bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal bradycardia and acidosis during maternal parenteral iron: Case reports and literature review
Authors: Lee Linus L. T. , Law Ho Ying , Chan Lin Wai
Published: August 2024

Iron deficiency anemia is an important problem among pregnant women, and intravenous (IV) iron infusions have been increasingly used. Whether fetal monitoring is required during infusion has been debated, with a recent guideline by Hematologists recommending against such. We report two cases of fetal bradycardia after iron isomaltoside (IIM), in women with otherwise good maternal and fetal health. Both developed dyspnea with desaturation minutes from infusion, followed by persistent fetal bradycardia. Both underwent category 1 CS, with cord arterial pH of 7.08 and 6.94 respectively. Upon literature review, only three case reports on fetal bradycardia in IV iron were identified. For older IV iron formulations, a case was reported after IV dextran test dose, while two cases after ferric gluconate were reported. For the new formulation IIM, only one case was reported so far, but in a woman with Crohn's disease and intrauterine growth restriction. IV iron in pregnancy carries risk of anaphylactic or hypersensitivity reactions, even with the newest formulations and in women with good maternal and fetal health. While rarely reported so far, fetal bradycardia is a possible consequence, commonly preceded by respiratory symptoms. Fetal monitoring should therefore be considered during infusion.
A giant pelvic arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Izumi Taro , Osawa Marie , Tsuru Ibuki , Ono Akihiro , Kume Haruki , Shiga Yoshiyuki , Nakamura Masaki
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Pelvic arteriovenous malformations are rare in male patients. We present a case of pelvic arteriovenous malformation involving the seminal vesicle.

Case presentation

A 58‐year‐old man was diagnosed with pelvic arteriovenous malformation that involved the left seminal vesicle by angiography. The patient underwent three embolization procedures and made favorable progress after the embolizations.

Conclusion

Herein, we report a rare case of pelvic arteriovenous malformation involving the seminal vesicle treated by embolizations with good outcome.
RT‐PCR in the early detection and monitoring of pathogen residual status in neonatal bacterial meningitis
Authors: Li Ying , Xiao Ruiqi , Zou Peicen , Du Yue , Lu Qinglin , Cui Jun , Wang Yajuan
Published: August 2024

Background

Early identification of pathogenic bacteria and monitoring residual status are essential for accurate treatment of neonatal bacterial meningitis (NBM).

Methods

Clinical data and specimens were collected from neonates with NBM. Bacterial cultures and RT‐PCR of blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were compared to assess the positivity rate, sensitivity and specificity of each method.

Results

RT‐PCR had a higher positivity rate compared with cultures, regardless of whether antibiotics had been used prior to specimen collection. After 1 week of regular antibiotic treatment, the number of pathogen DNA copy numbers in CSF was either undetectable or significantly reduced compared with previous levels.

Conclusions

RT‐PCR is expected to provide a basis for the precise application of antibiotics and the course of treatment for NBM, particularly in patients with negative cultures or those who have already been treated with antibiotics.
Liquidity forecasting at corporate and subsidiary levels using machine learning
Authors: Singh Vinay , Choubey Bhasker , Sauer Stephan
Published: August 2024

Liquidity planning and forecasting are essential activities in corporate financial planning team. Traditionally, empirical models and techniques based on in‐house expertise have been used to navigate the numerous challenges of this forecasting activity. These challenges become more complex when the forecasting activities are extended to subsidiaries of a large firm. This paper presents a structured approach that utilizes 240 covariates to predict net liquidity, customer receipts, and payments to suppliers to improve the accuracy and efficiency of liquidity forecasting in subsidiaries and at the corporate level. The approach is empirically validated on a large corporation headquartered in Germany, with average annual revenue from 6 to 7 billion Euro spanning 80 countries. The proposed approach demonstrated superior performance over existing methods in six out of nine forecasts using the data from 2014 to 2018. These findings suggest that a firm's classical approach to liquidity forecasting can be effectively challenged and outperformed by the algorithmic approach.
Comparison of liver fibrosis scores and fatty liver on computed tomography as risk factors for severity of COVID‐19
Authors: Kamiya Yuji , Shinoda Masahiro , Ishii Naoki , Yamamoto Saki , Sekine Tetsuo , Morikawa Miwa , Ota Shinichiro , Toyama‐Kousaka Mio , Takahashi Hidenori , Takei Hiroaki , Shinkai Masaharu
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Increased liver fibrosis scores (LFS), such as fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) or non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS), and fatty liver are known risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The purpose of this study was to identify the best scores, which predict the prognosis of COVID‐19.

Methods

Participants comprised consecutive Japanese COVID‐19 patients admitted to our hospital between February 14, 2020, and April 14, 2021. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationships between LFS (FIB‐4, NFS, aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index [APRI], BARD score, and hepatic steatosis index [HSI]) or fatty liver on computed tomography (CT), and severity of COVID‐19.

Results

Of the 415 patients (mean age, 59 years), 177 patients (42.7%) needed oxygen therapy, 90 patients (21.7%) worsened to severe COVID‐19, and 45 patients (10.8%) died during admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that increased FIB‐4 and NFS were risk factors for death, severe COVID‐19, and oxygen demand; that increased BARD was a risk factor for severe COVID‐19 and oxygen demand; and that increased APRI and HSI were not risk factors for any status of COVID‐19. Furthermore, increased NFS or BARD and fatty liver were independent risk factors for severe COVID‐19 and oxygen demand.

Conclusions

This study showed that FIB‐4 and NFS were the best liver fibrosis scores that predicted worse prognosis for COVID‐19, and that increased NFS or BARD and fatty liver evident on CT represented independent risk factors for severe COVID‐19 and oxygen demand.
Elevated cerebrospinal fluid IgG index in herpes simplex encephalitis post‐HSV‐1 clearance: A preliminary study
Authors: Asakura Mao , Mizutani Yasuaki , Shima Sayuri , Kawamura Yoshiki , Ueda Akihiro , Ito Mizuki , Mutoh Tatsuro , Yoshikawa Tetsushi , Watanabe Hirohisa
Published: August 2024

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is an acute form of encephalitis that can lead to poor neurological outcomes. Although the exact pathogenesis of HSE remains elusive, recent reports suggest a significant role for postinfectious immune‐inflammatory processes in the central nervous system (CNS). This study aimed to clarify the association between CNS autoimmune responses and clinical presentation in patients with HSE, focusing on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) characteristics, particularly the IgG index. We retrospectively analyzed 176 consecutive patients suspected of having aseptic meningitis /encephalitis for chronological changes in CSF findings and clinical presentations. These patients underwent PCR screening for herpesviruses (HV) in their CSF. We identified seven patients positive for herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1), 20 patients positive for varicella‐zoster virus, and 17 patients who met the criteria for aseptic meningitis but were PCR‐negative for HV. Patients in the HSV‐1‐positive group exhibited a significant increase in the IgG index at the time of PCR‐negative conversion compared with on admission (p = 0.0156), while such a change was not observed in the other two groups. Additionally, all patients in the HSV‐1‐positive group tested negative for anti‐neural autoantibodies in CSF and serum samples collected approximately 3 weeks after onset. This study, therefore, highlights that CSF IgG index elevation occurs even after PCR‐confirmed HSV‐1 clearance, which might indicate immunopathogenesis that is independent of antibody‐mediated mechanisms.
Diagnosis of Hirschsprung disease by analyzing acetylcholinesterase staining using artificial intelligence
Authors: Braun Yannick , Friedmacher Florian , Theilen Till‐Martin , Fiegel Henning C. , Weber Katharina , Harter Patrick N. , Rolle Udo
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Classical Hirschsprung disease (HD) is defined by the absence of ganglion cells in the rectosigmoid colon. The diagnosis is made from rectal biopsy, which reveals the aganglionosis and the presence of cholinergic hyperinnervation. However, depending on the method of rectal biopsy, the quality of the specimens and the related diagnostic accuracy varies substantially. To facilitate and objectify the diagnosis of HD, we investigated whether software‐based identification of cholinergic hyperinnervation in digitalized histopathology slides is suitable for distinguishing healthy individuals from affected individuals.

Methods

N = 190 samples of 112 patients who underwent open surgical rectal biopsy at our pediatric surgery center between 2009 and 2019 were included in this study. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) stained slides of these samples were collected and digitalized via slide scanning and analyzed using two digital imaging software programs (HALO, QuPath). The AChE‐positive staining area in the mucosal layers of the intestinal wall was determined. In the next step machine learning was employed to identify patterns of cholinergic hyperinnervation.

Results

The area of AChE‐positive staining was greater in HD patients compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.0001). Artificial intelligence‐based assessment of parasympathetic hyperinnervation identified HD with a high precision (area under the curve [AUC] 0.96). The accuracy of the prediction model increased when nonrectal samples were excluded (AUC 0.993).

Conclusions

Software‐assisted machine‐learning analysis of AChE staining is suitable to improve the diagnostic accuracy of HD.
Posttransplant inflammatory bowel disease after successful solid organ transplantation: Not out of the woods yet
Authors: Wenzel Amanda A. , Saul Samantha , Kodiak Teresa , Whitehead Bridget , Strople Jennifer , Brown Jeffrey B. , Cohran Valeria
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Gastrointestinal symptoms can occur following pediatric solid organ transplantation (SOT), and a subset of children will develop chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) posttransplant. The goal of this study was to characterize patients who developed IBD following SOT, their treatment modalities, and clinical course.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of electronic medical records of patients 0–18 years of age who underwent heart, kidney, liver, or intestinal transplantation at our center from January 2009 to April 2019. Patients who developed IBD were included in the final analysis. Demographics, symptoms, and clinical information were recorded. Endoscopic and histologic data and initial and current medications were noted for each patient. Outcomes of interest included phenotype at the time of IBD diagnosis, surgical interventions for IBD, and clinical trajectory at last median follow‐up.

Results

Eight patients with IBD after heart (n = 3, 37.5%), kidney (n = 2, 25.0%), liver (n = 1, 12.5%), intestinal (n = 1, 12.5%), or multivisceral (heart and kidney, n = 1, 12.5%) transplants were included. Before IBD diagnosis, most patients developed diarrhea (n = 5, 62.5%) and abdominal pain (n = 5, 62.5%). Abnormal endoscopic findings were most common in the colon. Patients were started on medications including 5‐aminosalicylates, steroids, and azathioprine. Two patients required biologic therapy and were receiving vedolizumab at last follow‐up. Some patients required adjustment of immune suppression.

Conclusions

Posttransplant IBD can occur following SOT. Patients exhibit inflammatory, nonstricturing disease though one patient experienced fistulizing disease. Complications are uncommon and many patients enter remission with 5‐aminosalicylates alone, though some require adjustment in primary immune suppression.
Effects of climate change and deep fertilization on the growth and yield of winter wheat in the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Yang Cuiping , Qiu Zhiyuan , Wang Shuxian , Shen Hongzheng , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Global temperature is projected to rise continuously under climate change, negatively impacting the growth and yield of winter wheat. Optimizing traditional agricultural measures is necessary to mitigate potential winter wheat yield losses caused by future climate change. This study aims to explore the variations in winter wheat growth and yield on the Loess Plateau of China under future climate change, identify the key meteorological factors affecting winter wheat growth and yield, and analyze the differences in winter wheat yield and root characteristics under different fertilization depths.

RESULTS

Meteorological data from 20 General Circulation Models were applied to drive the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer model, simulating the future growth characteristics of winter wheat under various fertilization depths. The Random Forest model was used to determine the relative importance of meteorological factors influencing winter wheat yield, root length density and leaf area index. The results showed that temperature and high emission concentration were primary factors influencing crop yield under future climate change. The temperature increase projected from 2021 to 2100 would be anticipated to shorten the phenology period of winter wheat by 2–16 days and reduce grain yield by 2.9–12.7% compared to the period from 1981 to 2020. Conversely, the root length density and root weight of winter wheat would increase by 1.2–10.9% and 0.2–24.1%, respectively, in the future, and excessive allocation of root system resources was identified as a key factor contributing to the reduction in winter wheat yield. Compared with the shallow fertilization treatment (N5), the deep fertilization treatments (N15 and N25) increased the proportion of roots in the deep soil layer (30–60 cm) by 2.7–10.2%. Because of the improvement in root structure, the decline in winter wheat yield under deep fertilization treatments in the future is expected to be reduced by 1.2% to 6.5%, whereas water use efficiency increases by 1.1% to 2.4% compared to the shallow fertilization treatment.

CONCLUSION

The deep fertilization treatment can enhance the root structure of winter wheat and increase the proportion of roots in the deep soil layer, thereby effectively mitigating the decline in winter wheat yield under future climate change. Overall, optimizing fertilization depth effectively addresses the reduced winter wheat yield risks and agricultural production challenges under future climate change. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Spatiotemporal expression analysis of jasmonic acid and saponin‐related genes uncovers a potential biosynthetic regulation in Panax notoginseng
Authors: Tong Yu‐Ru , Chen Kang , Jiang Zhou‐Qian , Tu Li‐Chan , Luo Yun‐Feng , Zheng Han , Zhao Ya‐Qiu , Shen Si‐Yu , Hu Ya‐Ting , Gao Wei
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Sanqi, the root of Panax notoginseng, has long been recognized for its therapeutic effects on cardiovascular diseases. Saponins, including ginsenosides and notoginsenosides, are the main bioactive components of P. notoginseng. The biosynthesis of saponins is closely related to the defense responses orchestrated by endogenous hormones.

RESULTS

To provide new insights into the underlying role of phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) in the synthesis and regulation of saponins, we performed an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography analysis of different tissues of P. notoginseng aged 2–4 years. Moreover, by combined evaluation of saponin content and transcriptome profiling of each tissue, the spatial and temporal distribution of saponins was analyzed. N notoginsenoside R1, ginsenoside Rb1 and ginsenoside Rd accumulated in the underground tissues, including the root, tuqi, fibril and rhizome. In agreement with this data, the corresponding genes of the endogenous hormone JAs, especially coronatine insensitive 1 (COI1) and myelocytomatosis proteins 2 (MYC2), were predominantly expressed in the underground tissues. The tissue‐ and age‐specific distribution of saponins was consistent with the expression of genes involved in JA biosynthetic, metabolic and signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

The present study has revealed the temporal and spatial effects of endogenous phtohormones in the synthesis and regulation of notoginsenosides, which will provide a significant impact on improving the ecological planting technology, cultivating new high‐quality varieties and protecting the rare resources of medicinal P. notoginseng. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Clinical implications of linking microstructure, spatial biochemical, spatial biomechanical, and radiological features in ligamentum flavum degeneration
Authors: Azril Azril , Huang Kuo‐Yuan , Liu Hsin‐Yi , Liao Wei‐An , Liu Wen‐Lung , Hobley Jonathan , Jeng Yeau‐Ren
Published: August 2024

Background

The ligamentum flavum (LF) degeneration is a critical factor in spinal stenosis, leading to nerve compression and pain. Even with new treatment options becoming available, it is vital to have a better understanding of LF degeneration to ensure the effectiveness of these treatments.

Objective

This study aimed to provide insight into LF degeneration by examining the connections between various aspects of LF degeneration, including histology, microstructure, chemical composition, and biomechanics.

Method

We analyzed 30 LF samples from 27 patients with lumbar vertebrae, employing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to link lumbar disc degeneration grades with fibrosis levels in the tissue. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis assessed microstructural alterations in the LF matrix component due to degeneration progression. Instrumented nanoindentation combined with Raman spectroscopy explored the spatial microbiomechanical and biochemical characteristics of the LF's ventral and dorsal regions.

Results

Our outcomes revealed a clear association between the severity of LF fibrosis grades and increasing LF thickness. XRD analysis showed a rise in crystalline components and hydroxyapatite molecules with progressing degeneration. Raman spectroscopy detected changes in the ratio of phosphate, proteoglycan, and proline/hydroxyproline over the amide I band, indicating alterations in the extracellular matrix composition. Biomechanical testing demonstrated that LF tissue becomes stiffer and less extensible with increasing fibrosis.

Discussion

Notably, the micro‐spatial assessment revealed the dorsal side of the LF experiencing more significant mechanical stress, alongside more pronounced biochemical and biomechanical changes compared to the ventral side. Degeneration of the LF involves complex processes that affect tissue histology, chemical composition, and biomechanics. It is crucial to fully understand these changes to develop new and effective treatments for spinal stenosis. These findings can improve diagnostic accuracy, identify potential biomarkers and treatment targets, guide personalized treatment strategies, advance tissue engineering approaches, help make informed clinical decisions, and educate patients about LF degeneration.
Vulnerability to lead toxicosis and bioindicator utility of deer scavengers in New York
Authors: Eleftheriou Andreas , Hynes Kevin , Clark Michael , Schuler Krysten
Published: August 2024

Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal with no clear biological benefit that is toxic to wildlife and humans. Although Pb has been banned from several consumer products, it is not regulated in ammunition for big‐game hunting (e.g., cervids) in New York, USA. Wildlife species that scavenge remains of game harvested with Pb ammunition can be exposed to bullet fragments through ingestion and potentially develop toxicosis. To make evidence‐based decisions for reducing risk from bullet‐derived Pb, we first empirically identified avian and mammalian scavengers of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) remains in New York through an online survey during July‐August 2023, where community members submitted images of scavengers from game cameras. We conducted species vulnerability and utility assessments using published evidence and pre‐existing frameworks. Despite inherent limitations, we documented an extensive array of avian (n = 17) and mammalian (n = 14) scavengers. We estimated bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) as most vulnerable to Pb toxicosis, followed collectively by American goshawks (Accipiter atricapillus), American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and common ravens (C. corax). We also determined bald eagles to be best‐suited as bioindicators of bullet‐derived Pb, followed by American goshawks. Red‐tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) and great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) equally ranked third. Integrating vulnerability and utility assessments point to bald eagles as the most vulnerable scavengers to Pb toxicosis and best‐suited bioindicators of bullet‐derived Pb. Because regulation of Pb ammunition for big‐game hunting is an ongoing socio‐political issue, wildlife managers and conservationists can address health risks through monitoring species vulnerable to toxicosis and instituting surveillance programs using the most effective bioindicators.
Centralization reduces meniscal extrusion, improves joint mechanics and functional outcomes in patients undergoing meniscus surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Boksh Khalis , E.T. Shepherd Duncan , M. Espino Daniel , Ghosh Arijit , Aujla Randeep , Boutefnouchet Tarek
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the existing literature on meniscal centralisation procedures, analysing its impact on meniscal extrusion, joint biomechanics and clinical and radiological outcome measures.

Methods

The Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, PubMed (MEDLINE) and Embase were used to perform a systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses criteria. Biomechanical studies on healthy animal or human cadaveric knee joints that assessed meniscal extrusion or tibiofemoral contact mechanics (contact area and pressure) following centralization for meniscal pathologies were included. For clinical studies, those that prospectively or retrospectively assessed patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs), postoperative knee motion, complications and radiological extrusion following centralization for meniscal pathologies were included.

Results

Fifteen studies were included in the analysis, comprising eight biomechanical, six clinical and one both. There were 92 knee specimens for biomechanical testing, of which 40 were human cadaveric and 52 porcine models. Biomechanical data revealed centralization to be commonly performed for posterior meniscal root tears and significantly reduced extrusion and contact pressure whilst improving contact area following a tear (p < 0.00001). Centralization restored extrusion to that of the native knee at all flexion angles described (0–90°, p = 0.25) and, compared to the torn state, brought tibiofemoral contact mechanics 3.2–5.0 times closer to the native state. Clinical data showed that 158 patients underwent centralization for extrusion. It improved postoperative Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome score (KOOS) (p = 0.006) and Lysholm scores (p < 0.00001) at 25.0 months, maintained extrusion reduction at 17.1 months (p < 0.00001) and preserved knee motion.

Conclusion

Centralisation for various meniscal injuries associated with extrusion can reduce meniscal extrusion and improve joint biomechanics, along with clinical and radiological outcomes. Existing evidence is still scarce and exhibits a notable amount of methodological heterogeneity.

Level of Evidence

Systematic review of Level IV evidence.
Differential association of key bacterial groups with diatoms and Phaeocystis spp. during spring blooms in the Southern Ocean
Authors: West Nyree J. , Landa Marine , Obernosterer Ingrid
Published: August 2024

Interactions between phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria significantly influence the cycling of organic carbon in the ocean, with many of these interactions occurring at the micrometer scale. We explored potential associations between specific phytoplankton and bacteria in two size fractions, 0.8–3 µm and larger than 3 µm, at three naturally iron‐fertilized stations and one high nutrient low chlorophyll station in the Southern Ocean. The composition of phytoplankton and bacterial communities was determined by sequencing the rbcL gene and 16S rRNA gene from DNA and RNA extracts, which represent presence and potential activity, respectively. Diatoms, particularly Thalassiosira, contributed significantly to the DNA sequences in the larger size fractions, while haptophytes were dominant in the smaller size fraction. Correlation analysis between the most abundant phytoplankton and bacterial operational taxonomic units revealed strong correlations between Phaeocystis and picoeukaryotes with SAR11, SAR116, Magnetospira, and Planktomarina. In contrast, most Thalassiosira operational taxonomic units showed the highest correlations with Polaribacter, Sulfitobacteria, Erythrobacter, and Sphingobium, while Fragilariopsis, Haslea, and Thalassionema were correlated with OM60, Fluviicola, and Ulvibacter. Our in‐situ observations suggest distinct associations between phytoplankton and bacterial taxa, which could play crucial roles in nutrient cycling in the Southern Ocean.
Does digital transformation increase corporate violations?
Authors: Wang Wanwan , Zhu Guoyiming , Mo Shenwei
Published: August 2024

This study examines whether digital transformation influences corporate violations in China. Using data from Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2007 to 2020, this paper finds that digital transformation increases the incidence of corporate violations. The results remain robust through endogeneity checks, the use of alternative measurements for digital transformation and corporate violations, and subsample analyses. Cross‐sectional analyses suggest that the impact of digital transformation on corporate violations is more salient in non‐state‐owned enterprises, firms with lower institutional investors shareholding ratios, and firms with higher agency costs. Mechanism analyses indicate that digital transformation leads to corporate violations by increasing operational complexity and affecting information quality. Additional tests reveal that effective corporate governance helps reduce the occurrence of corporate violations resulting from digital transformation. This research deepens our understanding of the economic implications of corporate digital transformation and provides valuable insights for businesses undergoing this process.
Information disclosure strategies of live‐streaming supply chains in the digi‐economy era
Authors: Ma Xiaoyong , Liu Shuai
Published: August 2024

Live e‐commerce is one of the important forms of digital transformation of supply chain, which has become increasingly popular in recent years as a powerful tool for internet advertising, interaction, and merchandising. We propose two pricing models to examine the strategies of information disclosure and pricing within the live‐streaming supply chain. One model revolves around the agency framework, wherein the manufacturer determines the price while the streamer decides the level of information disclosure. The other model pertains to a self‐implementing framework, wherein the manufacturer determines both the level of information disclosure and the price. To evaluate the robustness of our findings, we extend our models to encompass three significant scenarios: (i) the platform involvement model, where a live‐streaming support platform becomes part of the supply chain; (ii) the fixed price model, which externalizes the manufacturer's pricing decision; and (iii) the dual‐channel operations model. Our analysis reveals that the cost associated with information disclosure impacts the streamer's profits in a nonlinear manner within the agency model. Interestingly, expanding the revenue‐sharing parameter does not invariably favor the manufacturer. Moreover, we observe that none of the live‐streaming sales models exhibits a clear advantage over the others. Additionally, we demonstrate that the platform's involvement limits the manufacturer's ability to utilize the agency model for live‐streaming sales. In situations with fixed pricing, the manufacturer is advised to disclose more production information during live‐streaming sales.
Chemography‐guided analysis of a reaction path network for ethylene hydrogenation with a model Wilkinson's catalyst
Authors: Gantzer Philippe , Staub Ruben , Harabuchi Yu , Maeda Satoshi , Varnek Alexandre
Published: August 2024

Visualization and analysis of large chemical reaction networks become rather challenging when conventional graph‐based approaches are used. As an alternative, we propose to use the chemical cartography (“chemography”) approach, describing the data distribution on a 2‐dimensional map. Here, the Generative Topographic Mapping (GTM) algorithm ‐ an advanced chemography approach ‐ has been applied to visualize the reaction path network of a simplified Wilkinson's catalyst‐catalyzed hydrogenation containing some 105 structures generated with the help of the Artificial Force Induced Reaction (AFIR) method using either Density Functional Theory or Neural Network Potential (NNP) for potential energy surface calculations. Using new atoms permutation invariant 3D descriptors for structure encoding, we've demonstrated that GTM possesses the abilities to cluster structures that share the same 2D representation, to visualize potential energy surface, to provide an insight on the reaction path exploration as a function of time and to compare reaction path networks obtained with different methods of energy assessment.
Determining the order of time and spatial fractional derivatives
Authors: Ashurov Ravshan , Sulaymonov Ilyoskhuja
Published: August 2024

The paper considers the initial‐boundary value problem for equation
, in an N‐dimensional domain
with a homogeneous Dirichlet condition. The fractional derivative is taken in the sense of Caputo. The main goal of the work is to solve the inverse problem of simultaneously determining two parameters: the order of the fractional derivative
and the degree of the Laplace operator
. A new formulation and solution method for this inverse problem are proposed. It is proved that in the new formulation the solution to the inverse problem exists and is unique for an arbitrary initial function from the class
. Note that in previously known works, only the uniqueness of the solution to the inverse problem was proved and the initial function was required to be sufficiently smooth and non‐negative.
Besicovitch almost automorphic solutions in finite‐dimensional distributions to stochastic semilinear differential equations driven by both Brownian and fractional Brownian motions
Authors: Li Yongkun , Bai Zhicong
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we are concerned with a stochastic semilinear differential equations driven by both Brownian motion and fractional Brownian motion. Firstly, we establish an inequality for the distance between finite‐dimensional distributions of a random process at two different moments. Then, using the properties of stochastic integrals, fixed point theorems, and based on this inequality, we establish the existence and uniqueness of Besicovich almost automorphic solutions in finite‐dimensional distributions for this type of semilinear equation. Finally, we provide an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of our results. Our results are new to stochastic differential equations driven by Brownian motion or stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion.
Influence of temperature and internal leakage on magnetorheological damper
Authors: Zhu Hongtao , Rui Xiaoting , Yang FuFeng , Zhu Wei , Jiang Min
Published: August 2024

To study the influence of temperature and internal leakage on the performance of magnetorheological (MR) damper, a single‐rod straight‐cylinder MR damper with an inside temperature sensor is designed in this study. A unified model for MR damper is given, and a new two‐step parameters identification method is proposed to determine model parameters. The experiment, in which the damper is heated by long‐time displacement excitation, is designed to study the effect of temperature and internal leakage. The influence mechanism of temperature and internal leakage on MR damper is analyzed through theoretical derivation and experimental results in this study.
New randomized controlled trials on micronutrients in critical care nutrition: A narrative review
Authors: Halim Zakiah , Huang Yingxiao , Lee Zheng‐Yii , Lew Charles Chin Han
Published: August 2024

There has been increasing interest in the role of micronutrient supplementation in critical care. This narrative review summarizes the recent studies on micronutrients in critically ill patients. We searched two databases for primary randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of micronutrient supplementation in patients with critical illness published from January 2021 to August 2023. Personal files, reference lists of included studies, and previous reviews were also screened. Twelve studies reported on vitamin C, four studies on vitamin D, three studies on thiamin, two studies on multivitamins, and one study on cobalamin. The therapeutic effects of vitamin C appear mixed, although vitamin C monotherapy appears more promising than vitamin C combination therapy. Intramuscular administration of vitamin D appeared to lower mortality, mechanical ventilation duration, and intensive care unit stay, whereas enteral administration showed limited clinical benefits. Intravenous thiamin was not associated with improved outcomes in patients with septic shock or hypophosphatemia. Preliminary evidence suggests reduced vasopressor dose with cobalamin. Decreased disease severity and hospital stay in patients with COVID‐19 with vitamins A–E requires further investigation, whereas providing solely B‐group vitamins did not demonstrate therapeutic effects. It is currently premature to endorse the provision of high‐dose micronutrients in critical illness to improve clinical outcomes. This review may help to inform the design of future trials that will help better elucidate the optimal dosage and form of micronutrients, methods of administration, and subgroups of patients with critical illness who may most benefit.
Optimal iterative learning control under varying iteration lengths with input saturation
Authors: You Mingchao , Shen Jie , Li Liwei , Shen Mouquan
Published: August 2024

This article is concerned with optimized iterative learning control of linear time‐invariant systems against input saturation and varying iteration length. The varying length is described by a stochastic form. The corresponding iteration output is modified by the combination of the real iteration output and the desired one with the varying consideration. To optimize the tracking error, the constraint caused by input saturation is transformed to an unconstraint structure by a barrier method. Newton's method based optimal control law is adopted to minimize the quadratic index related to a modified tracking error. Rigorous theoretical derivations are presented to guarantee the convergence of tracking errors. An example is provided to confirm the validity of the proposed approach.
The impact of congenital heart disease on treatment and survival of patients with hepatoblastoma: A single‐center experience
Authors: Espinoza Andres F. , Montgomery Ashley E. , Maamari Nicholas C. , Dickerson Heather A. , Heczey Andras , Vasudevan Sanjeev A. , Foster Jennifer H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with hepatoblastoma (HB) have a higher risk of congenital heart defects (CHD). There is limited literature on the management and outcomes of these patients. The purpose of this study was to identify demographics and outcomes of these patients in a single tertiary referral center.

Methods

An Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved retrospective chart review of patients with newly diagnosed HB from October 2004 to January 2021 was performed. CHD was defined as the presence of a septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary atresia, or bicuspid aortic valve. Chi‐square and t‐test were utilized for statistical analyses.

Results

Of the 151 patients diagnosed with HB during the study timeframe, 29 patients were found to have CHD. Five‐year overall survival (OS) for non‐CHD HB patients was 81.9% compared to 68.9% in the CHD cohort (p = .12). The 5‐year OS for patients without surgically intervened CHD was 63.6% compared to 70.5% for those with surgically repaired CHD (p = .88). Pre‐treatment extent of tumor IV was present more often in patients with HB and CHD who passed away (6/9, 66.7%) compared to those who survived (3/16,18.8%, p = .01).

Conclusions

Patients with HB and CHD have similar survival compared to those without CHD. Our data support that patients with HB and CHD should be treated with curative intent including cardiac surgical intervention, medical oncology therapy, and oncological surgery for their HB.
Multimodality detection of tumour rupture in children with Wilms tumour
Authors: Dzhuma Kristina , Oostveen Minou , Watson Tom , Powis Mark , Vujanic Gordan , Saunders Daniel , Al‐Saadi Reem , Chowdhury Tanzina , Lopez Angela , Brok Jesper , Irtan Sabine , Williams Richard , Tugnait Suzanne , Shelmerdine Susan C. , Olsen Oystein , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy
Published: August 2024

Background and aims

Tumour rupture (TR) signifies stage III disease and requires treatment intensification, which includes radiotherapy. We studied the associations between radiological, surgical and pathology TR in children with Wilms tumour (WT) in a United Kingdom multicentre clinical study.

Patients and methods

The IMPORT (Improving Population Outcomes for Renal Tumours of Childhood) study registered 712 patients between 2012 and 2021. Children with TR on central radiology review (CRR) at diagnosis and/or indication of preoperative TR on surgical forms were included. Correlation between radiology/surgery/pathology findings was made.

Results

Total 141 patients had TR identified (69 on CRR, 43 on surgical form and 29 on both), and 124/141 had images available for CRR, and 98/124 had features suggestive of TR on diagnostic CRR (63 magnetic resonance imaging/35 computed tomography). TR was limited to the renal fossa in 47/98 (48%) and intraperitoneal in 51/98 (52%). Three of 98(3%) had upfront surgery, and 87/95 (92%) had TR confirmed on post‐chemotherapy preoperative scans. Among 80/98 (82%) cases with TR on CRR and available surgical forms, TR was not confirmed on surgery or pathology in 38/80, giving a false‐positive rate of 48%. Preoperative TR was indicated on 72 surgical forms, with images available for CRR in 55. Twenty‐six of 55 (47%) were false‐negative for TR on CRR and of those 10/26 (38%) had TR confirmed on pathology.

Conclusions

Radiology alone should not be used to define TR, as it does not accurately correlate with surgical or pathology findings, and therefore cannot be relied upon for definitive staging and treatment. A multidisciplinary team should take the decision regarding the final abdominal stage and treatment using a multimodality approach considering clinical, radiological, surgical and pathological findings.
The evolution and history of Vinca alkaloids: From the Big Bang to the treatment of pediatric acute leukemia
Authors: Taub Jeffrey W. , Buck Steven A. , Xavier Ana C. , Edwards Holly , Matherly Larry H. , Ge Yubin
Published: August 2024

An attractive flower from the island of Madagascar has in part saved the lives of thousands of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Random mutations and alterations to the genome led to the evolution of genes encoding enzymes, which would provide the periwinkle flower an arsenal of secondary metabolites to survive within the Madagascar ecosystem. Of the over 200 alkaloid compounds synthesized by the periwinkle, vincristine and vinblastine are the two most well‐known being used for chemotherapy treatments, including for children with ALL. The complexities of the multi‐step biosynthesis of vincristine and vinblastine, which has taken years to decode, highlight the importance of protecting the vast biodiversity on earth as other natural products that can save lives await to be discovered. This review addresses the discovery of vincristine and vinblastine, as well as the history of their existence, in nature.
Risk of transfusion‐related iron overload varies based on oncologic diagnosis and associated treatment: Retrospective analysis from a single pediatric cancer center
Authors: Winzent‐Oonk Shelby , Staley Alyse , Alami Vida , Bradley Julie , Harvey Susan , Pounds Aneisia , Kuldanek Susan , Pacenta Holly , Winters Amanda C. , McKinney Chris
Published: August 2024

Background

Transfusion‐related iron overload (TRIO) is a widely acknowledged late effect of antineoplastic therapy in pediatric cancer survivors, but firm guidelines as to screening protocols or at‐risk populations are lacking in the literature.

Procedure

We performed retrospective analysis of all oncology patients diagnosed at our center from 2014 to 2019, who underwent TRIO screening as part of an internal quality improvement project. Correlations of MRI‐confirmed TRIO with patient‐, disease‐, and treatment‐specific features were evaluated.

Results

We show that a tiered screening algorithm for TRIO, when followed as intended, led to the identification of the highest proportion of patients with TRIO. We confirm that cardiac TRIO is quite rare in the oncology patient population. However, accepted surrogate markers including red blood cell transfused volume and ferritin only modestly correlated with TRIO in our patient cohort. Instead, we found that older age, leukemia diagnosis, anthracycline exposure, and receipt of stem cell transplant were most strongly associated with risk for TRIO.

Conclusions

We describe associations between TRIO and patient, disease, and treatment characteristics in a multivariate risk model that could lead to an improved risk stratification of off‐therapy patients, and which should be validated in a prospective manner.
Influence of out‐of‐autoclave and autoclave manufacturing processes on mechanical properties of glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy composite
Authors: Dewangan Bhishm , Chakladar N. D.
Published: August 2024

In this study, an optimum process parameter space is proposed by comparing autoclave, oven curing and vacuum infusion process of manufacturing of GFRP composites. The process parameters, such as the degassing time of resin‐hardener mix, single or double vacuum bagging (DVB), fiber volume fraction and condition of the vacuum pump (VP) were considered. The novelty of the study shows that a VP Off and 5 min degassing condition exhibited 27%, 18% and 27% increase in tensile modulus, tensile strength and interlaminar shear strength as compared to the other methods. The normalized tensile strength, on the other hand, was comparable with DVB, oven and autoclave curing. A magnitude of 1.5 MPa of residual stress was measured with the help of x‐ray diffraction (XRD). This was verified by a Raman Spectroscopy, which showed a residual strain of 0.2% at a spectral peak of 1186 cm−1. The proposed methodology would assist the industries in choosing the right combination of process parameters required for a targeted tensile and interlaminar performance.

Highlights

Effect of out‐of‐autoclave and autoclave processes on the performance of GFRP was studied.

Degassing time, vacuum bagging and Vacuum pump conditions were investigated.

Vacuum pump Off and 5 min degassing time were found to be optimal.

Tensile and Interlaminar shear strength were improved by 18% and 27% at optimal condition.
Study on the process of hot gas‐assisted GF/PA5X thermoplastic composites automated tape placement
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Yong , Huan Da‐Jun , Zhu Kang , Guo Da
Published: August 2024

The thermoplastic composites which in the automated tape placement (ATP) process are directly consolidated and formed in situ. The interlaminar bonding quality of the product is susceptible to the ATP process. Glass fiber‐reinforced bio‐based polyamides PA5X (GF/PA5X) tapes are used to prepare samples. The effect of process parameters on the interlaminar bonding quality is explored by peel test based on the principle of the response surface. A quadratic response surface model of hot gas temperature, placement speed, and roller force on the peel strength is established, and experiments are conducted to verify the accuracy of the model. The effect of process parameters and their coupling effect on the peel strength is obtained. The interlaminar bonding quality of the samples manufactured by ATP and compression molding are comparatively analyzed through peel and short beam shear tests. The results show that the best combination of process parameters obtained is: the hot gas temperature of 619°C, placement speed of 0.540 m/min, roller force of 684 N, and predicted peel strength of 9.89 N/10 mm. The peel and short beam shear strength of the samples manufactured by ATP is 9.96 N/10 mm and 34.2 MPa, reaching 66.0% and 60.0% of the samples manufactured by compression molding respectively.

Highlights

GF/PA5X thermoplastic composite tapes are used to prepare ATP samples.

The effect of process parameters on the interlaminar bonding quality is explored.

The micromorphology of the ATP samples is characterized.

The ATP and compression molding samples are comparatively analyzed.
Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals variation in the metabolites of Dendrobium officinale, Dendrobium huoshanense, Dendrobium nobile
Authors: Chen Li , Duan Shuna , Huang Jiahui , Hu Li , Liu Shuping , Lan Qiqian , Wei Gang
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Dendrobium is a perennial herb of the genus Dendrobium in the orchid family. Generally, Dendrobium officinale (TP) and Dendrobium huoshanense (HS) are both considered to have the function of yin‐nourishing, while Dendrobium nobile (JC) has better efficacy of heat‐clearing. However, because of the wide variety of Dendrobium species, the classification and clinical application of Dendrobium are often confused clearly distinguished in different medicinal uses.

Objective

In order to compare the differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the three Dendrobium.

Methods

We selected TP, HS, and JC cultivated on stone for metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses between 2 and 3 years.

Results

The results showed that a total of 489 metabolites were obtained, including 72 were DAMs. The 72 DAMs were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Transcriptome analysis results showed that 1,038 annotated DEGs were identified among the three Dendrobium species. The comprehensive analysis showed that the three Dendrobium differed in the distribution of the content of four major active components: flavonoids, amino acids, alkaloids, and sugars and alcohols, among which the DAMs and DEGs were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways and secondary metabolite biosynthesis.

Conclusion

In this study, metabolomics and transcriptomics were utilized to compare the differences among the three species of Dendrobium, to provide theoretical references for future research and selection of different species of Dendrobium based on different medicinal uses, and to lay the foundation for further research on the biosynthesis of flavonoids in Dendrobium.