bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EIT probe based intraoperative tissue inspection for minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Guo Jing , Zhuang Baiyang , Li Renkai , Lin Zexuan , Cheng Zhuoqi , Lou Haifang
Published: July 2024

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has become an integral component in the repertoire of medical imaging techniques, particularly due to its non-invasive nature and real-time imaging capabilities. Despite its potential, the application of EIT in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been hindered by a lack of specialized electrode probes. Existing designs often compromise between invasiveness and spatial sensitivity: probes small enough for MIS often fail to provide detailed imaging, while those offering greater sensitivity are impractically large for use through a surgical trocar. Addressing this challenge, our study presents a breakthrough in EIT probe design. The open electrode probe we have developed features a line of 16 electrodes, thoughtfully arrayed to balance the spatial demands of MIS with the need for precise imaging. Employing an advanced EIT reconstruction algorithm, our probe not only captures images that reflect the electrical characteristics of the tissues but also ensures the homogeneity of the test material is accurately represented. The versatility of our probe is demonstrated by its capacity to generate high-resolution images of subsurface anatomical structures, a feature particularly valuable during MIS where direct visual access is limited. Surgeons can rely on intraoperative EIT imaging to inform their navigation of complex anatomical landscapes, enhancing both the safety and efficacy of their procedures. Through rigorous experimental validation using ex vivo tissue phantoms, we have established the probe’s proficiency. The experiments confirmed the system’s high sensitivity and precision, particularly in the critical tasks of subsurface tissue detection and surgical margin delineation. These capabilities manifest the potential of our probe to revolutionize the field of surgical imaging, providing a previously unattainable level of detail and assurance in MIS procedures.
TEMPy: a toolkit for the modeling of weighted tissue equivalent material in diagnostic imaging
Authors: Boiset Gisell R , Moratta Raphael , Yoshimura Elisabeth M , Costa Paulo R
Published: July 2024

Objective. Accurate simulation of human tissues is imperative for advancements in diagnostic imaging, particularly in the fields of dosimetry and image quality evaluation. Developing Tissue Equivalent Materials (TEMs) with radiological characteristics akin to those of human tissues is essential for ensuring the reliability and relevance of imaging studies. This study presents the development of a mathematical model and a new toolkit (TEMPy) for obtaining the best composition of materials that mimic the radiological characteristics of human tissues. The model and the toolkit are described, along with an example showcasing its application to obtain desired TEMs. Approach. The methodology consisted of fitting volume fractions of the components of TEM in order to determine its linear attenuation coefficient as close as possible to the linear attenuation coefficient of the reference material. The fitting procedure adopted a modified Least Square Method including a weight function. This function reflects the contribution of the x-ray spectra in the suitable energy range of interest. TEMPy can also be used to estimate the effective atomic number and electron density of the resulting TEM. Main results. TEMPy was used to obtain the chemical composition of materials equivalent to water and soft tissue, in the energy range used in x-ray imaging (10 −150 keV) and for breast tissue using the energy range (5–40 keV). The maximum relative difference between the linear attenuation coefficients of the developed and reference materials was ±5% in the considered energy ranges. Significance. TEMPy facilitates the formulation of TEMs with radiological properties closely mimicking those of real tissues, aiding in the preparation of physical anthropomorphic or geometric phantoms for various applications. The toolkit is freely available to interested readers.
Deep learning for intracranial aneurysm segmentation using CT angiography
Authors: Zheng Huizhong , Liu Xinfeng , Huang Zhenxing , Ren Yan , Fu Bin , Shi Tianliang , Liu Lu , Guo Qiping , Tian Chong , Liang Dong , Wang Rongpin , Chen Jie , Hu Zhanli
Published: July 2024

Objective. This study aimed to employ a two-stage deep learning method to accurately detect small aneurysms (4–10 mm in size) in computed tomography angiography images. Approach. This study included 956 patients from 6 hospitals and a public dataset obtained with 6 CT scanners from different manufacturers. The proposed method consists of two components: a lightweight and fast head region selection (HRS) algorithm and an adaptive 3D nnU-Net network, which is used as the main architecture for segmenting aneurysms. Segments generated by the deep neural network were compared with expert-generated manual segmentation results and assessed using Dice scores. Main
Results. The area under the curve (AUC) exceeded 79% across all datasets. In particular, the precision and AUC reached 85.2% and 87.6%, respectively, on certain datasets. The experimental results demonstrated the promising performance of this approach, which reduced the inference time by more than 50% compared to direct inference without HRS. Significance. Compared with a model without HRS, the deep learning approach we developed can accurately segment aneurysms by automatically localizing brain regions and can accelerate aneurysm inference by more than 50%.
Yet anOther Dose Algorithm (YODA) for independent computations of dose and dose changes due to anatomical changes
Authors: Burlacu Tiberiu , Lathouwers Danny , Perkó Zoltán
Published: July 2024

Objective. To assess the viability of a physics-based, deterministic and adjoint-capable algorithm for performing treatment planning system independent dose calculations and for computing dosimetric differences caused by anatomical changes. Approach. A semi-numerical approach is employed to solve two partial differential equations for the proton phase-space density which determines the deposited dose. Lateral hetereogeneities are accounted for by an optimized (Gaussian) beam splitting scheme. Adjoint theory is applied to approximate the change in the deposited dose caused by a new underlying patient anatomy. Main results. The dose engine’s accuracy was benchmarked through three-dimensional gamma index comparisons against Monte Carlo simulations done in TOPAS. For a lung test case, the worst passing rate with (1 mm, 1%, 10% dose cut-off) criteria is 94.55%. The effect of delivering treatment plans on repeat CTs was also tested. For non-robustly optimized plans the adjoint component was accurate to 5.7% while for a robustly optimized plan it was accurate to 4.8%. Significance. Yet anOther Dose Algorithm is capable of accurate dose computations in both single and multi spot irradiations when compared to TOPAS. Moreover, it is able to compute dosimetric differences due to anatomical changes with small to moderate errors thereby facilitating its use for patient-specific quality assurance in online adaptive proton therapy.
Investigations on the beam quality correction factor for ionization chambers in high-energy brachytherapy dosimetry
Authors: Failing T , Hensley F W , Keil B , Zink K
Published: July 2024

Objective. To enhance the investigations on MC calculated beam quality correction factors of thimble ionization chambers from high-energy brachytherapy sources and to develop reliable reference conditions in source and detector setups in water. Approach. The response of five different ionization chambers from PTW-Freiburg and Standard Imaging was investigated for irradiation by a high dose rate Ir-192 Flexisource in water. For a setup in a Beamscan water phantom, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to calculate correction factors for the chamber readings. After exact positioning of source and detector the absorbed dose rate at the TG-43 reference point at one centimeter nominal distance from the source was measured using these factors and compared to the specification of the calibration certificate. The Monte Carlo calculations were performed using the restricted cema formalism to gain further insight into the chamber response. Calculations were performed for the sensitive volume of the chambers, determined by the methods currently used in investigations of dosimetry in magnetic fields. Main results. Measured dose rates and values from the calibration certificate agreed within the combined uncertainty (k = 2) for all chambers except for one case in which the full air cavity was simulated. The chambers showed a distinct directional dependence. With the restricted cema formalism calculations it was possible to examine volume averaging and energy dependence of the perturbation factors contributing to the beam quality correction factor also differential in energy. Significance. This work determined beam quality correction factors to measure the absorbed dose rate from a brachytherapy source in terms of absorbed dose to water for a variety of ionization chambers. For the accurate dosimetry of brachytherapy sources with ionization chambers it is advisable to use correction factors based on the sensitive volume of the chambers and to take account for the directional dependence of chamber response.
A novel scale-bridging method for MSMA linking continuum thermodynamics constitutive formulations to lumped system-level models
Authors: Sordon Fabian , El Khatib Omar , Courant Robert , Jeeja Akshay B , Maas Jürgen , Kiefer Bjoern
Published: July 2024

This work introduces a novel scale-bridging method between a continuum thermodynamics constitutive model and a lumped system-level model for magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMA). With this method, system models for real-time operations are generated based on virtual experiments using the constitutive model. The proposed method addresses the fact that, while constitutive models for MSMA typically only require small sets of parameters as input, their evaluation is still computationally expensive. System models for control engineering, however, require extensive experimental parameterization, while their evaluation is highly time-efficient. The proposed scale-bridging method has the potential to combine a small parameterization effort and a low computational cost of the real-time system model. Additionally, the constitutive model is utilized to investigate whether it can determine the individual behavior of MSMA samples. This is important since the inherent model parameters, while valid for ideal single crystals, deviate for non-ideal MSMA sample behavior. To this end, the MSMA constitutive model, based on a global variational principle originally proposed by Kiefer et al is supplemented by various extensions, including a more robust algorithmic treatment. A parameter identification procedure is introduced to optimize the constitutive model parameters based on an outer hysteresis curve for a particular load case. By conducting virtual experiments with the constitutive model, data sets are generated to parameterize Preisach hysteresis models as numerical approximations of the constitutive models. The resulting hysteresis models are compared with physical experiments using an MSMA test bench for different load cases. It is shown that the proposed scale-bridging method successfully generates hysteresis models derived from constitutive models. While maintaining accuracy comparable to strictly phenomenological models across various load cases (as validated through physical MSMA test bench experiments), these models require significantly less parameterization effort than classical system models. This translates to faster model creation and broader applicability.
Event-triggered semi-active TLCD for ground motion-induced vibration control
Authors: Ding Hao , Zhang Jian , Song Jian , Fang Xiaojun , Wang Jinting
Published: July 2024

One potential drawback of tuned liquid column dampers (TLCDs) is their relatively low control efficiency during the initial stage of structural vibration caused by external excitations. This is because satisfactory control effects can only be achieved when the liquid inside TLCD is fully oscillating, which is not the case during the initial stage. To solve this problem, in this study, an event-triggered semi-active technique is creatively proposed to improve the vibration reduction efficiency of TLCDs during the initial stage. The fundamental idea of the proposed approach is to provide an initial displacement to the liquid column via baffles, and then release the constraints on the initial liquid displacement at an appropriate time to achieve the rapid activation of TLCDs. A strategy from the standpoint of phase difference between liquid column motion and structural motion is proposed to determine the triggering conditions (i.e. when to release the constraints). The effectiveness of the proposed semi-active system is examined under both harmonic and stochastic excitations. The results show that the proposed strategy successfully improves the vibration suppression performance of TLCDs in the early stage of structural vibration.
A theoretical investigation on equilibrium magnetic properties in nanowire arrays
Authors: Kantar Ersin , Ertaş Mehmet
Published: July 2024

The paper focuses on the study of an Ising nanowire array composed of core/shell-structured single nanowires placed at the edges of a square lattice. The phase transition temperature, at which a transition occurs in the magnetic properties, is obtained using effective field theory for two interacting individual nanowires. To understand how the interaction affects the magnetic, we defined the exchange interaction (JR) between the single nanowires. This interaction is assigned both positive and negative values to reveal the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic characteristics of the system. Our results revealed that the exchange interaction between individual nanowires significantly influences the magnetic properties of the system.
Exploring negative ion behaviors and their influence on properties of DC magnetron sputtered ITO films under varied power and pressure conditions
Authors: Li 李 Maoyang 茂洋 , Mo 莫 Chaochao 超超 , Ji 季 Peiyu 佩宇 , Zhang 张 Xiaoman 潇漫 , Chen 陈 Jiali 佳丽 , Zhuge 诸 Lanjian 葛兰剑 , Wu 吴 Xuemei 雪梅 , Tan 谭 Haiyun 海云 , Huang 黄 Tianyuan 天源
Published: July 2024

We deposited indium-tin-oxide (ITO) films on silicon and quartz substrates by magnetron sputtering technology in pure argon. Using electrostatic quadrupole plasma diagnostic technology, we investigate the effects of discharge power and discharge pressure on the ion flux and energy distribution function of incidence on the substrate surface, with special attention to the production of high-energy negative oxygen ions, and elucidate the mechanism behind its production. At the same time, the structure and properties of ITO films are systematically characterized to understand the potential effects of high energy oxygen ions on the growth of ITO films. Combining with the kinetic property analysis of sputtering damage mechanism of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films, this study provides valuable physical understanding of optimization of TCO thin film deposition process.
Letter case pairs for SI prefix symbols
Authors: Brown Richard J C
Published: July 2024

This letter considers the potential for confusion in the presentation and interpretation of measurement results caused by the existence of upper- and lower-case letter pairs for SI prefix symbols, an example of this being the newest prefix symbols Q & q and R & r, adopted at the 27th Meeting of the General Conference on Weights and Measures in November 2022. The requirements of digitalisation and machine readability, when making choices for new unit and prefix symbols, are also examined.
ATEP: an advanced transport model for energetic particles
Authors: Lauber Ph. , Falessi M. , Meng G. , Hayward-Schneider T. , Popa V.-A. , Zonca F. , Schneider M.
Published: July 2024

In this paper we report on the implementation and verification of a phase-space resolved energetic particle (EP) transport model. It is based on a first-principle theoretical framework, i.e. the system of non-linear gyrokinetic equations and the related transport equations. Its focus is primarily directed toward understanding the meso-scale character of EPs and its consequences. Compared to the conventional description of thermal radial transport via a one-dimensional radial diffusion equation, the newly developed model is three-dimensional using canonical constants-of-motion (CoM) variables. The model does not assume diffusive processes to be dominant a priori, instead the EP fluxes are self-consistently calculated and directly evolved in CoM space. We use the EP-Stability workflow and the HAGIS code to determine the phase space fluxes explicitly either in the limit of constant mode amplitudes or an energy-conserving quasi-linear model. As an application of the model the transport of neutral-beam-generated EPs due to a toroidal Alfvén eigenmode in an ITER plasma is investigated. As there are no sources and collisions taken into account so far (for an extension of the model see the companion paper (Meng et al 2024 Nucl. Fusion accepted)), the results cannot be considered as an exhaustive study, but rather as a practical demonstration of the conceptual framework on the way to a comprehensive reduced description of burning plasmas.
Identifying signature features of epidemic diseases from 19th century all-cause mortality data
Authors: Pedersen Rasmus Kristoffer , Ingholt Mathias Mølbak , Van Wijhe Maarten , Andreasen Viggo , Simonsen Lone
Published: July 2024

Deadly epidemics leave distinct marks on all-cause mortality. When cause-specific health data are unavailable, studies of all-cause mortality may be necessary for understanding epidemic and pandemic diseases in history. Here, we identify and catalog every major epidemic in Denmark during the 100-year period between 1815 and 1915, based on a recently digitized and compiled data set of all 4 million burials during the period. Although the data set lacks specific information on cause of death, we were able to determine plausible etiology for the majority of 418 identified mortality crises that had more than 50 excess deaths. Epidemiologic methods, data analysis, consultation of historical sources, and investigation of the signature features of age patterns, seasonality, timing, and geography were used. The identified epidemics included, among others, pandemic influenza, cholera outbreaks in 1853 and 1857, and annually repeating epidemics during the period 1826-1832. Although these epidemics have been discussed elsewhere, our work presents a different view of these epidemics, based solely on all-cause mortality. Some of the identified epidemics were caused by pathogens that still affect us in modern times. In low-income modern settings for which representative population health data may be unavailable, the use of mortality data to determine the signature features may guide policy and improve future mitigation strategies.
Studying the association between longitudinal nondense breast tissue measurements and the risk of breast cancer: a joint modeling approach
Authors: Illipse Maya , Gasparini Alessandro , Christoffersen Benjamin , Hall Per , Czene Kamila , Humphreys Keith
Published: July 2024

Conflicting results have appeared in the literature on whether the amount of nondense, adipose tissue in the breast is a risk factor or a protective factor for breast cancer (BC), and biological hypotheses supporting both have been proposed. We suggest here that limitations in study design and statistical methodology could potentially explain the inconsistent results. Specifically, we exploit recent advances in methodology and software developed for the joint analysis of multiple longitudinal outcomes and time-to-event data to jointly analyze dense and nondense tissue trajectories and the risk of BC in a large Swedish screening cohort. We also perform extensive sensitivity analyses by mimicking analyses/designs of previously published studies—for example, ignoring available longitudinal data. Overall, we do not find strong evidence supporting an association between nondense tissue and the risk of incident BC. We hypothesize that (1) previous studies have not been able to isolate the effect of nondense tissue from dense tissue or adipose tissue elsewhere in the body, that (2) estimates of the effect of nondense tissue on risk are strongly sensitive to modeling assumptions, or that (3) the effect size of nondense tissue on BC risk is likely to be small/not clinically relevant.
Impact of connected dispensing technology with advanced analytics in a multicenter health system
Authors: Freeman-Muhammad Steven , Chipman-Ashley Regina , Martin Richard E , Williams Jennifer , Prochazka Amanda , Dumitru Doina , Greszler Craig
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study was designed to evaluate the impact of enterprise inventory optimization (EIO) technology and analytics on pharmacy labor, costs, and medication availability within a large integrated delivery network (IDN).

Methods

This article describes a mixed-methods, postmarket observational study assessing the impact of a solution of disparate technologies including automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs), centralized pharmacy inventory software, and controlled substance vaults connected by an inventory optimization analytics (IOA) tool. Four study modules were implemented over a 10-month period. The intervention consisted of implementation of the IOA software, linking the disparate automated technologies. Transactional data was collected and aggregated with user perception survey data in both the pre- and postintervention periods. Descriptive and comparative statistical testing was used to assess outcomes.

Results

A total of 11 facilities with bed counts ranging between 22 and 908 beds were included in this study. At an enterprise level, users were able to complete an average of 2.8 times more periodic automated replenishment (PAR) level changes post intervention, resulting in an estimated enterprise labor avoidance of over 1 full-time equivalent (2,099 labor hours) annually. Despite an enterprise decision to increase ADC inventory on hand from a 3-day supply to a 5-day supply, 5 sites (45%) had a decrease in total inventory, while 9 sites (82%) saw a decrease in ADC inventory costs. Additionally, 7 sites (64%) saw a reduction in the ADC stockout percentage and all 11 sites (100%) saw a decrease in the central pharmacy stockout percentage post intervention.

Conclusion

Integration and optimization of connected inventory management technology was observed to have positive impacts on improving labor productivity, reducing ADC inventory carrying costs, and increasing medication availability.
Systemic inflammatory markers in ageing, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
Authors: Cai Huimin , Zhao Tan , Pang Yana , Fu Xiaofeng , Ren Ziye , Quan Shuiyue , Jia Longfei
Published: July 2024

Systemic inflammation with alterations in inflammatory markers is involved in ageing and Alzheimer's disease. However, few studies have investigated the longitudinal trajectories of systemic inflammatory markers during ageing and Alzheimer's disease, and specific markers contributing to Alzheimer's disease remain undetermined. In this study, a longitudinal cohort (cohort 1: n = 290; controls, 136; preclinical Alzheimer's disease, 154) and a cross-sectional cohort (cohort 2: n = 351; controls, 62; Alzheimer's disease, 63; vascular dementia, 58; Parkinson's disease dementia, 56; behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia, 57; dementia with Lewy bodies, 55) were included. Plasma levels of inflammatory markers were measured every 2 years during a 10-year follow-up in the longitudinal cohort and once in the cross-sectional cohort.

The study demonstrated that the inflammatory markers significantly altered during both ageing and the development of Alzheimer's disease. However, only complement C3, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 exhibited significant changes in participants with preclinical Alzheimer's disease, and their longitudinal changes were significantly associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease compared to controls over the 10-year follow-up. In the cross-sectional cohort, complement C3 demonstrated specificity to Alzheimer's disease, while interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 were also altered in other dementias.

The study provides a new perspective on the involvement of inflammatory markers in the ageing process and the development of Alzheimer's disease, implying that regulating inflammation may have a pivotal role in promoting successful ageing and in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Still to ARRIVE at adequate reporting of orthodontic studies involving animal models
Authors: Flitti Dihya , Pandis Nikolaos , Seehra Jadbinder
Published: July 2024

Background

The ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines were introduced to improve the reporting of animal studies. The aim of this study was to assess the reporting adherence of orthodontic speciality animal studies in relation to ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines. Associations between the reporting and study characteristics were explored.

Materials and method

An electronic database search was undertaken using Medline via PubMed (www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) to identify studies meeting the eligibility criteria published between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2023. Data extraction was performed in duplicate and independently. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions for the responses to each checklist item were calculated. Mean values for adequate reporting per ARRIVE item were calculated. A sum score was calculated by adding the responses (0 = not reported, 1 = inadequate reporting, 2 = adequate reporting) per item and sub-questions. On an exploratory basis, univariable linear regression between summary score and study characteristics (year of publication, continent of authorship, type of centre, and number of authors) was performed.

Results

Three hundred and eighty-four studies were analysed. Variability in the adequate reporting of the ARRIVE 2.0 guideline items was evident. In particular, in 32% of studies, there was a lack of reporting of the priori sample size calculation. Overall, the mean reporting score for the sample was 57.9 (SD 6.7 and range 34–74). There were no associations between score and study characteristics except for a weak association for year of publication with a small improvement over time (each additional year).

Conclusions

The reporting of animal studies relevant to the speciality of orthodontics is sub-optimal in relation to the ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines. There was a tendency for the non-reporting of items pertaining to study sample size, eligibility, methods to reduce bias and interpretation/scientific implications. Greater awareness and reporting adherence to the ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines are required to reduce research waste involving animal models.
Waveform modelling of hydroacoustic teleseismic earthquake records from autonomous Mermaid floats
Authors: Pipatprathanporn Sirawich , Simons Frederik J
Published: July 2024

We present a computational technique to model hydroacoustic waveforms from teleseismic earthquakes recorded by mid-column Mermaid floats deployed in the Pacific, taking into consideration bathymetric effects that modify seismo-acoustic conversions at the ocean bottom and acoustic wave propagation in the ocean layer, including reverberations. Our approach couples axisymmetric spectral-element simulations performed for moment-tensor earthquakes in a 1-D solid Earth to a 2-D Cartesian fluid–solid coupled spectral-element simulation that captures the conversion from displacement to acoustic pressure at an ocean-bottom interface with accurate bathymetry. We applied our workflow to 1129 seismograms for 682 earthquakes from 16 Mermaids (short for Mobile Earthquake Recording in Marine Areas by Independent Divers) owned by Princeton University that were deployed in the Southern Pacific as part of the South Pacific Plume Imaging and Modeling (SPPIM) project. We compare the modelled synthetic waveforms to the observed records in individually selected frequency bands aimed at reducing local noise levels while maximizing earthquake-generated signal content. The modelled waveforms match the observations very well, with a median correlation coefficient of 0.72, and some as high as 0.95. We compare our correlation-based traveltime measurements to measurements made on the same data set determined by automated arrival-time picking and ray- traced traveltime predictions, with the aim of opening up the use of Mermaid records for global seismic tomography via full-waveform inversion.
Real-time dual-parameter full-waveform inversion of GPR data based on robust deep learning
Authors: Xue Jiyan , Huang Qinghua , Wu Sihong , Zhao Li , Ma Bowen
Published: July 2024

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is becoming an increasingly important tool for understanding the shallow electrical structures of the Earth and planets due to its adaptability to harsh detection environments, efficient data acquisition and accurate detection results. GPR full-waveform can simultaneously constrain the permittivity and resistivity of the medium, providing more comprehensive geophysical information and reducing the non-uniqueness of inversion. However, given the highly non-linear inverse problem and the massive data resulted from high temporal and spatial samplings, traditional full-waveform inversion algorithms are prohibitively costly. Inspired by Google's vision semantic segmentation system, we develop a robust deep learning-guided network that integrates geology and geophysics knowledge to support the real-time translation of zero-offset GPR data into dual-parameter electrical structures. We test our proposed network using synthetic data, which demonstrates that the algorithm can provide an accurate dual-parameter electrical model from a GPR sounding in milliseconds on a common laptop PC, exhibiting high robustness and adaptability to noise interference and extreme values of model parameters. We also apply our network to field data gathered for pollutant investigation in the United States. The resulting dual-parameter structure provides a more comprehensive and realistic depiction of subsurface electrical properties and reveals the migration and ageing of pollutants. Our algorithm's real-time and accurate advantages are expected to further unleash the potential of GPR technology and enable it to play a more significant role in earth and planetary exploration.
Pneumococcal Carriage and Disease in Adults in England, 2011–2019: The Importance of Adults as a Reservoir for Pneumococcus in Communities
Authors: El Safadi Dima , Hitchins Lisa , Howard Ashleigh , Aley Parvinder , Bowman Jaclyn , Bertran Marta , Collins Andrea , Colin-Jones Rachel , Elterish Filora , Fry Norman K , Gordon Stephen S , Gould Kate , Hinds Jason , Horn Emilie , Hyder-Wright Angela , Kandasamy Rama , Ladhani Shamez , Litt David , Mitsi Elena , Murphy Annabel , Pollard Andrew J , Plested Emma , Pojar Sherin , Ratcliffe Helen , Robertson Maria C , Robinson Hannah , Snape Matthew D , Solórzano Carla , Voysey Merryn , Begier Elizabeth , Catusse Julie , Lahuerta Maria , Theilacker Christian , Gessner Bradford D , Tiley Karen S , Ferreira Daniela M
Published: July 2024

Background

Pneumococcal carriage in healthy adults and its relationship to invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is not well understood.

Methods

Nasal wash samples from adults without close contact with young children (Liverpool, UK), 2011–2019, were cultured, and culture-negative samples tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Pneumococcal carriage in adults 18–44 years was compared with carriage among pneumococcal conjugate vaccine–vaccinated children aged 13–48 months (nasopharyngeal swabs, Thames Valley, UK) and national IPD data, 2014–2019. Age group–specific serotype invasiveness was calculated and used with national IPD data to estimate carriage serotype distributions for ≥65 years.

Results

Overall, 98 isolates (97 carriers) were identified (3 solely by PCR) from 1631 ≥18 years adults (standardized carriage prevalence 6.4%). Despite different carriage and IPD serotype distributions between adults and children, serotype invasiveness was highly correlated (R = 0.9). Serotypes 3, 37, and 8 represented a higher proportion of adult carriage than expected. Predicted carriage serotype distributions for ≥65 years aligned closest with the young adult carriage serotype distribution.

Conclusions

Nasal wash technique is highly sensitive. For some serotypes carried by adults aged ≥65 years, other adults may be an important reservoir for transmission. Age groups such as older children should also be considered.
Molecular Methods Enhance the Detection of Pyoderma-Related Streptococcus pyogenes and emm-Type Distribution in Children
Authors: Hall Jennifer N , Armitage Edwin P , Senghore Elina , Darboe Saffiatou , Barry Momodou , Camara Janko , Bah Sulayman , Keeley Alexander J , McCarthy James S , Smeesters Pierre , Turner Claire E , Darton Thomas C , Marks Michael , Angyal Adrienn , de Silva Thushan I
Published: July 2024

Background

Streptococcus pyogenes–related skin infections are increasingly implicated in the development of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in lower-resource settings, where they are often associated with scabies. The true prevalence of S pyogenes–related pyoderma may be underestimated by bacterial culture.

Methods

A multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay for S pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Sarcoptes scabiei was applied to 250 pyoderma swabs from a cross-sectional study of children aged <5 years in The Gambia. Direct PCR-based emm-typing was used to supplement previous whole genome sequencing (WGS) of cultured isolates.

Results

Pyoderma lesions with S pyogenes increased from 51% (127/250) using culture to 80% (199/250) with qPCR. Compared to qPCR, the sensitivity of culture was 95.4% for S pyogenes (95% confidence interval {CI}, 77.2%–99.9%) in samples with S pyogenes alone (22/250 [9%]), but 59.9% (95% CI, 52.3%–67.2%) for samples with S aureus coinfection (177/250 [71%]). Direct PCR-based emm-typing was successful in 50% (46/92) of cases, identifying 27 emm-types, including 6 not identified by WGS (total 52 emm-types).

Conclusions

Bacterial culture significantly underestimates the burden of S pyogenes in pyoderma, particularly with S aureus coinfection. Molecular methods should be used to enhance the detection of S pyogenes in surveillance studies and clinical trials of preventive measures in RHD-endemic settings.
Prevalence of MRSA in canine and feline clinical samples from one-third of veterinary practices in Germany from 2019–2021
Authors: Feuer Leonie , Frenzer Stefanie Katharina , Merle Roswitha , Leistner Rasmus , Bäumer Wolfgang , Bethe Astrid , Lübke-Becker Antina , Klein Babette , Bartel Alexander
Published: July 2024

Background

MRSA is a major contributor to AMR-related deaths. The WHO’s global action plan emphasizes a One Health approach, acknowledging the connection between humans and their companion animals. It is agreed on that comprehensive AMR surveillance is needed.

Objectives

This study provides a large-scale overview of MRSA occurrence in cats and dogs in Germany, serving as a foundation for continuous surveillance.

Methods

The study analysed all results of canine and feline bacterial diagnostic samples from a large laboratory, encompassing samples received from veterinary practices between January 2019 and December 2021. MRSA prevalence between host species, sample types and geographical distribution were compared. Additionally, data were contrasted with human MRSA surveillance data from Germany.

Results

Samples originated from 3491 German veterinary practices, representing 33.1% of practices and clinics nationally. Bacterial examination results from 175 171 samples were analysed, identifying S. aureus in 5526 of these samples (3.2% isolation rate). S. aureus in clinical samples was more prevalent in cats (5.6%) than dogs (2.0%). Methicillin resistance was found in 17.8% of S. aureus samples and was higher in dogs (20.4%, 95%CI 18.9–22.0) than cats (15.6%, 95%CI 14.3–17.0). The highest MRSA prevalence was found in canine wound samples (32%), compared to skin/soft tissue, respiratory tract and other (<23% respectively).

Conclusion

The study reveals a 17.8% MRSA prevalence, which is higher than the human outpatient MRSA prevalence (5.4%). Restriction and regulation of veterinary antibiotic use should be validated with AMR surveillance. Our study shows that this is feasible in companion animals with significant coverage.
Estimation of (Consumer) Sustainability Benefits from Horizontal Agreements: A Quasi Ex Post Analysis
Authors: Bartels Andy , Inderst Roman , Wentzien Christoph
Published: July 2024

The European Commission’s new horizontal guidelines create scope for sustainability agreements and, to calculate efficiencies, suggest the estimation of consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for so-called “nonuse value.” We contrast estimates obtained from a hypothetical choice experiment conducted for the Netherlands’ competition authority (the “Chicken of Tomorrow” case) with estimates based on homescan data documenting consumers’ real choices between more or less animal-friendly meat, ensuring that the respective alternatives are made highly comparable. Still, the estimated WTP for the animal-friendly alternative is several times higher in the choice experiment. Given observed prices and the WTP estimated in the choice experiment, the animal-friendly alternative should have already crowded out the conventional variant. We use our findings to inform about several pitfalls both when using experimental data and when using data from true purchases.
Comprehensive analysis of the eclipsing binaries V527 Dra and V2846 Cyg
Authors: Čeki Atila , Şenavcı Hakan Volkan , Latković Olivera , Uzunçam Ebru , Yorulmaz Eda Burcu , Bahar Engin
Published: July 2024

This is the first comprehensive study of the eclipsing binaries V527 Dra and V2846 Cyg, based on radial velocities and ground- and space-based light curves. We perform detailed modeling of these data to derive the absolute parameters and the orbital properties of the two systems. V527 Dra is found to be a semidetached, and V2846 Cyg a contact binary. Both show continual out-of-eclipse variations that can be explained by migrating dark spots of magnetic origin. We also perform the eclipse timing variation (ETV) analysis which reveals that V527 Dra has a tertiary companion whose mass (${\sim} 1 \,{\rm M}_{\odot }$) and orbital inclination (${\sim} 70^{\circ }$) are additionally constrained by radial velocities. The ETV diagram of V2846 Cyg displays a quadratic trend accompanied by a low-amplitude cyclic variation, likely due to a magnetic cycle, although further eclipse times are needed to provide a clearer explanation. Lastly, we demonstrate a correlation between the variations in spot parameters obtained via light curve modelling for individual orbital cycles and the residual ETVs, essentially confirming the assumption of magnetic activity in both systems.
Impact of a Switch From Ciprofloxacin to Ceftriaxone Prophylaxis on Infectious Complications After Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy of the Prostate
Authors: Mendo-Lopez Rafael , Lengu Irma , Nguyen Carvell , Wilson Brigid M , Donskey Curtis J , Hecker Michelle T
Published: July 2024

In a 12-year single-center quasi-experimental study, a switch from ciprofloxacin to ceftriaxone prophylaxis for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy procedures was associated with a significant reduction in 30-day postprocedure urinary tract infection, urinary tract infection–related hospitalizations, antibiotic prescriptions, and isolation of fluoroquinolone-resistant organisms from urine or blood cultures.
Plasma NOTCH3 and the risk of cardiovascular recurrence in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Seet R C S , Quek A M L , Teng O , Krishnan S , Ng G J L , Ng M Y , Mahadevan A , Chioh F W J , Yeo K P , Lim H Y , Kim J , Swa C L F , Pek N M Q , Arumugam T V , Angeli V , Gunaratne J , Cheung C
Published: July 2024

Background

Ischemic stroke patients are more prone to developing another cardiovascular event.

Aim

This study aims to examine potential biological predispositions to cardiovascular recurrence in patients with ischemic stroke.

Design

Human and preclinical studies.

Methods

Quantitative proteomic analysis, animal stroke, atherosclerosis models and circulating endothelial cells (CECs) were employed to examine candidate biomarkers derived from an ischemic stroke cohort in Singapore.

Results

Proteomic analysis of pooled microvesicles of ‘Event’ (n = 24) and without ‘Event’ (n = 24) samples identified NOTCH3 as a candidate marker; plasma NOTCH3 were shown to be elevated in ‘Event’ patients compared to those without ‘Events’ and age-matched controls. In a validation cohort comprising 431 prospectively recruited ischemic stroke patients (mean age 59.1 years; median follow-up 3.5 years), men with plasma NOTCH3 (>1600 pg/ml) harbored increased risk of cardiovascular recurrence (adjusted hazards ratio 2.29, 95% CI 1.10–4.77); no significant association was observed in women. Chronic renal failure, peripheral artery disease and NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide were significant predictors of plasma NOTCH3 in men without ischemic stroke (adjusted r2 = 0.43). Following middle cerebral artery occlusion, NOTCH3 expression in mouse sera increased and peaked at 24 h, persisting thereafter for at least 72 h. In Apoe−/− atherosclerotic mice, NOTCH3 stained the endothelium of defective arterial lining and atherosclerotic plaques. Analysis of CECs isolated from stroke patients revealed increased gene expression of NOTCH3, further supporting endothelial damage underpinning NOTCH3-mediated atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Findings from this study suggests that NOTCH3 could be important in cardiovascular recurrence following an ischemic stroke.
Testing the Efficacy of a Newly Released Fungicide, Sphaerex, for Control of Fusarium Head Blight in Wheat
Authors: Chhabra Bhavit , Livesay Janelle , Thrasu Saijagruti , Cheng Victoria , Crank Joesph , Thorne Louis , Koehler Alyssa , Dong Yanhong , Rawat Nidhi
Published: July 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a destructive disease of wheat and other small-grain cereals. FHB causes reduction in crop yield due to premature bleaching of spikes. Additionally, it deteriorates the crop quality due to production of mycotoxins. An integrated management strategy is needed to effectively manage this disease. One of the most important strategies in the FHB management toolbox is chemical control. Fungicides start losing their efficacy over time due to the development of fungicide resistance in the pathogens. This necessitates the development and testing of new fungicides with multiple active ingredients or modes of action. In this 3-year study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a new fungicide with multiple active ingredients, Sphaerex (a proprietary mix of metconazole and prothioconazole), in an FHB-susceptible soft red winter wheat cultivar, Shirley, in the eastern United States. Sphaerex provided significantly better control over untreated plots for FHB incidence, FHB severity, and deoxynivalenol (DON) content across all 3 years. The level of control of FHB and DON by Sphaerex was found to be similar to that provided by other standard FHB fungicides. The yield of the fungicide-treated plots was statistically similar to that of the untreated plots.
Combining Single-Gene-Resistant and Pyramided Cultivars of Perennial Crops in Agricultural Landscapes Compromises Pyramiding Benefits in Most Production Situations
Authors: Zaffaroni Marta , Papaïx Julien , Geffersa Abebayehu G. , Rey Jean-François , Rimbaud Loup , Fabre Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Although resistant cultivars are valuable in safeguarding crops against diseases, they can be rapidly overcome by pathogens. Numerous strategies have been proposed to delay pathogen adaptation (evolutionary control) while still ensuring effective protection (epidemiological control). For perennial crops, multiple resistance genes can be deployed (i) in the same cultivar (pyramiding strategy); in single-gene-resistant cultivars grown (ii) in the same field (mixture strategy) or (iii) in different fields (mosaic strategy); or (iv) in hybrid strategies that combine the three previous options. In addition, the spatial scale at which resistant cultivars are deployed can affect the plant–pathogen interaction: Small fields are thought to reduce pest density and disease transmission. Here, we used the spatially explicit stochastic model landsepi to compare the evolutionary and epidemiological control across spatial scales and deployment strategies relying on two major resistance genes. Our results, broadly focused on resistance to downy mildew of grapevine, show that the evolutionary control provided by the pyramiding strategy is at risk when single-gene-resistant cultivars are concurrently planted in the landscape (hybrid strategies), especially at low mutation probability. Moreover, the effectiveness of pyramiding compared with hybrid strategies is influenced by whether the adapted pathogen pays a fitness cost across all hosts or only for unnecessary virulence, particularly when the fitness cost is high rather than intermediate. Finally, field size did not affect model outputs for a wide range of mutation probabilities and associated fitness costs. The socioeconomic policies favoring the adoption of optimal resistant management strategies are discussed.
Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis: A Metastatic Melanoma Imitator
Authors: Fields Brittany C. , Jain Anish J. , Prieto Victor G. , Frink Spencer J. , Holder Ashley M.
Published: July 2024

A 45-year-old woman with a history of previously treated left plantar foot melanoma presented with a left thigh mass. Fine needle aspiration findings were concerning for metastatic melanoma (MM). Imaging was remarkable for PET-avidity of both the biopsied thigh mass and of a left posterior knee nodule. The knee nodule was also enhancing on MRI, concerning for a site of metastasis. Resection of the thigh mass and intra-articular nodule was performed. The thigh lesion was positive for MM. The specimen obtained from the knee demonstrated a proliferation of spindle and epithelioid cells associated with focal fibrosis and scattered giant cells with brown pigment, raising the possibility of melanoma metastasis with treatment effect. Additional immunohistochemical studies with anti-SOX10 failed to demonstrate melanoma cells in the lesion. The final diagnosis for the knee nodule was pigmented villonodular synovitis. This case highlights the potential for pigmented villonodular synovitis to mimic MM, requiring additional pathologic analysis to yield an accurate diagnosis.