bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of door-to-needle time for thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke using statistical process control charts
Authors: Grönroos Markku , Hällberg Ville , Helminen Mika , Koivistoinen Teemu , Palomäki Ari
Published: November 2024

Background

Thrombolysis should be administered as soon as possible to suitable patients with acute ischaemic stroke. We introduced a new protocol for patients who had a stroke to achieve reduced door-to-needle times for the best possible outcome. Since then, we have closely monitored each patient who had a stroke. Our goal was to assess whether statistical process control charts could be useful in detecting deviations in door-to-needle times when using four well-known rules applied by Western Electric (WE rules 1–4).

Methods

We analysed retrospectively door-to-needle times of together 200 acute ischaemic stroke patients before and after the implementation of our new stroke protocol. In addition, 25 patients at the time of reorganisation (transition period) were analysed. Statistical process control chart rules WE 1–WE 4 were applied to detect door-to-needle deviations and to monitor process uniformity.

Results

Before the implementation of the protocol, median door-to-needle time was 53 min and after the implementation 20 min. Statistical process control chart rules were triggered only once in 100 patients before the reorganisation but seven times in 25 patients during the transition period. None of the rules WE 1–4 were activated after the reorganisation, indicating the stability of the reorganised acute ischaemic stroke process.

Conclusions

The use of statistical process control charts demonstrated a significant reduction in door-to-needle times during the reorganisation. Further, it showed that the acute ischaemic stroke process with a 20 min door-to-needle time is very stable.
Exploration of fathers’ mental health and well-being concerns during the transition to fatherhood, and paternal perinatal support: scoping review
Authors: Watkins Ashleigh Elizabeth , El Zerbi Catherine , McGovern Ruth , Rankin Judith
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To appraise and synthesise qualitative literature identifying: (a) fathers’ concerns and challenges during the transition to fatherhood that may be impacting mental health and well-being experiences; and (b) fathers’ experiences of antenatal programmes, and psychological and social support, to understand how we can better support fathers in addressing these concerns.

Design

International, qualitative evidence synthesis, scoping review.

Data sources

Six electronic databases (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, ASSIA) alongside 'grey' and supplementary searches were conducted March 2024.

Eligibility criteria

Qualitative studies and qualitative data extracted from mixed methods studies focusing on fathers’ mental health within the perinatal period globally were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

The recommended Joanna Briggs Institute data extraction and critical appraisal tools were used, and an inductive thematic synthesis approach employed.

Results

37 qualitative studies were included: UK (n=11), Europe (n=9), Australia (n=7) and Asia (n=6), USA (n=1), Canada (n=1) and the Middle East (n=2). Quality appraisal scores were moderate to high (5–10). Four analytical themes and eight subthemes were generated: (1) diminished partner relationship, (2) provider or protector? Multiplicity of fatherhood identification, (3) forgotten entity within the perinatal experience and (4) "I try to battle it myself," masculine ideals within fatherhood. The findings highlighted that fathers found the transition to be difficult, compounded by insecurity within their role as both partner and father. Fathers found a paucity of paternally focused support and antenatal programmes, not addressing fathers’ needs within the transition.

Conclusions

The many concerns and challenges highlighted in the review demonstrate the importance of understanding the negative impact of the transition on fathers’ mental health and well-being. There is a need for greater attention to fathers’ experiences of paternal perinatal support and programmes through research and practise to inform future interventional development.

Trial registration

PROSPERO: CRD4202231381.
Contextual factors that influence adoption and sustainment of self-management support in cancer survivorship care: a practical application of theory with qualitative interviews
Authors: Pallin Nickola , Browne John , Connolly Roisin , Hegarty Josephine , McHugh Sheena
Published: November 2024

Background

Self-management support (SMS) is a recommended component of cancer survivorship care that improves health-related quality of life and reduces healthcare utilisation. However, widespread implementation has been difficult to achieve, with a gap in the literature on system-wide implementation efforts. This study examines contextual factors perceived to influence SMS adoption and sustainment in cancer centres in the Republic of Ireland.

Method

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 47 key informants from 20 cancer organisations across community and hospital settings. Participants were asked to report the level of adoption and sustainment of SMS at their organisation. This information was used to categorise organisations as low, medium or high implementers. We conducted cross-case analysis following the principles of Framework Analysis. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research as a menu of constructs, we examined factors influencing adoption and sustainment and variation in levels of implementation.

Results

National policy, external accreditation, external financing opportunities and the presence of champions in organisations are influential early in the implementation process driving adoption. Healthcare provider-led programmes and evidence of SMS improving patient outcomes and aligning with an organisation’s priorities are necessary to secure buy-in, particularly among senior leadership. An organisational culture of entrepreneurship enables adoption and sustainment, with resources and a culture supporting staff well-being enabling sustainment.

Conclusion

While national policy is a driver, additional factors related to programme attributes and local contextual features such as the presence of champions, organisational readiness and culture influence implementation. The results may be used for future evaluations of SMS implementation in cancer survivorship care and to inform the development of tailored implementation strategies.
CAF-macrophage crosstalk in tumour microenvironments governs the response to immune checkpoint blockade in gastric cancer peritoneal metastases
Authors: Li Yuanfang , Zheng Yongqiang , Huang Jiaqian , Nie Run-Cong , Wu Qi-Nian , Zuo Zhijun , Yuan Shuqiang , Yu Kai , Liang Cheng-Cai , Pan Yi-Qian , Zhao Bai-Wei , Xu Yuhong , Zhang Qihua , Zheng Yashang , Chen Junquan , Zeng Zhao-Lei , Wei Wei , Liu Ze-Xian , Xu Rui-Hua , Luo Hui-Yan
Published: November 2024

Background

Peritoneal metastasis is the most common metastasis pattern of gastric cancer. Patients with gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis (GCPM) have a poor prognosis and respond poorly to conventional treatments. Recently, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has demonstrated favourable efficacy in the treatment of GCPM. Stratification of best responders and elucidation of resistance mechanisms of ICB therapies are highly important and remain major clinical challenges.

Design

We performed a phase II trial involving patients with GCPM treated with ICB (sintilimab) combined with chemotherapy. The samples of primary tumours, GCPMs and peripheral blood from patients were collected for single-cell sequencing to comprehensively interpret the tumour microenvironment of GCPM and its impacts on immunotherapy efficacy.

Results

The GCPM ecosystem coordinates a unique immunosuppressive pattern distinct from that of primary GC, which is dominated by a stroma-myeloid niche composed of SPP1+tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) and Thrombospondin 2 (THBS2)+matrix cancer-associated fibroblasts (mCAFs). Consequently, this stroma-myeloid crosstalk is the major mediator of ICB resistance in patients with GCPM. Mechanistically, the accumulated THBS2+mCAFs facilitate the recruitment of peritoneum-specific tissue-resident macrophages and their transformation into SPP1+TAMs via the complement C3 and its receptor C3a receptor 1 (C3AR1), thereby forming a protumoral stroma-myeloid niche. Blocking the C3-C3AR1 axis disrupts the stroma-myeloid crosstalk and thereby significantly improves the benefits of ICB inin vivomodels.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a new molecular portrait of cell compositions associated with ICB resistance in patients with GCPM and aid in the prioritisation of therapeutic candidates to potentiate immunotherapy.
Inequality in green space distribution and its association with preventable deaths across urban neighbourhoods in the UK, stratified by Index of Multiple Deprivation
Authors: Ngan Tran Thu , Wang Ruoyu , Tate Christopher , Green Mark , Mitchell Richard , Hunter Ruth F , O'Neill Ciaran
Published: November 2024

Background

This study investigated inequalities in the distribution of green space (GS) and the association between inequalities in amounts of GS and preventable deaths across urban neighbourhoods with different Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) scores in the UK.

Methods

Data on preventable deaths, IMD, percentage of grassland and woodland, urban/rural, population size, and density were sourced for each of 6791 middle-layer super output areas (MSOAs) in England, 410 MSOAs in Wales, 1279 intermediate zones (IZs) in Scotland, and 890 super output areas (SOAs) in Northern Ireland (NI). While appreciating the potential for ecological fallacy we related area-based measures of deprivation to deaths. Concentration curves, Lorenz dominance tests, and negative binomial regression models were used to analyse the data.

Results

In urban areas of England, Scotland, and NI, the percentage of grassland was significantly lower among the more deprived neighbourhoods (Lorenz test, p<0.0001). In England, a 1% increase in grassland area was associated with a 37% reduction in annual preventable deaths among the most deprived urban MSOAs (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.63, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.76). In NI and Scotland, a 1% increase in grassland area was associated with a 37% (IRR 0.63, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.91) and 41% (IRR 0.59, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.81) reduction in 5-year accumulated preventable deaths in the most deprived urban SOAs/IZs, respectively.

Conclusions

Results suggest that investment in GS in urban areas may be an important public health prevention strategy. There is evidence that investments in the most deprived urban neighbourhoods where the highest inequality currently exists would see the largest effect on preventable deaths.
Disability, digital technologies and the ambivalent allure of posthumanist/transhumanist futures
Authors: Shildrick Margrit
Published: November 2024

Technologies, both simple and sophisticated, have always played a major role in the negotiation of a range of disabilities that are assumed to impede the expression of autonomous selfhood. Whether deployed as mechanical aides to ideally normalise physical differences, as organic—and often internal—supplements to bolster the performance of body and mind, or as digital enhancements that override the supposed shortcomings of neurodiversity, the widely accepted claim is that such technologies have a clear therapeutic value. It conjures the illusion of an unproblematised sequence of more complex technologies leading to increasingly enhanced function and the advent of superior selfhood. Those who identify as having disabilities, either physical or cognitive, are assured of a better future in which anomalies are sufficiently offset to the extent that they no longer attract disvalue.

My paper offers a less conventional perspective that leaves behind the desire for individual autonomy and opens up the question of the transhuman and the posthuman. Rather than focusing on the bounded self at the centre of humanist thought, I ask what is at stake when human embodiment becomes intricately entangled with non-human materialities and digital coding. It is likely that the major developments in such ‘prosthetic’ technologies will strongly impact the field of disability. Beyond a merely functional usage, which is likely to dominate in the short term, urgent questions arise about the extent to which the category of the human can or should be sustained as the anchor of continuing life. In exploring the practical, philosophical and bioethical implications of newly emerging technologies, I distinguish between the motivation of transhumanism, which focuses on self-perfectibility and mastery, and a posthumanism that in seeking to radically decentre the very notion of human privilege and hierarchical distinctions offers an optimistic view of disability futures.
Trajectories of work ability and associated work unit characteristics from pre-COVID to post-COVID pandemic period
Authors: Kausto Johanna , Airaksinen Jaakko , Oksanen Tuula , Vahtera Jussi , Kivimaki Mika , Ervasti Jenni M
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To identify trajectories of work ability from pre-COVID to post-COVID-19 pandemic period and to examine work unit characteristics associated with these trajectories.

Methods

The study population was a cohort of Finnish public sector employees (n=54 651) followed from 2016 until 2022. We used trajectory analysis to identify trajectories of work ability and multinomial regression to examine their associations with prepandemic work unit characteristics and pandemic-related changes at workplaces.

Results

We identified three trajectories of work ability: (1) suboptimal work ability decreasing over time (12%); (2) relatively consistent good work ability (73%) and (3) consistent optimal work ability (15%). The strongest associations with belonging to the suboptimal work ability trajectory were found for employees in work units characterised by high job strain (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.82 to 2.88), poor team climate (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.86) and low organisational justice (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.72) when compared with the most optimal trajectory. The least favourable work ability trajectory was also associated with team reorganisation (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.44) and a low share of those working from home (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.78 to 0.94) during the pandemic.

Conclusion

Prepandemic psychosocial risk factors and pandemic-induced changes at work were associated with poor and declining work ability during the COVID-19 pandemic. Employers and occupational health services should better identify and support vulnerable employees to enhance their work participation.
No effect of grape juice on exercise-induced muscle damage or performance in male runners: a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind clinical trial
Authors: Schlösser Larissa , Borszcz Fernando K. , Smeha Laís , Peres Natália M. , Assumpção Thalita I. , Burin Vivian M. , da Silva Edson L. , de Lucas Ricardo D. , Hansen Fernanda
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to verify the effect of grape juice ( Vitis Labrusca) intake on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and exercise performance parameters (5 km running time-trial (TT), running economy, and countermovement jump (CMJ)). Twenty trained male runners were randomized into two blinded groups and consumed either placebo ( n = 9) or grape juice ( n = 11) for six consecutive days (600 mL/day). On the fourth day, the participants performed a downhill running (−15%) at speed that elicited 70% V̇O2max for 20 min, to induce muscle damage, followed by assessment of running economy, 5 km TT, and CMJ tests. Blood samples were obtained before and after the exercise tests for quantifying total phenols, creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). On the sixth day, blood parameters and CMJ were evaluated. A two-way Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) mixed model was employed for data analysis, the effects were the juice groups, measurement and a interaction between the factors. EIMD was confirmed by increased levels of indirect markers (serum AST and LDH activities) and an impairment in TT and CMJ performances after 48 h. The 5 km TT, economy, and CMJ were compromised after EIMD, to a similar extent in the groups. Blood concentrations of CK, LDH, AST, and total phenolic compounds presented similar time course behavior between the groups, showing no group × time interaction effects. In conclusion, grape juice consumption over 6 days did not attenuate EIMD markers or the impairment in running performance in trained male runners. (ReBEC number: RBR-9jkkvbb).
Compressional rheology model for vacuum filtration-consolidation of sludge in geotextile tubes
Authors: Zhang Hao , Sun Hong-lei , Geng Xue-yu , Zhang Rong-jun , Cai Yuan-qiang
Published: November 2024

Recently, the disposal of high-water-content dredged sludge through geotextile tubes with vacuum-assisted prefabricated horizontal drains (PHDs) has gained growing popularity for its convenience and efficiency. However, existing simulations for this typical coupled filtration-consolidation process using conventional consolidation models exhibit deficiencies due to the absence of effective stress and invalidity of Darcy's law in the particle-wandering filtration phase. In this study, based on the compressional rheology theory, a two-dimensional coupled filtration-consolidation model constituted by the compressive yield stress Py( ϕ) and hindered setting factor r( ϕ) is developed to elucidate the solid–solid and solid–fluid interactions during slurry dewatering. A novel approach for measuring consistent Py( ϕ) and r( ϕ) relationships is proposed. The numerical solution is derived utilizing the alternating direction implicit difference method and verified against a classical one-dimensional compressional rheology model and a field trial. Further analysis suggests that constitutive parameters, e.g., gel point, affect the dewatering efficiency by determining the relative degree of soil disorder, obstruction to particle movement, and vacuum transmission effect, while design parameters, e.g., PHD spacing and tube height, impact the magnitude and radiation range of vacuum pressure to influence the overall efficiency.
Towards climate resilient asphalt binder selection in Canada
Authors: Maadani Omran , Shafiee Mohammad , Hiedra Cobo Juan
Published: November 2024

Climate change and extreme weather events present a fundamental challenge to pavement engineering and planning practice, given that transportation infrastructure has traditionally been planned and designed using historical climate data under the implicit assumption that climate is stationary and future conditions will resemble past ones. Transportation professionals should consider future risks scenarios in road design, material selection and system operations. This will be challenging given the inherent uncertainties in any climate projections. However, changes might be needed since transportation professionals are expected to deliver cost-effective and climate-resilient transportation infrastructure. The material selection plays an important role in the durability of flexible roads; therefore, it is important to consider the whole road design life cycle in terms of climate change and extreme weather events impact on asphalt selection as well as to consider different traffic speeds. This led to the development of the NRC Climate Adaptation and Asphalt Selection Tool (CAAST).
Development of conflict-based safety performance function for safety evaluation of urban roundabouts in India
Authors: Maji Abhijnan , Ghosh Indrajit , Chandra Satish
Published: November 2024

This study evaluates the safety performance of urban roundabouts in India using conflict-based safety performance functions (SPFs). High-resolution aerial videos were utilized to extract vehicle trajectories, and the surrogate safety assessment model was employed for conflict identification. Data were collected from 27 roundabouts across various Indian cities, focusing on non-lane-based heterogeneous traffic conditions. Four SPFs were developed utilizing a generalized linear model with negative binomial distribution and log link function for different proximity levels based on time-to-collision and post-encroachment time values. Key factors influencing conflict frequency included conflicting traffic volume, occupancy time, ratio of approaching and conflicting traffic volume, percentage of cars and motorcycles, inscribed circle diameter, roundabout symmetry, and number of legs. The developed conflict frequency prediction models fitted well and demonstrated robust predictive performance. This proactive framework for roundabout safety assessment can be followed to enhance road safety in developing nations.
Lyapunov exponents and phase transition of Hayward AdS black hole
Authors: Gogoi Naba Jyoti , Acharjee Saumen , Phukon Prabwal
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study the relationship between the phase transition and Lyapunov exponents for 4D Hayward anti-de Sitter (AdS) black hole. We consider the motion of massless and massive particles around an unstable circular orbit of the Hayward AdS black hole in the equatorial plane and calculate the corresponding Lyapunov exponents. The phase transition is found to be well described by the multivaled Lyapunov exponents. It is also found that different phases of Hayward AdS black hole coincide with different branches of the Lyapunov exponents. We also study the discontinuous change in the Lyapunov exponents and find that it can serve as an order parameter near the critical point. The critical exponent of change in Lyapunov exponent near the critical point is found to be 1/2.
A Man with Rapidly Progressive Limb Gangrene
Authors: Leung Ada Wing Tung , Lao Virginia Weng Nga
Published: November 2024

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) are two distinct, but potentially overlapping, autoimmune disorders that are characterized by vascular morbidities. We present a case of probable APS that manifested as rapidly progressive peripheral gangrene with a positive test for lupus anticoagulant (LAC), alongside with angiographic evidence of suspected renal and hepatic artery aneurysms commonly associated with PAN, but also the presence of diffuse thrombosis over the distal arterial branches in the four limbs. Through this case, we aim to review the overlapping features and potential interplay between APS and PAN, highlighting the necessary considerations for optimizing management to salvage the ongoing limb ischemia.
On Process Discovery Experimentation: Addressing the Need for Research Methodology in Process Discovery
Authors: Rehse Jana-Rebecca , Leemans Sander J. J. , Fettke Peter , van der Werf Jan Martijn E. M.
Published: November 2024

Process mining aims to derive insights into business processes from event logs recorded from information systems. Process discovery algorithms construct process models that describe the executed process. With the increasing availability of large-scale event logs, process discovery has shifted towards a data-oriented research discipline, aiming to design algorithms that are applicable and useful in practice. This shift has revealed a fundamental problem in process discovery research: Currently, contributions can only be considered in isolation. Researchers conduct experiments to show that they move the field forward, but due to a lack of reliability and validity, the individual contributions are hard to generalize. In this article, we argue that one reason for these problems is the lack of conventions or standards for experimental design in process discovery. Hence, we propose “process discovery engineering”: a research methodology for process discovery, consisting of a shared terminology and a checklist for conducting experiments. We demonstrate its applicability by means of an example experimental evaluation of process discovery algorithms and discuss the implications of the methodology on the field. This article is not meant to be prescriptive but to invite and encourage the community to contribute to this discussion to advance the field as a whole.
Big Brother is Watching You: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Automated Fuel Cell Monitoring (Technical Report)
Authors: Klass Lukas , Holz Laurin , König Lukas , Kabza Alexander , Sehnke Frank , Strecker Katharina , Hölzle Markus
Published: November 2024

In this technical report, we present our second-generation digitaltwin model for monitoring of fuel cells. This digital twin combinestwo data-driven machine learning models: a stationary model forstationary cell voltage prediction and a degradation model fordegradation correction. This combination of both models results ina precise probabilistic prediction of the cell voltage over time.Furthermore, we present a web-based framework for automated fuelcell monitoring in real time. This framework allows training a digitaltwin on existing data and subsequently applying the twin toautomatically check new data for anomalies.
The roles of the gut microbiota, metabolites, and epigenetics in the effects of maternal exercise on offspring metabolism
Authors: Ren Jing , Zhou Liyuan , Li Shunhua , Zhang Qian , Xiao Xinhua
Published: November 2024

Metabolic diseases, including obesity, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes, have become severe challenges worldwide. The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis suggests that an adverse intrauterine environment can increase the risk of metabolic disorders in offspring. Studies have demonstrated that maternal exercise is an effective intervention for improving the offspring metabolic health. However, the pathways through which exercise works are unclear. It has been reported that the gut microbiota mediates the effect of maternal exercise on offspring metabolism, and epigenetic modifications have also been proposed to be important molecular mechanisms. Microbial metabolites can influence epigenetics by providing substrates for DNA or histone modifications, binding to G-protein-coupled receptors to affect downstream pathways, or regulating the activity of epigenetic modifying enzymes. This review aims to summarize the intergenerational effect of maternal exercise and proposes that gut microbiota-metabolites-epigenetic regulation is an important mechanism by which maternal exercise improves offspring metabolism, which may yield novel targets for the early prevention and intervention of metabolic diseases.
The Parameters Calibration of Additive Mass Method and Its Application in Compaction Density Measurement of Soil Rock Mixtures
Authors: Dai Zhiyu , Wang Zili , Li Yongsheng , Xu Jiehao
Published: November 2024

The additive mass method (AMM) is applied to test the compaction density of soil–rock mixtures (S–RMs) due to its high efficiency, nondestructiveness and accuracy. However, there is no systematic research on influence factor of AMM. In this study, AMM test parameters were systematically calibrated first, and a calculation model for the compaction density of S–RM was established in the test area. After that, the AMM was applied in the on‐site detection of the compaction density of an earth–rockfill dam. After calibration test, the main geophone frequency was 40 Hz, the drop distance and offset distance were 20 and 70 cm, respectively, and set the ∆m of five levels as 38, 88, 138, 213, and 288 kg. The detection error of K–K/ρ model had a better precision than the ω−2−ω−2/ρ model through on‐site testing and verification. A new calculation model with lower accuracy based on vibration stiffness–vibration stiffness/density K−K/ρ) model was proposed according to the test error distribution. It was found that the test error of the K−K/ρ model was reduced to 0.9%. The results demonstrated that the AMM could accurately detect the compaction density of S–RM after the test parameters were reasonably determined.
Research on the Mechanism of Fault Activation and Water Inrush Across Variable Coal Pillar Widths
Authors: Sun Hongjin , Pan Rui , Li Junwei , Yang Benshui
Published: November 2024

During coal mining operations, the activation of geological faults induced by mining activities, leading to sudden water inrush, presents a significant technical challenge to safe extraction. This study uses the Wugou Coal Mine as a case example to analyze the characteristics of fault activation under deep‐seated high stress and high confined water pressures, as well as to determine the optimal dimensions for the implementation of waterproof coal pillars. This study employs a combination of numerical simulation and indoor model experiments to establish a fracture–permeability coupled computational model. The dynamics of fault‐induced water inrush and the adequacy of waterproof coal pillar widths are evaluated through laboratory experiments. Results demonstrate that as the mining face progresses near the fault zone, fracture development within the fault increases, and the stresses in the coal seam’s roof and floor escalate, reaching a peak before experiencing unloading. This intensification in fracture development, driven by the dual impacts of mining activity and subfloor hydrostatic pressures, leads to the formation of interconnected fractures through the fault zone. Numerical simulations provide insights into the changes in overburden stress, the characteristics of plastic deformation in the surrounding rock and fault zones, and the permeability traits of the faults at various coal pillar widths. The findings indicate that as the width of the waterproof coal pillars decreases, stress concentration at the interaction points between the fault and the mining layer becomes significantly pronounced. The plastic deformation in the roof shifts from an “elliptical arch” shape to a “saddleback” shape, while the floor displays extensive planar failure. Particularly when the width of the waterproof coal pillars is less than 20 m, there is a substantial increase in the pore water pressure within the fault zone, greatly increasing the probability of fault activation and subsequent water inrush.
Knacks of Evolutionary Mating Heuristics for Renewable Energy Source–Based Power Systems Signal Harmonics Estimation
Authors: Cheema Khalid Mehmood , Mehmood Khizer , Chaudhary Naveed Ishtiaq , Khan Zeshan Aslam , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Nadeem Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Renewable energy sources–based power systems are increasing rapidly every year with higher chances of destabilization and low power quality due to harmonics, subharmonics, and interharmonics. The elimination of the root causes of these harmonics is difficult because harmonics are generated at different levels due to various electronic components. However, the accurate estimation of power signal harmonic can be done and eliminated with a counter signal. Therefore, in this paper, the evolutionary mating heuristic is implied to accurately estimate the parameters of power signal harmonics. The proposed heuristic was tested under multiple scenarios to accurately estimate the phase and amplitude parameters of power signal harmonics at various noise levels. The tuning of the evolutionary mating heuristic is carried out for encountering predator probability and crossover probability Epp <0.8, Cp <0.9. The simulation analysis depicts that the best fitness achieved by the proposed heuristic for noise levels (no) 104, 78, 52, 26, and 13 dB are 2.8169e−11, 9.6969e−09, 3.7703e−06, 1.3501e−03, and 2.8624e−02, respectively, for iteration I = 1249. The comparative analysis shows that the proposed heuristic performance is significantly better than other heuristics.
Producing Supersaturated Dissolved Oxygen Seawater by Photosynthesis of Ulva sp. and Its Applications
Authors: Hirayama Shin , Urata Kazuya , Kusumoto Miyuki , Ikegami Yasuyuki
Published: November 2024

In order to create new value in biomass production using sterile Ulva with high production efficiency, we selected sterile Ulva with high culture stability from the coast of Imari City in Japan and investigated the conditions for generating high concentrations of dissolved oxygen through photosynthesis using the sterile Ulva. In the cultivation of sterile Ulva, we investigated the conditions for generating high concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) by controlling conditions such as aeration, NO3‐N concentration, and population density. As a result, we found that under the cultivation control conditions we found, DO reached about 3.8 times the saturation concentration after 3 h. It was found that this high level of DO can be maintained if the supersaturated DO seawater obtained here is properly sealed. Seawater containing high levels of DO is essential for the cultivation of oysters and shellfish, which also prefer a growth temperature of 20°C−25°C. Therefore, from the perspective of creating new value in biomass production, we developed a new system for simultaneously cultivating sterile Ulva and cultivating oysters.
Intestinal Biomarkers and Their Importance in Canine Enteropathies
Authors: Oliveira Iago Martins , Ribeiro Rafaela Rodrigues , Cardoso Cysneiros Maria Eduarda , Torres Larissa Barbosa , Moraes Vanessa Rezende , Ferreira Lucas Rodrigues , Rodrigues da Silva Wanessa Patrícia , Rodrigues de Souza Murilo , Lopes Xavier Rafael Antônio , Renato dos Santos Costa Paulo , Martins Danieli Brolo , Borges Naida Cristina
Published: November 2024

Enteropathies are prevalent in dog internal medicine, and their diagnosis involves a lengthy process. One of the tests requested is for biomarkers, which are important as they can provide data on intestinal functionality, intensity of inflammation, and response to treatment, and can help determine the prognosis. This study aimed to conduct a literature review on the main serum and fecal intestinal biomarkers in dogs and proposed to refine the correlations between these indicators and enteropathies. It was observed that the main biomarkers used in the intestinal evaluation of dogs were alpha 1‐proteinase inhibitory factor, immunoglobulin A, methylmalonic acid, serum folate, serum cobalamin, C‐reactive protein, fecal and serum calprotectin, and dysbiosis index. However, we suggest that more research be carried out to clarify the relationship between enteropathies and intestinal biomarkers. We noticed a lack of studies on specific intestinal markers and indicator variables in healthy dogs and those with various enteropathies; moreover, no data are available on the association of these laboratory parameters.
An Artificial Intelligence–Driven Preoperative Radiomic Subtype for Predicting the Prognosis and Treatment Response of Patients with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Li Qiang , Zhang Weituo , Liao Tian , Gao Yi , Zhang Yanzhi , Jin Anqi , Ma Ben , Qu Ning , Zhang Huan , Zheng Xiangqian , Li Dapeng , Yun Xinwei , Zhao Jingzhu , Yu Herbert , Gao Ming , Wang Yu , Qian Biyun
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

From 8% to 28% of patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) experience recurrence, complicating risk stratification and treatment. We previously identified an inflammatory molecular subtype of PTC associated with poor prognosis. Based on this subtype, we aimed to develop and validate a noninvasive radiomic signature to predict prognosis and treatment response in patients with PTC.

Experimental Design:

We collected preoperative ultrasound images from two large independent centers (n = 2,506) to develop and validate a deep learning radiomics signature of inflammation (DLRI) for predicting the inflammatory subtype of PTC, including its correlation with prognosis and anti-inflammatory traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment. Training set 1 (n = 64) and internal validation set 2 (n = 1,108) were from Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital. External validation sets 1 (n = 76) and 2 (n = 1,258) were from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center.

Results:

We developed a DLRI to accurately predict PTC’s inflammatory subtype (AUC = 0.97 in training set 1 and AUC = 0.82 in external validation set 1). High-risk DLRI was significantly associated with poor disease-free survival in the first cohort [HR = 16.49, 95% confidence interval (CI), 7.92–34.35, P < 0.001] and second cohort (HR = 5.42, 95% CI, 3.67–8.02, P < 0.001). The DLRI independently predicted disease-free survival, irrespective of clinicopathologic variables (P < 0.001 for all). Furthermore, patients with high-risk DLRI were likely to benefit from anti-inflammatory TCM treatment (HR = 0.19, 95% CI, 0.06–0.55, P = 0.002), whereas those with low-risk DLRI did not.

Conclusions:

DLRI is a reliable noninvasive tool for evaluating prognosis and guiding anti-inflammatory TCM treatment in patients with PTC. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Role of Epigenetic Changes in the Pathophysiology of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Liebisch Marita , Wolf Gunter
Published: November 2024

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a global health issue. Epigenetic changes play an important role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Summary: DKD is currently the leading cause of kidney failure worldwide. Although much is known about the pathophysiology of DKD, the research field of epigenetics is relatively new. Several recent studies have demonstrated that diabetes-induced dysregulation of epigenetic mechanisms alters the expression of pathological genes in kidney cells. If these changes persist for a long time, the so-called “metabolic memory” could be established. In this review, we highlight diabetes-induced epigenetic modifications associated with DKD. While there is a substantial amount of literature on epigenetic changes, only a few studies describe the underlying molecular mechanisms. Detailed analyses have shown that epigenetic changes play an important role in known pathological features of DKD, such as podocyte injury, fibrosis, accumulation of extracellular matrix, or oxidative injury, all of which contribute to the pathophysiology of disease. The transforming growth factor-β plays a key role as it is involved in all-mentioned epigenetic types of regulation. Key Messages: Epigenetic is crucial for the development and progression of DKD, but the detailed molecular mechanisms have to be further analyzed more in detail.
Increased Risk of Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn in Twin Anaemia Polycythaemia Sequence Donors
Authors: van de Sande Margot J.A. , Slaghekke Femke , te Pas Arjan B. , Witlox Ruben S.G.M. , Lopriore Enrico , Tollenaar Lisanne S.A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to describe the prevalence and risk factors for respiratory complications in monochorionic twins with twin anaemia polycythaemia sequence (TAPS). Methods: All neonates diagnosed with postnatal TAPS at our center between 2002 and 2023 were included in this retrospective study. The primary outcome was the prevalence of respiratory complications, including respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Secondary outcomes included need of respiratory support during admission and a risk factor analysis for adverse respiratory outcome. Results: In our study of 100 postnatally diagnosed TAPS pregnancies, 32% (62/199) experienced RDS and 13% (25/199) had BPD, with no difference between donors and recipients. PPHN occurred in 7% of cases, more frequently in donors (11%, 11/100) than in recipients (3%, 3/100) (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 0.2–2.6). Lower gestational age at birth and severe foetal anaemia were found to be significant independent risk factors associated with PPHN in TAPS twins (OR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5), respectively (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 0.8–3.1). Conclusion: TAPS donor twins have a fourfold increased risk of PPHN due to anaemia compared to recipient twins. Given the life-threatening nature of PPHN, TAPS twins should be born in hospitals equipped to treat it.
Electrocardiographic Strain and Relationship with Left Ventricular Remodelling and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Wasim Daanyaal , Mohamed Ali Abukar , Bleie Øyvind , Løland Kjetil H. , Rajani Ronak , Rotevatn Svein , Saeed Sahrai
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Left ventricular (LV) remodelling and fibrosis are known to occur in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and are linked to post-intervention outcomes. These myocardial changes may be detected upon the routine 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) by the presence of a LV strain pattern (LVS-ECG). Although LVS-ECG has been related to excessive cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in multiple patient populations, there is currently a dearth of data upon its impact in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The aim of the current study was to investigate the prevalence, predictors, and prognostic value of LVS-ECG. Methods: Between 2012 and 2019, 640 consecutive patients underwent TAVI at Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen. Of these, 600 patients with severe AS were included in the TAVI-NOR study. Patients with known bundle branch block (n = 85) or permanent pacing (n = 25) were excluded, leaving 490 patients (mean age 81 ± 6 years, 52% females) eligible for the analyses. LVS-ECG was defined as down-sloping, convex ST-segment depression with asymmetric T-wave inversion in V5 or V6. Results: LVS-ECG was present in 25.7% patients. Higher levels of NT-proBNP (OR 1.96; 95% CI: 1.08–3.55, p = 0.028), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% (OR 3.14; 95% CI: 1.61–6.13, p = 0.001), increase in LV mass index per SD (32 g/m2) (OR 1.37; 95 CI: 1.06–1.76, p = 0.014), and the presence of LV hypertrophy on ECG (OR 3.23; 95% CI: 1.97–5.32, p < 0.001) were independent predictors of LVS-ECG in the multivariable-adjusted analysis. Although all-cause mortality was significantly higher in patients with LVS-ECG compared to those without (54.8% vs. 44.2%, p = 0.041), the presence of LVS-ECG did not predict all-cause mortality during a mean follow-up of 64 ± 24 months (HR 1.05; 95% CI: 0.79–1.39, p = 0.742). Patients with LVEF <50% and concomitant LVS-ECG had a worse prognosis than those with LVEF >50% and no LVS-ECG (p < 0.001). Conclusions: LVS-ECG may represent a simple marker of structural and functional LV remodelling that signals a propensity to excess mortality during long-term follow-up after TAVI, as it is strongly associated with other prognosticators such as reduced LVEF and increased levels of NT-proBNP.
Clinical Trials in Nail Psoriasis: Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Current State of Research
Authors: Singal Amit , Vijayvargiya Nina , Pathak Naeha , Lipner Shari R.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Nail involvement occurs in approximately 90% of patients with cutaneous psoriasis and in isolation in 5%–10% of patients. There is an unmet need for diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms for nail psoriasis (NP), partially due to limited number of clinical trials. Methods: The ClinicalTrials.gov, the EU, the Australian New Zealand, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registries were queried for the term “nail psoriasis”. Trial data characteristics were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 112 clinical trials were included, with mean trial length 46.7 weeks and mean number of participants 272.7. Medications were most often studied in 97 (86.6%) trials, followed by lasers in 7 (6.3%) trials. NP Severity Index score was the most often studied outcome measure in 91 (84.3%) trials, and only 56 (52.8%) trials assessed adverse events. Only 3 (2.83%) trials included children, and many clinical trials excluded patients aged 65+ and 85+. Results were posted for 46 (41.4%) trials with mean participant age 45.1 years, mean percentage of females of 38.3%, and 87.8% of participants being White. Conclusion: Our findings highlight a need for clinical trials assessing efficacy and long-term therapeutic safety with a broad range of age-groups and increased representation of minorities and female patients.
Response to Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Therapy in Short Children Born at Very Low Birth Weight
Authors: Homma Thais Kataoka , Dantas Naiara Castelo Branco , Freire Bruna Lucheze , Cellin Laurana de Polli , Santillán Vásconez Ana Maria , Arnhold Ivo Jorge Prado , Scalco Renata Cunha , Malaquias Alexsandra Christianne , de Lima Jorge Alexander Augusto
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Although the clinical benefits of long-term recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy have been well demonstrated in children born small for gestational age (SGA), little is known about the outcomes of this therapy in children born with very low birth weight (VLBW). This study aimed to report the short- and long-term response to rhGH therapy in a cohort of VLBW patients, comparing subgroups according to size, gestational age (GA), and causal factors associated with VLBW. Methods: We describe 33 patients born at VLBW treated with rhGH; 16 also received GnRHa. Medical records were analyzed at baseline and after 1 year of rhGH treatment. Data on the adult height SDS from 23 patients were also collected. Growth velocities and height SDS changes were calculated, along with the differences between the observed and predicted growth velocities. Results: The first-year growth velocity (7.5 ± 2.1 cm/year) was aligned with prediction models for SGA children. After 1 year of rhGH treatment, height SDS improved from −3.0 ± 1.1 to −2.6 ± 1.3, with no differences among subgroups. Among patients reaching adult height, 73.9% remained short (−2.5 ± 1.3) after long-term therapy (6.7 ± 3.3 years). The initial height SDS, height SDS change in the first year of treatment, and target height SDS were key independent predictors of height gain. Conclusion: The response to rhGH treatment was suboptimal in the VLBW group, independent of the size, GA, or etiological diagnosis. However, adult height may be improved in patients receiving rhGH treatment. This underscores the need for tailored protocols and further investigations to optimize outcomes in this population.
Abstract 4112546: Cannabis Legalization and Cardiovascular Hospitalizations: A Nationwide Difference-in-Differences Analysis
Authors: Slavin Samuel , Mahar Amy , Secemsky Eric , Yeh Robert , Mittleman Murray
Published: November 2024

Background:
Legal recreational cannabis sales (“legalization”) began earlier in the Western U.S. (January 2014) versus non-Western states (November 2018), providing a natural experiment to study its impact.

Aim:
To test the association between legalization and cardiovascular hospitalizations.

Methods:
Using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), we performed a difference-in-differences analysis of the association between legalization and hospitalization rates for 6 cardiovascular diagnoses, a positive control (cannabis-related diagnoses), and 2 negative control diagnoses (opioid-related and urinary stones). We used survey-weighted Poisson regression modeling adjusted for age, sex, income, and race/ethnicity to estimate the relative change in hospitalization rates associated with each year of legalization.

Results:
Each year of legalization was associated with the following relative change in the hospitalization incidence rate ratio (cIRR) compared with regions that did not legalize: cannabis-related diagnoses [cIRR 1.138, 95% CI 1.066-1.214, p < 0.001], atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) [cIRR 1.023, 95% CI 1.010-1.035, p<0.001], heart failure (HF) [cIRR 1.037, 95% CI 1.029-1.046, p < 0.001], myocardial infarction (MI) [cIRR 1.031, 95% CI 1.014-1.048, p < 0.001], ischemic stroke [cIRR 1.011, 95% CI 0.999-1.024, p=0.078], venous thromboembolism (VTE) [cIRR 1.009, 95% CI 0.999-1.020, p =0.066], and ventricular tachycardia (VT) [cIRR 1.019, 95% CI 0.993-1.046, p=0.161]. For falsification testing, there was no change in hospitalizations for urinary stones [cIRR 1.006, 95% CI 0.986-1.027, p = 0.535] or opioid-related diagnoses [cIRR 0.966, 95% CI 0.927-1.006, p = 0.091].

Conclusions:
Recreational cannabis legalization was associated with increased hospitalizations for AF, HF, and MI. Further work is needed to replicate these findings in state-level analyses, ideally accounting for different cannabis formulations.