bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution, origin and evolution of overpressure in the Paleogene and Neogene in the Western Qaidam Basin, northwestern China
Authors: Yang Taozheng , Liu Chenglin , Li Pei , Tian Jixian , Awan Rizwan Sarwar , Li Haipeng , Feng Dehao , Wu Yuping , Li Guoxiong , Zang Qibiao
Published: June 2024

Based on pressure test data, well logging data and geological conditions, the distribution and cause of overpressure in the western Qaidam Basin are analysed. The contribution of different overpressure causes is quantified, and the main controlling factors of overpressure at different evolution stages are further divided. This is useful for analysing the pressure state in different geological historical periods and indicating the direction of oil and gas migration. The research results show that the formation pressure coefficient in the western part of the Qaidam Basin is mainly in the range of 0.5–2.1, and the pressure coefficient generally decreases from the depression to the edge. According to the stress variation characteristics and logging response of overpressure, two models of acoustic travel time‐vertical effective stress and electrical resistivity‐vertical effective stress are established to identify and quantify the cause of overpressure for loading and unloading. Through the analysis of logging curves, acoustic velocity‐density cross‐plot and geological conditions, the causes of overpressure in western Qaidam Basin was clarified. The overpressure calculation results of different origins show that the main controlling factors of overpressure in the Kunbei fault stage are disequilibrium compaction and tectonic extrusion, with contribution rates of 38% and 52%, respectively. The overpressure in Mangya depression is caused by disequilibrium compaction, tectonic extrusion and hydrocarbon generation, with overpressure ratios of 30%, 32% and 38% respectively. The overpressure of the Dafengshan uplift can contribute up to 53% of the disequilibrium compaction, and the contributions of tectonic extrusion and hydrocarbon generation are 28% and 19%, respectively. Finally, the evolution of residual pressure in the upper segment of the Xiaganchaigou Formation () in western Qaidam Basin can be divided into four evolution stages: undercompaction stage (42.8–40.5 MPa), normal compaction stage (40.5–12.0 MPa), hydrocarbon generation pressurization stage (12.0–2.8 Ma) and pressure release stage (2.8 Ma‐present).
Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on post‐stroke cognitive impairment: A systematic and a network meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Xianying , Li Hong , Yang Shining , Xiao Zhenghua , Li Qing , Zhang Feng , Ma Jiang
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) modes in stroke patients with cognitive impairment, and to rank the best option according to the outcome measures.

Methods

Literature was searched in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and VIP Database, from database inception to September 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of all rTMS modes for post‐stroke cognitive impairment. The selected studies assessed at least one of the following outcome measures: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), P300 latency and amplitude, and modified Barthel Index (MBI) or BI. Two researchers independently conducted data extraction. Quality assessment was performed using RevMan 5.3 software based on the Cochrane Collaboration's tool, and statistical analysis was conducted by GeMTC 0.14.3 software and Stata 17.0 software.

Results

The network meta‐analysis included 74 RCTs with a total of 5478 patients. The best probability ranking indicated that intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) was the most effective in enhancing MoCA, MMSE and MBI scores (85%, 54%, 42%, respectively), followed by 10 Hz rTMS (79%, 50%, 39%, respectively), for P300 amplitude, ≤1 Hz rTMS was ranked first (52%).

Conclusions

The current limited evidence suggests that iTBS may be the optimal approach for improving cognitive and daily life abilities of stroke patients, followed by 10 Hz rTMS, ≤1 Hz rTMS may be the preferred option for enhancing P300 amplitude.

Trail registration: PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023424771 available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=424771.
Visor flap: A solution for the reconstruction of large skin defects on the frontal and parietal parts of the skull
Authors: Dik Eric A. , Verhoeven Tim , Lubeek Satish , Zwijnenburg Ellen , van Rijssel Jeroen , Weijs Willem , Coppen Casper
Published: June 2024

Background

Reconstruction of skin defects after oncological surgery for a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is often mandatory to facilitate adjuvant treatment and/or to prevent chronic wound problems. Some of the most challenging regions to reconstruct after resection of a skin tumor are the frontal and parietal parts of the skull.

Methods

This article describes three patients with large skin defects after oncological surgery that were reconstructed with the use of a (hemi) visor flap.

Results

The (hemi) visor flap is easy to harvest, resulting in a concise procedure and short hospitalization with maximum wound control.

Conclusion

The (hemi) visor flap is a safe and reliable option for the closure of large skin defects on the skull. Especially in the older and frail patient group.
Development and effect of orodispersible film incorporated with Biosilicate for remineralization of dental enamel subjected to cariogenic and erosive challenge
Authors: Amorim Ayodele Alves , Soares Eduardo José , Pires‐de‐Souza Fernanda de Carvalho Panzeri
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The objective of this in vitro study was to assess the efficiency of incorporating Biosilicate particles (30 and 50 mg) into an experimental orodispersible film and its efficacy in the remineralization process of bovine dental enamel under cariogenic and erosive challenges.

Methods

Ninety‐nine intact incisors, devoid of cracks or fractures, yielding 198 samples (6 × 6 × 2 mm) via vestibular sectioning using a low‐speed diamond disc under water cooling. After flattening the enamel surface with 600, 1200, and 2000 grit sandpaper, the samples were divided into two groups based on the challenges they underwent: cariogenic (0.1 M lactic acid at pH 5.0) or erosive (0.05 M citric acid solution at pH 2.3). Samples from each challenge were further categorized into 11 groups (n = 9) according to the duration of cariogenic (3, 7, and 14 days) or erosive (3, 7, and 10 days) challenge, along with positive control groups (fragments untreated with challenges and treated with different Biosilicate concentrations) and negative controls (fragments treated with artificial saliva for the same periods established for cariogenic and erosive challenges). Treatments with orodispersible films containing Biosilicate (30 and 50 mg) were administered for 2 min per day for 15 days.

Results

The highest remineralizing potential was observed in samples treated with Biosilicate after 14 days of cariogenic challenge, irrespective of the concentration tested. For samples subjected to erosive challenge, erosion time did not affect Biosilicate's remineralizing potential.

Conclusion

Biosilicate shows promise in terms of remineralizing potential in enamel subjected to cariogenic challenge due to its ability to form hydroxycarbonapatite in mineralized tissues.
A pilot study of virtual Harm Reduction Talking Circles for American Indian and Alaska Native adults with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Nelson Lonnie A. , Shinagawa Emma , Garza Celina Mahinalani , Squetimkin‐Anquoe Annette , Jeffries Itai , Rajeev Vaishali , Taylor Emily M. , Taylor Sampson , Eakins Danielle , Parker Myra E. , Ubay Tatiana , King Victor , Duffing‐Romero Xia , Park Sooyoun , Saplan Sage , Clifasefi Seema L. , Lowe John , Collins Susan E.
Published: June 2024

Prior research suggests that culturally aligned, accessible and lower‐barrier interventions are well‐placed to align with the needs of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Taking into account community members' suggestions and the need for physical distancing during the COVID‐19 pandemic, our team developed a protocol for virtual Harm Reduction Talking Circles (HaRTC) to incorporate these points. The aims of this 8‐week, single‐arm pilot were to initially document feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes associated with attendance at virtual HaRTC, which integrates the accessibility of virtual connection, a lower‐barrier harm‐reduction approach, and a culturally aligned intervention. Participants (N = 51) were AI/AN people with AUD (current or in remission) across 41 Tribal affiliations and 25 US states. After a baseline interview, participants were invited to attend 8, weekly virtual HaRTC sessions. At the baseline, midpoint and post‐test assessments, we collected data on virtual HaRTC acceptability, cultural connectedness, quality of life, and alcohol outcomes. Of the 123 people approached, 63% were interested in and consented to participation. Participants attended an average of 2.1 (SD = 2.02) virtual HaRTC sessions, with 64% of participants attending at least one. On a scale from 1 to 10, participants rated the virtual HaRTC as highly acceptable (M = 9.3, SD = 1.9), effective (M = 8.4, SD = 2.9), culturally aligned (M = 9.2, SD = 1.5), helpful (M = 8.8, SD = 1.9), and conducted in a good way (M = 9.8, SD = 0.5). Although the single‐arm study design precludes causal inferences, participants evinced statistically significant decreases in days of alcohol use and alcohol‐related harm over the three timepoints. Additionally, both sense of spirituality, which is a factor of cultural connectedness, and health‐related quality of life increased over time as a function of the number of HaRTC sessions attended. Virtual HaRTC shows initial feasibility and acceptability as a culturally aligned intervention for AI/AN people with AUD. Future randomized controlled trials will provide a test of the efficacy of this approach.
A highly efficient, eco‐friendly method for antireflection nanostructures on poly (ethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Zhou Hongkun , Mu Lan , Liang Ruibin , Lan Linfeng
Published: June 2024

Antireflection surfaces are widely used in optical devices (such as vehicle display, solar cells, and architectural glass) to reduce the reflection and increase transmittance. Plasma etching shows great potential in making subwavelength antireflection structures for its advantage of scalable, low‐cost, and applicable in flexible substrates. Here, we demonstrate an antireflection nanostructure by O2 plasma etching on poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate without additional corrosive gas species or antireflective coatings. Nanopores on the surface were formed due to the different etching rates of the organic region and silica region of the surface. The solar weighted average transmittance was improved from 91.6% to 94.8% for single‐side treated PET with silica antiblocking layer. The transmission increment was attributed to the gradient refractive index of the nanostructured surface due to the elimination of step discontinuity in refractive index. The result shows a highly efficient, eco‐friendly, solvent‐free, economical, and sputtering target‐free method for reducing the reflection and increasing the transmittance of the substrates.
Critical appraisal of total gastrectomy plus total colectomy with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy as a treatment for advanced pseudomyxoma peritonei
Authors: Sugarbaker Paul H. , Chang David
Published: June 2024

Background

The absolute requirement for a long‐term favorable result with cytoreductive surgery for pseudomyxoma peritonei is a complete resection of all visible disease. A combination of parietal peritonectomy procedures and visceral resections is required for this to occur. The cytoreductive surgery is supplemented by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

Methods

We searched our database and secured files for patients who required a total gastrectomy and a total colectomy to achieve a complete cytoreductive surgery. Survival of low‐grade mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) and mucinous appendiceal adenocarcinoma (MACA) histologies were determined. Clinical and histologic variables were assessed for their impact on survival.

Results

Thirteen of 450 patients (2.9%) with LAMN histology and 14 of 186 patients (7.5%) with MACA histology had these visceral resections. Median survival of these 27 patients was 10 years. LAMN and MACA patients showed the same survival. For LAMN histology, this requirement for extensive visceral resection markedly reduced survival (p < 0.0001). For MACA, there was no adverse impact on survival (p = 0.4359). Class 4 adverse events caused reduced survival (p = 0.0014).

Conclusions

A 10‐year median survival accompanies total gastrectomy plus total colectomy for advanced pseudomyxoma peritonei. Systemic chemotherapy and class 4 adverse events reduced survival.
Evaluation of the endoscopic cure criteria in patients undergoing surgery for early gastric cancer
Authors: Souza Willy Petrini , Pereira Marina A. , Cardili Leonardo , Zilberstein Bruno , Ribeiro‐Junior Ulysses , Ramos Marcus F. K. P.
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

Gastric cancer (GC) prognosis is influenced by the extent of the tumor, lymph node involvement (LNM), and metastasis. Endoscopic resection (ER) or gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy are standard treatments for early GC (EGC). This study evaluated LNM frequency according to eCura categories, clinicopathological characteristics, disease‐free (DFS), and overall (OS) survival rates.

Methods

We included EGC patients who underwent curative gastrectomy between 2009 and 2020 from our single‐center database. Anatomopathological and clinical reports were reviewed to analyze eCura categories.

Results

We included 160 EGC patients who underwent gastrectomy with eCura categories A, B, and C, comprising 26.3%, 13.8%, and 60%, respectively. Baseline clinical characteristics showed no intergroup disparities. LNM incidence for A, B, and C was 4.8%, 18.2%, and 19.8%. When evaluating the criteria for ER and its association with eCura categories, we found that 95.2% of eCura A and 100% of eCura B patients had classic or expanded criteria for ER. On the other hand, 97.9% of eCura C patients were referred to surgical resection. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that lymphatic (OR = 5.57, CI95% = 1.45–21.29, p = 0.012) and perineural (OR = 15.8, CI95% = 1.39–179.88, p = 0.026) invasions were associated with a higher risk of LNM. No significant differences in DFS or OS were found among eCura categories.

Conclusion

The eCura categories were associated with the occurrence of LNM. In most patients, those with classic and expanded indication criteria for ER were classified as eCura A and B.
Arthroscopic management of isolated partial‐thickness rotator cuff tears
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Marino Martina , Lalli Alberto , Bandini Benedetta , Giannarelli Diana , Ruiz Ibán Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive review on the surgical outcomes following arthroscopic treatments of partial‐thickness rotator cuff tears (PT‐RCTs) and to compare the postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score following in situ transtendon repair and tear completion, followed by repair.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL and CENTRAL bibliographic databases were searched. Papers including patients with PT‐RCTs of any grade who underwent treatment using debridement, in situ transtendon repair, tear completion and repair or bioinductive collagen implants were reviewed. Primary PT‐RCTs were the sole indication for surgery. Primary postoperative outcomes assessed included the ASES score, the Absolute Constant–Murley score, the Simple Shoulder Test, the Visual Analogue Scale, the University of California‐Los Angeles Shoulder Scale, the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Score, range of motion, complications and revisions. A meta‐analysis of comparative studies compared the postoperative ASES score between patients treated with in situ transtendon repair versus tear completion repair.

Results

Twenty‐eight studies were included. The ASES score was reported by four comparative studies with contrasting results. The heterogeneity was high (I2 = 86%), and effect sizes ranged from −0.49 in favour of the tear completion and repair technique to an effect size of +1.07 favouring in situ transtendon repair. The overall effect size of 0.02 suggests an equivalence between the two techniques in terms of the ASES score. Two studies with a total sample size of 111 patients reported on debridement, and four studies with a total sample size of 155 patients reported on bioinductive collagen implants.

Conclusion

Debridement alone is suitable for Ellman grades I‐II PT‐RCTs. In situ transtendon and tear completion repair techniques yield similar postoperative outcomes. Bioinductive collagen implants hold promise but lack long‐term efficacy data. High‐quality comparative studies are needed to determine the best treatment for PT‐RCTs.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Evaluating the effect of the actual eroded badland area on the estimate of eroded volume in Italiancalanchi areas
Authors: Guida Gaetano , Nicosia Alessio , Palmeri Vincenzo , Ferro Vito
Published: June 2024

According to the available literature, the morphometric characteristics of badland basins (e.g., area of the badland drainage basin, A, and actual eroded badland area, AE) can be used for deducing an empirical model able to predict the eroded volume, V. The main aim of this investigation is to implement a model to estimate the volume of eroded sediments, which uses widely applied morphological indices. This model, deduced by applying dimensional analysis and self‐similarity theory, was calibrated and verified using the badland morphometric characteristics of five datasets (four available in the literature and one presented in this investigation). The results showed that the estimate of the eroded volume is reliable only for the data characterized by V/A values higher than a threshold (0.1 m) corresponding to the vertical resolution of the investigated digital terrain models (DTMs). For considering that the actual eroded badland area AE can be different from the respective drainage area A, as badland erosion induces a headward extension, the model for estimating the eroded volume was calibrated by differentiating between partially (AE/A < 1) and totally (AE/A = 1) eroded badland basins. The analysis highlighted that the actual eroded badland area, which is the area that more contributes to the active erosion process, remarkably influences the estimate of V, and the inclusion of the ratio AE/A in the model is useful to improve this estimate. The estimate of the eroded sediment volume from calanchi areas has a scientific and practical relevance as the high erosion rates of small badland areas can disproportionately contribute to the basin‐scale sediment budget.
Successful plant growth in acid mine drainage‐impacted soil using pot‐based experiments with waste amendments
Authors: Fernández‐Landero Sandra , Fernández‐Caliani Juan Carlos , Giráldez María Inmaculada , Hidalgo Pablo J. , Morales Emilio
Published: June 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of remediating soil impacted by acid mine drainage (AMD) using an innovative and sustainable Technosol‐based approach to stabilize soil and facilitate vegetation recovery. The study assessed the effectiveness of Technosols made from recycled organic (water clarification sludge) and inorganic (siderurgical slags and red gypsum) wastes in mitigating the detrimental effects of AMD on soil properties, pore water chemistry, and plant growth through a 4‐month pot experiment. Technosols significantly improved soil health by neutralizing net acidity (296 mmol H+ kg−1), raising pH levels from extremely acidic (3.3) to mildly alkaline (7.7–8.0), and limiting the mobility of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Dissolved Cu and Zn concentrations dropped from 80.21 and 72.08 mg L−1, respectively, to below 1 mg L−1 by the end of the monitoring period. The experiment identified several concomitant mechanisms of PTE retention, such as decreased dissolution of metal‐bearing minerals, precipitation reactions and adsorption onto Fe and Al (oxy)hydroxides. Aqueous speciation modelling indicated a decline in toxic metal forms (e.g. Al3+, AlSO4+, Cu2+, Zn2+ and H2AsO4−) in soil pore water after treatment, thus reducing phytotoxicity. Additionally, waste amendments enhanced nutrient availability, with nitrate concentrations reaching up to 417 mg L−1, supporting seed germination and seedling establishment. The most effective Technosol, combining water treatment sludge and white steel slag (60:40 w/w), enabled robust growth of Brassica juncea. Principal component analysis showed a strong correlation between healthy plant responses (survival rate, plant height, leaf number, biomass production) and improved soil pore water parameters (pH, PTEs, aluminium, calcium, bicarbonate and nitrate ions), highlighting the benefits of waste amendments. These findings underscore the potential of waste‐derived Technosols in stabilizing AMD‐impacted soils and promoting thriving plant growth. However, further validation in field trials with diverse plant species is recommended for real‐world applications.
High‐Speed High‐Resolution Transport of Intensity Diffraction Tomography with Bi‐Plane Parallel Detection
Authors: Zhou Ning , Zhang Runnan , Xu Weisheng , Zhu Ruizhi , Tang Hanci , Zhou Xiao , Sun Jiasong , Gao Peng , Chen Qian , Zuo Chao
Published: June 2024

A novel high‐speed, high‐resolution 3D microscopy technique named BP‐TIDT is presented that quantifies the refractive index (RI) distribution of label‐free, transparent samples. This method combines a bi‐plane detection scheme (BP) with the transport of intensity diffraction tomography (TIDT), effectively circumventing the need for matched illumination conditions under high numerical aperture (NA) objectives, which enables 15 fps volume rates and 326 nm lateral resolution. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed approach are validated through high‐resolution imaging of polystyrene microspheres and HepG2 cells. Moreover, the wide‐ranging applicability of BP‐TIDT is demonstrated by investigating subcellular organelle motion, including mitochondria and lipid droplets, as well as the macroscopic apoptosis process in living COS‐7 cells. To the best of current knowledge, this is the first time that high spatial‐temporal resolution dynamic ODT results are obtained in a non‐interferometric and motion‐free manner, highlighting the potential of BP‐TIDT in advancing research on dynamic cellular processes.
New characterization of weighted inequalities involving superposition of Hardy integral operators
Authors: Gogatishvili Amiran , Ünver Tuğçe
Published: June 2024

Let and . We characterize the validity of the inequality for the composition of the Hardy operator,
for all non‐negative measurable functions on , . We construct a more straightforward discretization method than those previously presented in the literature, and we provide some new scales of weight characterizations of this inequality in both discrete and continuous forms and we obtain previous characterizations as the special case of the parameter.
Airway epithelial‐derived exosomes induce acute asthma exacerbation after respiratory syncytial virus infection
Authors: Yao Ye , Yang Yu , Ji Ming , Qin Qingwu , Xu Kun , Xia Zhenkun , Liu Huijun , Yuan Lin , Yuan Yunchang , Qin Ling , Du Xizi , Wang Leyuan , Zhou Kai , Wu Xinyu , Wang Weijie , Qing Bei , Xiang Yang , Qu Xiangping , Yang Ming , Qin Xiaoqun , Liu Chi
Published: June 2024

Acute asthma exacerbation refers to the progressive deterioration of asthma symptoms that is always triggered by virus infection represented by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). After RSV infection, exaggerated Th2‐mediated pulmonary inflammation is the critical pathological response of asthmatic patients with acute exacerbation. Significantly, airway epithelial cells, being the primary targets of RSV infection, play a crucial role in controlling the pulmonary inflammatory response by releasing airway epithelial cell‐derived exosomes (AEC‐Exos), which potentially influence the development of asthma. However, the specific role of AEC‐Exos in acute asthma exacerbation after RSV infection remains obscure. The purpose of this study was to determine the distinct function of AEC‐Exos in exacerbating acute asthma following RSV infection. Blockade of exosomes by GW reduce the enhanced pulmonary inflammation significantly. Specifically, the enhanced Th2 inflammation was induced by AEC‐Exos thorough transportation of hsa‐miR‐155‐5p–Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) pathway during acute asthma exacerbation. Targeted inhibition of hsa‐miR‐155‐5p blocks the exaggerated Th2 inflammation effectively in mice with acute asthma exacerbation. In summary, our study showed that during acute asthma exacerbation after RSV infection, AEC‐Exos promote the enhanced Th2 inflammation through transportation of increased hsa‐miR‐155‐5p, which was mediated partly through SIRT1‐mediated pathway. hsa‐miR‐155‐5p is a potential biomarker for early prediction of acute asthma exacerbation.
Recent Advances on Sex Hormone‐Binding Globulin Regulation by Nutritional Factors: Clinical Implications
Authors: Brianso‐Llort Laura , Saéz‐Lopez Cristina , Alvarez‐Guaita Anna , Ramos‐Perez Lorena , Hernandez Cristina , Simó Rafael , Selva David M.
Published: June 2024

Sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) is a homodimeric glycoprotein produced by the human liver and secreted into the systemic circulation where it binds with high affinity sex steroids regulating their availability in blood and accessibility to target tissues. Plasma SHBG levels are altered in metabolic disorders such as obesity, anorexia, and insulin resistance. Several reports have shown that diets in terms of total calories or fat, fiber, or protein content can alter plasma SHBG levels. However, there are many components in a diet that can affect SHBG gene expression in the liver. In order to unravel the molecular mechanisms by which diets regulate SHBG production, it would be necessary to analyze single diet components and/or nutritional factors. This review summarizes the recent advances in identifying different nutritional factors regulating SHBG production and the related molecular mechanism, as well as the clinical implications.
Cannabidiol (CBD) Inhibits Foam Cell Formation via Regulating Cholesterol Homeostasis and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: He Mengxue , Shi Jiachen , Xu Yong‐Jiang , Liu Yuanfa
Published: June 2024

Scope

The cannabidiol (CBD) in hemp oil has important pharmacological activities. Accumulating evidence suggests that CBD is beneficial in the cardiovascular system and has been applied as a health supplement for atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism remains unclear.

Methods and results

This study investigates the impact of CBD on foam cell formation, cholesterol homeostasis, and lipid metabolism in macrophages. CBD elevates the levels of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and its associated targets, such as ATP binding transporter A1/G1 (ABCA1/ABCG1), thus reducing foam cell formation, and increasing cholesterol efflux within macrophages. Notably, the upregulation of ABCA1 and ABCG1 expression induced by CBD is found to be attenuated by both a PPARγ inhibitor and PPARγ small interfering RNA (siRNA). Moreover, transfection of PPARγ siRNA results in a decrease in the inhibitory effect of CBD on foam cell formation and promotion of cholesterol efflux. Through lipidomics analysis, the study finds that CBD significantly reverses the enhancement of ceramide (Cer). Correlation analysis indicates a negative association between Cer level and the expression of ABCA1/ABCG1.

Conclusion

This study confirms that CBD can be an effective therapeutic candidate for atherosclerosis treatment by activating PPARγ, up‐regulating ABCA1/ABCG1 expression, and down‐regulating Cer level.
Paradoxical thinning of the diaphragm on ultrasound is a risk factor for requiring non‐invasive ventilation in patients with neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction
Authors: Boon Andrea J. , Meiling James B. , Luetmer Marianne T. , Klein Christopher J. , Sorenson Eric J. , Harper C. Michel , Beecher Grayson
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

Point‐of‐care ultrasound of the diaphragm is highly sensitive and specific in the detection of neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction. In some patients with neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction, paradoxical thinning of the diaphragm during inspiration is observed on ultrasound; however, its frequency, electrodiagnostic associations, and prognostic significance remain uncertain.

Methods

Medical records of patients presenting to two electrodiagnostic laboratories (Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta) from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022, for evaluation of suspected neuromuscular respiratory failure, were reviewed.

Results

214 patients were referred and 19 patients excluded due to incomplete information. Of 195 patients (384 hemidiaphragms), 104 had phrenic neuropathy, 12 had myopathy, and 79 had no evidence of neuromuscular disease affecting the diaphragm. Paradoxical thinning occurred in 31 (27%) patients with neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction and was unilateral in 30, the majority (83%) having normal contralateral ultrasound. Phrenic nerve conduction studies and diaphragm electromyography results did not distinguish patients with paradoxical thinning versus without. Most patients (71%) with paradoxical thinning required non‐invasive ventilation (NIV), including 16 with unilateral paradoxical thinning. Paradoxical thinning and BMI ≥30 kg/m2 were risk factors for requiring NIV in multivariable logistic regression analysis, with odds ratios of 2.887 (95% CI:1.166, 7.151) and 2.561 (95% CI: 1.186, 5.532), respectively.

Discussion

Paradoxical thinning of the diaphragm occurs in patients with prominent neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction, most commonly from phrenic neuropathy, and is a significant risk factor for requiring NIV. Unilateral paradoxical thinning is sufficient for needing NIV. BMI ≥30 kg/m2 additionally increases risk of requiring NIV in patients with neuromuscular diaphragmatic dysfunction.
Elastoplastic damage model and numerical implementation of nano‐silica incorporated concrete
Authors: Man Xiaoyan , Xu Aiqing , Ju J. Woody
Published: June 2024

An energy‐based isotropic elastoplastic damage model is developed for investigating the elastoplastic damage responses and stress–strain relationships of nano‐silica incorporated concrete. The formulation employs a multiscale micromechanical framework to determine the effective elastic properties of composites at different scales. The stress–strain constitutive relation is derived by splitting the strain tensor into “elastic‐damage” and “plastic‐damage” parts while introducing the homogenized free potential energy function and the undamaged potential energy function. The elastoplastic damage response of the material is further characterized by elastic–plastic‐damage coupling. To construct realistic 3D three‐phase concrete mesostructures in numerical simulations, this paper introduces an encapsulation placement method that avoids particle overlap checking when placing aggregates. This methodology allows adjustments for the aggregate compactness as needed and enhances computational efficiency in concrete mesostructure construction. The numerical results of the modeling show good agreement with the experimental values in the open literature. Further, the influence of nano‐silica addition contents and ITZ (interfacial transition zone) thicknesses on the elastoplastic damage response of nano‐silica incorporated concrete are quantitatively and qualitatively investigated for the optimization of nano‐silica incorporated cementitious composites. The proposed model facilitates simulating and optimizing the mechanical characteristics of nano‐silica incorporated concrete and enhances the computational efficiency of 3D concrete modeling with the introduced encapsulation placement method.
A diffusive‐discrete crack transition scheme for ductile fracture at finite strain
Authors: Han Jike , Shintaku Yuichi , Moriguchi Shuji , Terada Kenjiro
Published: June 2024

This study presents a diffusive‐discrete crack transition scheme for stably conducting ductile fracture simulations within a finite strain framework. In the developed scheme, the crack initiation and propagation processes are determined according to an energy minimization problem based on crack phase‐field theory, and the predicted diffusive path is transformed to a discrete representation using the finite cover method during the staggered iterative scheme. In particular, for stably conducting ductile fracture simulations, three computational techniques, the staggered iterative configuration update technique, the subincremental damage update technique, and the crack opening stabilization technique, are introduced. The first and second techniques can be used regardless of whether discrete cracks are considered, and the third technique is specialized for diffusive‐discrete crack transition schemes. Accordingly, ductile fracture simulations with the developed scheme rarely encounter troublesome problems such as oscillations in the displacement field and severe distortion of finite elements that can lead to divergence of calculations. After the crack phase‐field model for ductile fractures is formulated and discretized, the numerical algorithms for realizing the diffusive‐discrete crack transition while maintaining computational stability are explained. Several representative numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the performance and capabilities of the developed approach.
Neurophysiological profiles of patients with bipolar disorders as probed with transcranial magnetic stimulation: A systematic review
Authors: Taniguchi Keita , Kaneko Naotsugu , Wada Masataka , Moriyama Sotaro , Nakajima Shinichiro , Mimura Masaru , Noda Yoshihiro
Published: June 2024

Aim

Bipolar disorder (BD) has a significant impact on global health, yet its neurophysiological basis remains poorly understood. Conventional treatments have limitations, highlighting the need for a better understanding of the neurophysiology of BD for early diagnosis and novel therapeutic strategies.

Design

Employing a systematic review approach of the PRISMA guidelines, this study assessed the usefulness and validity of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) neurophysiology in patients with BD.

Methods

Databases searched included PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO, covering studies from January 1985 to January 2024.

Results

Out of 6597 articles screened, nine studies met the inclusion criteria, providing neurophysiological insights into the pathophysiological basis of BD using TMS–electromyography and TMS–electroencephalography methods. Findings revealed significant neurophysiological impairments in patients with BD compared to healthy controls, specifically in cortical inhibition and excitability. In particular, short‐interval cortical inhibition (SICI) was consistently diminished in BD across the studies, which suggests a fundamental impairment of cortical inhibitory function in BD. This systematic review corroborates the potential utility of TMS neurophysiology in elucidating the pathophysiological basis of BD. Specifically, the reduced cortical inhibition in the SICI paradigm observed in patients with BD suggests gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐A receptor‐mediated dysfunction, but results from other TMS paradigms have been inconsistent. Thus, complex neurophysiological processes may be involved in the pathological basis underlying BD. This study demonstrated that BD has a neural basis involving impaired GABAergic function, and it is highly expected that further research on TMS neurophysiology will further elucidate the pathophysiological basis of BD.
Minimizers for the de Gennes–Cahn–Hilliard energy under strong anchoring conditions
Authors: Dai Shibin , Ramadan Abba
Published: June 2024

In this article, we use the Nehari manifold and the eigenvalue problem for the negative Laplacian with Dirichlet boundary condition to analytically study the minimizers for the de Gennes–Cahn–Hilliard energy with quartic double‐well potential and Dirichlet boundary condition on the bounded domain. Our analysis reveals a bifurcation phenomenon determined by the boundary value and a bifurcation parameter that describes the thickness of the transition layer that segregates the binary mixture's two phases. Specifically, when the boundary value aligns precisely with the average of the pure phases, and the bifurcation parameter surpasses or equals a critical threshold, the minimizer assumes a unique form, representing the homogeneous state. Conversely, when the bifurcation parameter falls below this critical value, two symmetric minimizers emerge. Should the boundary value be larger or smaller from the average of the pure phases, symmetry breaks, resulting in a unique minimizer. Furthermore, we derive bounds of these minimizers, incorporating boundary conditions and features of the de Gennes–Cahn–Hilliard energy.
Air pollution aggravates renal ischaemia–reperfusion‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Sanches Talita Rojas , Parra Antonio Carlos , Sun Peiqi , Graner Mariana Pereira , Itto Lucas Yuji Umesaki , Butter Loes Maria , Claessen Nike , Roelofs Joris JTH , Florquin Sandrine , Veras Mariana Matera , Andrade Maria de Fatima , Saldiva Paulo Hilário Nascimento , Kers Jesper , Andrade Lucia , Tammaro Alessandra
Published: June 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as a significant global public health concern. Recent epidemiological studies have highlighted the link between exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and a decline in renal function. PM2.5 exerts harmful effects on various organs through oxidative stress and inflammation. Acute kidney injury (AKI) resulting from ischaemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) involves biological processes similar to those involved in PM2.5 toxicity and is a known risk factor for CKD. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of PM2.5 exposure on IRI‐induced AKI. Through a unique environmentally controlled setup, mice were exposed to urban PM2.5 or filtered air for 12 weeks before IRI followed by euthanasia 48 h after surgery. Animals exposed to PM2.5 and IRI exhibited reduced glomerular filtration, impaired urine concentration ability, and significant tubular damage. Further, PM2.5 aggravated local innate immune responses and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as enhancing cyclic GMP–AMP synthase‐stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS–STING) pathway activation. This increased renal senescence and suppressed the anti‐ageing protein klotho, leading to early fibrotic changes. In vitro studies using proximal tubular epithelial cells exposed to PM2.5 and hypoxia/reoxygenation revealed heightened activation of the STING pathway triggered by cytoplasmic mitochondrial DNA, resulting in increased tubular damage and a pro‐inflammatory phenotype. In summary, our findings imply a role for PM2.5 in sensitising proximal tubular epithelial cells to IRI‐induced damage, suggesting a plausible association between PM2.5 exposure and heightened susceptibility to CKD in individuals experiencing AKI. Strategies aimed at reducing PM2.5 concentrations and implementing preventive measures may improve outcomes for AKI patients and mitigate the progression from AKI to CKD. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Epidemiology of clinically unsuspected venous thromboembolism in children with cancer: A population‐based study from Maritimes, Canada
Authors: Ells Brett , Forbrigger Zara , Khan Naeem , Sharathkumar Anjali , Revel‐Vilk Shoshana , Goldenberg Neil A. , Kulkarni Ketan
Published: June 2024

Inconsistencies in the definition of clinically unsuspected venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pediatric patients recently led to the recommendation of standardizing this terminology. Clinically unsuspected VTE (cuVTE) is defined as the presence of VTE on diagnostic imaging performed for indications unrelated to VTE in a patient without symptoms or clinical history of VTE. The prevalence of cuVTE in pediatric cancer patients is unclear. Therefore, the main objective of our study was to determine the prevalence of cuVTE in pediatric cancer patients. All patients 0–18 years old, treated at the IWK in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from August 2005 through December 2019 with a known cancer diagnosis and at least one imaging study were eligible (n = 743). All radiology reports available for these patients were reviewed (n = 18,120). The VTE event was labeled a priori as cuVTE event for radiology reports that included descriptive texts indicating a diagnosis of thrombosis including thrombus, central venous catheter‐related, thrombosed aneurysm, tumor thrombosis, non‐occlusive thrombus, intraluminal filling defect, or small fragment clot for patients without documentation of clinical history and or signs of VTE. A total of 18,120 radiology reports were included in the review. The prevalence of cuVTE was 5.5% (41/743). Echocardiography and computed tomography had the highest rate of cuVTE detection, and the most common terminologies used to diagnose cuVTE were thrombus and non‐occlusive thrombus. The diagnosis of cuVTE was not associated with age, sex, and type of cancer. Future efforts should focus on streamlining radiology reports to characterize thrombi. The clinical significance of these cuVTE findings and their application to management, post‐thrombotic syndrome, and survival compared to cases with symptomatic VTE and patients without VTE should be further studied.
Factors influencing the initiation of biologic therapy in children with severe asthma: Results of the pediatric asthma noninvasive diagnostic approaches (PANDA) study
Authors: van Dijk Yoni E. , Brandsen Milou A. , Hashimoto Simone , Rutjes Niels W. , Golebski Kornel , Vermeulen Frederique , Terheggen‐Lagro Suzanne W. J. , van Ewijk Bart E. , der Zee Anke‐Hilse Maitland‐van , Vijverberg Susanne J. H.
Published: June 2024

Background & objectives

Despite the availability of biologics for severe pediatric asthma, real‐life studies reporting on drivers behind initiating biologics and their alignment with the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) recommendations are lacking.

Methods

We performed analysis within the pediatric asthma noninvasive diagnostic approaches study, a prospective cohort of 6‐ to 17‐year‐old children with severe asthma. Information was collected on demographic factors, symptom control, treatment, comorbidities, and diagnostic tests from medical records and questionnaires. We divided patients into “starters” or “nonstarters” based on the clinical decision to initiate biologics and performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify drivers behind initiating therapy. Additionally, we assessed patient suitability for biologics according to key factors in the GINA recommendations: Type 2 inflammation, frequency of exacerbations, and optimization of treatment adherence.

Results

In total, 72 children (mean age 11.5 ± 3.0 years, 65.3% male) were included (13 starters). Initiation of biologics was associated with a higher GINA treatment step (adjusted odds ratio's [aOR] = 5.0, 95%CI 1.33–18.76), steroid toxicity (aOR = 21.1, 95%CI 3.73–119.91), frequency of exacerbations (aOR = 1.6, 95%CI 1.10–2.39), improved therapy adherence (aOR = 1.7, 95%CI 1.10–2.46), Caucasian ethnicity (aOR = 0.20, 95%CI 0.05–0.80), ≥1 allergic sensitization (aOR = 0.06, 95%CI 0.004–0.97), and allergic rhinitis (aOR = 0.13, 95%CI 0.03–0.65). Furthermore, steroid toxicity was identified as an important factor for deviation from the current recommendations on biologic prescription.

Conclusions

We identified multiple drivers and inhibitors for initiating biologics, and showed the clinical need for biologics in severe pediatric asthmatics suffering from steroid toxicity. These findings may help refine asthma management guidelines.
The predictive impact of hematological inflammatory markers in detecting prostate cancer in patients with PI‐RADS 3 lesions on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kayar Ridvan , Tokuc Emre , Ozsoy Emrah , Demir Samet , Kayar Kemal , Topaktas Ramazan , Demir Selamettin , Ozturk Metin
Published: June 2024

Background

The diagnostic accuracy of suspicious lesions that are classified as PI‐RADS 3 in multiparametric prostate magnetic‐resonance imaging (mpMRI) is controversial. This study aims to assess the predictive capacity of hematological inflammatory markers such as neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), pan‐immune‐inflammation value (PIV), and systemic immune‐response index (SIRI) in detecting prostate cancer in PI‐RADS 3 lesions.

Methods

276 patients who underwent mpMRI and subsequent prostate biopsy after PI‐RADS 3 lesion detection were included in the study. According to the biopsy results, the patients were distributed to two groups as prostate cancer (PCa) and no cancer (non‐PCa). Data concerning age, PSA, prostate volume, PSA density, PI‐RADS 3 lesion size, prostate biopsy results, monocyte counts (109/L), lymphocyte counts (109/L), platelet counts (109/L), neutrophils count (109/L) were recorded from the complete blood count. From these data; PIV value is obtained by monocyte × neutrophil × platelet/lymphocyte, NLR by neutrophil/lymphocyte, and SIRI by monocyte number × NLR.

Results

Significant variations in neutrophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte levels between PCa and non‐PCa patient groups were detected (p = 0.009, p = 0.001, p = 0.005 respectively, p < 0.05). NLR, PIV, and SIRI exhibited significant differences, with higher values in PCa patients (p = 0.004, p = 0.001, p < 0.001 respectively, p < 0.05). The area under curve of SIRI was 0.729, with a cut‐off value of 1.20 and with a sensitivity 57.70%, and a specificity of 68.70%.

Conclusion

SIRI outperformed NLR and PIV in detecting PCa in PI‐RADS 3 lesions, showcasing its potential as a valuable biomarker. Implementation of this parameter to possible future nomograms has the potential to individualize and risk‐stratify the patients in prostate biopsy decision.
Impacts of hydrologic and geomorphic alteration to the availability of shallow, low‐velocity habitats in an intensively managed arid‐land river
Authors: Mortensen Jacob G. , Julien Pierre Y. , Corsi Brianna , Radobenko Chelsey , Anderson Tristen
Published: June 2024

This study seeks better understanding of linkages between channel morphology, streamflow, and aquatic habitat for the effective rehabilitation of imperiled species in rivers subjected to intensive water resource management. We focused on the variability of shallow, low‐velocity (SLV) habitat over 50 years for a 56 km reach of the Rio Grande of central New Mexico (Middle Rio Grande). Hydraulic models used topographic data obtained through long‐term systematic monitoring between 1962 and 2012 to derive relationships between discharge and SLV habitat availability. We developed a temporally integrated habitat metric (TIHM) to facilitate quantitative comparisons of SLV habitat availability over seasonal hydrologic periods (base flow, spring runoff, and summer low flow) for selected years representative of contemporary discharge variations. Results showed that SLV habitat availability, as captured by TIHM values, decreased on average by 83% over the study period (1962–2012), corresponding to completion of the Cochiti Dam (1973), which profoundly altered flow and sediment regimes. Resulting channel incision and floodplain disconnection, caused shifts in discharge‐habitat relationships whereby increases in SLV habitat availability in the modern channel were strictly maximized at the upper range of modeled discharges (200 m3 s−1)—discharges greater than 100 m3 s−1 are infrequent today. Ecological implications of losses to SLV habitat availability include recovery of the federally endangered Rio Grande Silvery Minnow Hybognathus amarus.