bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Other Site of Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Kern Leonie , Henssen Anton , Eggert Angelika , Scheer Monika
Published: October 2024

Background

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare malignant soft tissue sarcoma (STS), accounting for almost 50% of pediatric STSs. Due to its heterogeneity, RMS presents challenges in diagnosis and treatment, with prognosis varying depending on multiple factors. Tumors localized in the other site (OTH)—including the paraspinal, perianal, thoracic, abdominal, pelvic, and perineal regions—are generally classified as unfavorable. This study assesses the clinical features and prognoses of RMS in OTH locations depending on its site of origin.

Methods

An explorative analysis of RMS cases from the SEER 17 database 2000–2020 was conducted. Patients of all ages with histologically confirmed RMS as primary malignant disease classified under OTH, were included. OTH was categorized in four granular site classifications. Overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier estimators. Factors independently influencing survival, including a site classification model presented in this study, were identified through Cox regression analysis.

Results

Out of 4168 patients with RMS, 990 cases of RMS with the OTH site met the inclusion criteria. The median age was 16 years. The predominant histological subtypes were embryonal (33.0%) and alveolar (25.5%). Most tumors were ≥ 5 cm (median 9 cm) and located primarily in the pelvic region (41.5%). The 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year OS rates were 45.4% ± 3.332 (95% CI), 40.7 ± 3.332, and 38.6% ± 3.332, respectively, while DSS rates were 43.3% ± 3.136 (95% CI), 38.3% ± 3.136, and 35.1% ± 3.332. In the multivariate analysis age, histological type, site in a granular categorization, stage, regional lymph node examination, and regional lymph node involvement (pathologically proven) were independently associated with survival. Through both univariate and multivariate analyses, an OTH favorable group could be established. The OTH favorable group consists of the anal region, gallbladder and biliary tract, and breast.

Conclusion

RMS in OTH shows significant differences in prognosis, putting the current categorization as unfavorable into question and making a more detailed classification necessary. Furthermore, pathological regional lymph node assessment is specifically in the OTH localization recommended.
The feasibility of double stent strategy in left main true bifurcation with small and large angle change between diastole and systole: The Milan and New‐Tokyo (MITO) registry
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Naganuma Toru , Chieffo Alaide , Montorfano Matteo , Okutsu Masaaki , Tahara Satoko , Hozawa Koji , Nakamura Sunao , Colombo Antonio
Published: October 2024

Background

Provisional single stenting strategy (PSS) is a default strategy for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of unprotected left main distal bifurcation lesions (ULMD). Previous study reported that a bifurcation angle change (BAC) between end diastole and systole was associated with outcomes after PCI with double stent strategy (DSS) for ULMD. However, there are no data comparing outcomes after PCI with PSS versus DSS according the degree of BAC.

Objectives

We evaluated outcomes after PCI with PSS versus DSS for true ULMD with small and large BAC.

Methods

We identified 566 patients with true ULMD underwent PCI in three high‐volume centers. We calculated the BAC in ULMD between end‐diastole and systole before stenting with 2‐dimensional quantitative coronary angiographic assessment. We defined small (BAC < 7.0°) and large BAC (≥7.0°) group. We compared clinical outcomes after PCI with PSS versus DSS in each cohort after propensity score adjustment. The primary endpoint was target‐lesion failure (TLF), which was defined as a composite of cardiac death, target lesion revascularization, and myocardial infarction.

Results

In small BAC cohort, TLF rate was significantly lower in DSS group than in PSS group (12.5% vs. 20.1%, adjusted HR 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26–0.79; p = 0.006). In contrast, in large BAC cohort, TLF rate was significantly higher in DSS group than in PSS group (54.9% vs. 29.0%, adjusted HR 2.25; 95% CI, 1.50–3.38; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The TLF rate after PCI with DSS was significantly lower in true ULMD with small BAC compared to PSS even after propensity score adjustment. In contrast, it was significantly higher in those with large BAC.
Ultrasonic‐assisted enhancement of malt characteristics in amaranth: A study on physicochemical, amino acid, sugar profile, rheological properties, and muffin making
Authors: Awasthi Tamanna , Singh Narpinder , Nishinari Katsuyoshi
Published: October 2024

Background and Objective

This study aimed to assess the potential of incorporating ultrasonication treatment into the soaking process before germination as a method to enhance the nutritional profile of amaranth. While ultrasound has been used to expedite germination in various grains, its impact on germinated grains from a food science perspective remains underexplored. The research focused on the effects of ultrasonication on the composition, functional, and rheological properties of amaranth grains post‐germination.

Findings

The study revealed that germination alone significantly increased γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), protein content, phenolic acids, amino acids, and total dietary fiber while reducing phytic acid and rheological parameters. Incorporating ultrasonication during soaking further elevated amino acids, GABA, protein, and phenolic acid levels. Notably, ultrasonication increased protein content by 25%, antioxidants by 35%, and dietary fiber by 20%, and attributed to cell wall breakdown and enhanced enzymatic activity during germination. Phytic acid levels decreased by up to 95% with prolonged ultrasonication, enhancing nutritional quality. Additionally, GABA levels revealed a significant rise, with an 82% and 87% increase in the Annapurna and Durga varieties, respectively. The study also found that ultrasonication led to reduced starch content, decreased pasting properties, and increased sugar content in the grains. Muffins made with ultrasonicated amaranth showed lower water activity levels, indicating better shelf stability, though specific volume decreased due to starch breakdown and increased amylase activity.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that ultrasonication combined with germination is an effective method for enhancing the nutritional and functional properties of amaranth grains. This method significantly boosts health‐promoting components like GABA, proteins, and antioxidants while also affecting key baking quality parameters.

Significance and Novelty

This research introduces a novel application of ultrasonication to improve the physiochemical, antioxidant, functional, and rheological properties of amaranth grains. The findings suggested a promising strategy for developing nutrient‐rich, functional food ingredients, addressing the growing demand for healthier food products.
Heterogeneous Asymmetric Hydrogenation of C═C and C═O Double Bonds
Authors: Franco Ana , Baráth Eszter
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, heterogeneous catalysts play a crucial role in the field of asymmetric catalysis to produce enantiopure compounds for various applications. The unique properties of heterogeneous systems, such as high stability, reusability, or ease of separation, allow effective catalysis of asymmetric transformations and their further implementation in industrial processes. In this mini‐review, we address the recent trend in the synthesis of chiral heterogeneous catalysts and their subsequent application in asymmetric hydrogenation reactions. We focus on current advances in asymmetric hydrogenation reactions of C═C and C═O bonds due to their high relevance in the fine chemicals industry. Our main aim is to provide a short overview of this expanding field, its current challenges, and future perspectives.
Ab Initio Simulation of Raman Fingerprints of Sulfur/Carbon Copolymer Cathodes During Discharge of Li−S Batteries
Authors: Kiani Rana , Sheng Huiying , Held Timo , Löhmann Oliver , Risse Sebastian , Sebastiani Daniel , Partovi‐Azar Pouya
Published: October 2024

Sulfur/carbon copolymers have emerged as promising alternatives for conventional crystalline sulfur cathodes for lithium‐sulfur batteries. Among these, sulfur‐n‐1,3‐diisopropenylbenzene (S/DIB) copolymers, which present a 3D network of DIB molecules interconnected via sulfur chains, have particularly shown a good performance and, therefore, have been under intensive experimental and theoretical investigations. However, their structural complexity and flexibility have hindered a clear understanding of their structural evolution during redox reactions at an atomistic level. Here, by performing state‐of‐the‐art ab initio molecular dynamics‐based Raman spectroscopy simulations, we investigate the spectral fingerprints of S/DIB copolymers arising from local structures during consecutive reactions with lithium. We discuss in detail Raman spectral changes in particular frequency ranges which are common in S/DIB copolymers having short sulfur chains and those consisting of longer ones. We also highlight those distinctive spectroscopic fingerprints specific to local S/DIB structures containing only short or long sulfur chains. This distinction could serve to help distinguish between them experimentally during discharge. Our theoretically predicted results are in a good agreement with experimental Raman measurements on coin cells at different discharge stages. This work represents, for the first time, an attempt to compute Raman fingerprints of sulfur/carbon copolymer cathodes during battery operation including quantum‐chemical and finite‐temperature effects, and provides a guideline for Raman spectral changes of arbitrary electrodes during discharge.
A C3‐Symmetric Structurally Twisted Molecular Architecture: Mechano‐/Fluorochromic Behavior and Selective Multiphase Detection of Pd(II)
Authors: Chakraborty Madhuparna , Samanta Pralok K. , Chakravarty Manab
Published: October 2024

Triaminoguanidinium (TG)‐based C3‐symmetric‐like molecular architectures with diverse donors and acceptors are well established as organic molecular materials for promising stimuli‐responsive and metal sensing‐based applications. However, the mechanofluorochromic (MFC) response was unremarkable upon applying external mechanical stress. Even though some show MFC features, there was no optical shift under ambient light. In this paper, we developed a novel C3‐symmetric molecule, TAC3, containing the TG core linked with conformationally twisted thiophene‐linked anthracenyl terminals. Three conformationally deformed hands in TAC3 respond against external mechanical stimuli with a redshifted absorption and emission, easily detectable through the naked eye. Although MFC features were reported before for such C3‐symmetric molecules, the change in absorbance was not identified. In addition, TAC3 could selectively detect Pd2+ through extreme emission quenching (green to black). The mechanochromism and sensing outcomes are elucidated by the experimental and theoretical support. Compared to the previous reports, the notable 2 : 3 (metal: ligand) binding due to geometric restriction creating a specific pocket size for Pd+2 is unusual for this system. The onsite application on Pd2+ detection and measurable MFC features are demonstrated to validate the potential of this C3‐symmetric molecule in advanced optoelectronic applications such as security writing and Pd2+ ion detection.
Variation in Community Structure and Abundance of Fish in Simple Structured Shallow Sandy Habitats
Authors: Veneranta Lari , Westerbom Mats
Published: October 2024

Sandy beaches and their surf zones characterise many of the world's open coastlines. They are important breeding, nursery and feeding areas for many species of fish. Despite the commonness and importance of sandy beach surf zones, the dynamics, space occupancy and diversity patterns of residing fish is in many places poorly understood. The aim of this study was to (1) characterise the fish community structure in 11 simple structured sandy surf zones of the northern Baltic Sea and (2) relate variation in fish abundance and community structure to a set of chosen abiotic variables. Using beach seine, weekly or biweekly sampling was conducted at fixed sites at 10 occasions throughout a summer season. A total of 60,006 fish individuals belonging to 20 species were recorded. Changes in abundance and community structure were mainly driven by the variation of only five species reflecting species‐specific recruitment patterns and different spatial responses to abiotic variables. Dominating groups were Gasterosteidae, Ammodytidae and Gobiidae that together formed 86% of the total adult fish catches. Larval numbers were completely dominated by Gobiidae. Multivariate analyses indicated species‐specific responses to measured environmental variables, most important being a combination of wave exposure, beach slope, bottom roughness, and temperature. The present study shows that changes in fish abundance on simple structured sandy sublittoral beaches in the northern Baltic Sea are large over the course of a breeding season. It also reveals that variation in adult and juvenile fish are driven by a set of abiotic factors that influence on the fish assemblage structure through mainly species‐specific, rather than through generic responses. Unravelling the degree to which the sandy shore fish community vary in the northern Baltic Sea will help in managing coastal environments that are increasingly being threatened by many anthropogenic stressors.
Monitoring and Modelling Fluxes of Water and Nutrients to Surface Drainage Network From Irrigated Agricultural Fields in a Hydraulically Reclaimed Coastal Area
Authors: Coppola Antonio , Zucaro Raffaella , Baralla Silvia , Satta Marco , Ruberto Myriam , Comegna Alessandro , Dragonetti Giovanna , Hassan Shawkat Basel Mostafa
Published: October 2024

This paper describes the application of a physically based agrohydrological model (named FLOWS), coupled with a kinematic wave approach model (named KWV) for water and solute runoff routing, for interpreting the fate of water and nutrients coming from cultivated fields to surface drainage network located in ‘Piana del Sassu’ in the Arborea plain, a hydraulically reclaimed area with shallow groundwater. Modelling was supported by a large complex database on soil, groundwater and surface drainage water, which was used for establishing the boundary conditions for simulations, as well as for calibrating and validating the model. The model FLOWS provided the water and nutrient fluxes to the surface water, which were passed to the KWV model for their routing along the elementary fields in the experimental area and from these to the ditches and finally to the drainage channel. The modelling approach effectively predicted the water and solute distribution along the soil profile, as well as the losses of water and nutrients to the surface water. The results showed a significant amount of water and dissolved nutrients to flow quickly from the soil uppermost layer to the surface drainage network during both the irrigation season and during rainfall events. During irrigation applications, losses were mostly due to rainfall intensity exceeding the maximum infiltration velocity of the shallow soil layer in the case of sprinkler irrigation and to subsurface lateral drainage in the case of exceeding irrigation water provided by drip irrigation. This makes the Sassu plain a significant contributor of nutrients (nitrate and phosphorus) to the surface water. Consequently, even though the agricultural activities might not be an important issue for the groundwater vulnerability, the management of water and nutrients should be significantly improved to avoid ecohydrological threats to the important coastal water bodies present in the area.
Variable spatiotemporal ungulate behavioral response to predation risk
Authors: Schooler Sarah L. , Svoboda Nathan J. , Kellner Kenneth F. , Pu Ge , Finnegan Shannon P. , Belant Jerrold L.
Published: October 2024

Prey must balance resource acquisition with predator avoidance for survival and reproduction. To reduce risk of predation, prey may avoid areas with high predator use, but if they are unable to due to resource acquisition requirements, they may instead change their habitat use or movement speed to mitigate predation risk. Prey risk response may depend on spatially or temporally varying forage availability as well as seasonal variation in prey vulnerability and availability of alternate foods for predators. To quantify how prey respond to spatial and temporal variation in risk of brown bear predation, we examined Roosevelt elk (Cervus canadensis roosevelti) spatiotemporal behavior responses to brown bear (Ursus arctos) habitat use on Afognak and Raspberry islands, Alaska, using Global Positioning System location data during elk parturition (20 May–15 June), summer (16 June–20 September), and autumn (21 September–10 November). During parturition and summer, elk used forest and shrub landcover in areas of higher brown bear probability of use. During parturition, elk used areas with lower forage productivity in areas of higher bear probability of use, and movement speed decreased with higher bear probability of use, especially in shrub landcover. During summer, elk used areas with higher forage productivity in areas of higher brown bear probability of use. During autumn, elk were less likely to use areas with higher bear habitat probability of use across landcover categories and forage productivity. During summer and autumn, elk movement speed increased with higher brown bear probability of use. Elk behavioral response to risk of brown bear predation could increase energy expenditure and decrease their ability to acquire forage, therefore negatively impacting survival and reproduction with spatiotemporal variation in risk response potentially amplifying these impacts.
A Hybrid Strategy Two‐Dimensional Concrete Aggregate Filling Algorithm
Authors: Tian Xu , Ao Jun , Ma ChunBo , Shi JunJie , Guo HanJun
Published: October 2024

Accurate and highly efficient construction of numerical concrete models with different gradations is important to analyze the acoustic properties of ultrasonic waves in concrete. The random aggregates‐based method is a classic approach to meso‐structural modeling of concrete and is particularly suitable for generating models with low‐density aggregates. However, when facing the simulation requirements of concrete models with large volumes, small particle sizes, and high aggregate content, traditional random aggregates‐based methods encounter challenges in satisfying aggregate packing density and modeling efficiency. In order to improve the efficiency of aggregate placement in modeling concrete meso‐models, we proposed a hybrid‐strategy point cloud placement algorithm that combines the re‐placement and sedimentation strategies. Then, the algorithm's effectiveness in improving the modeling efficiency is verified by reconstruction experiments on random aggregate models with different aggregate grades. Finally, the model's reliability and validity is further confirmed by simulation analysis of the ultrasonic attenuation characteristics of the model. The results show that the algorithm can rapidly generate more than 75% aggregate packing density concrete specimens and significantly outperforms similar algorithms regarding aggregate placement efficiency and model generation time. In addition, the model generated by the proposed algorithm can accurately simulate the attenuation characteristics of ultrasonic waves in concrete.
AFe2O4 (A=Cu, Ni, Co, Mg, Ce, Mn) Catalysts for Hydrogen‐Rich Syngas Production from Corn Straw Pyrolysis‐Catalytic Steam Reforming
Authors: Guo Hengtao , Wang Xuetao , Li Haojie , Liu Mengjie , Xing Lili , Zhai Haoshan
Published: October 2024

CuFe2O4, an iron‐based spinel catalyst, along with NiFe2O4, CoFe2O4, MgFe2O4, CeFe2O4, and MnFe2O4 are prepared using the sol–gel method. Different modified transition metals have been investigated to determine the influence on hydrogen production in a fixed‐bed reactor. The results indicated that all the prepared catalysts exhibit a spinel structure. At a reaction temperature of 700 °C, with a water–carbon molar ratio of S/C = 1.5 and a biomass‐to‐catalyst mass ratio of 1:1, the performance ranking of the AFe2O4 spinel catalysts is as follows: CeFe2O4 > CuFe2O4 > MnFe2O4 > NiFe2O4 > CoFe2O4 > MgFe2O4 > no catalyst. CeFe2O4 and CuFe2O4 catalysts demonstrate superior performance, with hydrogen volume fractions of 42.26% and 41.63% respectively. The AFe2O4 catalyst exhibits effective catalytic activity in the production of hydrogen from corn straw using water vapor, with the synergistic effect of A metal and Fe enhancing the catalytic activity of AFe2O4.
First‐in‐human microelectrode recordings from the vagus nerve during clinical vagus nerve stimulation
Authors: Patros Mikaela , Farmer David G. S. , Moneghetti Kegan , Ottaviani Matteo M. , Sivathamboo Shobi , Simpson Hugh D. , O'Brien Terence J. , Macefield Vaughan G.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective treatment for people with drug‐resistant epilepsy. However, its mechanisms of action are poorly understood, including which nerve fibers are activated in humans during VNS in typical clinical settings and which are required for clinical efficacy. In particular, there have been no intraneural recordings of vagus nerve fiber activation in awake humans undergoing chronic VNS. In this study, for the first time, we report recordings from the vagus nerve in this setting.

Methods

The recordings were performed using a sterile tungsten microelectrode inserted percutaneously into the cervical vagus nerve under ultrasound guidance. The clinical VNS systems were used to deliver stimulation while activity in the vagus nerve was recorded.

Results

In addition to activating myelinated axons at low currents, we provide evidence that VNS can also activate unmyelinated C fibers in the vagus nerve at currents <1 mA.

Conclusions

These results add to our understanding of how VNS exerts its beneficial effects in drug‐resistant epilepsy.

Plain Language Statement

Here we describe for the first time, electrical recordings from the vagus nerve in awake drug‐resistant epilepsy patients with an implanted vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device. We found that the VNS device was able to activate both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers within the vagus nerve, which contributes to our understanding of how VNS works in the context of drug‐resistant epilepsy.
Progressive postoperative atrophy of ipsilateral thalamus, putamen, and globus pallidus in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: A volumetric analysis
Authors: Pejovic Aleksa , Jokovic Zorica , Koepp Matthias , Dakovic Marko , Bascarevic Vladimir , Jovanovic Marija , Vojvodic Nikola , Sokic Dragoslav , Ristic Aleksandar J.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Cortical atrophy close to medial temporal structures has been described consistently in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Successful TLE surgery may have a neuroprotective effect preventing further atrophy of temporal and extratemporal cortex. However, the effects of epilepsy surgery on subcortical structures demand additional enlightenment. This work aimed to determine how epilepsy surgery affects volumes of subcortical structures in medically refractory temporal lobe epilepsy patients.

Methods

We compared MRI volumes of subcortical structures in 62 patients with TLE (36 left, 26 right) before and after anterior temporal lobectomy with 38 TLE patients (20 left, 18 right) who were considered to be good surgical candidates and had at least two brain MRIs.

Results

There were no volume differences in subcortical structures on preoperative and initial MRIs of non‐operated TLE patients. At baseline, the ipsilateral thalamus and putamen in TLE patients were marginally smaller than contralateral structures. Operated patients showed a significant postoperative volume reduction in ipsilateral thalamus, putamen, and globus pallidus. In contrast, there were no significant volumetric reductions in non‐operated patients longitudinally. There were no volumetric changes associated with different surgical outcomes or different postoperative cognitive outcomes.

Significance

Our study demonstrated postoperative volume loss of thalamus, putamen and globus pallidus ipsilaterally to the side of resection. Our findings suggest surgery‐related changes, likely Wallerian degeneration within subcortical networks not related to seizure or cognitive outcome.

Plain Language Summary

We studied 100 patients with epilepsy, comparing those who had surgery to those who did not. After surgery, the thalamus, putamen and globus pallidus on the same side as the surgery shrank significantly, but not in non‐surgery patients. This suggests surgery‐related changes in deeper brain structures, unrelated to seizure freedom or cognitive outcomes. This research sheds additional light on the response of the subcortical structure to epilepsy surgery, highlighting potential areas for further study.
Using the Discrete Wavelet Transform for Lossy On‐the‐Fly Compression of GPU Fluid Simulations
Authors: Flint Clément , Huppé Atoli , Helluy Philippe , Bramas Bérenger , Genaud Stéphane
Published: October 2024

High‐performance computing in fluid dynamics frequently confronts substantial memory demands, especially in large‐scale applications. Data compression techniques can alleviate these memory constraints, but introduce new challenges. This paper introduces an innovative on‐the‐fly low‐overhead lossy compression technique tailored for GPU‐based fluid simulations, utilizing the discrete wavelet transform (DWT). The technique is applicable to any numerical scheme where the data is stored on a regular grid and the time step is computed using a stencil. Our approach significantly diminishes memory requirements, achieving up to a 10‐fold long‐term reduction on a D3Q27 simulation, while minimally impacting the simulation accuracy. The methodology is built around careful design choices to achieve a satisfactory compression ratio/speed trade‐off. It effectively maintains mass conservation and accurately preserves essential discontinuities in simulations. Extensive testing with a D3Q27 Lattice‐Boltzmann method (LBM) simulation on a single GPU has shown that large‐scale grids can be processed with minimal impact on the simulation accuracy and acceptable compression times. This compression technique demonstrates a robust capability to handle memory limitations in fluid simulations, opening the door to more complex and larger‐scale simulations.
Surgeon Review of 4D CT for Identification of Parathyroid Adenomas
Authors: Kurian Keerthi E. , Hamdi Osama , Roecker Zoe A. , Barker Simone A. , Strumpf Andrew , Garneau Jonathan C. , Shonka David C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Preoperative localization of parathyroid adenomas aids surgical planning for patients with hyperparathyroidism. This study explores the diagnostic accuracy of surgeon‐reviewed 4D computed tomography (4D CT) scans for localization of parathyroid adenomas.

Methods

A retrospective review of 95 patients with hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy at a tertiary care center was performed. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, accuracy of identifying abnormal glands by surgeon, and interrater reliability between two head and neck surgeons was assessed.

Results

The sensitivity of surgeon localization of all glands was 71% (95% CI, 63%–78%), improving to 76% when combined with radiology reads. The specificity was 98% (95% CI, 95%–99%), the positive predictive value was 95% (95% CI, 90%–99%), and the negative predictive value was 84% (95% CI, 79%–88%) for all abnormal glands. Interrater reliability between surgeons was κ = 0.771.

Conclusions

The diagnostic accuracy of surgeon localization of abnormal glands on the 4D CT scan was substantial. Improvement with radiology report integration highlights the benefits of multidisciplinary collaboration. Interrater reliability between two fellowship‐trained surgeons was moderate. These findings support the importance of surgeons developing proficiency in reading 4D CT scans to engage in interdisciplinary communication and improve patient outcomes.
Perioperative Mechanical Circulatory Support for Cardiac Assistance in Thoracic Surgery: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Agosta Viviana Teresa , D'Andria Ursoleo Jacopo , Bugo Samuele , Bottussi Alice , Losiggio Rosario , Monaco Fabrizio
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Over the past decades, the number of cardiac patients (e.g., with advanced heart failure or existing cardiovascular comorbidities that expose them to a heightened risk of acute cardiovascular decompensation) requiring noncardiac surgery is rising. For this patient population, potentially curative surgical treatments may be denied due to their prohibitive perioperative risk. Around 30% of patients undergoing general thoracic surgery experience cardiovascular complications of varying severity that may ultimately result in refractory heart failure and/or hemodynamic instability. In both these scenarios, perioperative implantation of temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) may improve patient outcomes by both expanding preoperative surgical eligibility criteria and enabling safer management of unexpected periprocedural complications. This scoping review seeks to summarize the current existing evidence on the role of tMCS for cardiac assistance in thoracic surgery and provide a thorough overview.

Methods

We will perform a scoping review adhering to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and the extension for Scoping Reviews of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis checklist (PRISMA). We will carry out a comprehensive search of several online databases to identify studies on the perioperative implantation of tMCS in patients undergoing thoracic surgery to provide cardiac assistance either due to their heightened preoperative cardiac risk (pre‐emptive tMCS) or for acute cardiac failure due to inherent surgical complications (bail‐out tMCS). Standardized forms will be employed to perform data charting and extraction.

Results

Retrieved studies will be presented through a narrative synthesis following initial categorization, supplemented by descriptive statistical analyses of quantitative data if adequate inter‐study homogeneity is observed and further complemented by figures and tables.

Conclusion

The planned scoping review aims to assess the safety and feasibility of perioperative implantation of tMCS in patients undergoing thoracic surgery either to mitigate their heightened cardiovascular risk or as a rescue strategy in the event of life‐threatening surgical complications. It will identify knowledge gaps, offer direction for future research, and improve clinical practices within the field.
MiR‐144/451 attenuates lipopolysaccharide‐induced lung inflammation by downregulating Rac1 and STAT‐3 in macrophages
Authors: He Sheng , Gao Xiang , Yang Lei , Li Xiuru , Mo Yan , He Zhenpeng , Hou Ruitao , Yuan Xiaoling , Fang Lei , Yu Duonan
Published: October 2024

MicroRNAs have been shown to play a critical role in lung inflammatory diseases. Here, we report that knocking out miR‐144/451 in mice exacerbates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced lung inflammation. The lung inflammation in mice was induced by intratracheal instillation of LPS. Loss‐of‐function experiments demonstrated that miR‐144/451 gene knockout (KO) increased LPS‐induced lung inflammation and oxidant stress compared with wild‐type (WT) mice, as manifested by increased total bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cells and neutrophil counts, elevated TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, enhanced myeloperoxidase activity, and reduced catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity in lung tissues. We also found that LPS significantly decreased miR‐451 expression in lung tissues and macrophages; while miR‐451 overexpression in LPS‐induced RAW264.7 cells remarkably reduced TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, suggesting a feedback loop might exist in inflammatory cells. Rac1 mRNA and protein levels were downregulated in miR‐451‐overexpressed RAW264.7 cells. Ex vivo stimulation experiments, performed using alveolar macrophages isolated from miR‐144/451 KO mice, confirmed that Rac1 inhibitor alleviated levels of TNF‐α and ROS in response to LPS stimulation compared with WT controls. Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that STAT‐3 is a direct target of miR‐451. STAT‐3 protein levels were elevated in miR‐144/451 KO macrophages. LPS treatment also resulted in higher phosphorylation levels of STAT‐3 in macrophages from KO mice than in WT cells. Our study identified miR‐144/451 as an anti‐inflammatory factor in LPS‐induced lung inflammation that acts by downregulating Rac1 and STAT‐3.
The LTAR Cropland Common Experiment at Upper Mississippi River Basin–Ames
Authors: Kovar John L. , Papanicolaou Athanasios N. , Busch Dennis L. , Chatterjee Amitava , Cole Kevin J. , Dalzell Brent J. , Emmett Bryan D. , Johnson Jane M. F. , Malone Robert W. , Morrow Amy J. , Nowatzke Laurie W. , O'Brien Peter L. , Prueger John H. , Rogovska Natalia , Ruis Sabrina J. , Todey Dennis P. , Wacha Ken M.
Published: October 2024

Agricultural systems evolve from the interactions of climate, crops, soils, management practices (e.g., tillage, cover crops, nutrient management), and economic risks and rewards. Alternatives to the corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] (C–S) cropping systems that dominate in the US Midwest may provide more sustainable use of resources, reduce the documented environmental impacts of current C–S systems, and improve production efficiency and ecosystem services. Innovative management practices are needed to offer producers options to increase farm resilience to variable weather conditions and offset negative environmental impacts. In response to this need, the Upper Mississippi River Basin Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research network site at Ames, IA, established a cropland experiment in 2016 to investigate an alternative crop management system that includes reduced tillage, cover crops, and right source, right rate, right time, and right place (4R) nitrogen (N) management. The experimental site is located on the Iowa State University Kelley Research Farm in Boone County, IA. Crop, soil, air, and tile drainage water measurements are made throughout the year using published methods for each agronomic and environmental metric. Our goal is to provide quantitative information to farmers, consultants, agribusiness partners, and state and federal agencies to help guide decisions on the effective use of alternative management practices. Future changes in experimental treatments will adopt a knowledge co‐production approach whereby researchers and stakeholders will work collaboratively to identify problems, implement research protocols, and interpret results.
Characteristics, clinical care, and outcomes of sepsis among patients boarding in the emergency department
Authors: Blank Jessica A. , King Jessie E. , Grant Julieann F. , Tian Shuo , Shrestha Sachita , England Peter , Paje David , Taylor Stephanie P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients who first meet clinical criteria for sepsis while boarding in the emergency department (ED) may not receive optimal sepsis care.

Objective

Assess the association between ED boarding status and sepsis quality of care and outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adult patients admitted to a large academic hospital from July 2021 to October 2023 who had clinical features consistent with sepsis present while physically in the ED. We compared outcomes for patients who experienced time zero (T‐0; the time clinical features of sepsis were first present) while boarding in the ED (physically in the ED but admitted to a different service) to those experiencing T‐0 while still under the care of the ED provider team. We used logistic regression to estimate the association between ED boarding status at T‐0 and compliance with the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: Management Bundle (SEP‐1) core measure, individual bundle element compliance, and hospital mortality adjusting for prespecified covariates. In a subgroup analysis among patients who had not already received antibiotics before T‐0, we conducted a Cox proportional hazards model to estimate the association between boarding status on time‐to‐antibiotics.

Results

Among 4795 patients meeting a clinical definition of sepsis in the ED, 422 (8.8%) experienced T‐0 as ED boarders. These patients were similar in age, sex, and comorbidities compared with patients experiencing T‐0 while still under ED care. Fewer patients with T‐0 as an ED boarder received SEP‐1 compliant care (25% vs. 38%, p < .001), including a lower proportion of fluid resuscitation (15% vs. 26%, p = .004) and lactate assessment (62% vs. 94%, p < .001). Overall, more patients in the ED boarder group received antibiotics within 3 hours, but one‐third of patients had already received antibiotics prior to T‐0. Among patients who had not already received antibiotics prior to T‐0, experiencing T‐0 as an ED boarder was associated with a decreased likelihood of receiving antibiotics (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.67 [95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54–0.84]) and longer time to antibiotics from T‐0 (142 min vs. 100 min, p = .007).

Conclusions

Sepsis patients experiencing T‐0 as a boarder in the ED have a lower likelihood of receiving SEP‐1 compliant care compared to patients who experience T‐0 while still under ED care.
Anatomy and Immunohistochemistry of Woodpecker Tail Muscles
Authors: Spainhower Kyle , Meyers Ron A.
Published: October 2024

Woodpeckers (Order Piciformes) belong to a group of birds characterized by their hammering capabilities in which the bill is utilized as a tool to probe for food and to excavate nest cavities. They have numerous specializations for this behavior, including their bill and tongue, feet for gripping vertical tree trunks, and tail feathers with thickened shafts to provide stability as a postural appendage. We hypothesized that (1) woodpecker tail musculature is also modified for clinging behaviors with a heterogeneous distribution of fast and slow muscle fibers, and that (2) the tree‐trunk foraging Hairy Woodpeckers would have more slow muscle fibers in their M. depressor caudae than Northern Flickers, which forage on the ground where they probe the substrate for insects. We performed immunohistochemistry to identify the fiber type distributions for tail muscles Mm. caudofemoralis pars caudalis, lateralis caudae, levator caudae, and depressor caudae in four Hairy Woodpeckers and five Northern Flickers. Our results show that these tail muscles in the two woodpecker species are comprised of a majority of fast muscle fibers common among dynamic locomotor muscles. Interestingly, we report a functionally‐significant distribution of slow muscle fibers in M. depressor caudae predicted to be utilized in propping of the tail during tree climbing and support. Further, we found more slow fibers (13.80% ± 4.49%) in the trunk‐foraging Hairy Woodpeckers compared with the ground‐foraging Northern Flicker (7.40% ± 4.95%), which we interpret to be related to the trunk‐foraging habits of Hairy Woodpeckers.
Working from everywhere: The future of work and inclusive organizational behavior (IOB)
Authors: Georgiadou Andri , Özbilgin Mustafa , Özkazanç‐Pan Banu
Published: October 2024

The rapid digitalization of work, accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, has fundamentally transformed organizational behavior and necessitated a reconceptualization of inclusion in virtual spaces. This editorial synthesizes six groundbreaking studies that advance our understanding of inclusive organizational behavior (IOB) in digital contexts. Drawing on these contributions, we propose a novel, multilevel framework for digital IOB that integrates individual, group, and organizational factors shaping inclusive experiences in virtual and hybrid work arrangements. Key themes emerging from the studies include (1) reconceptualizing inclusion for digital contexts, (2) multilevel dynamics of digital inclusion, and (3) technology as both enabler and barrier to inclusion. Our framework conceptualizes digital IOB as arising from complex interactions between individual, group, and organizational factors, mediated and moderated by technological infrastructures and practices. We discuss theoretical and practical implications, highlighting the need for holistic, systemic approaches to fostering digital inclusion and outlining promising avenues for future research in this critical area.
Characterization of Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria and Their Effect on Growth Promotion of Brassica napus L.
Authors: Vishnu  , Sharma Poonam , Kaur Jupinder , Gosal Satwant Kaur , Walia Sohan Singh
Published: October 2024

Oil seeds sector is one of the major dynamic components of the agriculture world. Oil seeds such as canola (Brassica napus) require a higher quantity of sulfur (S), which is supplied through inorganic fertilizers. However, the overapplication of agro‐chemicals to get higher yields of crops is harming the soil health. Therefore, the application of bacterial cultures with plant growth‐promoting activity as biofertilizers ensures soil health maintenance and enhances crop productivity. To achieve this aim, the present research was initiated by procuring three sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria (SOBs), namely, SOB 5, SOB 10, and SOB 38, from the Microbiology Department, PAU. In the initial assessment, all three SOB cultures showed resilience to pesticide toxicity at the recommended dosage, with the exception of ridomil. These cultures were later characterized morphologically, biochemically, and at the molecular level using 16s rRNA resulting in their identification as Enterobacter ludwigii strain Remi_9 (SOB 5), Enterobacter hormaechei strain AUH‐ENM30 (SOB 10), and Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 (SOB 38). Functional characterization of these SOB cultures revealed their ability to exhibit multifarious plant growth‐promoting traits. Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 showed greater functional activity, including high P solubilization (14.903 µg/mL), IAA production (44.28 µg/mL), siderophore production (13.89 µg/mL), sulfate ion production (0.127 mM), ammonia excretion (2.369 µg/mL), and Zn solubilization (22.62 mm). Based on the results of functional and molecular characterization, Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12 was selected for field trials by formulating different treatments. Composite treatment, T8 (100% S + Bacillus sp. + pesticides) significantly enhanced growth parameters (plant height, root, and shoot biomass), yield attributes (siliqua length, test weight, number of siliqua/plant), yield parameter (total biomass and seed yield), quality parameter (crude protein and oil) as compared to all other sole treatments employed in the field. A combined application of non‐pathogenic Bacillus sp. 5BM21Y12, with good functional activity enhanced yield of crop due to synergistic and additive interaction with fertilizer/pesticides. As biofertilizer application reduces the input of pesticides/fertilizers new inoculant formulations with cell protectors and the development of compatible pesticides should be searched to assure the benefits of integrated treatment.
Spatial Interpolation of Seasonal Precipitations Using Rain Gauge Data and Convection‐Permitting Regional Climate Model Simulations in a Complex Topographical Region
Authors: Dura Valentin , Evin Guillaume , Favre Anne‐Catherine , Penot David
Published: October 2024

In mountainous areas, accurately estimating the long‐term climatology of seasonal precipitations is challenging due to the lack of high‐altitude rain gauges and the complexity of the topography. This study addresses these challenges by interpolating seasonal precipitation data from 3189 rain gauges across France over the 1982–2018 period, using geographical coordinates, and altitude. In this study, an additional predictor is provided from simulations of a Convection‐Permitting Regional Climate Model (CP‐RCM). The simulations are averaged to obtain seasonal precipitation climatology, which helps capture the relationship between topography and long‐term seasonal precipitation. Geostatistical and machine learning models are evaluated within a cross‐validation framework to determine the most appropriate approach to generate seasonal precipitation reference fields. Results indicate that the best model uses a machine learning approach to interpolate the ratio between long‐term seasonal precipitation from observations and CP‐RCM simulations. This method successfully reproduces both the mean and variance of observed data, and slightly outperforms the best geostatistical model. Moreover, incorporating the CP‐RCM outputs as an explanatory variable significantly improves interpolation accuracy and altitude extrapolation, especially when the rain gauge density is low. These results imply that the commonly used altitude‐precipitation relationship may be insufficient to derive seasonal precipitation fields. The CP‐RCM simulations, increasingly available worldwide, present an opportunity for improving precipitation interpolation, especially in sparse and complex topographical regions.
Electromagnetic bone segment tracking in multiplanar osteotomies: A saw bone study
Authors: Geisbüsch Andreas , Gramer Carina , Dreher Thomas , Hagen Niclas , Hagmann Sébastien , Renkawitz Tobias , Götze Marco
Published: October 2024

Computer assisted orthopedic surgery is used to improve precision. Electro‐magnetic tracking has been shown to improve precision in mono‐planar derotational osteotomies. However, studies are lacking to investigate its use in multiplanar osteotomies. For this purpose, 60 complex (derotation and extension) osteotomies were performed in standardized sawbones. Correction amount was randomly planned before the procedures. In 30 bones, the amount of correction was determined intraoperatively using conventional goniometric measurement while in the other 30 bones electro‐magnetic tracking was used to guide the amount of correction. CT‐scans were done before and after the procedures in all bones and the amount of correction was determined to compare the precision of the two techniques. Electromagnetic tracking resulted in a precision of 2.25° ± 1.77° for derotation and 1.38° ± 1.29° for extension, while precision for the conventional method was significantly lower. There was a significant relationship between goniometer measurement deviation and the absolute angle change for derotation and extension measurements with larger deviations for greater angle changes. For the electro‐magnetic tracking, this correlation was observed only for derotation measurement. Electro‐magnetic tracking represents an accurate method to control complex, multiplanar corrective osteotomies with superior precision in comparison to conventional goniometric measurement. Further research is needed to investigate the in‐vivo accuracy and the effects on clinical outcome.