bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring key job demands and resources in Norwegian child mental health services: a cross-sectional study of associations with and relationship between compassion satisfaction, burnout, secondary traumatic stress and turnover intention
Authors: Aminihajibashi Samira , Jensen Tine K. , Skar Ane-Marthe Solheim
Published: March 2024

Background

Burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and high turnover rates among child mental health clinicians are a challenge, not only for the individual therapist and the organization but also for the successful implementation of evidence-based practices. However, little is known about which and how job-and implementation-related factors are associated with burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and turnover intention as well as compassion satisfaction among child therapists. In the present study, we aimed to explore these factors and related mechanisms by integrating the “professional quality of life” and the “job demands-resources” models of occupational health.

Methods

We measured the perceived professional quality of life and turnover intention among a national sample of 256 therapists working in Norwegian Child and Adolescence Mental Health Clinics (n = 44) that implemented Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT). Seventeen Job-and implementation-related resources and demands were also measured using the General Nordic Questionnaire for Psychological and Social Factors at Work and the Implementation Component Questionnaire. Path analysis was used to test whether burnout and compassion satisfaction mediate the relationship between job demands and resources on one hand, and secondary traumatic stress and turnover intention on the other hand.

Results and discussion

Results revealed that two job resources, i.e., positive challenges at work and mastery of work, were significant predictors of all professional outcomes. The proposed model was only partly supported. That is, while burnout did mediate the relationship between some job demands (i.e., work-family interference and role conflict) and job resources (i.e., human resource primacy, positive challenges, and mastery of work) with secondary traumatic stress and turnover intention, compassion satisfaction did not mediate the relationship between job resources and turnover intention. Moreover, in addition to their indirect effects via burnout, role conflict and organizational climate (human resource primacy) also directly affected turnover intention. These findings propose that interventions that reduce burnout should be prioritized to improve the professional quality of life and turnover intention among child therapists. Theoretically, it seems that compassion satisfaction and work engagement act differently.
Immunosuppressive strategies in face and hand transplantation: a comprehensive systematic review of current therapy regimens and outcomes
Authors: Huelsboemer Lioba , Boroumand Sam , Kochen Alejandro , Dony Alna , Moscarelli Jake , Hauc Sacha C. , Stögner Viola A. , Formica Richard N. , Pomahac Bohdan , Kauke-Navarro Martin
Published: March 2024

Background

Recipients of Vascularized Composite Allotransplants require effective immunosuppressive therapy to prevent graft rejection. This systematic review summarizes the current body of literature on immunosuppressive regimens used in face and hand transplants while summarizing their outcome in terms of rejection, renal failure, and infections.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies from 1998 until July 1st, 2023. We included all studies that discussed immunosuppressive strategies in face and hand transplant recipients according to PRISMA.

Results

The standard triple maintenance therapy was mostly adjusted due to nephrotoxicity or high incidence of rejection. The most common alternative treatments utilized were sirolimus (25/91; 27.5%) or everolimus (9/91; 9.9%) following hand- and photophoresis (7/45; 15.6%), sirolimus (5/45; 11.1%) or belatacept (1/45; 2.2%) following face transplantation. Episodes of rejection were reported in 60 (65.9%) of hand- and 33 (73%) of face transplant patients respectively. Graft loss of 12 (13.2%) hand and 4 (8.9%) face transplants was reported. Clinical CMV infection was observed in 6 (6.6%) hand and 7 (15.5%) face transplant recipients.

Conclusions

Based on the herein presented data, facial grafts exhibited a heightened incidence of rejection episodes and CMV infections. Facial mucosa adds complexity to the immunological graft composition highlighting the need of individualized immunosuppressive regimens and further research.
High-performance absorber with substitutable materials for short-wave infrared sensing
Authors: Li Fengjie , Wang Shang , Chi Zongtao , Zhang Tiqiang , Yu Ruitao , Wang Bin , Li Ning
Published: March 2024

The optical absorption device plays a crucial role as a component of the infrared astronomical telescope and possesses a significant impact on astronomical observations. A simple metamaterial absorber with substitutable middle materials is made for short-wave infrared sensing. The absorber is designed as a hollow square column, using a patterning approach for the top-layer structure of metamaterials. The absorption characteristics are verified using the impedance matching method, which involves extracting S-parameters and then performing inverse calculations to determine the absorber’s equivalent impedance. The result shows the highest absorption peak is at 3.25 μm, reaching 99.71%, with an impressive average absorption rate of 99.01% between 1.52 and 3.66 μm. The results demonstrate that this absorber shows polarization insensitivity while maintaining high absorption even at large angles of incidence. The distribution of the electromagnetic field within the absorber, the electromagnetic losses within individual layers, and their impact on the absorptive performance are analyzed in detail. Polarization angles, transverse magnetic polarization, and transverse electric polarization are further explored. The parameters of each layer have been discussed. An investigation of the intermediate dielectric layer has been conducted. The proposed absorber shows the potential to achieve exceptional absorption performance under various dielectric conditions, rendering it a promising candidate for use in astronomical observation, medical tests, infrared detection, invisible short-wave infrared systems, radar and various optical devices.
Roadmap to safety: a single center study of evidence-informed approach to placenta accreta spectrum
Authors: Levy Rachel A. , Diala Prisca C. , Rothschild Harriet T. , Correa Jasmine , Lehrman Evan , Markley John C. , Poder Liina , Rabban Joseph , Chen Lee-may , Gras Jo , Sobhani Nasim C. , Cassidy Arianna G. , Chapman Jocelyn S.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of an evidence-informed protocol for management of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent cesarean hysterectomy (c-hyst) for suspected PAS from 2012 to 2022 at a single tertiary care center. Perioperative outcomes were compared pre- and post-implementation of a standardized Multidisciplinary Approach to the Placenta Service (MAPS) protocol, which incorporates evidence-informed perioperative interventions including preoperative imaging and group case review. Intraoperatively, the MAPS protocol includes placement of ureteral stents, possible placental mapping with ultrasound, and uterine artery embolization by interventional radiology. Patients suspected to have PAS on prenatal imaging who underwent c-hyst were included in the analysis. Primary outcomes were intraoperative complications and postoperative complications. Secondary outcomes were blood loss, need for ICU, and length of stay. Proportions were compared using Fisher's exact test, and continuous variables were compared used t-tests and Mood's Median test.

Results

There were no differences in baseline demographics between the pre- (n = 38) and post-MAPS (n = 34) groups. The pre-MAPS group had more placenta previa (95% pre- vs. 74% post-MAPS, p = 0.013) and prior cesarean sections (2 prior pre- vs. 1 prior post-MAPS, p = 0.012). The post-MAPS group had more severe pathology (PAS Grade 3 8% pre- vs. 47% post-MAPS, p = 0.001). There were fewer intraoperative complications (39% pre- vs.3% post-MAPS, p < 0.001), postoperative complications (32% pre- vs.12% post-MAPS, p = 0.043), hemorrhages >1l (95% pre- vs.65% post-MAPS, p = 0.001), ICU admissions (59% pre- vs.35% post-MAPS, p = 0.04) and shorter hospital stays (10 days pre- vs.7 days post-MAPS, p = 0.02) in the post-MAPS compared to pre-MAPS patients. Neonatal length of stay was 8 days longer in the post-MAPS group (9 days pre- vs. 17 days post-MAPS, p = 0.03). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that ureteral stent placement and uterine artery embolization (UAE) may be important steps to reduce complications and ICU admissions. When comparing just those who underwent UAE, patients in the post-MAPS group experienced fewer hemorrhages greater five liters (EBL >5l 43% pre- vs.4% post-MAPS, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

An evidence-informed approach to management of PAS was associated with decreased complication rate, EBL >1l, ICU admission and length of hospitalization, particularly for patients with severe pathology.
Collagen modifications predictive of lymph node metastasis in dogs with carcinoma in mixed tumours
Authors: Garcia Ana Paula Vargas , Taborda Daiana Yively Osorio , Reis Luana Aparecida , de Paula Ana Maria , Cassali Geovanni Dantas
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Mixed tumours in the canine mammary gland are the most common histological type in routine diagnosis. In general, these neoplasms have a favourable prognosis that does not evolve into metastatic disease. However, some cases develop into lymph node metastases and are associated with worse patient survival rates.

Methods

Here is a retrospective study of 46 samples of primary mixed tumours of the canine mammary gland: 15 cases of benign mixed tumours (BMT), 16 cases of carcinoma in mixed tumours without lymph node metastasis (CMT), and 15 cases of carcinomas in mixed tumours with lymph node metastasis (CMTM). In addition, we selected 23 cases of normal mammary glands (NMT) for comparison. The samples were collected from biopsies performed during nodulectomy, simple mastectomy, regional mastectomy, or unilateral/bilateral radical mastectomy. We used multiphoton microscopy, second harmonic generation, and two-photon excited fluorescence, to evaluate the characteristics of collagen fibres and cellular components in biopsies stained with haematoxylin and eosin. We performed Ki67, ER, PR, and HER-2 immunostaining to define the immunophenotype and COX-2. We showed that carcinomas that evolved into metastatic disease (CMTM) present shorter and wavier collagen fibres as compared to CMT.

Results and discussion

When compared to NMT and BMT the carcinomas present a smaller area of fibre coverage, a larger area of cellular coverage, and a larger number of individual fibres. Furthermore, we observed a correlation between the strong expression of COX-2 and a high rate of cell proliferation in carcinomas with a smaller area covered by cell fibres and a larger number of individual fibres. These findings highlight the fundamental role of collagen during tumour progression, especially in invasion and metastatic dissemination.
Effects of ambient temperature on growth performance, slaughter traits, meat quality and serum antioxidant function in Pekin duck
Authors: Xu Congcong , Sun Dongyue , Liu Yi , Pan Ziyi , Dai Zichun , Chen Fang , Guo Rihong , Chen Rong , Shi Zhendan , Ying Shijia
Published: March 2024

The present study investigated the effects of temperature on growth performance, slaughtering traits, meat quality and antioxidant function of Pekin ducks from 21–42 d of age. Single factor analysis of variance was used in this experiment, 144 21 d-old Pekin ducks were randomly allotted to 4 environmentally controlled chambers: T20 (20°C), T23 (23°C), T26 (26°C) and T29 (29°C), with 3 replicates in each group (12 ducks in each replicate), the relative humidity of all groups is 74%. During the 21-day trial period, feed and water were freely available. At 42 d, the BW (body weight) and ADG (average daily gain) of T26 were significantly lower than T20 (p < 0.05), and the T29 was significantly lower than T20 and T23 (p < 0.05). The ADFI (average daily feed intake) of T26 and T29 were significantly lower than T20 and T23 (p < 0.05). Compared to the T29, the T20 showed a significant increase oblique body length and chest width, and both the keel length and thigh muscle weight significantly increased in both the T20 and T23, while the pectoral muscle weight increased significantly in other groups (p < 0.05). The cooking loss of the T29 was the lowest (p < 0.05). The T-AOC (total antioxidant capacity) of T29 was significantly higher than the other groups (p < 0.05), the SOD (superoxide dismutase) in the T29 was significantly higher than the T23 and T26 (p < 0.05). In conditions of 74% relative humidity, the BW and ADFI of Pekin ducks significantly decrease when the environmental temperature exceeds 26°C, and the development of body size and muscle weight follows this pattern. The growth development and serum redox state of Pekin ducks are more ideal and stable at temperatures of 20°C and 23°C.
Experimental Evaluation of Lunar Regolith Settlement Caused by Ice Extraction
Authors: Gong Zheng , Barnett Nicholas , Lee Jangguen , Jin Hyunwoo , Ryu Byunghyun , Ko Taeyoung , Oh Joung , Dempster Andrew , Saydam Serkan
Published: March 2024

Water resources are essential to human exploration in deep space or the establishment of long-term lunar habitation. Ice discovered on the Moon may be useful in future missions to the lunar surface, necessitating the consideration of in situ resource utilization if it is present in sufficient amounts. Extraction of ice can cause the regolith to settle, which can lead to unintended structural damage. Therefore, any settlement resulting from ice extraction should be understood from a geotechnical perspective. This work reports on experimental investigation of the potential settlement caused by the extraction of ice from lunar regolith simulant containing different textures of ice. The KLS-1 simulant was prepared with different water contents and ice textures. Significant settlement occurred in simulant–ice mixtures with initial water contents of 5–10%.
Screening of Maize Varieties with High Biomass and Low Accumulation of Pb and Cd around Lead and Zinc Smelting Enterprises: Field Experiment
Authors: Zeng Peiyi , He Shujuan , He Liping , Yang Muqing , Zhu Xian , Wu Min
Published: March 2024

In the long-term production process of lead and zinc smelting enterprises, atmospheric subsidence leads to the accumulation of heavy metals in surrounding farmland, which poses a serious threat to the growth of crops and food safety. Given the knowledge that heavy metal pollution in cultivated land does not support treatment and restoration, determining how to ensure the quality and safety of agricultural products is the main problem facing the agricultural industry at present. Previous studies have mainly focused on the low accumulation of heavy metals in maize varieties, while the removal of heavy metals from soil through high biomass has been studied less. In order to identify the maize varieties that demonstrate high removal and low accumulation of heavy metals, 29 maize varieties were planted in soil contaminated with lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), and the growth status of the maize varieties and the absorption and transport of Pb and Cd by different tissues were studied. The results showed that heavy metals had the least effect on the growth of the Longhuangbai3, Jinqiuyu 35, Jinyi 418, and Qiuqing 88 varieties, and the content of Pb and Cd in maize varieties was in the order leaf > stem > root > grain. It was found that soil remediation and safe production can be taken into account in the results of the Qiuqing 88 (Pb, Cd), Fengdeng 2025 (Cd), and Yayu 719 (Pb, Cd) varieties. Moreover, the Xinzhongyu 801 (Cd) and Longdan 1701 (Pb) varieties demonstrated high metal accumulation in the edible part, which poses a potential risk to human health; thus, they are not recommended for local cultivation.
How Does Specialization in Agricultural Production Affect Soil Health?
Authors: Szymańska Magdalena , Gubiec Wiktoria , Smreczak Bożena , Ukalska-Jaruga Aleksandra , Sosulski Tomasz
Published: March 2024

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the specialization of agricultural production on selected parameters of soil health, i.e., soil organic carbon content (SOC), soil acidification, soil nutrient status, i.e., total nitrogen content (NT), available forms of phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, and microelements content, as well as the content of selected potentially toxic metals (PTMs). For the study, 18 farms located in the Masovian Voivodeship in Central Poland were selected. They were grouped into six types, and each type was represented by three farms. The study included organic farms; farms specializing in: crop, vegetable, poultry, dairy cattle, and pigs production. A total of 144 soil samples were analyzed. The results showed that the specialization of agricultural production and fertilizer management had a significant impact on most of the tested soil health parameters, except SOC and NT content. Despite the high organic fertilizer doses introduced into soils in poultry (170 kg N per hectare as poultry manure) and pig farms (150 kg N per hectare as pig manure), there was no significant influence of these amendments on SOC content. This may indicate low organic carbon sequestration potential in some Polish agricultural soils. Organic farms had the lowest levels of plant nutrients in the tested soil samples, which may limit soil productivity. All the tested soils were strongly acidified, which could restrict both production and regulatory soil functions. Based on the synthetic index of soil fertility (SSFI), vegetable and poultry farms were characterized by very high fertility, while crop, dairy cattle, and pig farms fell into the medium fertility class. Organic farms were in the lowest fertility class. However, the study suggests that the SSFI may not be the best indicator for assessing soil fertility and health; therefore, further research is needed.
Spatial Correlations between Nitrogen Budgets and Surface Water and Groundwater Quality in Watersheds with Varied Land Covers
Authors: Kim Deok-Woo , Chung Eu Gene , Na Eun Hye , Kim Youngseok
Published: March 2024

Anthropogenic nitrogen (N) inputs can have detrimental environmental effects, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the nitrogen budget (NB) and its spatial correlation with the water quality. This study, utilizing a 2016 dataset, scrutinized 850 subwatersheds with diverse land covers across the Republic of Korea (ROK). Employing Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR), it examined the spatial correlations between the NBs and the quality of the groundwater and river water at the watershed scale. Robust correlations (R2 = 0.87) were observed between the groundwater quality and NBs, surpassing those of the surface water (R2 = 0.48). Sensitivity analyses highlighted the importance of high-resolution spatial data in capturing nuances within complex land covers. The integration of such data led to increases in the spatial correlations between the groundwater and river water quality of approximately 0.6–0.9 and 0.3–0.5, respectively. Notably, when the agricultural land cover exceeded 10%, significant enhancements in the spatial correlations were observed, emphasizing the pivotal role of agriculture in nutrient and water quality. At a 10% cropland ratio, the spatial correlations between the watershed-scale NBs and river/groundwater quality increased by approximately 76% and 501%, respectively. This study provides novel insights into the spatial relationships among NBs, water quality, and land use, highlighting the significance of high-resolution data and the impact of agricultural practices on watershed management. These findings contribute valuable information for developing strategies to mitigate nitrogen pollution.
Higher Plant-Derived Biostimulants: Mechanisms of Action and Their Role in Mitigating Plant Abiotic Stress
Authors: Martínez-Lorente Sara Esperanza , Martí-Guillén José Manuel , Pedreño María Ángeles , Almagro Lorena , Sabater-Jara Ana Belén
Published: March 2024

Modern agriculture is being challenged by deteriorating edaphoclimatic conditions and increasing anthropogenic pressure. This necessitates the development of innovative crop production systems that can sustainably meet the demands of a growing world population while minimizing the environmental impact. The use of plant biostimulants is gaining ground as a safe and ecologically sound approach to improving crop yields. In this review, biostimulants obtained from different higher plant sources are presented under the term higher plant-derived biostimulants (hPDBs). Their mechanisms of action regulate physiological processes in plants from germination to fructification, conditioned by responses induced in plant mineral nutrition and primary metabolism, specialized metabolism, photosynthetic processes, oxidative metabolism, and signaling-related processes. The aim of this review is to collect and unify the abundant information dispersed in the literature on the effects of these biostimulants, focusing on crops subjected to abiotic stress conditions and the underlying mechanisms of action.
Impact of Seminal Plasma Antioxidants on DNA Fragmentation and Lipid Peroxidation of Frozen–Thawed Horse Sperm
Authors: Catalán Jaime , Yánez-Ortiz Iván , Torres-Garrido Marc , Ribas-Maynou Jordi , Llavanera Marc , Barranco Isabel , Yeste Marc , Miró Jordi
Published: March 2024

Cryopreservation is a stressful process for sperm, as it is associated with an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Elevated ROS levels, which create an imbalance with antioxidant capacity, may result in membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein damage and DNA fragmentation. This study aimed to determine whether the membrane LPO and DNA fragmentation of frozen–thawed horse sperm relies upon antioxidant activity, including enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT) and paraoxonase type 1 (PON1)); non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity (Trolox-equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), plasma ferric reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAP) and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC)); and the oxidative stress index (OSI) of their seminal plasma (SP). Based on total motility and plasma membrane integrity (SYBR14+/PI−) after thawing, ejaculates were hierarchically (p < 0.001) clustered into two groups of good- (GFEs) and poor-(PFEs) freezability ejaculates. LPO and DNA fragmentation (global DNA breaks) were higher (p < 0.05) in the PFE group than in the GFE group, with LPO and DNA fragmentation (global DNA breaks) after thawing showing a positive relationship (p < 0.05) with SP OSI levels and ROS production. In addition, sperm motility and membrane integrity after thawing were negatively (p < 0.05) correlated with the activity levels of SP antioxidants (PON1 and TEAC). The present results indicate that LPO and DNA fragmentation in frozen–thawed horse sperm vary between ejaculates. These differences could result from variations in the activity of antioxidants (PON1 and TEAC) and the balance between the oxidant and antioxidant components present in the SP.
Recycling of Low-Quality Carbon Black Produced by Tire Pyrolysis
Authors: Rikmann Ergo , Mäeorg Uno , Liiv Jüri
Published: March 2024

Pyrolysis is a promising way to reuse of waste tires. However, the carbon black generated in the process is often contaminated with various pyrolysis products. This study aims to recycle low-quality recycled carbon black (rCB) from waste tire pyrolysis, addressing the challenges posed by organic residues (up to 5 wt% bituminous substances, 112.2 mg/kg PAH). This causes the agglomeration of particles and decreases the active specific surface area. Cavitational vortex milling (both wet and dry) emerges as a promising method to valorize contaminated rCB, allowing for a significant reduction in the concentration of contaminants. This novel method allows for the generation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic black pigments. In parallel experiments, low-quality rCB is incorporated into solid biofuel to enhance its calorific value. The addition of 10 wt% rCB) to peat residues significantly elevates the calorific value from 14.5 MJ/kg to 21.0 MJ/kg. However, this improvement is accompanied by notable increases in CO2 and SO2 emissions. This dual effect underscores the necessity of considering environmental consequences when utilizing recycled carbon black as a supplement to solid biofuels. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential of cavitational vortex milling for carbon black valorization and highlight the trade-offs associated with enhancing biofuel properties through the addition of rCB.
Scaling Equipment Effect on Technical–Tactical Actions in U-13 Basketball Players: A Maturity Study
Authors: Ortega-Toro Enrique , Birrento-Aguiar Ricardo André , Giménez-Egido José María , Alarcón-López Francisco , Torres-Luque Gema
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to analyse the performance of technical–tactical actions in two different types of tournaments and the influence of biological age on the performance of young basketball players. Thirty-seven under-13 male basketball players (age = 12.91 ± 0.57 years) were selected from four southeast Spanish teams to participate in two different tournaments on two consecutive days. The following technical–tactical variables were analysed: (a) Ball Obtained; (b) Ball Handler Player Actions; (c) Ball Handler Player Finished Actions; and (d) Ball Handler Shooting Performance. The results showed that reduced basket height and a closer three-point line promoted a higher number of balls obtained, 1 vs. 1 situations, finished ball player actions, shots, and the efficacy of offence phases. There was a significant increase in the number of balls obtained, 1 vs. 1 situations played, the number of plays finished with a lay-up or shot, number of received personal fouls, number of plays finished in 1 vs. 2, and those finished in equality and inferiority with a high defence opposition. The modified version presented a higher number of technical–tactical actions in Late Maturity players. The authors of this study believe that it is necessary to conduct more experimental studies and use bio-banding strategies in young basketball competitions.
Microseismic Velocity Inversion Based on Deep Learning and Data Augmentation
Authors: Li Lei , Zeng Xiaobao , Pan Xinpeng , Peng Ling , Tan Yuyang , Liu Jianxin
Published: March 2024

Microseismic monitoring plays an essential role for reservoir characterization and earthquake disaster monitoring and early warning. The accuracy of the subsurface velocity model directly affects the precision of event localization and subsequent processing. It is challenging for traditional methods to realize efficient and accurate microseismic velocity inversion due to the low signal-to-noise ratio of field data. Deep learning can efficiently invert the velocity model by constructing a mapping relationship from the waveform data domain to the velocity model domain. The predicted and reference values are fitted with mean square error as the loss function. To reduce the feature mismatch between the synthetic and real microseismic data, data augmentation is also performed using correlation and convolution operations. Moreover, a hybrid training strategy is proposed by combining synthetic and augmented data. By testing real microseismic data, the results show that the Unet is capable of high-resolution and robust velocity prediction. The data augmentation method complements more high-frequency components, while the hybrid training strategy fully combines the low-frequency and high-frequency components in the data to improve the inversion accuracy.
Unraveling Convolution Neural Networks: A Topological Exploration of Kernel Evolution
Authors: Yang Lei , Xu Mengxue , He Yunan
Published: March 2024

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have become essential in deep learning applications, especially in computer vision, yet their complex internal mechanisms pose significant challenges to interpretability, crucial for ethical applications. Addressing this, our paper explores CNNs by examining their topological changes throughout the learning process, specifically employing persistent homology, a core method within Topological Data Analysis (TDA), to observe the dynamic evolution of their structure. This approach allows us to identify consistent patterns in the topological features of CNN kernels, particularly through shifts in Betti curves, which is a key concept in TDA. Our analysis of these Betti curves, initially focusing on the zeroth and first Betti numbers (respectively referred to as Betti-0 and Betti-1, which denote the number of connected components and loops), reveals insights into the learning dynamics of CNNs and potentially indicates the effectiveness of the learning process. We also discover notable differences in topological structures when CNNs are trained on grayscale versus color datasets, indicating the need for more extensive parameter space adjustments in color image processing. This study not only enhances the understanding of the intricate workings of CNNs but also contributes to bridging the gap between their complex operations and practical, interpretable applications.
Carbon-Free Cathode Materials Based on Titanium Compounds for Zn-Oxygen Aqueous Batteries
Authors: González-Morales Jorge , Mosa Jadra , Ishiyama Sho , Rosero-Navarro Nataly Carolina , Miura Akira , Tadanaga Kiyoharu , Aparicio Mario
Published: March 2024

The impact of global warming has required the development of efficient new types of batteries. One of the most promising is Zn-O2 batteries because they provide the second biggest theoretical energy density, with relevant safety and a cycle of life long enough to be fitted for massive use. However, their industrial use is hindered by a series of obstacles, such as a fast reduction in the energy density after the initial charge and discharge cycles and a limited cathode efficiency or an elevated overpotential between discharge and charge. This work is focused on the synthesis of titanium compounds as catalyzers for the cathode of a Zn-O2 aqueous battery and their characterization. The results have shown a surface area of 350 m2/g after the elimination of the organic templates during heat treatment at 500 °C in air. Different thermal treatments were performed, tuning different parameters, such as intermediate treatment at 500 °C or the atmosphere used and the final temperature. Surface areas remain high for samples without an intermediate temperature step of 500 °C. Raman spectroscopy studies confirmed the nitridation of samples. SEM and XRD showed macro–meso-porosity and the presence of nitrogen, and the electrochemical evaluation confirmed the catalytic properties of this material in oxygen reaction reduction (ORR)/oxygen evolution reaction (OER) analysis and Zn-O2 battery tests.
Analyzing Blood Cells of High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients Using Interferometric Phase Microscopy and Fluorescent Flow Cytometry
Authors: Barnea Itay , Luria Lior , Girsault Arik , Dabah Ofira , Dudaie Matan , Mirsky Simcha K. , Merkel Drorit , Shaked Natan T.
Published: March 2024

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are a group of potentially deadly diseases that affect the morphology and function of neutrophils. Rapid diagnosis of MDS is crucial for the initiation of treatment that can vastly improve disease outcome. In this work, we present a new approach for detecting morphological differences between neutrophils isolated from blood samples of high-risk MDS patients and blood bank donors (BBDs). Using fluorescent flow cytometry, neutrophils were stained with 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCF), which reacts with reactive oxygen species (ROS), and Hoechst, which binds to DNA. We observed that BBDs possessed two cell clusters (designated H and L), whereas MDS patients possessed a single cluster (L). Later, we used FACS to sort the H and the L cells and used interferometric phase microscopy (IPM) to image the cells without utilizing cell staining. IPM images showed that H cells are characterized by low optical path delay (OPD) in the nucleus relative to the cytoplasm, especially in cell vesicles containing ROS, whereas L cells are characterized by low OPD in the cytoplasm relative to the nucleus and no ROS-containing vesicles. Moreover, L cells present a higher average OPD and dry mass compared to H cells. When examining neutrophils from MDS patients and BBDs by IPM during flow, we identified ~20% of cells as H cells in BBDs in contrast to ~4% in MDS patients. These results indicate that IPM can be utilized for the diagnosis of complex hematological pathologies such as MDS.
Electric Field Characteristics of Rotating Permanent Magnet Stimulation
Authors: Robins Pei L. , Makaroff Sergey N. , Dib Michael , Lisanby Sarah H. , Deng Zhi-De
Published: March 2024

Neurostimulation devices that use rotating permanent magnets are being explored for their potential therapeutic benefits in patients with psychiatric and neurological disorders. This study aims to characterize the electric field (E-field) for ten configurations of rotating magnets using finite element analysis and phantom measurements. Various configurations were modeled, including single or multiple magnets, and bipolar or multipolar magnets, rotated at 10, 13.3, and 350 revolutions per second (rps). E-field strengths were also measured using a hollow sphere (r=9.2 cm) filled with a 0.9% sodium chloride solution and with a dipole probe. The E-field spatial distribution is determined by the magnets’ dimensions, number of poles, direction of the magnetization, and axis of rotation, while the E-field strength is determined by the magnets’ rotational frequency and magnetic field strength. The induced E-field strength on the surface of the head ranged between 0.0092 and 0.52 V/m. In the range of rotational frequencies applied, the induced E-field strengths were approximately an order or two of magnitude lower than those delivered by conventional transcranial magnetic stimulation. The impact of rotational frequency on E-field strength represents a confound in clinical trials that seek to tailor rotational frequency to individual neural oscillations. This factor could explain some of the variability observed in clinical trial outcomes.
Cardiotoxic Effects Produced by Omeprazole and Methylene Blue in an Animal Model of Cardiac Ischemia and Reperfusion and Potential Implications for the Pharmacological Strategy for Vasoplegic Syndrome
Authors: de Araújo Erisvaldo Amarante , Tallo Fernando Sabia , Oliveira Alex Sandro Felisberto , Toghlobi Gustavo Saad Silva El , Arantes Rafael Augusto , Balsimelli Rafael , Kehrwald-Balsimelli Bruno , de Almeida Viana Bianca Lorayne , Matuda Fernanda Sakata , Nicolau Lucas Antonio Duarte , Medeiros Jand Venes Rolim , Caixeta Adriano , Taha Murched Omar , Gomes Walter José , Caricati-Neto Afonso , Menezes-Rodrigues Francisco Sandro
Published: March 2024

Defined as systemic hypotension caused by intense vasodilation due to the loss of systemic vascular resistance, vasoplegic syndrome (VS) is associated with elevated morbidity and mortality in humans. Although vasopressors such as norepinephrine and vasopressin are the first-choice drugs for VS treatment, several other drugs such as methylene blue (MB) can be used as adjuvant therapy including rescue therapy. To develop new pharmacological strategies to reduce the risk of VS, we investigated the effects of treatments with MB (2 mg/kg/IV), omeprazole (OME, 10 mg/kg/IV), and their combination in an animal model of cardiac ischemia–reperfusion (CIR). The ventricular arrhythmia (VA), atrioventricular block (AVB), and lethality (LET) incidence rates caused by CIR (evaluated via ECG) and serum levels of the cardiac lesion biomarkers creatine kinase–MB (CK-MB) and troponin I (TnI) in adult rats pretreated with saline solution 0.9% and submitted to CIR (SS + CIR group) were compared to those pretreated with MB (MB + CIR group), OME (OME + CIR group), or the MB + OME combination (MB + OME + CIR group). The AVB and LET incidence rates in the MB + CIR (100%), OME + CIR (100%), and MB + OME + CIR (100%) groups were significantly higher compared to the SS + CIR group (60%). The serum level of CK-MB in these groups were also significantly higher compared to the SS + CIR group, demonstrating that the treatments before CIR with MB, OME, and MB + OME produced similar effects in relation to cardiac function and the occurrence of lesions. These results demonstrate that the treatment of animals subjected to the CIR protocol with OME produced the same effects promoted by the treatment with MB, which may suggest the possibility of using OME alone or in combination with MB in medical clinics in treatment of VS.
Safety and Effectiveness of Triclosan-Coated Polydioxanone (PDS Plus) versus Uncoated Polydioxanone (PDS II) Sutures for Prevention of Surgical Site Infection after Hypospadias Repair in Children: A 10-Year Single Center Experience with 550 Hypospadias
Authors: Pogorelić Zenon , Stričević Lana , Elezović Baloević Sara , Todorić Jakov , Budimir Dražen
Published: March 2024

Aim: Triclosan is an antiseptic substance that has been shown in preclinical studies to reduce bacterial load in the wound and slow bacterial growth by inhibiting fatty acid synthesis. It is claimed that the coating protects against colonization of the tissue around the suture. This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of triclosan-coated polydioxanone versus uncoated polydioxanone sutures for the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs) following hypospadias repair in children. Methods: The medical records of 550 children who underwent hypospadias repair between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients included in the study were divided into two groups. The first group consisted of the patients in whom polydioxanone (PDS II) was used (n = 262), while in the patients of the second group (n = 288), triclosan-coated polydioxanone (PDS Plus) was used for hypospadias repair. Secondary outcomes were defined as the occurrence of early and late complications, the number of readmissions within 30 days after surgery (ReAd), unplanned return to the operating room (uROR), and repeat operations. Results: The median age of all children enrolled in the study was 16 (IQR 14, 20) months. The patients in whom PDS Plus was used for hypospadias repair had a significantly lower number of SSIs than the patients in whom PDS II was used (n = 18 (6.9%) vs. n = 4 (1.4%), p < 0.001). Wound infection led to wound dehiscence in 10 of 18 patients from the PDS II group, while all four wound infections from the PDS Plus group led to wound dehiscence (p = 0.07). The number of postoperative urethrocutaneous fistulas was significantly lower in the patients in whom PDS Plus was used (13.7% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.042). The incidence of late complications did not differ between the study groups: meatal stenosis (p = 0.944), residual chordee (p = 0.107), urethral stricture (p = 0.196), scarring (p = 0.351) and urinary discomfort (p = 0.713). There were no cases of uROR in either group. The ReAd rate was low in both groups (n = 5 (1.9%) vs. n = 2 (0.6%), p = 0.266). The frequency of reoperations was lower in the group of patients treated with PDS Plus than in the group of patients treated with PDS II (11.1% vs. 20.6%; p = 0.03). Conclusion: The use of PDS Plus in hypospadias surgery significantly reduces the incidence of SSI, postoperative fistulas, and reoperation rates compared to PDS II.
Amelioration of Morphological Pathology in Cardiac, Respiratory, and Skeletal Muscles Following Intraosseous Administration of Human Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) Cells in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Model
Authors: Siemionow Maria , Budzynska Katarzyna , Zalants Kristina , Langa Paulina , Brodowska Sonia , Siemionow Krzysztof , Heydemann Ahlke
Published: March 2024

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal disease caused by mutation in the dystrophin gene. Currently there is no cure for DMD. We introduced a novel human Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) cell therapy of myoblast origin and confirmed the safety and efficacy of DEC in the mdx mouse models of DMD. In this study, we assessed histological and morphological changes in the cardiac, diaphragm, and gastrocnemius muscles of the mdx/scid mice after the transplantation of human DEC therapy via the systemic-intraosseous route. The efficacy of different DEC doses was evaluated at 90 days (0.5 × 106 and 1 × 106 DEC cells) and 180 days (1 × 106 and 5 × 106 DEC cells) after administration. The evaluation of Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E)-stained sectional slices of cardiac, diaphragm, and gastrocnemius muscles included assessment of muscle fiber size by minimal Feret’s diameter method using ImageJ software. The overall improvement in muscle morphology was observed in DMD-affected target muscles in both studies, as evidenced by a shift in fiber size distribution toward the wild type (WT) phenotype and by an increase in the mean Feret’s diameter compared to the vehicle-injected controls. These findings confirm the long-term efficacy of human DEC therapy in the improvement of overall morphological pathology in the muscles affected by DMD and introduce DEC as a novel therapeutic approach for DMD patients.
Hypermethylated Colorectal Cancer Tumours Present a Myc-Driven Hypermetabolism with a One-Carbon Signature Associated with Worsen Prognosis
Authors: Desterke Christophe , Jaulin Fanny , Dornier Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second cause of cancer-related death; the CpG-island methylation pathway (CIMP) is associated with KRAS/BRAF mutations, two oncogenes rewiring cell metabolism, worse prognosis, and resistance to classical chemotherapies. Despite this, the question of a possible metabolic rewiring in CIMPs has never been investigated. Here, we analyse whether metabolic dysregulations are associated with tumour methylation by evaluating the transcriptome of CRC tumours. CIMP-high patients were found to present a hypermetabolism, activating mainly carbohydrates, folates, sphingolipids, and arachidonic acid metabolic pathways. A third of these genes had epigenetic targets of Myc in their proximal promoter, activating carboxylic acid, tetrahydrofolate interconversion, nucleobase, and oxoacid metabolisms. In the Myc signature, the expression of GAPDH, TYMS, DHFR, and TK1 was enough to predict methylation levels, microsatellite instability (MSI), and mutations in the mismatch repair (MMR) machinery, which are strong indicators of responsiveness to immunotherapies. Finally, we discovered that CIMP tumours harboured an increase in genes involved in the one-carbon metabolism, a pathway critical to providing nucleotides for cancer growth and methyl donors for DNA methylation, which is associated with worse prognosis and tumour hypermethylation. Transcriptomics could hence become a tool to help clinicians stratify their patients better.
Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma or a Metaphor for Heterogeneity: From Single-Cell Analysis to Whole-Body Imaging
Authors: Saúde-Conde Rita , Arçay Öztürk Ayça , Stosic Kosta , Azurmendi Senar Oier , Navez Julie , Bouchart Christelle , Arsenijevic Tatjana , Flamen Patrick , Van Laethem Jean-Luc
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents a formidable challenge due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) in PDAC, characterized by intense stromal desmoplastic reactions and a dominant presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), significantly contributes to therapeutic resistance. However, within the heterogeneous CAF population, fibroblast activation protein (FAP) emerges as a promising target for Gallium-68 FAP inhibitor positron emission tomography (Ga68FAPI-PET) imaging. Notably, 68Ga-FAPI-PET demonstrates promising diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, especially in conjunction with low tracer uptake in non-tumoral tissues. Moreover, it provides valuable insights into tumor–stroma interactions, a critical aspect of PDAC tumorigenesis not adequately visualized through conventional methods. The clinical implications of this innovative imaging modality extend to its potential to reshape treatment strategies by offering a deeper understanding of the dynamic TME. However, while the potential of 68Ga-FAPI-PET is evident, ongoing correlative studies are essential to elucidate the full spectrum of CAF heterogeneity and to validate its impact on PDAC management. This article provides a comprehensive review of CAF heterogeneity in PDAC and explores the potential impact of 68Ga-FAPI-PET on disease management.
The Effects of a Novel Treatment for Hemianopic Dyslexia on Reading, Symptom Load, and Return to Work
Authors: Kerkhoff Georg , Kraft Antje
Published: March 2024

Reading disorders are frequent in homonymous hemianopia and are termed hemianopic dyslexia (HD). The existing treatment methods have shown improvements in reading speed, accuracy, and eye movements during reading. Yet, little is known about the transfer effects of such treatments on functional, reading-related tasks of daily life, e.g., reading phone numbers, finding typing errors or text memory. In addition, little is known about the effects on symptom load and return to work. Here, we examined a new reading therapy entailing three different methods—floating text, rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) of single words, and the moving window technique—and evaluated their efficacy. Twenty-seven chronic HD patients were treated in a baseline design with treatment-free intervals before and after a treatment period of several months. HD was assessed with a battery of reading tests and a questionnaire about subjective symptom load at four time-points. Patients received all three reading therapies over several weeks. The results show significant and stable improvements during treatment within all measures. Approximately 63% of treated patients returned to work after the therapy. We concluded that our novel HD treatment led to widespread and lasting improvements in reading performance, generalized to functional reading tasks and reduced symptom load, and the majority of patients were able to return to work.
A Comprehensive Study on Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Arid Urban Environments through Microclimatic Analysis of Urban Density
Authors: Bacha Alaa Eddine , Ahriz Atef , Alshenaifi Mohammad , Alfraidi Sultan , Noaime Emad , Alsolami Badr , Ghosh Aritra , Bouzaher Soumia , Doulos Lambros T. , Mesloub Abdelhakim
Published: March 2024

Rapid urbanization across hot arid environments transforms local microclimates, yet linkages between density, layout, and outdoor thermal comfort remain inadequately characterized. This study investigates these correlations in the desert city of Biskra, Algeria. We conducted extensive in-situ measurement campaigns during peak summer and winter periods across six neighborhoods spanning low to high-rise density fabrics. We captured air temperature, humidity, and wind velocity to enable thermal comfort assessment via the Effective Temperature (ET) and Equivalent Temperature (TEK) stress indices. Index sensitivity to density metrics from 23–86% was explored through One-Variable-At-A-Time (OVAT) analysis. Results show marked summer comfort deterioration with rising density due to constrained ventilation. However, higher densities demonstrate superior winter warmth through wind blocking despite reduced sunlight exposure. Sharp nonlinear differences emerge between seasons. Precision density thresholds prove difficult to define conclusively given typological diversities. However, indicative ranges tied to hazards are identified, providing guidelines for informed climatic adaptation. This research delivers vital evidence to advance bioclimatic strategies for enhancing habitability amidst urban expansion across delicate hot deserts.