Huafang , Deng Jun , Cheng Zhipeng , Fan Fengjuan , Lin Wenyi , Zhu Ruiqi , Chen Shi , Guo Jinrong , Weng Yuxiong , Tang Liang V. , Hu Yu
Published: June 2024

Studies on the associations of blood pressure (BP) and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) had been performed neither among pregnant women nor in Chinese population. This study included participants of pregnant women from a retrospective multicenter cohort, between May 2020 and April 2023. Systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) of the participants were measured in the third trimester. The incidences of VTE (including deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism) at 42 days postpartum were followed. With regards to SBP, pregnant women in the Q1 (≤114 mmHg), Q2 (115–122 mmHg), and Q4 group (≥131 mmHg) had increased risk of VTE than those in Q3 group (123–130 mmHg), with ORs 4.48 [1.69, 11.85], 3.52 [1.30, 9.59], and 3.17 [1.12, 8.99], respectively. Compared with pregnant women with the Q4 of DBP (≥85 mmHg), women of Q1 (≤71 mmHg) were found to have elevated risk of VTE (OR 2.73 [1.25, 5.96]). A one standard deviation decrease of DBP (9 mmHg) was related with 37% elevated risk of VTE (OR 1.37 [1.05, 1.79]). This study demonstrated a U‐shaped association of SBP in the third trimester and VTE postpartum and inverse association of DBP in the third trimester and VTE postpartum.
Participant fairness concern and cost‐sharing‐based dual‐channel low‐carbon supply chain management
Authors: Song Haohao , Wang Ying , Mao Xiangyu , Li Yongming
Published: June 2024

Considering consumer channel preferences, our paper establishes a two‐echelon differential low‐carbon supply chain model and discusses the effects of member's cost‐sharing and fairness concerns on equilibrium results. From a static perspective, the results indicate that retailers' fairness concern behavior will lead to a decrease in pricing and participants' efforts while manufacturers cost‐sharing strategy will only enhance retailers' advertising efforts. From a dynamic perspective, products' greenness, long‐term benefits of manufacturers and retailers, and social welfare will gradually increase and eventually saturate over time. In most cases, manufacturer‐to‐retailer cost‐sharing is a win–win strategy that not only enhances the long‐term interests but also realizes the greening and upgrading of the supply chain.
Well‐posedness for a class of wave equations with nonlocal weak damping
Authors: Liu Gongwei , Peng Yi , Su Xiao
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we investigate the boundary value problem of the wave equation with nonlocal damping
and nonlinear source term. The main purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic research on the dynamic behavior of the solutions with three different energy levels. More precisely, we prove the global existence, energy decay estimate and blow‐up of solution at both subcritical (
) and critical (
) initial energy levels. We also prove the finite time blow‐up of the solution for the initial data at arbitrary high energy level, including the estimates of lower and upper bounds of the blow‐up time.
Sign‐changing solution to a critical p‐Kirchhoff equation with potential vanishing at infinity in ℝN
Authors: Shen Liejun
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study the critical
‐Laplacian equation of Kirchhoff type

where
is the Kirchhoff function,
with
and
is a parameter,
, and the potentials
and
vanish at infinity. Under some suitable assumptions on
, by using the constraint minimization approach, we obtain a least energy sign‐changing solution
to this problem if
is large enough and show the energy of
is strictly larger than twice that of the ground state solutions. Moreover, by considering a wider class of
and
, we exploit the truncation argument to find a nontrivial solution if
is sufficiently large via some analytic skills.
Stacked dual‐band antenna with flexible combination structure based on frequency selective surface
Authors: Dai Xiwang , Wu Haotian , Fu Yanghui , Hong Hui
Published: June 2024

A stacked dual‐band antenna system based on frequency selective surface (FSS) is proposed in this paper. The system consists of lower band (LB) and higher band (HB) antenna elements with a frequency ratio of 2.5. FSS is introduced between LB and HB elements, which can fully reflect LB wave and transmit HB wave without reflection. LB and HB antenna arrays can be designed independently and combined with only a few screws, allowing for flexible combination of different arrays according to different needs. The stacked scheme can avoid the generation of grating lobes caused by excessive spacing of HB elements. Two different arrays were analyzed, simulated, and measured to validate the excellent features of the proposed scheme, such as easy to combine, stable radiation patterns, and lower mutual interference for LB and HB elements, respectively. The proposed system can be a promising candidate for dual‐band wireless communication with large frequency ratio.
Ultrathin wideband low profile circuit analog metamaterial absorber
Authors: Murali Naik K. H. , Singh Amit K. , Rama Krishna Dasari
Published: June 2024

In this paper, a low profile polarization insensitive ultrathin Circuit Analogue Absorber is presented for wideband absorption, encompassing the entire X‐band and Ku‐band applications achieving stable angular performance up to 45° angle of incidence in TE and TM polarized configurations. The absorber design being proposed consists of a multislotted square loop resonator loaded with lumped resistors, accompanied inside by a quadruple‐split annular copper ring. These components are arranged in a stacked configuration, with a grounded dielectric substrate serving as the base and an air spacer between the substrate and ground displaying absorptivity above 90% from 8.19 to 22.20 GHz with a 14.01 GHz and 92.2% of actual and fractional bandwidth respectively under the normal incidence. The thickness of designed wideband absorber is 0.0819(is the wavelength corresponding to the lowest operating frequency) making absorber Low profile and Ultrathin.